As you might already know, you not only live in a beautiful state, but one with lots of things to do, all within a short distance of one another. Have you taken the time to get to know your state? Starting in the southwest region and heading east, you can catch a glimpse of local marine wildlife at the Maritime Aquarium. Excitement abounds at the Lake Compounce Theme Park, home to a wet and wild water park and a thrilling, twisting-turning wooden rollercoaster. The Barker Character, Comic, and Cartoon Museum is also sure to be a hit with the kids. When’s the last time you took a stroll along the sandy shore or went for a dip in the Atlantic at Hammonasset Beach State Park? And it doesn’t end there. View famous works by world renowned painters Manet, Picasso, and Van Gogh at the Yale University Art Gallery. Go to a NASCAR race at the Stafford Motor Speedway. Step into the two humungous hangars that house the 80 aircraft at the New England Air Museum. Visit Mark Twain’s and Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Victorian homes or Sam Colt’s firearms collection at the Museum of Connecticut History. Roll the dice at the immense Foxwoods Resort Casino. Visit patriot Nathan Hale’s quaint family farmhouse. Or simply enjoy the colorful fall foliage you’ll find on a scenic autumn drive throughout the state.