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Barbecue fans will be pleasantly surprised by all the great options in the Hamden, CT area. Whether you are in the mood for barbecued chicken, pork, or beef, you will be sure to find what you are looking for in and around Hamden. Check out our list of some of the best barbecue in the area, from Kansas City to Carolina style, and everything in between. Where to Find the Best Barbecue Near Hamden, CT Ricky D's Rib Shack Founded on the premise of good old backyard barbecues with friends and family, the owner of this popular establishment started out with a small menu and a food truck. The restaurant opened in 2016 and has become a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Their original barbecue sauce, called Kansa-Lina, combines the vinegary flavor of Carolina style with the sweet and savory taste of traditional Kansas City barbeque sauce. It is the perfect accompaniment to beef, pork, fish, and poultry. A variety of ribs, wings, sandwiches, and salads are offered, as well as the ever-popular Kansa-Lina Fries. Piled high with your choice of meat and coleslaw, you can make a meal out of these fries. more Texiko BBQ & Tequila All of the barbeque sauces here are house-made and gluten-free. Choose from 4 different sauces, which include North and South Carolina, Texas, and Alabama flavors. Baby Back ribs are available on Friday and Saturday and are served with Texas slaw and hand-cut fries. In addition to their delicious barbeque offerings, Texiko has a wide variety of delicious foods on their menu, including Vegan and Vegetarian options. Enjoy a Prairie Manhattan or Buffalo Old Fashioned cocktail with your meal (please drink responsibly). Bear's Smokehouse If you are in town for a Huskie's game, be sure to visit this venue, which is the official barbeque of the UConn Huskies. Specializing in Baby Back ribs and chicken, you will have a hard time choosing from their wide variety of menu items. Meatloaf, turkey breast, sausage, and brisket are also offered. If you are in the mood for comfort food, why not try the famous Mac Attack, which is mac and cheese topped with meat. Take a week-night break from cooking dinner and order the Family Deal, which feeds 4-6 people and includes meat and 3 sides. Finish off your meal with apple crisp, peach cobbler, or bourbon pecan pie. Pig Rig BBQ This well-loved veteran-owned business operates a restaurant and food truck. Catering your next event is a breeze with Pig Rig. Choose to have the barbeque come to your event in the Hot Rod food truck or reserve space at the restaurant. In addition to their tasty rib and pork offerings, you will find some unusual side items on their menu as well. Cornbread or cinnamon sweet potato bread are very popular and pair well with coleslaw and Diesel Beans. If you are in the market for a new vehicle to get you to all these popular establishments, stop by Bob Thomas Ford today. Our team is looking forward to showing you our inventory of new and quality pre-owned vehicles.

The 2021 Ford Edge, and its performance-orientated variant, the Edge ST, offer a wide variety of features to excite any driver. From improved touchscreens and infotainment systems to refined interior and exterior design, the Edge is the perfect midsize SUV for the tech-savvy driver. In t this article, we'll explore some of the standout features of the Edge and why it could be the perfect car for you. 3 Standout Features of the 2021 Ford Edge 1. Incredible Performance The Edge features a streamlined eight-speed automatic transmission that routes power from a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 engine that can make 0-60 in just over 7.5 seconds. However, it's the ST performance variant that shines, with its hard-hitting 2.7-liter V6 that can offer as much as 355hp and 380lb-ft of torque, compared to the base models 250hp and 280lb-ft of torque. The base model can be had with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive while the ST enjoys AWD as standard. When it comes to fuel economy, the Edge really shines. The base model, with an I4 engine and FWD, is EPA-rated at 21/29 mpg city/highway. Choosing the AWD option will get you 21/28 mpg, while the ST doesn't suffer for its larger engine and improved performance; it is rated as 19/26mpg. more 2. Five-Star Safety The Edge has received exceptional ratings from both national car safety organizations. The NHTSA gave it its highest possible overall score of five stars, and the IIHS has awarded the 2020 model its coveted Top Safety Pick designation, with a special nod to its driver-assist systems. The available adaptive headlight system received special mention, but it's the front collision prevention technology that really shines. This was rated as Superior, the highest possible designation, due to its ability to avoid collisions in every single one of the tests. This amazing collision avoidance system is available as standard on the Edge, but that's not the only safety feature available. Also included as standard is pedestrian emergency forward braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic alert are available as standard on all models, while adaptive cruise control is included on the higher-end trims. 3. High Tech, High Spec Interior All variants of the Edge come equipped as standard with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, ready-loaded with Ford's brand new Sync 4 software. This has been updated with improved processing power, natural language voice recognition, and built-in navigation as standard. It also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto amongst its many available features. Two USB ports are available for the front row of seats, and the standard speaker system has six speakers. However, for true audiophiles, a new Bang & Olufsen premium audio setup is available with 12 high-quality speakers. High-end variants of the Edge and Edge ST also enjoy the option of a 4.2-inch cluster display and a pad for wireless device charging. If you think the new Edge might be for you, then be sure to give us a call! Schedule a test drive today at Bob Thomas Ford!

