Top Rated Attractions in Hamden

Also known as Mount Carmel Park, the Sleeping Giant State Park lives up to its billing as an untouched wilderness with 1,465 acres (593 hectares) of sweeping semi-arid expanses. The gateway to Connecticut's countryside, the park is named after the Sleeping Giant traprock mountain that dominates its surroundings from an impressive elevation of 522 feet (159 meters). The grounds are riddled with a superabundance of hiking trails and picnic areas that add up to 32 miles (51.44 kilometers) of outdoor recreation. The park's southern shores are home to some of its most complex ecosystems, thanks to the life-sustaining waters of the River Connecticut's tributaries, which is also a popular fishing zone swarming with trout.

One of the prime wine-makers in the city, Gouveia Vineyards is where some of the finest wines come to life. Perched atop a hill in Wallingford, with lush green fields and breath-taking views of the countryside at its backdrop, this is also one of the must-visit spots in the city. Everything that goes into the products of this winery is grown on its 140-acre (56.6 hectare) vineyards, assuring a consistent batch each time. Visitors here can also take a tour of the vineyard and winery, wherein each stage of production cane be experienced, from the picking of fruits to the barreling and ageing.

Madison Green Historic District is an area in Madison that is home to a number of historic structures that now form part of the town's heritage. The centerpiece of the district is the town green, which is an old, privately owned church. The streets around the town green boast spectacular historic monuments, war memorials, and towering old trees, which can be explored on a heritage tour of the district. Visitors can admire beautiful 18th and 19th-century residential and commercial buildings, including the Deacon John Grave House, the Meetinghouse, and the congregational church.

Walnut Beach is a sandy beach located along the picturesque coastline of Milford. Overlooking the Long Island Sound, Walnut Beach is an ideal destination in the town to spend a fun day out with your loved ones. Take a stroll along the shoreline of soft, shimmering sand, enjoy sunbathing in the mellow atmosphere, watch the boats as they float quietly in the waters, listen to the sounds of the sea and the seagulls, or try your hand at fishing at the long pier.

Rockland Preserve is a serene recreational area in Madison where visitors can enjoy the town's great outdoors. Featuring a network of trails on ancient, abandoned paths that traverse over 20 miles (32.1 kilometers), Rockland Preserve is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, walking, and running. When in town, head over the the park to spend an adventurous day as you explore the preserve's old charcoal pits, admire mature, towering trees, stroll by the Coan Pond, and embrace the serenity of nature.

The number one adventure park in Southern New England, Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park is the perfect way to spend quality time with your friends and family. With climbing, cliff jumping, zip lining, diving, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, there's so much to do here. Rental and sports shacks at the premises let hire sporting equipment at nominal prices. You can eat scrumptious hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, grilled chicken, fires and more at the Brownstone Park's food stand and grilling station. You could also opt for the delicious made-to-order brick oven pizza here. The park is also known to provide outdoor adventure training programs that are open to all. The Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park could also be your next birthday destination as the park offers some great deals on private parties.