Connecticut: New England's Most Underrated Coastal Escape with Pauline Frommer

Connecticut rarely tops travelers' New England wish lists, yet it offers many of the experiences that make the region so beloved. Historic seaports, charming coastal towns, outstanding seafood, vibrant arts scenes, fall foliage, and centuries of American history are all packed into a state that remains surprisingly uncrowded.In this episode, David Brodie sits down with Pauline Frommer, President of Frommer's Media and one of the most respected voices in travel publishing, to explore the hidden appeal of Connecticut. As Pauline updates the Connecticut chapter for the upcoming Frommer's New England guidebook, she shares the destinations, museums, restaurants, and experiences that surprised her most.From world-class art collections and Yale University's stunning campus to lobster shacks, colonial villages, and scenic countryside retreats, Connecticut emerges as a destination that delivers authentic New England experiences without the crowds often found elsewhere in the region.Topics Covered• Why Connecticut Is Overlooked – The state's surprising mix of coastal charm, history, culture, and outdoor experiences.• Historic New England – Colonial architecture, Revolutionary War sites, and maritime heritage.• Museums & Arts – Yale's exceptional museums, historic homes, and unique cultural attractions.• Food Scene – New Haven pizza, fresh seafood, and locally sourced dining experiences.• Coastal Connecticut – Exploring Mystic, Long Island Sound, and charming waterfront communities.• Outdoor Recreation – Hiking, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, and scenic countryside escapes.Top Things to See & DoMystic Seaport MuseumOne of America's premier living history museums, Mystic Seaport combines maritime heritage, historic buildings, working ship restoration projects, and engaging exhibits that bring New England's seafaring past to life.Yale UniversityThe iconic New Haven campus offers stunning Gothic architecture, fascinating guided tours, student theatre productions, and several outstanding museums.Yale University Art GalleryOne of the finest small art museums in the United States, featuring works by Picasso, Braque, Van Gogh, and significant collections from around the world.Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript LibraryAn architectural masterpiece housing rare books, rotating exhibitions, and one of the world's treasured copies of the Gutenberg Bible.The Glass House, New CanaanA landmark of modernist architecture designed by Philip Johnson, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into mid-century design and American architectural history.Putnam Memorial State ParkKnown as Connecticut's Valley Forge, this Revolutionary War site preserves the history of George Washington's winter encampment and the hardships endured by Continental Army soldiers.Mark Twain House & MuseumOne of Connecticut's most famous historic homes, showcasing the life, success, and eventual financial struggles of one of America's greatest authors.Where to Eat & DrinkSally's ApizzaA legendary New Haven institution serving the thin-crust pizza style that has made the city famous among food lovers.Frank Pepe Pizzeria NapoletanaOne of Connecticut's most iconic pizza destinations and a key stop on any New Haven pizza pilgrimage.Modern ApizzaAnother celebrated New Haven favorite known for its classic pies and loyal local following.The Shipwright's DaughterA nationally recognized restaurant in Mystic focused on hyper-local seafood and farm-fresh ingredients sourced from nearby producers.Mystic Seafood ShacksThe Mystic area is filled with casual seafood spots serving lobster rolls, steamed clams, oysters, and other New England classics.Roly PolyA well-regarded Hungarian restaurant in New Haven that showcases the city's surprisingly diverse culinary scene.Neighborhoods & Regions to ExploreMysticA charming coastal town known for maritime history, seafood, waterfront scenery, and one of the state's most beloved attractions.New HavenHome to Yale University, exceptional museums, renowned pizza, and a thriving cultural scene.Litchfield HillsA scenic region filled with colonial villages, hiking trails, countryside estates, and art installations.GreenwichConnecticut's most affluent community offers luxury shopping, impressive architecture