Today let's take a trip to Bethel, Connecticut. Located to the west of Newtown, and north of Redding along the I-84/302 corridor.
Most of us think that P.T Barnum was born in Bridgeport. It seems that way, does it not? Pineaus Taylor Barnum was actually born in Bethel. There is even a street and statue dedicated to him here to prove it. He sure did pick a great town to start in.
Bethel is quiet and quaint, yet large in heart. Its downtown area is small yet robust. There is the infamous Doctor Mike's Ice Cream here. This ice cream is so good, it will make your hair fall out. I can back that up.
There is the Sycamore Drive Inn, an old fashion burger and shake restaurant. Be sure to check out the hot dogs and check out the car shows that bring back some nostalgia. Many other shops and restaurants line its downtown Greenwood Avenue, also known as Route 302.
Bethel is where it all got started for the greatest showman on earth. You should get a start on Bethel too and be sure to visit soon.
Click here for information on my book, "The Signs of Connecticut," a chronicle of those familiar blue signs that have the names of Connecticut's towns on them. Eachof Connecticut's 169 towns has one. The signs can be found on the town green, near the town hall, or next to that first congregational church.
Click here to watch my interview on WTNH Channel 8 where I talk about my 13 years visiting all of Connecticut's 169 towns to photograph every sign.
