Founded 1636; key in American Revolution. Sites: Mark Twain House, Mystic Seaport, Yale University. First written constitution (1639), Hartford Convention (1814).
Mountains, valleys, forests, lakes, rivers, and top Northeast beaches. Charming coastal towns (Mystic, Stonington, Madison).
Vibrant mix of cultures/ethnicities; distinct neighborhoods.
High GDP per capita, low unemployment. HQs: GE, United Technologies, Aetna. Strong tourism.
Top public schools; elite universities (Yale, UConn, Wesleyan).
Most affordable New England state.
Museums, theaters, galleries, festivals year-round.