Things To Do
in Storrs
Storrs is a quintessential New England college town in northeastern Connecticut, anchored by the University of Connecticut. The campus and nearby village blend academic energy with rural charm, tree-lined lanes, and seasonal events. Residents and visitors enjoy cultural events, Huskies athletics, and easy access to nature within reach of Hartford and the Connecticut River Valley.
With student-run cafes, farmers markets, and scenic trails, Storrs offers a compact, welcoming base for exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the University of Connecticut's beautiful campus, where you can stroll through the scenic grounds and appreciate the architecture. Don't miss the Benton Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of artworks and rotating exhibitions. Grab a coffee at one of the campus cafes to fuel your morning exploration.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the UConn Dairy Bar, famous for its ice cream made from the university's own dairy cows. Following the tour, explore the surrounding nature trails that offer picturesque views of the campus and nearby areas. You can also visit the UConn Bookstore for unique merchandise and books about the university.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner and enjoy some farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, consider attending a performance or sporting event at the university, where you can experience the vibrant school spirit. End your day with a leisurely walk around the campus, soaking in the nighttime ambiance.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading out to explore the scenic nature trails in the nearby Nathan Hale State Forest. The morning is perfect for hiking, with trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the woods. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
After your hike, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the forest's designated picnic areas, surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, you can either explore more trails or try your hand at birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of bird species. If time permits, take a short drive to nearby Mansfield Hollow State Park for additional outdoor activities.
As evening approaches, return to Storrs and unwind at a local brewery where you can sample regional craft beers. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the beautiful weather. Cap off your night with a stroll through the town center, appreciating the charming small-town atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚎One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for 1 week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university presence and cultural events
- Access to nature and scenic drives
- Safe, walkable campus and surrounding town
- Varied dining from campus to local eateries
- Limited nightlife beyond campus
- Seasonal weather can be extreme
- Small-town amenities compared to larger cities
- Public transit options are more limited outside campus
Places to Visit in Storrs
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular photo stop capturing the university mascot with campus life in the background.
Wide views of the campus and surrounding farmland, especially dramatic at sunset.
Classic brick architecture and landscaped quads ideal for architectural and campus-life shots.
Campus imagery featuring the iconic Dairy Bar sign against evening lights.
Food in Storrs
Storrs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin, crisp crust variant popular across the state; widely available in campus cafes and nearby Mansfield pizzerias.
Must-Try!
Tender lobster meat dressed with light mayo or drawn butter; available in coastal-influenced menus and some Mansfield eateries.
Creamy chowder with clams, potatoes, and herbs; a staple at local cafes and bars.
Seasonal, freshly baked donuts often found at farmers markets and farm stands in autumn.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, dairy, baked goods, and prepared foods near the campus.
Rural market venue featuring fresh fruit, vegetables, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, saying please and thank you, and holding doors for others are common courtesies.
Respect quiet areas, observe posted rules, and be mindful of student study times.
Safety
Tipping in Storrs
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a typical 15-20% tip is appreciated; check for any service charge on larger groups.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is always welcome.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with afternoon thunderstorms possible; campus events and outdoor concerts are common.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; ideal for outdoor photography and campus strolls.
Cold temperatures with snow on the ground; indoor activities and campus holiday events are popular.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees and gardens; great for campus walks and lake-side scenes.
Storrs at Night
Hiking in Storrs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with lake views and picnic areas.
Nearby networks offering varied hiking experiences.
Extensive trails in a pine and hardwood forest setting within the region.
Airports
How to reach Storrs by plane.
Located in Windsor Locks, CT, about an hour by car from Storrs; major domestic flights and car rental available.
Located in New Haven, CT; smaller regional flights; roughly 45-60 minutes by car from Storrs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large, diverse student population from Connecticut and abroad.
Academic professionals and researchers associated with UConn.
Local families and long-term residents forming the community.
A notable share of international students and scholars.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
UConn Huskies teams draw large crowds and strong regional interest.
Spring sport with active club and varsity games.
Seasonal matches on campus and in local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Storrs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Campus dining offers vegetarian options in dining halls and at cafes; look for veggie bowls, salads, and meat-free entrees.
Many eateries label gluten-free options; ask staff about cross-contamination and available gluten-free breads and dishes.