As a Connecticut Realtor, I can tell you: spring break is more than just a pause in the school calendar—it’s the spring real estate season. The listings have been blooming, open houses are happening, and buyers and sellers are still waking up from their winter hibernation, ready to make moves.
In the middle of things being crazy (and they are!), it’s a great time to sneak in a little getaway. Whether you have little ones, tweens, or teens, there are so many amazing day and overnight trips within driving distance of Connecticut that can recharge your batteries and give everyone a much-needed reset.
Here are a few of my favorite spring break escapes before we continue with the busiest real estate season of the year:
1. Newport, Rhode Island
Drive time: ~3 hours
This classic coastal New England town is a dream for all ages. Tour the Gilded Age mansions (The Breakers never disappoints), stroll the scenic Cliff Walk, and don’t forget a lobster roll at one of the harbor-front eateries. Kiddos love the trolley tours and the historic vibes, and parents can appreciate the charming shops and romantic views. Newport’s blend of history, charm, and fresh sea air makes it a perfect overnight or even just a long day trip.
2. Mohegan Sun or Foxwoods
Drive time: ~1.5 hours
You may think these resorts are just for grown-ups, but both have a lot to offer families—especially during school breaks. Check out the arcades, bowling, and shopping. Mohegan Sun even has a kid-friendly pool, and both offer shows and dining that appeal to all ages. Make it an overnight or come home after dinner—it’s an easy win for a one-day escape.
3. Mystic, Connecticut
Drive time: ~2 hours
A tried-and-true favorite! Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium are hits with younger kids, and teens will enjoy the cute downtown and unique shops (plus, let’s be honest, the photo ops). Don’t skip the famous Mystic Pizza (yes, that Mystic Pizza) and take a stroll by the water. It’s relatively close and always a crowd-pleaser.
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Drive time: ~3 hours
Whether your kids are history buffs, sports fanatics (let’s go Sox!), or foodies in training, Boston delivers. Walk the Freedom Trail, catch a Red Sox game at Fenway, visit the Museum of Science or the New England Aquarium—there’s no shortage of things to do. Older kids will especially enjoy the city vibe, while younger ones love the swan boats and hands-on museums. Stay overnight or power through a long day—you’ll sleep well, trust me! And if you eye-spy Boston University, send a special hello to my alma mater
Drive/Train time: ~1 hour (depending on traffic, of course!)
There’s nothing quite like spring in the city. Central Park comes alive, Broadway matinees welcome families, and there’s a museum for every interest—think Natural History, MoMA, and even The Museum of Ice Cream. Teens will love Soho and Times Square, and younger kids can go wild at the Central Park Zoo or the LEGO store. NYC is a whirlwind, but it's worth every second.
6. Niagara Falls (Canadian Side!)
Drive time: ~7 hours—make it a long weekend!
Okay, hear me out. It’s a haul, yes, but the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is absolutely magical—especially if you’ve got older kiddos who can appreciate the scale and wonder. The falls themselves are breathtaking, and the surrounding area is full of fun attractions like the Butterfly Conservatory, indoor waterparks, and hands-on museums. Bonus: it’s a chance to use those passports (or get them if you haven’t yet!), plus don’t miss Niagara-on-the-Lake, beautiful!
Honorable Mentions: Right Here at Home
Don’t overlook some closer-to-home gems for half-day adventures or mini staycations:
Legoland (opens 4/10—great for younger kiddos)
Six Flags New England (opens 4/12—great for younger kiddos)
Lake Compounce (opens 5/3—great for ages 5+)
The Connecticut Science Center (in Hartford—perfect for curious minds)
Peabody Museum at Yale (newly renovated!)
Hammonasset Beach State Park for a breezy walk, even if it’s too chilly to swim
Essex Steam Train for a nostalgic ride the littles will never forget
Spring break is the perfect chance to reset before continuing the house-hunting (or house-selling!) season. Whether you go big or stay local, I hope you take a few days to connect, explore, and recharge.
And when you’re ready to jump in, I’ll be here—with fresh listings, expert advice, and maybe even a few additional travel tips 😉
Happy spring break—and happy house hunting season!
Heather Salaga
Houlihan Lawrence
395 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT
Real Estate Salesperson, Licensed in CT
203-770-8591 (call/text)