Block Island and Bridgeport: Ferry trips to take from Long Island this summer
The Block Island Express on its way to Block Island from New London, Conn., via the Cross Sound ferry. Credit: Randee Daddona
There’s something to be said for simplicity. Skip the drive, hop on a ferry and cruise to your destination. It can be a painless way to get where you’re going. With fewer travel hassles, fresh air and scenic water views, your vacation exhale comes sooner rather than later.
Start out from Long Island and consider these ferry adventures:
Port Jefferson Ferry to Bridgeport, Connecticut
Bridgeport is a historic seaport city in Connecticut. Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto/DenisTangneyJr
Make your way to Port Jefferson to board the Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry (102 W. Broadway, Bridgeport, 888-443-3779, 88844ferry.com). Enjoy Long Island Sound as you sip a cocktail, a glass of wine or beer along with some nibbles during the ride that’s a little over an hour (round trip ferry tickets: $40 ages 13 and older).
Bridgeport is called The Park City, with more than 1,500 acres of parkland. One favorite is Seaside Park (Park Avenue, Bridgeport, 203-576-7233, ctvisit.com).
Day passes for out-of-state visitors are $100. You’ll discover why with its beach along 3 miles of coastline, picnic areas and hiking trails. On the western edge of the park is Fayerweather Island. You can visit the wildlife preserve by crossing the breakwater rocks. There’s also a lighthouse.
Thrill seekers, the Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum has just what you’re looking for. with 44 zip lines and more than a dozen treetop trails (4450 Park Ave., Bridgeport, 203-690-1717, myadventurepark.com; $64 ages 14 and older, $55 ages 7-13, $42 ages 5-6).
For a walk on the wild, yet quieter side, visit Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo to see bears, leopards, red pandas and more (1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, 203-394-6565, beardsleyzoo.org; $23 ages 12 and older, $19 ages 2-11).
Captain’s Cove Seaport is a must-see with its boardwalk, shops, restaurants and entertainment (1 Bostick Ave., Bridgeport, 203-335-1433, captainscoveseaport.com).
Brasa Pub & Restaurant gets accolades for its Portuguese-inspired tapas and small plates — think seafood bisque, lamb chops and paella (1439 Madison Ave., Bridgeport ). Ola Latin Kitchen is beloved for its tacos de bacalao with crispy cod, avocado, mango salsa, cilantro aioli and fajitas (694 Brooklawn Ave., Bridgeport, 203-296-4884, olalatinkitchen.com).
Treat yourself to a stay about 10 minutes from Bridgeport at Delamar Southport, with its spa and Artisan Southport restaurant known for its hake fish and chips, chicken foie gras meatballs and local beef burgers (275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-259-2800, delamar.com; room rates starting at $349).
Block Island Express to Block Island, Rhode Island
The Southeast Lighthouse on Block Island. Credit: AP Images for Lands' End/Stew Milne
The Block Island Express’ Sea Jet leaves from the Orient Point Ferry Dock (41270 Main Rd., Orient, 860-444-4624, 401-466-2212, goblockisland.com; round trip ferry tickets: $66.50, $33.50 ages 12 and younger).
Spend just under three hours on the outdoor and indoor deck. Settle in airline-style seats, see what’s on satellite television, people watch, take in the scenery and sip a Bloody Mary from the bar. If you haven’t brought a picnic basket with goodies, the food on board includes pizzas, homemade pastries and other light bites.
Once on Block Island your big decision will be what to do first. You’ll cheat yourself if you don’t explore the 200-foot tall Mohegan Bluffs (Spring Street, Block Island, blockislandinfo.com; no admission fee). Along with amazing views, on top of the bluffs is the Southeast Lighthouse (122 Mohegan Trail, New Shoreham, 401-466-5009, southeastlighthouse.org; guided tour: $15). If you’re up for it, descend the 141 steps that lead to the shore. Remember you’ll have to climb back up, but you’ll be glad you did. Though the beach is rocky and not ideal for swimming, take epic photos there.
A view of Mohegan Bluffs in Block Island. Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto/randydellinger
Block Island is all about water fun, like parasailing, kayaking, fishing and stand-up paddle boarding. But if you don’t fancy the waves, biking is big here. There’s a self-guided bike tour, a 7½-mile loop that has nine stops, including the painted rocks and the 1661 Farm & Gardens. Rustic Rides Horse Farm offers beach and trail horseback rides for all levels (1173 Westside Road, Block Island, 401-466-5060; $100 per hour). Water Street offers harbor views, shops and restaurants. As for where to stay, consider the Atlantic Inn with its veranda, gorgeous lawns, water views and Victorian charm. Rooms start at around $450 a night (359 High St., New Shoreham, 401-466-5883, atlanticinn.com).
