🚤 Cruise Into Fall Foliage + Step Into Little Women + Restaurant Week Deals

September 25, 2025

Hi there, Connecticut explorer! 🍂 We’ve rounded up some can’t-miss happenings to make your week a little brighter (and tastier). From stunning fall foliage on the water to heartwarming theater and a foodie celebration, here’s what’s on the calendar:

🚤 A private fall foliage cruise along the Connecticut River
🎭 Little Women live on stage in Shelton
🍽️ Milford Regional Restaurant Week kicks off
📗 This Month in CT History: Nathan Hale’s Final Act of Patriotism
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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Private Cruises Along the Connecticut River Offer Stunning Autumn Views

Fall in Connecticut is always beautiful, but why settle for backroads when you can experience the colors from the deck of a private boat? Connecticut River Expeditions invites you aboard the R/V KEEPER for an intimate, customizable cruise for up to six guests.

Over two peaceful hours, you’ll soak in panoramic views of fiery reds, glowing oranges, and golden yellows reflecting off the river. Wildlife lovers may even spot Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, or Ospreys gliding by. Looking for something extra special? Try a Full Moon Cruise, where the foliage glows under autumn’s Hunter’s Moon.

With options to extend your journey or even circumnavigate Selden Island, these cruises are a one-of-a-kind way to savor the season. Bring along your favorite snacks and cider, and make memories that last a lifetime.

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Center Stage Theatre Brings the Beloved Classic to Life

Center Stage Theatre in Shelton is celebrating its 20th anniversary season with Little Women, running September 19–28. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s timeless novel, the play follows the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and coming-of-age during the Civil War era.

This intergenerational community theatre is known for high-quality, affordable productions that showcase local talent. Performances run across two weekends, with tickets ranging from $20–$39.

📍 Center Stage Theatre, Shelton CT

Ten Days of Dining Deals Across Milford, West Haven & Orange

Foodies, rejoice! From September 26 through October 5, Milford and West Haven Restaurant Week is back with ten days of prix fixe menus and limited-time specials.

From coastal classics at Stonebridge to international bites at El Toro and Guji, dozens of restaurants are serving up flavors worth exploring. It’s the perfect excuse to revisit old favorites or discover a new go-to spot — all while supporting local dining.

📍 Participating restaurants across Milford, West Haven & Orange

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Two Hours of Bowling for Two, Four, or Six — Up to 73% Off on Groupon

Looking for a night out that’s as fun as it is affordable? Bowlero has you covered! Thanks to this limited-time Groupon deal, you and your crew can enjoy two full hours of bowling plus free shoe rental at a fraction of the regular price.

  • 2 people – just $36 (reg. $103, 65% off)

  • 4 people – just $61 (reg. $207, 71% off)

  • 6 people – just $84 (reg. $310, 73% off)

Bowlero isn’t your average bowling alley — it’s a high-energy experience. Think blacklight lanes, giant HD video walls, lounge seating, and booming music that keeps the vibe going all night long. Beyond the lanes, you’ll find arcade games, billiards, laser tag, and a full menu of crowd-pleasing eats like wings, burgers, and loaded nachos.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU BEEN HERE YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

Nathan Hale’s Final Act of Patriotism

In September 1776, a 21-year-old schoolteacher from Coventry, Connecticut, gave his life in service to the Revolutionary cause. Nathan Hale, a Yale graduate who joined the Continental Army after the outbreak of war, quickly rose to the rank of captain. When the British seized New York City, Hale volunteered for one of the most dangerous missions of the conflict: to cross enemy lines and gather intelligence on troop movements.

Disguised and operating in secret, Hale was eventually captured after the Great Fire of New York raised British suspicions. Physical evidence of his spying sealed his fate, and on September 22, he was hanged by the British. Accounts describe him facing death with remarkable composure, speaking with calm resolve before the gathered crowd.

Though his body was never recovered, Hale’s sacrifice became a powerful symbol of courage and conviction. His memory has been honored with monuments, stamps, and school names across the nation — and in 1985, Connecticut declared him the official state hero.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

🍻 Kent Falls Brewing Expands to Northford
Kent Falls Brewing, Connecticut’s first farm brewery, has opened a new location in Northford while continuing operations at its Kent farm. Known for sourcing 95% of its ingredients locally, the brewery launched with location-exclusive beers like the Full Pour Pils and Buddy Sprinkles Goes to Northford. Guests can also expect rotating food trucks every weekend.

🧵 Beloved Simsbury Quilt Shop to Close After 20 Years
Sew Inspired Quilt Shop & Studio in Simsbury will close at the end of 2025, as owner Vivian “Viv” Lazich retires after two decades. The store, cherished by local quilters, recently marked its 20th anniversary. Lazich plans to spend her retirement enjoying family time and hobbies — including quilting.

🥗 Green & Tonic Opens New Café in Old Greenwich
Green & Tonic, a café chain focused on plant-based and clean eating, just opened its newest spot in Old Greenwich at 239 Sound Beach Ave. The location offers gluten-free meals, kid-friendly options, and a salad station. To celebrate, the café debuted specials like the Vita Coco Strawberry Mango Matcha Cloud and kicked off a smoothie design contest.

☕ Baker’s Dozen Bringing Coffee & Pastries to North Stonington
Baker’s Dozen, a Connecticut staple since 1980, will soon open its 10th location in North Stonington at 76 Norwich Westerly Road. The family-run chain is known for fresh coffee, baked goods, and loyal customers, with hours stretching early into the morning seven days a week.

Thanks!

Thanks for catching today’s newsletter! We hope it sparked some inspiration to get out, explore, and soak up the best of Connecticut this week.

Enjoyed it? Share it with a friend and let them in on all the fun things happening around the state!

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