1 Best Sight in Hartford and the Connecticut River Valley, Connecticut

This quaint ferry route has operated on the Connecticut River since 1769—originally a barge pushed by long poles, later using steam power, and now an open, self-propelled vessel. The crossing aboard Selden III, which accommodates 8 or 9 cars and 49 passengers, takes just five minutes but saves 12 miles of driving compared to taking the bridge. The bonus on the ferry ride: a beautiful view of Gillette's Castle, which overlooks the river.