In This Article

1. Catch a Show and Support Local Talent at the Sharon Playhouse

Catch a Show and Support Local Talent at the Sharon Playhouse

© Sharon Playhouse

  • What is the Sharon Playhouse?
    • The Sharon Playhouse is a community theater that presents a variety of classic shows and high-quality performances, ranging from dramas to musicals throughout the year.
  • What is the mission of the Sharon Playhouse?
    • Established to entertain the community of Northwest Connecticut and encourage an interest in the performing arts, the regional theater presents plays on the main stage in the summer months.
  • What events take place at the Sharon Playhouse?
    • In addition to main stage productions, the theater hosts concerts and special events in the Bok Gallery throughout the year.
  • Does the Sharon Playhouse offer programs for children?
    • The Sharon Playhouse also offers a youth production on the main stage and theater camps for children each summer.

49 Amenia Rd, Sharon, CT 06069, Phone: 860-364-7469, Map

2. Explore Forest Trails and Wildlife Exhibits at the Sharon Audubon Center

Explore Forest Trails and Wildlife Exhibits at the Sharon Audubon Center

© Sharon Audubon Center

  • What is the Sharon Audubon Center?
    • The Sharon Audubon Center is a community nature center spanning 1,147 acres with dense forests, two tranquil ponds, and 11 miles of hiking trails.
  • What is included in Audubon Sharon?
    • The Sharon Audubon Center is part of Audubon Sharon, which also includes the Emily Winthrop Miles Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • What facilities are at the Sharon Audubon Center?
    • The center features a Visitor Center housing a small hands-on natural history museum with several exhibits documenting the fauna and flora of the region, a Children's Adventure Center, and the Audubon Nature Store.
  • Does the Sharon Audubon Center provide wildlife rehabilitation?
    • The center runs a Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic where injured and orphaned wildlife are rehabilitated and cared for.
  • What other attractions can visitors explore?
    • Other attractions on the grounds include a Herb Garden, Raptor Aviaries, the Eleanor Loft Bird & Butterfly Garden, and a working sugarhouse.

325 Cornwall Bridge Rd, Sharon, CT 06069, Map

Recommended Activities for Families

3. Camp, Fish, or Paddle at Housatonic Meadows State Park

Camp, Fish, or Paddle at Housatonic Meadows State Park

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  • What is Housatonic Meadows State Park?
    • Located in the rock-strewn valley of the Housatonic River, Housatonic Meadows State Park is a 452-acre state park area that serves both the towns of Sharon and Cornwall.
  • What kind of outdoor activities are available at Housatonic Meadows State Park?
    • The park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, canoeing, picnicking, and fly-fishing along a two-mile stretch of the river.
  • What are the camping facilities like at the park?
    • The tall pines along the riverbank provide an ideal setting for camping, and the park features a 61-campsite area with restrooms, showers, potable water, a pay telephone, and ample parking.
  • What other parks are located near Housatonic Meadows State Park?
    • Nearby parks include Macedonia Brook State Park, Lake Waramaug State Park in Kent, and Mohawk Mountain State Forest.

90 US-7, Sharon, CT 06069, Map

4. Discover Local Heritage at the Sharon Historical Society & Museum

Discover Local Heritage at the Sharon Historical Society & Museum

© Sharon Historical Society & Museum

  • What is the Sharon Historical Society & Museum?
    • The Sharon Historical Society & Museum is a community museum and history center that boasts an extensive collection of objects telling the story of the region’s early settlers and presents a wide range of cultural and historical programs.
  • When was the Sharon Historical Society & Museum established?
    • Established in 1911, the museum is housed in the historic 1775 Gay-Hoyt House on Main Street.
  • What exhibits can visitors see at the Sharon Historical Society & Museum?
    • The museum features a range of art and history exhibits that celebrate the region’s strong cultural roots.
  • Does the museum have any visitor amenities?
    • A ‘Culture Café’ is situated in the museum, offering comfortable leather chairs, couches, wireless Internet access, and fresh coffee available all day.

Sharon Historical Society & Museum, 18 Main St, Sharon, CT 06069, Phone: 781-784-9966

5. Bike or Hike Scenic Paths on the Harlem Valley Rail Trail

Bike or Hike Scenic Paths on the Harlem Valley Rail Trail

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  • What is the Harlem Valley Rail Trail?
    • The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is a scenic 15-mile paved rail trail that meanders through the beautiful countryside of Dutchess and Columbia Counties.
  • Where is the Harlem Valley Rail Trail located?
    • Situated on an abandoned portion of the New York and Harlem Railroad, the path is divided into two sections and is popular with hikers, joggers, bikers, and horseback riders.
  • When was the Harlem Valley Rail Trail created?
    • Once an abandoned rail line, it was converted into a public park in 1989 and officially opened in 1996.
  • Where does the Harlem Valley Rail Trail start and end?
    • The trail begins at the Wassaic Metro North Station and winds its way northwards through the eastern side of Dutchess County into Columbia County.
  • How much of the trail is currently completed?
    • There are currently 10.7 miles completed between Wassaic and Millerton and an additional five miles in Ancram.
  • Are there plans to expand the Harlem Valley Rail Trail?
    • Expansion plans for the trail are expected to increase its length to over 46 miles.