Situated just north of New Haven, the charming town of Hamden, CT is a super place to go when you want to get away from it all and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Visitors here can spend hours exploring local lakes and parks, like Sleeping Giant State Park, or spend time in the town itself, visiting museums, historic homes, and botanical gardens. If you're planning a trip to the area, here are some of the best hotels to stay at. 5 of the Best Hotels for Visiting Hamden, CT 1. Clarion Hotel & Suites Hamden Situated just off I-95, the Clarion Hotel & Suites Hamden is a great place to stay when you want to explore the local area and really make the most of each day. Parks and lakes are mere minutes away, and the hotel itself has all the comforts and conveniences you need, including high-speed internet access, an on-site café, a business center, and a heated indoor pool, too. more 2. Whitney Inn & Suites If you're looking for a true home away from home for your stay in Hamden, the Whitney Inn & Suites is the place to be. This place has an authentic, homely feel, with very friendly service and some beautifully decorated rooms. You can also enjoy a tasty breakfast each morning at this hotel while reading through one of the free newspapers, or you can cook up some snacks in your own room thanks to the microwave and fridge. 3. Best Western Plus North Haven Hotel Best Western is a name that you can rely on, and the Best Western Plus North Haven Hotel is perfect for trips to Hamden and the surrounding area. It has plenty of great facilities and useful features, including an enormous indoor pool, a modern business center, and a 24-hour gym with all the workout equipment you could hope to find. Rooms here are clean and comfortable too, equipped with cable TV, work desks, and more. 4. La Quinta by Wyndham New Haven The La Quinta by Wyndham New Haven is situated in New Haven, only a few miles from Hamden. It's ideal for people who want to enjoy urban attractions like Yale University, while still having easy access to peaceful parks and tranquil lakes. You'll find free, speedy Wi-Fi at this hotel in all of the rooms, as well as cable TV, coffee makers, and plush, comfortable bedding. There's also an outdoor seasonal swimming pool and a fitness center with treadmills and bikes. 5. Courtyard New Haven at Yale The Courtyard New Haven at Yale is also located in New Haven, only a short drive from the sights and sounds of Hamden. There are also plenty of art galleries and cultural hotspots near this hotel. As for the property itself, it offers an on-site restaurant with breakfast and dinner service, a home theater area, a library, and a 24-hour fitness center. Rooms are equipped with marble and granite bathrooms, seating areas, and big work desks. So, if you're planning a trip to Hamden, there are plenty of cozy and comfortable places to stay, from luxury locations to affordable inns. If you need any auto work while in the area, the friendly mechanics at our dealership will be ready to help out. Visit Bob Thomas Ford for car servicing and repair in Camden.

We've got the perfect vehicle you need for your next big road trip. The 2021 Ford Expedition comes equipped with anything your next adventure can throw at it. Between its commanding style, powerful drive, and versatile features, there's plenty to get excited about when it comes to this year's Expedition. Read on to get all the details in our preview of this exciting option for your next SUV so you can decide if it's right for you. Your Up-Close Look at the 2021 Ford Expedition Design That Commands Attention Leaving a strong first impression is important, and with the style, the Expedition brings to the table, you're sure to do that everywhere you drive. The bold appearance and proportions bridge the gap between strength and style, giving you the best of both worlds. Unique trim levels help customize that appearance to suit your personality, with rugged looks from the King Ranch or more subtle style from the Stealth Edition. First-Class Interior and Amenities The exterior of the Expedition is already impressive enough, but you'll be blown away all over again when you open the doors to see the luxury cabin inside. All three rows of power reclining seats give you plenty of legroom to enjoy, letting your passengers ride in comfort. With up to 121 cubic feet of storage space, you'll also have enough room to pack along with all the gear you need for any situation. more Performance Engineered to Excite The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine uses the latest innovations to deliver both power and efficiency. You'll get the engaging ride you desire from the impressive 400 horsepower it delivers every time you rev up the engines. You'll also enjoy cost-saving fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 20 combined miles per gallon taking you further every time you fill-up the tank. Connected with Your World In our increasingly connected world, we need our vehicles to keep up with the devices we already use in our life. Ford+Alexa lets you harness all the capabilities of your favorite smart home device from your vehicle, giving you a seamless experience. You can also take advantage of the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot to keep you and all of your passengers connected even when you're out on the open road. Safety Features You Can Rely On Even with all the other great features, the Expedition offers, Ford didn't lose sight of your number one priority: keeping you and your passengers safe. You'll have the peace of mind that comes from all the latest safety technology. That includes proactive features like the pre-collision assist system. This feature warns you if you're coming up on an obstacle, and can even apply emergency braking to help keep you safe. This preview gives you some idea of what to expect, but you need to see the Expedition for yourself to get the full picture. Come get an even closer look at this exciting SUV at our dealership. Schedule your test drive at Bob Thomas Ford today and see the Expedition for yourself!

