Hopeville Pond State Park, Connecticut

A trip to Hopeville Pond State Park is like walking through one big painting. You could look in any direction, prop up an easel and create a masterpiece, assuming you have mad painting skills. Bob Ross would tear this place up.

The wooded shoreline enshrouds the pond like a secret garden, and the ambience gets even more goosebumps-inducing when an early morning mist lingers over the waters. Benches are scattered around the pond for you to sit and contemplate life while staring out at the serene landscape. You can fish here too, if that’s how you prefer to find your inner zen. Meditation comes second nature here, so plan a visit any time you’re feeling on edge.