Harlem Valley Rail Trail, Millerton, New York, 12546-0356, Phone: 518-789-9591

Attractions for Couples

6. Feel the Thrill of Racing Action at Lime Rock Park

Feel the Thrill of Racing Action at Lime Rock Park

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  • What is Lime Rock Park?
    • Lime Rock Park is a 1.53-mile historic road racing circuit and motorsport venue located in the hamlet of Lakeville in Connecticut’s Litchfield County.
  • When was Lime Rock Park built?
    • Built in 1956, the racing venue spans a mile-and-a-half of up-hill and down-dale terrain with an extremely challenging track.
  • What major races have been held at Lime Rock Park?
    • Lime Rock Park has played host to several championship races, including the Trans-Am, Atlantic, Camel GTP, and ALMS championships, as well as the 1959 Formula Libre, which changed the face of motorsports in America.
  • What are some of the top events at Lime Rock Park?
    • Other top events hosted at Lime Rock Park include the Memorial Day Weekend Season Opener in May, the IMSA WeatherTech Northeast Grand Prix, and the Historical Festival.
  • What amenities are available at Lime Rock Park?
    • Amenities at the venue include the Lime Rock Café, Harpoon Tavern, two additional concession stands, picnic tables, and a merchandise store.

Lime Rock Park, 60 White Hollow Rd, Lakeville, CT 06039, Phone: 860-435-5000

7. If You’re Craving Slow-Smoked Goodness, Head to When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ

If You’re Craving Slow-Smoked Goodness, Head to When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ

© When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ

  • What is When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ?
    • When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ is a modest eatery resembling a Southern roadside barbecue shack, serving mouthwatering apple-, hickory-, and cherrywood-smoked barbecue.
  • What types of barbecue does When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ serve?
    • The menu features a range of smoked barbecue dishes, including baby back ribs, beef brisket, pulled pork, and beer can chicken.
  • What sides are offered with the barbecue platters?
    • Signature barbecue platters come with sides such as deviled eggs, smoked bacon black-eyed peas, vinegar-spiked collard greens, and Cheddar jalapeño biscuits.
  • Does When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ serve other types of cuisine?
    • The menu also includes a handful of Louisiana specialties such as seafood gumbo, crab cakes, po’ boy sandwiches, jambalaya, and crayfish, along with three salads.
  • What are the operating hours of When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ?
    • When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ is open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week.

When Pigs Fly Southern BBQ, 29 W Main St, Sharon, CT 06069, Phone: 860-492-0000

8. Grab Gourmet Goods and Local Eats at J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company

Grab Gourmet Goods and Local Eats at J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company

© J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company

  • What is J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company?
  • Who founded J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company?
    • Founded in 2010 by Mike Moriarty and James Neunzig, the emporium exudes an ambience akin to those of renowned markets around the world.
  • What kind of shopping experience does J.P. Gifford Market offer?
    • The market provides a space for people to gather, enjoy good food, and shop for one-of-a-kind items.
  • What products are available at the market?
    • The market sells fresh produce delivered on a daily basis, along with a variety of specialty food items.
  • Does J.P. Gifford Market offer catering services?
    • The catering side of the company provides full-service event coordination and planning for both casual parties and large events.
  • What are the operating hours of J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company?
    • J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company is open seven days a week.

J.P. Gifford Market & Catering Company, 12 N Main St, Kent, CT 06757, Phone: 860-592-0200

9. Shop Fresh and Organic at McEnroe Farm Market

Shop Fresh and Organic at McEnroe Farm Market

© McEnroe Farm Market

  • What is McEnroe Farm Market?
    • The McEnroe Farm Market is one of New York’s oldest and most diverse certified organic farms, boasting over 1,100 acres of fields, pastures, and greenhouses.
  • When was McEnroe Farm established?
    • Established in 1953, the McEnroe Farm began as a dairy farm called the Ray-Barb Farm and has grown significantly over the years.
  • What does McEnroe Farm Market offer?
    • The farm evolved from a small roadside stand to a year-round market, offering locally grown organic and seasonal groceries.
  • Does McEnroe Farm Market have a restaurant?
    • The farm and market feature a restaurant that uses prime meats, fresh organic produce, and dairy to create healthy, delicious, and sustainable meals.

McEnroe Farm Market, 5409 NY-22, Millerton, NY 12546, Phone: 518-789-4191

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