With each article we’ll include some must-see sites, but, as lovers of craft beer as well, we’ll of course let you know where, when and how to raise a glass, no matter where you are in this great state. So grab your maps, friends and camera as you embark on the best that the Long Island Sound has to offer.
Trip Nick-Name: Sudsy on Long Island Sound
Half Full Brewery, Stamford CT
Are you passionate about drinking? Shouldn’t you meet someone who’s equally passionate (if not more) about brewing the beer you love so much? Then you have to meet Connor Horrigan, founder of Half Full Brewery. Horrigan had what he thought was the American Dream: a mighty fine banking job on Wall Street. That’s until he realized there was so much life beyond his corner of “the city.” So he traveled, to Peru, to Prague, and to Vienna, as he unknowingly began to cultivate the foundation of his new life’s mission: Half Full Brewery. Horrigan’s story alone is worth the trip. But the beer, ah, his beer is worth the stay. Learn more now.
The Ginger Man, South Norwalk CT
You never know what’s going to happen at the Ginger Man SoNo. From home brew competitions to offering one of the fiercest beer lists in New England, you can’t afford to miss all that the Ginger Man has to offer. This wonderfully crafted beer pub has helped revitalize and revolutionize Norwalk’s SoNo district, so when you take a seat on one of their stools, you’re standing up for the community. Go ahead, drink up. You’re guaranteed to like something on tap here. Learn more now.
Cask Republic, Stamford CT
There are two Cask Republics, actually. One’s in New Haven, but for your Sudsy on Long Island Sound getaway, we urge you to check out the pub’s Stamford digs. So what’s so special about Cask Republic? Ah, well, it’s all in the name. Serving Cask Conditioned Ale, Cask Republic is reintroducing a style of beer that’s traditional in the UK, and making new waves here in the states. Cask Conditioned Ale foregoes the introduction of CO (carbon dioxide), as the secondary fermentation (conditioning) of the ale takes place in the cask itself. Yeah, sounds complicated, but you’ll taste the difference. We promise. Learn more now.
The Maritime Aquarium, Norwalk CT
You can’t really take in all that the Long Island Sound has to offer if you don’t head on down to the Maritime Aquarium. Featuring such exhibits as “Flutter Zone” (a butterfly exhibit) as well as IMAX movies, there’s plenty of fun for people of all ages here. Long Island Sound is home to some of the world’s most astounding and important sea creatures, and the aquarium makes it possible for you to see these creatures in their natural setting. Take a break from the beer and check out some sharks, dolphins or heck, even touch the tops of jellyfish. The drinks will be waiting. Learn more now.
Ninety9Bottles Craft Beer Festival, Norwalk CT
This relatively new beer festival on the block is already a hit. Ninety 9 Bottles Craft Beer Festival typically sells out … fast, and for good reason. Not only does it feature 50+ craft beers (with a focus on New England brewers), but it also features food trucks, live music, and one heck of a view. Set atop the hill at Oyster Shell Park, there is no way better to see the Sound in all its glory than to drink a little local beer, while enjoying Norwalk’s best in food and music. If you do end up getting tickets to this coveted Norwalk beer festival, you’ll also be helping to support local charities. Not too shabby. Learn more now.
Sheffield Island Lighthouse Boat Tour, Norwalk CT
You can’t leave this area of CT without going on a boat tour around Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Here’s your opportunity to ride a 45-foot catamaran to the island, tour the lighthouse, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat in the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. Lighthouses are a huge part of Connecticut’s history, some might say more so than craft beer is! End your weekend getaway with a bit of lighthearted education as you learn about this iconic piece of CT. Learn more now.
Any places you would suggest visiting in the Lower Fairfield County CT area? Let us know in the comments below!
