Since the American Revolution, Connecticut has had three Capitols; built in 1878, this angelic-white structure is the state's third and last one. Designed by renowned American architect Richard M. Upjohn, the gold-domed building was erected in the Victorian Eastlake Movement-style and constructed using marble sourced from three different East Coast states. The iconic structure's stunning main facade is embellished with a series of carefully-crafted statues that bear likenesses to some of the most influential politicians and historic citizens to have come out of Connecticut. The capitol building is currently home to the state senate and the house of representatives, while also maintaining the offices of the governor, lieutenant governor and secretary of state.
Skinner State Park's natural beauty makes it a great destination for the whole family. The park features over 843 acres (341 hectares) of forest that covers Mount Holyoke and runs along the Connecticut River. There are many hiking trails, some of which reach the summit of Mount Holyoke. It also contains the historic Mount Holyoke Summit House, which was donated to the state with the land for the park by businessman Joseph Allen Skinner in 1940. In the spring and the fall, hawk-watching is a popular attraction in the park. There are several picnic sites that are open to the public as well.
Established by and named after Frank Stanley Beveridge, Stanley Park is so much more than just an ordinary park. Sprawled over an area of 300 acres, the park encompasses within its boundaries a whole host of attractions and recreational facilities. Explore the arboretum, rhododendron garden, wildlife sanctuary and botanical gardens, visit the Foster Goodrich Memorial and the Carillon Tower, or relax by the Colonial lake. The park also features tennis courts, picnic areas, playgrounds and soccer fields that are open to all. Stanley park hosts a variety of events, concerts and festivals throughout the season, including marathons, cotillions, mother's day celebrations and Sunday night concerts. The park is open from the first Saturday of May through the last Sunday of November.
One of the most unique public spaces in the country, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden has five different statues and sculptures of some of Dr Seuss' most beloved characters. A ten-foot tall Horton, plus the Lorax, Yertle the Turtle and the Cat in the Hat are some of the cartoon creatures that come to life in this playful garden. The largest sculpture is an enormous replica of Oh, the Places You'll Go!, and there is also a statue of Dr. Seuss sitting at his writing desk. Free and open daily, the garden is a great stop for anyone and everyone who loves Dr. Seuss.
Set along the Westfield River, Robinson State Park is scattered with dense woodlands. Opened in 1934, this state park is spread across an area of 1,025 acres (414.8 hectares). It is home to a variety of wildlife like beavers, fisher cats, coyotes, egrets, mountain lions and bald eagles. Owing to its abundance of wildlife, this wooded park is a popular place to visit for wildlife and bird watchers. They also offer facilities for other recreational activities like hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, canoeing and cross-country skiing.