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Hey, everyone, and welcome back to the blog. As we continue to creep further into fall – and dare I say, Winter – I wanted to share a few of my favorite autumnal spots in CT with you all. I’ve lived in Connecticut for all my life, and despite how much I may moan and groan, there is a timeless beauty about this state that I can’t deny. Between assignments, lab work, classes, etc., getting out and embracing the world around all of us has been one of my favorite methods of self-care lately.

Let’s get into it.

For me, Autumn is all about spicy, warm, and earthy flavors that ground you as the season slowly shifts. This fall, I was introduced to : a seemingly magical hole-in-the-wall where you can find the best apple cider in all of Connecticut. Originally founded in 1881 by Benjamin Franklin Clyde (no, not the OG Ben Franklin), this cider mill is the last of its steam-powered kind. So, if you find yourself wanting something warm, sweet, and paired with a donut, this is your perfect homework escape.

When it comes to actual food (donuts and cider aren’t exactly a meal here, people), I think it really depends on one’s personal preference. As we are further enveloping ourselves in warm sweaters to survive the cooling weather, we are naturally inclined to seek warm, hearty foods that will warm us up from the inside out. I’ve reviewed a couple before, but I haven’t written about them all. Here is a list of places I have tried and would recommend:

• – Italian
• – Asian
• – Little Bit of Everything
• The Pantry – Breakfast & Brunch (Cash Only!) (Their website is literally Facebook, lol)

I’m surprised that I never did an article on Gioia before. I should get on that. Anyhow–

If you’re not in the mood for cider or a full meal, maybe you’re leaning towards something a bit lighter. As I’ve been in the ’Havens for almost four years now, I’ve developed a sense for the coffee scene. Whether you be a chai-spice, espresso, or a cold-brew type of person, I’m sure all of these places will have something special for you:

• – quiet, good drinks and to-die-for biscotti
• Good spot for a date, tbh
• – a hip take on the coffee scene in New Haven; good place to socialize
• – pair a warm drink and bagel of your choice with a good book
• Crossroads – new Maple Cinnamon Bun Latte (Their website is also their Facebook)
• – excellent and dangerously addictive banana bread; good book selection

One of the great things about Autumn is that while the weather is cool, it’s not freezing. This means that I can go outside and exercise without worrying I’ll turn into a sweat monster in T-minus 10 seconds. With this, Fall is an excellent season to embrace your inner granola girl and get out into the hiking scene. For my photographers out there, now is the time to take shots of your favorite fall foliage– try saying that three times fast, geez –before the wind sweeps it away. While there are so many spots to choose from, here are a few of my (local) hiking nooks:

• East Rock Park – New Haven
• Sleeping Giant State Park – Hamden
• Naugatuck State Park – Naugatuck
• West Rock Ridge State Park – New Haven

If you’re not a hiker, that’s totally okay! Even going for a walk somewhere – the city, a simple trail, etc. –may boost your mood for a bit and put you in a cozy fall mood. I find that these types of walks are best accompanied with a Chai, a good friend, and a jump into a leaf pile.

If you’re looking for a day inside, perhaps take into consideration a museum! The has been re-opened for some time now and has free admission. If you have nothing to do on a rainy day, here’s your spot! P.S., this museum is right near my favorite bagel spot: ! Of course, you could always go to the or , which hold classic pieces and newfound treasures.

But what if you’re a stay-in typa gal, guy, or pal?

For those who don’t want to get out as much or simply don’t have the time, let me recommend:

Baking.

Make some pumpkin bread. Maybe a pie. Or both. Both is good. If you end up carving a pumpkin, save the seeds so you can toast them and make a healthy snack for later. My boyfriend’s mom (love her) makes a spicy and sweet batch of pumpkin seeds, and they’re usually devoured by the end of the week. Sooooo gooooood.

As Winter approaches, I’ve been reminding myself to get out and about as much as possible because soon enough, it’ll be too chilly to do anything. So, get outside while you can, laugh a lot, and see what surprises Autumn may have in store for you. Take care.