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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Connecticut

Places with nice views

You don't see the point in sitting down for a meal if you have to stare at a wall. A view is the baseline expectation for a memorable experience.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sleeping Giant State Park image 1
Sleeping Giant State Park image 2
Sleeping Giant State Park image 3
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Stone Observation Tower offers 360-degree panoramic views including sights of Foxwoods Resorts. Trails are well maintained and vary in difficulty, perfect for hikers and dogs. Open fields and picnic pavilions create family-friendly spaces for relaxing and gatherings.

Views from the observation tower reach all the way to Foxwoods Resorts and beyond. Trails offer breathtaking scenery with forest landscapes and a stone fort-like building providing magical vistas.

People are saying

"The views from the tower are gorgeous and panoramic."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well-maintained."

"It's a great place for dogs and the trails are suitable for them."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 for a day at Sleeping Giant State Park.

2

The parking area can get overcrowded, especially on weekends.

3

Leashed dogs are allowed on the trails, making it pet-friendly.

02
Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton image 1

Hotel offers breathtaking water views and a private beach with attentive service. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxing, enhanced by a high-quality spa and dining options. Guests enjoy a peaceful setting with exceptional cocktails and memorable meals.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is amazing and so friendly."

"The bartenders here are attentive and make great drinks."

"The views from here are beautiful, especially the water."

Good to know

1

The Cocktail Club meets on the first Wednesday of every month.

2

Live music events occur every Thursday during the summer.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the charcuterie workshop.

03
Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point image 1

Boardwalk and observation tower offer stunning views of salt marshes and Long Island Sound. Short hiking trails and interactive features create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Bird watchers enjoy quiet moments by the water in this tranquil sanctuary.

An observation tower climbs four stories high, offering beautiful views of the salt marshes. A boardwalk stretches to Long Island Sound, providing incredible scenery and ocean sights.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot with beautiful views of the salt marshes."

"I learned so much about the local birds and saw some cool snakes."

"The view from the tower over the sound was pretty."

Good to know

1

There is a parking lot next to the Audubon building and a viewing platform near the marsh.

2

Dogs are not allowed on the premises.

3

The center has restrooms, a gift shop, and an observation area with telescopes.

04
Cos Cob Park image 1

Waterfront park offers sweeping views of Long Island Sound and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection at the 9/11 memorial. Families enjoy the playgrounds while exercisers use the artificial turf field and walking trails. Calm water vistas blend with active spaces seamlessly.

Sweeping views of Long Island Sound and the harbor surround a paved loop trail. The park offers a peaceful setting with water views visible from the soccer field and seaside paths.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful water views along the seaside trail."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly park with a great playground."

"The bathrooms here are clean."

Good to know

1

Cos Cob Park is dog friendly but has strict dog rules.

2

The park is located right next to the Cos Cob Metro-North station for easy access.

3

The park features a loop trail that is about three-quarters of a mile around.

05
Tod's Inlet image 1
Nature preserve

Nature preserve spans 40 acres with tidal wetlands and forests. Walking paths offer panoramic views of Long Island Sound and NYC skyline. Peaceful atmosphere attracts locals for birdwatching and leisurely walks.

Trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of Long Island Sound and the distant New York City skyline. The path along the inlet provides well-maintained spots to enjoy the impressive cityscape.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and quiet place for a peaceful escape."

"I saw the NYC skyline from this beautiful park."

"The nice view of NYC was impressive and breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The park is open to the public after October 31 until Memorial Day; otherwise, it's residents only.

2

Dogs are allowed during winter visits, but check for specific rules.

3

Expect well-maintained trails for leisurely walks and challenging hikes.

06
Branford Yacht Club image 1

Boat club offers waterfront views with manicured lawns and walk paths perfect for boat watching. Live music from a talented duo creates a lively atmosphere ideal for social gatherings. Large facilities support a relaxed, friendly vibe for family and friends.

Sunset views shine on the patio with waterfront scenery. Manicured lawns and walk paths lead to boat views that are well-maintained and relaxing.

People are saying

"I loved the awesome view by the water."

"You have to see the awesome views here."

Good to know

1

The yacht club hosts summer music Sundays, perfect for family gatherings.

2

Live music events typically start at 5pm on Sundays.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during events.

07
Branford Point image 1

Waterfront park offers beautiful coastal views and a calm, laid-back atmosphere. Spacious sandy and grassy areas support picnics and swimming while locals enjoy peaceful walks by the water. Fishing spots add to the relaxing vibe.

Beautiful coastal views of Long Island Sound create a peaceful waterfront setting. The spot offers a charming place to relax and watch boats and the sunset.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful waterfront spot with beautiful coastal views."

