Goodspeed Opera House

Connecticut


This 1876 Victorian music hall is known as 'the birthplace of the American musical,' and it still produces a full schedule of shows: Man of La Mancha and Annie premiered here before going on to national fame. The fascinating riverfront building is worth a look even if you aren't able to catch a performance; on summer Saturdays one-hour tours are available.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Connecticut attractions

1. Nathan Hale Schoolhouse

0.19 MILES

Nathan Hale (1755–76) is famous for his (alleged) patriotic statement, 'I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country,' as he was about to…

2. Gillette Castle

2.62 MILES

Built in 1919 by actor William Hooker Gillette, who made his fortune playing Sherlock Holmes, this gaudy, medieval-style 'castle' is an eccentric turreted…

3. Haddam Meadows State Park

3.25 MILES

Inaugurated in 1944 with a gift of 154 acres from the Hazen Foundation, this park features a pretty meadow dotted with picnic tables, and offers seasonal…

5. Hurd State Park

6.35 MILES

This heavily forested state park has walking and biking trails and offers basic camping facilities for the exclusive use of those boating along the…

6. Devil's Hopyard State Park

6.52 MILES

Legend has it that the round holes in the park's beautiful, 60ft Chapman Falls were made by the Devil itself, but you can thank the state of Connecticut…

7. Essex Art Association

7.72 MILES

The association hosts at least four different public shows during the high season and rents the space for other art showings the rest of the year. Located…

8. Essex Park

7.85 MILES

This beautiful shoreline park is centered on a gazebo and features an illustration explaining the 25 tree species lining the perimeter. You can launch…