Storrs Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Storrs with our comprehensive guide, including top places to visit, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay and much more.


Introduction to Storrs

Storrs, located in the heart of Connecticut, is a small, charming town known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Home to the University of Connecticut’s flagship campus, Storrs is a vibrant and bustling college town that offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s museums and historical sites, taking in the scenic views, or enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking and biking, Storrs has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Storrs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • University of Connecticut Museum of Natural History - This museum houses collections of dinosaurs, rocks and minerals, and biological specimens from around the world.
  • Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry - The museum is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of puppetry as an art form.
  • Mansfield Historical Society Museum - The museum showcases the history of Mansfield and the surrounding area and features exhibits on local industries, including textiles and agriculture.
  • Gilbert H. Hood Museum of Art - This museum houses a diverse collection of American and European art from the ancient to contemporary periods.

Natural Attractions of Storrs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Spring Valley Trails - Spring Valley Trails is a 3.5-mile trail system that gives hikers and bikers access to forests and fields on the edge of campus.
  • Mansfield Hollow State Park - The park offers a range of activities including hiking trails, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and boating.
  • Fenton River - The Fenton River Trail is a 1.2-mile trail that follows the river through a forested area.
  • UConn Forest - The UConn Forest features 2,200 acres of rolling hills, rocky ridges, and forests with over 30 miles of multi-use trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Storrs

Storrs is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in Connecticut, with scenic routes that are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the popular trails to check out:

  • Spring Valley Trails: 3.5 miles
  • East Brook Trail Loop: 3.5 miles
  • Fenton River Trail: 1.2 miles
  • Horsebarn Hill Loop: 2.5 miles
  • Nipmuck Trail: 12.5 miles

Best Things to Do in Storrs: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry
  • Take a stroll through UConn’s picturesque campus
  • Visit the Mansfield Historical Society Museum
  • Hike or bike on one of the scenic trails
  • Go fishing or boating at Mansfield Hollow State Park
  • Attend a sporting event at Gampel Pavilion or Rentschler Field
  • Enjoy a craft beer at one of the town’s local breweries
  • Attend an event at Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts

Week-Long Itinerary for Storrs

Day 1: Explore the Uconn Campus and visit the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry. Day 2: Visit the Mansfield Historical Society Museum and hike the Spring Valley Trails. Day 3: Land a catch or enjoy a picnic at Mansfield Hollow State Park. Day 4: Take a bike tour along the Fenton River Trail and enjoy lunch at a local brewery. Day 5: Go on a scenic drive through the countryside and visit the Gilbert H. Hood Museum of Art. Day 6: Visit the UConn Forest and hike the Nipmuck Trail. Day 7: Attend a cultural event at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts.

Food and Drink Scene of Storrs

Storrs is home to some fantastic food and drink options, with plenty of local favorites and unique dining experiences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster rolls from The Lobster House
  • Pizza from Chucks Margarita Grill
  • Burgers from Ted’s Restaurant
  • Sushi from Sakura Garden

Local Beverages

  • Local craft beer from Outer Light Brewing Company
  • Fresh juice from Family Groove
  • Coffee from The Beanery

Where to Stay in Storrs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Storrs has some great accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some suggestions:

  • Nathan Hale Inn and Conference Center - This hotel is located on the UConn campus and is a great option for visitors attending university events.
  • Best Western Storrs - This hotel is a great choice for families, with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to local attractions.
  • Airbnb - There are plenty of Airbnb options in Storrs, from cozy private rooms to entire houses for rent.

What to Buy in Storrs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some unique local products to bring back home include:

  • UConn apparel and merchandise from the campus bookstore
  • Handcrafted souvenirs from the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry
  • Fresh produce from a farmers market
  • Locally made jams and jellies from the Mansfield Farmers Market

Local Culture and Customs of Storrs

The local culture in Storrs is heavily influenced by the nearby university, which brings together individuals from all walks of life and from all over the world. Storrs is also known for its agricultural heritage and has a strong sense of community and belonging.

Best Time to Visit Storrs

The best time to visit Storrs is during the fall or spring months, when the weather is mild, and the leaves are changing color or blooming. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but be prepared for hot, humid weather, and make sure to pack sunscreen and plenty of water.

Do’s and Don’ts of Storrs

Do:

  • Do explore the scenic trails and natural beauty of the area.
  • Do try local restaurants and cuisine.
  • Do visit cultural attractions like the museums and art galleries.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural surroundings.
  • Don’t disrupt the peace and quiet of the town and its residential areas.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers at restaurants and bars.

Safety and Health

Safety in Storrs

Storrs is generally a safe town with a low crime rate, but it’s always recommended to be aware of your surroundings and take normal safety precautions when exploring the town and its attractions.

Health in Storrs

Storrs has a good healthcare infrastructure, with many hospitals and clinics in the nearby area. Make sure to pack any necessary medications and don’t forget to get travel insurance just in case.

Getting to Storrs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Storrs is located in northeastern Connecticut and can be easily accessed by car or public transportation. Here are some options for getting to Storrs:

Airports Near Storrs

  • Bradley International Airport (BDL) - Located 34 miles from Storrs.
  • T.F. Green Airport (PVD) - Located 74 miles from Storrs.

Bus Stations Near Storrs

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines - Operates daily services from Boston, Hartford, and New York City to Storrs.

Other Options

  • Amtrak - The closest Amtrak station is located in Hartford, approximately 23 miles from Storrs, which provides a connection from both New York City and Boston.
  • Car rentals - Several car rental agencies operate at Bradley International Airport and Hartford.

How to Get Around in Storrs

Walking, cycling, and driving are the most common ways to get around in Storrs. The town has a well-maintained system of pedestrian and cycling paths, and there are also several taxi companies available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Storrs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Storrs is located in northeastern Connecticut, making it an ideal location for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Mark Twain House and Museum, Hartford - Located approximately 30 minutes from Storrs, the Mark Twain House and Museum is a fascinating cultural attraction.
  • Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic - Approximately an hour’s drive from Storrs, the Mystic Seaport Museum offers a unique glimpse into the maritime history of Connecticut.
  • Yale University, New Haven - Located approximately an hour and a half from Storrs, Yale University is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States and is well worth a visit.

Conclusion

Storrs, Connecticut, may be a small town, but it’s packed with natural beauty, cultural attractions, and exciting activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Storrs has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’re well on your way to planning the perfect visit to this charming town.