Getting a new car is an exciting prospect. SUVs in particular make amazing cars for both families, and people who like to get out and see the world. If that sounds like your kind of car, here's an overview of the new 2021 Ford Explorer, a powerful and reliable SUV. Experience the Powerful New 2021 Ford Explorer The Basics If you're looking for a good, reliable SUV that also looks great, then the new 2021 Explorer is an amazing choice. With three rows of seating, plenty of storage space, and fantastic performance, this vehicle is great for hauling passengers and equipment alike. As a company, Ford is known for its sturdy vehicles, and the new Explorer is no exception. Whether you're headed on your commute to and from work, or you're off on a real adventure, the Explorer has got you covered. more Pricing You can get the base vehicle for around $32,225, but you do have other choices besides that. One step up from the base model you've got the XLT, which will run you in the ballpark of $34,000. The Limited is available for about $45,005, but you also have the option of the Limited hybrid which costs around $50,600. The last two models are the ST, running around $52,605, and the Platinum, which is about $54,480. Performance There's no doubting that the 2021 Explorer is a great performer. The first 3 trims, the Base, XLT, and Limited, all come with a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter engine. The Limited hybrid combines its 3.3-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor, which works together to give the vehicle 318 horsepower. The ST has a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, while the Platinum trim has a 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. Interior and Comfort There's nothing like driving a vehicle that has amazing performance that's also comfortable and luxurious to be in. The 2021 Explorer is one example of a vehicle that has it all. The spacious interior provides plenty of room for the driver and passengers, and there's lots of storage space. The cabin of the Base model also includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that can be connected to both Apple and Android phones. You'll also get Ford's Terrain Management System available through the touchscreen, which helps you navigate your car through snow, ice, and rough terrain. Safety The 2021 Explorer comes with industry-standard safety features that help you keep and your passengers safe. Forward-collision warning will prevent any head-on collisions, while the Blind-Spot monitoring makes sure you can change lanes safely. While the Base and XLT models come with the Explorer's basic rear-wheel drive, you can upgrade to an all-wheel-drive option to give you that extra traction. This is ideal for people who live in areas where it can get slippery or wet. SUVs are great cars for basic daily life needs, as well as for people who want to go on adventures. The car drives like a dream, and the interior is both comfortable and functional. If you want to give one of these cars a spin for yourself, book your test drive with Bob Thomas Ford today!