"It's a great spot for picnics with lots of tables and grills."

"It's a nice place with a great view of the water."

Good to know

1

Branford Point offers a clean beach with sandy and grassy areas for relaxation.

2

Parking is available but can be challenging during peak times.

3

The beach is suitable for swimming, picnicking, and fishing.

08
East Rock Park image 1

Park features 360-degree panoramic vistas with stunning city and water views. It offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing walks and family time. Amenities like picnic tables and a playground with sand make it great for gatherings and kids.

360-degree panoramic vistas offer stunning views of the city and water. Multiple viewpoints provide unobstructed, scenic sights that reward the climb.

People are saying

"The view from the top is amazing, especially of New Haven."

"It's a beautiful and quiet place for relaxing walks."

"The sunset here is breathtaking, with the sky turning gold and pink."

Good to know

1

East Rock Park is free to enter.

2

Parking is extremely limited, so arrive early.

3

You can only hike up East Rock; no driving allowed.

09
Westport Longshore Club Park image 1

Enjoy stunning waterfront views of Long Island Sound while playing lawn games on spacious beachfront areas. The park blends a calm atmosphere with a fun vibe, featuring a dance floor and an ice rink converted from tennis courts.

Seaside views of Long Island Sound stand out with stunning and fabulous scenery. The park offers a beautiful setting for anyone who enjoys great views.

People are saying

"The food here was really good and delicious."

"I enjoyed the stunning, beautiful views."

Good to know

1

The park features a 4 to 5 ft drop-off at the water's edge.

2

The golf course is open to the public with reasonable green fees.

3

The restaurant offers a seasonal menu with outdoor seating available.

10
West Rock State Park - Lake Wintergreen image 1

Lake with wide trails invites walking and fishing. Beach access adds to the relaxing vibe. Stunning ridge views enhance the peaceful setting.

Beautiful ridge views and scenery all around create a peaceful setting. Trails offer stunning outlooks especially near the lake.

People are saying

"The parking lot has three areas and can hold about 40 cars."

"I loved the beautiful ridge views all around."

"It's a quiet place with calm trails perfect for walking."

Good to know

1

The gravel parking lot can hold about 40 cars but fills up on good weather weekends.

2

There is a restroom available at the parking area for visitor convenience.

3

The park features well-maintained trails suitable for walking, biking, and dog walking.

11
Stappa Vineyard image 1

Vineyard boasts wondrous pastoral views and a rustic windmill that set a chill vibe. Outdoor spots like picnic areas and firepits enhance the experience. Wine selection is superb and varied, perfect for private events with dedicated bars and catering.

Wondrous pastoral views stretch across the vineyard, creating a beautiful backdrop. The outdoor patio offers a chill atmosphere with great scenery and solid photo opportunities.

People are saying

"This winery is the ideal place for hosting unforgettable events."

"The wine here is absolutely fantastic and delicious."

"The scenery here is beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Guests are allowed to bring their own snacks, cheese boards, or full picnic baskets to enjoy alongside the wines.

2

They stopped serving wine at 6 PM.

3

Stappa Vineyard regularly hosts live events; check their website for updates.

12
Soldiers and Sailors Monument image 1

Monument atop mountain peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of city and Long Island Sound. Surrounding park features shaded hiking trails and open spaces for picnicking and sports. Atmosphere feels peaceful and inspiring, ideal for walking and photography.

Breathtaking panoramic views stretch from the top, showcasing the city and beyond. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument offers a great spot for hiking and enjoying the east rock park overlook vista.

People are saying

"The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a stunning historical landmark with amazing views."

"The Soldiers and Sailors Monument at East Rock Park offers stunning views."

"The view from the top is breathtaking and panoramic."

Good to know

1

During winter months from January to April, cars cannot drive up to the monument.

2

The walk to the monument is manageable and not steep.

3

Most of the hike is shaded, making it comfortable on warm days.

13
Dive Bar & Restaurant image 1

Bar and grill offers unobstructed beach views from every table and a lively, energetic atmosphere with live music. Seating is available inside and on an outdoor patio. Noise levels can be high, making conversation difficult during busy times.

Unobstructed beach views shine from every table, both inside and outside. The open air design highlights the waterfront setting and creates a vibrant atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was awesome and delicious."

"The bar food here is elevated, fresh, and not too greasy."

"You get a pretty nice view of the water here."

Good to know

1

Parking is available next to the restaurant, but fills up quickly.

2

Music Trivia night occurs every Monday at 7 PM.

3

A drink purchase is required to sit at outdoor tables.

