One of your classmates recently asked, “What is there to do around here?”
If you’re new to Connecticut, you might not know where to go for a fun afternoon, a weekend adventure, or something to do when you’re ready to get off campus. And if you don’t have a car, you might think your options are limited, but they’re not!
As a Wesleyan student, you have access to River Valley Transit, which provides bus service throughout Middletown and the surrounding area. Just show your WesID to ride for free. You can also use XtraMile, an on-demand transportation service, for additional options around Middletown.
I’ve put together a short list of places to check out. Some are right here in Middletown, while others are an easy Uber ride away.
1. Go Apple Picking
Lyman Orchards — Middlefield, CT
Fall in Connecticut means apple picking! Lyman Orchards is about 15 minutes from campus and offers pick-your-own fruit, a farm market, baked goods and seasonal activities.
Good for: A fall afternoon with friends
Cost: Varies by activity
Website: Lyman Orchards
2. Go to the Movies
Picture Show at Berlin — Berlin, CT
Looking for something easy to do on a Friday night? Head to Picture Show at Berlin, about 15–20 minutes from campus by Uber. Grab some friends, see what’s playing and make a night of it.
Good for: A low-key night out
Cost: Check current ticket prices
Website: Picture Show at Berlin
3. Try an Escape Room
Lara’s Labyrinth — Downtown Middletown
Get a group together and see if you can solve your way out! Lara’s Labyrinth is right on Main Street, making it easy to combine an escape room with dinner, coffee or shopping downtown.
Good for: Groups of friends
Location: 425 Main Street, Middletown
Website: Lara’s Labyrinth
4. Play Mini Golf
Putters Paradise — Berlin, CT
Head to Berlin for mini golf, go-karts, bumper boats and batting cages. Mini golf is a relatively inexpensive way to spend a few hours with friends.
Good for: Groups, dates or a weekend afternoon
Location: 1823 Berlin Turnpike, Berlin
Cost: Mini golf is currently listed at $8 per person per course
Website: Putters Paradise
5. See Live Music or an Open Mic
The Buttonwood Tree — Middletown
You don’t have to leave Middletown to see live music. The Buttonwood Tree hosts concerts, open mics, art, poetry and other performances throughout the year. Some events have a low-cost cover or donation.
Good for: A night out without going far
Location: 9 Pleasant Street, Middletown
Website: The Buttonwood Tree
6. Visit a Museum in New Haven
Yale University Art Gallery — New Haven
Take an Uber to New Haven and spend the day exploring Yale and the surrounding area. The Yale University Art Gallery is free, making it a great option when you’re looking for something to do without spending much money.
You can also explore the Yale campus, grab some food and check out what’s happening around downtown New Haven.
Good for: A day trip with friends
Location: 1111 Chapel Street, New Haven
Cost: Free
Website: Yale University Art Gallery
7. Visit the Yale Peabody Museum
New Haven, CT
If art museums aren’t your thing, try natural history instead. The Yale Peabody Museum has dinosaurs, fossils, animals and other collections to explore.
Make a day of it by combining the museum with lunch or dinner in New Haven.
Good for: A rainy-day adventure
Location: 170 Whitney Avenue, New Haven
Website: Yale Peabody Museum
8. Explore Wadsworth Falls
Wadsworth Falls State Park — Middletown
Sometimes you just need to get outside. Wadsworth Falls has hiking trails, waterfalls and places to picnic. It’s close enough to campus that it’s an easy option when you want a break from your usual routine.
Good for: A sunny afternoon or weekend walk
Location: Middletown
Cost: Free/low cost depending on parking and residency
Website: Wadsworth Falls State Park
9. Explore Downtown Middletown
Main Street — Middletown
You don’t need a car—or much money—to explore downtown. Main Street is just a short walk from campus and has restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, shops, entertainment and events.
Check the downtown events calendar before you go. You might find trivia, live music, festivals, markets or other events happening that week.
Good for: When you want to get off campus without going far
Cost: Free to browse; bring your budget for food or shopping
Website: Downtown Middletown Events
10. Make a Day of New Haven
New Haven, CT
Sometimes the best way to explore Connecticut is simply to pick a city and go. New Haven is an easy place to start. Explore Yale, visit a museum, grab New Haven pizza, walk around downtown or check out a concert or other event.
Don’t have a car? That’s okay. Look into River Valley Transit, Uber, or getting to New Haven and using the train to explore even farther.
Good for: A full Saturday away from campus
Tip: Go with a few friends and split the transportation costs.