State Route 197 is a major highway in Connecticut that runs from the town of Union to the border of Massachusetts.

While the region the route travels through is nicknamed “The Quiet Corner,” there’s still plenty to see and do around here.

Start

Starting in Union, get in touch with nature at Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest. The two offer more than 9,000 acres of space for hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. You’ll also find the Union Civil War Cannon Memorial. It serves to honor the soldiers who fought from 1861–1865 in The War of the Rebellion.

Next

One of the other major towns that the route passes through is Woodstock. Woodstock covers a surprisingly large area and is home to some unique and historic stops.

Then

View this post on Instagram

The best ice cream is local ice cream.

A post shared by Emma Rategan (Capron) (@emmaofthefaeries) on

See a working dairy farm in action with a tour of Fairvue Farms, which has been operating for five decades. It is home to more than 1400 dairy cows. Free tours are available seven days a week with advance arrangements.

History Lesson

History buffs will love Roseland Cottage. It’s an interesting historic Victorian house that was the summer home of Henry and Lucy Bowen. The Bowens entertained many famous figures of the mid-to-late 1800s, including four presidents. And the home contains the country’s oldest indoor bowling alley. You can take a tour of the property Wednesdays through Sundays from June 1 through October 15. Then, check out the Quasset School, a historic one-room schoolhouse—now a living museum—that was built in 1854.

Speaking of history, Woodstock has antique shops galore, including Scranton’s Shops and Woodstock Antiques.

Eat

If you’re hungry, stop at The Inn at Woodstock Hill for upscale specialties like sesame-seared salmon, heritage pork chops, or chicken and pasta a la vodka. The Mansion at Bald Hill is another excellent dining option that features dishes with seasonal ingredients. Try the seared pan scallops or cabernet beef short ribs. Find more casual options at Java Jive, Sweet Evalina’s, and Village Restaurant and Pizza.

Drink

There’s wine, too! The Taylor Brooke Winery is part of the Connecticut wine trail, making it the perfect stop for an afternoon tasting to cap off a day of exploration.

Happy Exploring

If you plan to stay in Connecticut for several days, check out some of the best lodging deals in the area on our sister site, HotelCoupons.com.