14
Canal Dock Boathouse image 1

Spacious dock and picturesque harbor views create a cozy, relaxing spot. Enjoy quiet gatherings with fresh ocean breeze and calm moments. Nearby food trucks and ample parking add convenience to this architecturally stunning boathouse venue.

Picturesque harbor views offer a quiet spot to enjoy the river. Sunrises and sunsets over the water create a scenic and peaceful atmosphere with clean air.

People are saying

"I loved the picturesque harbor view."

"The scenic views of the harbor were beautiful and picturesque."

Good to know

1

The venue has very limited parking space; consider arriving early.

2

Ample street parking is available nearby for easy access.

3

It is within walking distance from the food truck district for dining options.

15
Bluff Head Trailhead image 1

Trail runs along a cliff edge with gorgeous views of Meyerhuber Pond and Bluff Head. Hike offers moderate challenge with steep inclines and narrow sections. Popular among experienced hikers, it ends near a historic cemetery and connects to multiple trail systems.

Trails lead to gorgeous views of Meyerhuber Pond and the top of Bluff Head Trailhead. The hike is moderately challenging but rewards with beautiful vistas and blessed views.

People are saying

"The gorgeous views from the top are a must-see."

"The views from the top are gorgeous and worth the hike."

Good to know

1

The parking area can fill up on weekends due to the trail's popularity.

2

Parents should keep a hold on their children as the cliff edge can be dangerous.

3

Be cautious on narrow sections of the trail, especially with dogs.

16
Nuzzo's Farm image 1
Event venue

Rustic venue shines with breathtaking scenery and spacious bridal suite. Wide open fields offer a spectacular view perfect for photos. String-lit evenings add farm-style charm and a cozy, family feel.

Wide open fields and rustic charm create a stunning backdrop. The scenery offers a spectacular view that works well for photos and sets a beautiful, natural atmosphere.

People are saying

"The rustic charm here made our day completely stress-free and memorable."

"The team handled the weather flawlessly, putting our minds at ease."

"The staff here went above and beyond to make our day perfect."

Good to know

1

Nuzzo's Farm requires renting a dance floor and tent for events.

2

Sound ordinances may restrict music on the dance floor.

3

The venue offers a rustic, barn-style setting for weddings.

17
Waveny Park image 1

Sprawling 300-acre estate offers panoramic views of NYC skyline and pastoral scenes. Well-kept grounds include miles of walking trails and a dog park for pets. Peaceful atmosphere creates a restorative vibe perfect for community gatherings.

Panoramic views include an incredible NYC skyline and a relaxing pastoral setting. Plenty of shade complements the varied, picturesque scenery.

People are saying

"It's a wonderful place for dog walking with miles of trails."

"The scenery here is beautiful, with a lovely vista."

"The historical property's gardens and lawns are gorgeous and vibrant."

Good to know

1

The park is free to visit.

2

There was plenty of parking at Waveny Park.

3

Expect sound issues during events at Waveny Park.

18
Seabluff Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing walks. Spacious shoreline and a playground make it great for families. Memorial garden adds a quiet spot for reflection.

Beautiful scenery surrounds a big beach with easy walks and a nice playground. Water views and soundscapes impress throughout the area.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful, clean, and peaceful."

"It's a really kid-friendly place with a great park for them to play."

"The scenery here is beautiful and great for a walk."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $32 for one day; no hourly options available.

2

The parking area is often too small for the number of visitors.

3

There are no bathrooms or showers at the beach, only porta potties.

19
West Rock Ridge State Park image 1

Rugged traprock cliffs rise above shaded forests with peaceful trails. Hikes range from gentle loops to steep climbs, perfect for both adventure and calm. Panoramic lookouts offer phenomenal views of New Haven and distant beaches, all in crisp air scented by pine and wildflowers.

The top overlook offers a phenomenal view of New Haven, the Sound, and the surrounding area. Multiple spots provide amazing panoramic views of nature and nearby towns.

People are saying

"The panoramic views from the lookouts are incredible."

"It's so peaceful here with stunning lookout points."

"The park's trails offer stunning panoramic views."

Good to know

1

The hiking trails cater to all types of hikers, from easy to challenging.

2

Many parking areas are available at the park for easy access.

3

I recommend wearing hiking boots for the trails.

20
Bruce Park image 1

Park blends lush greenery with scenic walking trails and tranquil ponds for a peaceful feel. Families enjoy the large playground and open spaces for fun. Views of Long Island Sound and nearby houses add charm.

Scenic views include Long Island Sound, ponds, and impressive walking trails. Open green spaces and bridges add variety, with views of amazing houses nearby.

People are saying

"I found it to be a beautiful and serene escape."

"The park's lush greenery and ponds make it a serene escape."

