窪圖勛蹋厙's Hidden Gems

窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems highlights the lesser-known history, attractions, and stories from around the state, giving the audience a glimpse into 窪圖勛蹋厙s diverse, unique communities.
With support from CT Visit, we go across every county to explore 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems.
Hartford County
Youve probably heard of Wethersfields iconic Scarecrows on Main in the fall, but have you heard of their annual Bicycles on Main that returns every May? Theyre back and better than ever! After catching up with shopkeepers and event organizers Kathy Clarke and Julia Koulouris, 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems host Francesca Fontanez takes a lunch break at The Assembly Room. This one-stop shop food hall and third space includes eateries, a cafe, and bar! Then, we explore some of Hartford Countys more unique museums, including the 窪圖勛蹋厙 Trolley Museum. There, trolley motorman Chas Gross (literally) takes us on a ride, giving us a glimpse into the past, present, and future.
Windham County
Putnams Bradley Playhouse has brought arts and culture to Windham County since 1901. 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems host Francesca Fontanez gets a tour and history lesson from President of the Bradley Playhouse Board, Tonya Brock. Then we take a trip back in time visiting The Aero Diner, a restored 1950s restaurant with a classic menu and ambiance. Plus, we check out Willimantics Frog Bridge and explore the curious lore surrounding the fascinating structure.
New Haven County
Premiering May 30th
Did you know the worlds largest indoor ropes course is found right here in 窪圖勛蹋厙? Host Francesca Fontanez flies high in It Adventure Ropes Course, located inside Jordans Furniture of New Haven. While in New Haven, Francesca and Associate Social Media Editor Janae Spinato pay a visit to the unsung hero of the Elm City foodie scene: the Long Wharf Food Trucks. Plus, since New Haven County is the title holder for Most Free Beaches in 窪圖勛蹋厙, we check some out!
Tolland County
Premiering June 6th
Looking for a place where you can satisfy both your appetite and your love of books? At Travelers Restaurant in Union, every diner gets three free books with their meal. After a light brunch, 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems host Francesca Fontanez heads to Soapstone Mountain in Somers for a scenic hike to a fire tower with views of four states! The Tolland County adventure concludes at Ron-a-Roll, Vernons family friendly venue with a roller-skating rink, a snack bar, and a skate shop that was established in 1990.
Fairfield County
Premiering June 13th
Sharks, and jellies, and seals, oh my! From interactive experiences to research programs, we catch up with Maritime Aquarium President & CEO Jason Patlis who speaks on the organizations impact on the 窪圖勛蹋厙 community. Host Francesca Fontanez visits The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens in Stamford to wander through 93 acres of parkland, gardens, and hiking trails. Plus, we explore some seafood finds that wont break the bank.
Middlesex County
Premiering June 20th
Were diving into 窪圖勛蹋厙 history (literally) at the Portland Brownstone Quarries. 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems host Francesca Fontanez makes a splash at Brownstone quarry before heading to grab a sweet treat at The Nest in Deep River. This unique cafe serves as an inclusive community for all staff members and guests regardless of neurodiversity. Plus, we head to Main Street Middletown, which hosts over 200 indoor adventures, but were exploring Main Street Market, a lifestyle center that features a mix of shops and eateries.
Litchfield County
Premiering June 27th
A wildlife sanctuary in the hills of Goshen, home to over 350 exotic animals, a petting zoo, museum, and exploration center is waiting to be explored! 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems host Francesca Fontanez takes us through Action Wildlifes Drive Through Safari before heading to family-owned Gresczyk Farms for some fresh foodie finds. Plus, we hear from Traditional Native American Storyteller, Darlene Kascak, who is the Education Director for The Institute for American Indian Studies Museum and Research Center. She gives us a tour of the museum and sheds light on the preservation of Indigenous culture and history in 窪圖勛蹋厙 and beyond.
New London County
Premiering July 4th
New Londons Black Heritage Trail celebrates three centuries of Black strength, resilience, and accomplishment. 窪圖勛蹋厙s Hidden Gems host Francesca Fontanez reflects on Black history before heading over to visit Six Paca Farm in Bozrah. This visitor-friendly alpaca farm houses over 50 alpacas and offers demonstrations on knitting, weaving, and more! Plus, Francesca takes us on an ice cream tour de New London County.
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