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8 Things to Do in Storrs, CT

Though it’s home to the University of Connecticut, Storrs isn’t just for Huskies. It’s for travelers looking to experience the Northeast, parents coming to town to visit their students, and UConn alumni ready to relive their glory days. Adventure abounds here, from parks packed with waterfalls to treetop adventures to mouthwatering wraps you just can’t beat. 

Take on Storrs with our eight favorite things to do, see, and eat, all just steps from Graduate Storrs.

1

Shelter Falls Park

Meander 75 wooded acres teeming with wildlife, waterfalls, and walking trails at Shelter Falls Park. Connected to the University of Connecticut’s North Eagleville Tract, Shelter Falls Park is a popular outdoor escape for students and locals alike. Work up a sweat before taking on Storrs or simply treat yourself to some of the town’s best forest bathing. 

1.7 miles of trails wind through the forest. Follow them to discover hardwood forests, fern passages, and a waterfall near a sheltered rock formation that gives the park its name. 

Insider Tip

Grab your picnic basket – there’s plenty of space for grazing and eating.

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stream in the woods
2

Storrs Farmers Market

Shop items made and grown exclusively in Connecticut at the Storrs Farmers Market. Since 1994, the Mansfield community has flocked to their market to do their weekly shop or simply get their fill of locally made treats. Pursue everything from meat, dairy, produce, baked goods, and more, all made right here in Connecticut. 

Join Storrs locals every Saturday at the market, which sets up shop in the shadow of the Mansfield Town Hall. If you’re not in the mood for produce, stop by to pick up locally-made hot sauce or prepared foods instead.

Insider Tip

Open every Sunday on the lawn from May through December.

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3

The Adventure Park

Get your pulse racing at The Adventure Park, Storrs’s go-to destination for adrenaline-inducing experiences. Throw axes outdoors or maneuver between platforms in the trees, all before catching some speed on an exhilarating zip line. 

Get lost in acres of rop courses and zip lines, all just minutes from Graduate Storrs. The park offers both high and low courses so you’ll find adventures for kids and adults alike.  

Insider Tip

For an additional discount, purchase night tickets and swing on the tight ropes before the park closes.

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ropes course
4

Gansett Wraps

As the name implies, Gansett Wraps is dedicated to all things rolled within a tortilla. Though their namesake wrap features breaded eggplant and mozzarella, the flavors of their wraps span the globe. Dig into everything from a chicken kebab to a gyro to the Italiano stuffed with ham, salami, and provolone. 

For those less wrap-inclined, Gansett also services up subs as well as bites on the side like twice-fried french fries and falafel. Opt for a lighter lunch with a salad or their vegan wrap packed with veggies. 

Insider Tip

It’s called Gansett Wraps, but you gotta try the jalapeno poppers. Trust us.

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5

Mansfield Drive-In

Step back into the good old days of drive-in cinema at Mansfield Drive-In. Perfect for a warm summer night, the drive-in is the best place to catch a flick on the silver screen. Mansfield locals have been watching movies at the drive-in since 1954, making this a genuine piece of Storrs history.

Once the credits roll, the drive-in also operates a flea market. Stop by from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday to shop plants, produce, antiques, and more from the market’s more than 300 vendors. 

Insider Tip

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and coolers while enjoying the flick.

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movie theatre screen
6

Lisa’s Chocolates and Gifts

Sink your teeth into Storrs’s best sweets at Lisa’s Chocolates and Gifts. This local shop serves up homemade chocolates and artisan goods, perfect to dig into in your hotel room or bring home for a loved one. Their quaint storefront is almost as enchanting as the chocolates themselves, inviting guests to experience a true small town store.

Whether you’re in search of decadent chocolates, old-time candies, or other pantry goods, you’re sure to find it all at Lisa’s.

Insider Tip

The chocolate dipped pretzel is a local favorite.

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7

UConn Dairy Bar

Since 1953, UConn Dairy Bar has churned up mouthwatering ice cream from products straight out of the university’s own Creamery. Though the Creamery stopped bottling their milk in 1991, you can still get a taste of the milk they produce by way of UConn Dairy Bar’s world-class ice cream. 

The Dairy Bar builds upon their original recipe to create unique flavors like the Banana Fluffer Nutter, an ode to Elvis. If you can’t make it into the shop, keep an eye out around town for the Dairy Bar’s ice cream truck. 

Insider Tip

Try the old-fashioned milk shake, topped with Oreo and cookie crumbs. It’s a local favorite.

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ice cream
8

Dog Lane Cafe

From early morning to late at night, swing by the Dog Lane Cafe for strong coffee, fresh salads and sandwiches, and an inviting atmosphere. This European/American cafe is a place where you can stop in for a bite or stay for a while over their signature Cuban sandwich or black bean burrito. 

While you’re there, don’t miss their cold brew or ginger lemonade in the morning, or their extensive (yet affordable) wines, all of which are chosen for their character.

Insider Tip

You’re in New England, so you gotta try the crab cake signature dish!

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