You don't need to book a flight or pack for a week away to make a weekend feel special. In the Tolland area, it's easy to start the morning with a locally roasted cup of coffee, spend the afternoon outdoors or exploring local history, and end the day with a live performance.
The best part of a staycation is that it does not have to be overplanned. Pick a few stops, leave room for a detour and check hours, reservations and seasonal schedules before heading out. Here are five easy ways to turn a day near Tolland into a simple local escape.
Every good staycation starts with a great breakfast, and Tolland has several local spots that make it easy to ease into the day.
Start with a cup from Radial Coffee Company, where ethically sourced beans and carefully crafted coffee drinks have made it a favorite among locals. If you're looking for a heartier breakfast, Flat Pennies Kitchen serves fresh breakfast and brunch favorites in a welcoming, family-owned setting.
For a slower-paced morning, make the short drive to Somers and settle in at The Old Mill English Tea Room. Its traditional afternoon teas, homemade baked goods and English-inspired menu offer a different way to start the day before heading out to explore.
One of Tolland's most popular gathering places, Crandall Park makes an easy stop for anyone looking to spend a little time outdoors before the day heats up.
The park offers a swimming beach, non-motorized boating opportunities, walking trails, athletic fields and plenty of open green space for picnics or relaxing by the water. Bring a picnic, a kayak or simply a good book—it's the kind of place where a few hours can easily turn into an entire morning.
A note, especially if you’re bringing out-of-town guests: Entry for Tolland residents is $3 and $6 for non-residents.
A staycation is the perfect excuse to discover places close to home that you may have never visited before.
Start with the Old Tolland County Jail & Museum, where exhibits explore the town's history and one of Connecticut's oldest county jails. Willing to venture a little farther? The Tolland Public Library Museum Pass Program offers discounted admission to attractions throughout the region, including the Connecticut Trolley Museum and the Connecticut Science Center. Be sure to check pass terms and museum hours before you go, especially if you’re driving a bit outside of town.
If you're looking to keep the day going, there are plenty of attractions in and around town to add to your Tolland staycation.
Adventure seekers can spend a few hours climbing, ziplining and navigating aerial obstacle courses at The Adventure Park at Storrs. If the weather isn't cooperating, Spare Time Vernon offers bowling, arcade games, laser tag and other indoor activities that are just as fun for adults as they are for kids.
For something lower-key that’s perfect for the kids, Tolland has several parks and playgrounds, including the Cross Farms Recreation Complex. There are multiple sports fields, an 18-hole disc golf course and an accessible, inclusive play area.
After a full day of exploring, settle into an evening of live entertainment. From Broadway productions to concerts and local theater, the Hartford area offers plenty of ways to wrap up a staycation.
The Bushnell hosts touring Broadway productions, concerts and comedy throughout the year, while Hartford Stage is known for acclaimed theatrical performances. Music fans can also check the schedules at The Xfinity Theatre or The Webster for concerts featuring national touring artists.
Whether you're seeing a play, catching a concert or simply enjoying a night out on the town, live entertainment makes for an easy finale before heading home.
The easiest way to enjoy Tolland close to home is to keep the day manageable. Start with one meal, choose one outdoor stop, add one activity and leave space for the kind of unplanned moments that make a local day feel like a getaway.
Whether you spend the morning at Crandall Park, discover a new museum or catch a show at the end of the day, Tolland offers plenty of ways to make a weekend feel special without traveling far.
Not ready for the fun to end? Enter your ZIP code and select your interests below to discover even more staycation ideas and local adventures nearby.
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