"I found the park's scenic views of Long Island Sound to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and convenient, making it easy to access the park.

2

The park has many walking and running paths, perfect for exercise.

3

Fishing is permitted in the park's ponds, so bring your gear.

21
East Shore Park image 1

Park offers beautiful views of Long Island Sound and a quiet atmosphere perfect for walks and family time. Facilities like a fishing pier and basketball courts support fun for all ages. Grounds stay clean and well-kept, making it a great spot near the sea.

Beautiful views of Long Island Sound create a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is visible from swings near a small playground.

People are saying

"I found this park to be gorgeous and great for family gatherings."

"I found the sunset here to be beautiful and relaxing."

"I loved the beautiful views of Long Island Sound."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the park.

2

The park has a small playground for kids and swings with a view of the beach.

3

The sand in the park is a little rocky, so wearing appropriate clothing and shoes is recommended.

22
Kriz Farm Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Farm setting with wildflowers and horses offers a peaceful view of scenic meadows. Outdoor seating provides a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Ice cream includes vegan options, making it great for families and groups.

Beautiful view creates a peaceful environment. The scenery is enjoyable and adds to the overall experience.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is delicious and amazing."

"The scenery here is beautiful and peaceful."

"I loved the outdoor seating; it really enhanced the experience."

Good to know

1

The price for the ice cream is very affordable.

2

There are plenty of flavorful ice cream choices and vegan options.

3

The property has outdoor seating that is family-friendly.

23
Drowsy Whaler image 1
Coffee shop

Coastal coffee shop boasts sea wall views and a warm, cozy atmosphere with high ceilings and comfy furniture. Families and dogs feel welcome here. Friendly staff serve homemade baked goods that complement the relaxing seaside vibe.

Views of Long Island Sound stretch out near the seawall. The spot offers a great place to enjoy seaside scenery while sipping coffee.

People are saying

"The staff here really care about the community and customers."

"I found the homemade biscuits to be exceptional."

"The coffee and pastries here are amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The Grand Opening event was a two-day celebration starting yesterday.

3

Arriving early at 8 a.m. allows me to beat the line, which can get quite long due to popularity.

24
Delamar Greenwich Harbor image 1

Oceanfront hotel boasts breathtaking harbor views from rooms with balconies and a lobby overlooking a river. Elegant surroundings mix classy, laid-back vibes with a romantic water view. Outdoor patio and private island beach create a tranquil, high-end experience.

Rooms offer harbor views with small balconies. The lobby overlooks a beautiful river and has outdoor seating. The location sits on the water in a little bay with amazing views.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff made me feel so welcome and treated me extremely well."

"The outdoor patio has a beautiful water view and ambiance."

"The service here is outstanding, truly five-star from the moment you arrive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the restaurant, Lโ€™escale, to ensure seating.

2

Valet parking is available and reasonably priced for guests.

3

The hotel hosts events and weddings, providing a picturesque setting.

25
Black Rock Yacht Club image 1

Small yacht club offers beautiful lighthouse views and a cozy maritime vibe. Dining shifts from lunch to dinner, adding variety. Overlooks Seaside Park and LIS, perfect for a scenic outing.

Views include LIS, a lighthouse, and Seaside Park. The scenery offers a beautiful setting at the yacht club.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful views of the lighthouse and park."

Good to know

1

The dinner menu features different items than the lunch menu.

2

Happy hour starts at 4 PM with special drink prices.

26
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park image 1

Small, well-kept memorial offers peaceful atmosphere and beautiful ocean views. Nearby food trucks add convenient meal options. Visitors enjoy walking, watching seagulls, and the clean, organized park enhances the calm setting.

Small, clean monument offers a view of the ocean. Park provides great views of New Haven that enhance the experience.

People are saying

"I loved trying all the different food trucks here."

"I loved the beautiful ocean view from the monument."

"I wish these parks had more features like a playground."

Good to know

1

Do not leave vehicles unlocked at the park for safety.

2

The park is clean and has trash cans available throughout.

3

There are many food trucks nearby for convenient meal options.

27
Parker Memorial Park image 1

Park offers beautiful waterfront views of Branford harbor and river. It has a small sandy beach and a play area for children. Visitors enjoy the quiet atmosphere with benches and grassy shade spots.

Views overlook the Branford harbor and the Branford River flowing into the Sound. The park offers a beautiful waterfront scene.

People are saying

"You need a resident sticker to park at these parks."

"I loved the nice, beautiful view of the harbor."

"You need a resident sticker to park at this beach."

Good to know

1

A Branford resident sticker is required to park in the lot.

2

There are limited parking spots available on the pier.

3

The park is dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.

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