Inspiration

September: Second Summer

last updated: January 2024

As we all know, summer doesn’t officially end until September 23, which means there’s still time to do some of the things you never got around to before Labor Day. And what’s not to love about the September version of summer in Connecticut? The crowds are down, the weather and water are both still warm, prices are sometimes reduced . . . heck, it might be the nicest summer month of all.

Splash in Salt Water
Go Out for Ice Cream
Lobster Roll with a View
Stay at a Waterfront Hotel

Splash in Salt Water

The sand is still sandy and the water’s still warm all along Connecticut’s shoreline. Some town beaches open up to the public at large after Labor Day and, of course, the big state beaches at ready for you. Find beaches here.

Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison

Hammonasset Beach State Park

This is Connecticut’s largest expanse of sand – two miles long! – and be sure to check out the...

Sherwood Island State Park, Westport

Sherwood Island State Park

Just off I-95, you’ll find Connecticut’s first state park to still be one of its finest, especially...

Rocky Neck State Park, East Lyme

Rocky Neck State Park

You can give crabbing or fishing a go at Rocky Neck or even camp at one of its 160 camping sites...

Go Out for Ice Cream

Some of Connecticut’s best ice cream spots are seasonal, some stay open all year ‘round, but going out for this cold treat does seem like a summery thing to do. Do you like to be able to see the cows that provided the cream for what you’re enjoying? Find more ice cream here.

Ferris Acres Creamery, Newtown

Ferris Acres Creamery

If you like to see cows in the fields while you eat your cone, try Ferris Acres, the last remaining...

UConn Dairy Bar, Storrs

UConn Dairy Bar

There are lots of cows in the fields adjacent to the UConn Dairy Bar, too. You can even watch the...

Rich Farm Ice Cream, Oxford

Rich Farm Ice Cream

More cows and more good ice cream at Rich Farm, where late summer takes on a hazy, golden look...

Lobster Roll With a View

The hot lobster roll is a Connecticut invention, so you should make sure to have at least one every summer. Haven’t had yours yet? Head for the water and order one before it’s too late! Find more seafood shacks here.

Abbott's Lobster in the Rough, Noank

Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough

Picnic tables, Noank water views and hot lobster rolls served on round buns. You can order a shore...

Captain Scott's Lobster Dock, New London

Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock

The New London waterside setting adds to the flavor here, but the lobster rolls and other treats...

Lobster Landing, Clinton

Lobster Landing

On the water in Clinton, Lobster Landing offers fresh lobster rolls and picnic table seating. A late...

Stay at a Waterfront Hotel

September is a great time for a beach getaway in Connecticut. There are many waterfront options with tranquil water views. Relax and unwind on less crowded beaches, indulge in luxurious spa treatments. Get the picture?