Ford is a familiar brand everywhere on Earth. This isn't by chance. It's earned recognition from over 100 years of quality vehicles. The 2021 Ford F-150 is no exception to that reputation for quality. For that reason, we wanted to talk about some of the features of the 2021 model. About the 2021 Ford F-150 On June 25th, 2020, we all got to see why their slogan is “Built Ford Tough” when the 2021 F-150 was debuted. Because of Ford's commitment to safe business practices in the time of COVID, a virtual presentation was held to debut their new light-duty pickup truck. What's New in 2021 Visually, you might be fooled into thinking that nothing had changed from the prior model year. Nothing could be further from the truth. Everything, and we mean everything, was reconsidered for the fourteenth generation of this American classic. Ford reviewed their goals with the new F-150 and how they would achieve them. In that spirit, they revisited each part and ended up revising or creating entirely new parts for 92% of the 2021 model. The result was a more comfortable interior and a more functional machine overall. more Work in Comfort Work isn't something that you seek out; it has a way of finding you. To make sure F-150 owners are always ready to work, the 2021 model was built in a mobile office mindset. It features a control console with built-in Wi-Fi, Apple and Android connectivity, and voice recognition. The center console was also designed to quickly become a desk for setting up a laptop or writing. The shifter folds into the console, allowing you to quickly make room for work on the flat surface designed to cover it neatly. After that, take a break on the fully reclining front seats. Power With Ease Ford upgraded the battery mountings and transmission. To facilitate that, they also needed to widen the track by an inch. To facilitate that, they needed to upgrade chassis construction. One upgrade begat another. We can only guess whether that was a coincidence or by design. This increased the towing capacity of the 2021 model. To limit the stress of heavier loads on the vehicle and its riders, improved bushings were included. The steering also gained a motor between the column and wheel for ease of use and low and high speeds. Pricing There is a wide range between the base model XL at just around $38,000 and the fully-loaded trim offerings in the low $70,000's. Don't worry though, Ford offers six trims with many optional packages to ensure everyone can find an F-150 that suits them. Work Anywhere The unique features of the 2021 F-150 are the ones that make every location a worksite. A composite tailgate work surface with measurements, hooks for tying, and cutout areas for clamps. Four powertrains that offer a built-in generator to give you power without an outlet. These features might not seem like much to the average person, but for anyone that's ever realized they needed to bring out the circular saw when they weren't expecting it, it's all the difference in the world. Features like these show why Fords are built for workers. The 2021 F-150 impresses across the board. It delivers power, comfort, and unique features that make it the go-to make and model for 2021. Visit Chalmers Ford to see which model works best for you!

A good breakfast is the first step on your way to a great day. And a great breakfast restaurant is an essential part of every trip. Fortunately, the town of Hamden, CT takes breakfast seriously. So whether you are looking for something savory or something sweet, check out our list of six of the best breakfast places this town has to offer. Six of the Best Breakfast Places Near Hamden, CT 1. Hamden Town House Our first stop is a classic New England “Greek” diner that has been family-owned and operated since 1987. Their doors open for breakfast at 6 am and they continue serving it all day. They also have a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials every day of the week so definitely check out their website. Everything comes from local vendors and they've recently remodeled in order to accommodate larger groups which is a plus. more 2. Brown Stone House Breakfast Restaurant This next place is a favorite with locals and has its fair share of regulars. The booths are cozy and the counter has plenty of stools for the solo diner. It can't get any more classic diner than this. The service is friendly, the food comes out fast, and the coffee is delicious. What more can you ask for? And if you have a sweet tooth, definitely go for the chocolate pancakes. 3. Breakfast Nook Our next spot is in North Haven but it's well worth the visit. Breakfast Nook has a cozy atmosphere serving up all the American breakfast classics. They bake muffins fresh in-house and their french toast is beyond decadent. And if you prefer the savory we recommend ordering the hash or any of their omelets and breakfast burritos. It's a great place for the whole family. 4. Funcle's Cafe If you're looking for a cafe with a bit of character, then you'll love Funcle's for sure. There aren't many places in Connecticut where you can get chicken and waffles but Funcle's does and they do it right. The eggs benedict are also delicious and come with a healthy serving of home fries. Their frozen coffee drinks, especially the salted caramel, are excellent. 5. Barbara's Restaurant This is another homey spot that focuses on friendly service and classic breakfast dishes. They have a huge menu of options from pancakes to every imaginable variation of the egg. It's a small place but it's family-friendly and the food comes quick. 6. State Street Cafe The last spot on our list likes to put a twist on the standard breakfast. Their omelet menu has 16 different options. From the Western to the Polish to the Old Timer's, you can't go wrong. Their eggs benedict are also served up in a variety of ways that you might not expect. And whenever the breakfast tacos are on the special menu, order them. If you have a sweet tooth we recommend their Bananas Foster French Toast or the Belgian Waffles. They also mix a delicious iced tea. So that's our list and we hope you found it helpful for your next stop in town. If it left you for a hankering for diner food, then now you know exactly where to go. And while you're out and about, stop by Bob Thomas Ford for all of your Ford automotive needs.

If you are looking for a midsize pickup truck that is powerful and practical, you will love the new 2021 Ford Ranger. This vehicle is not overshadowed by its larger counterparts like the F-150 or F-250 because it is a truck all of its own, with a size, look, and strength of its own. This truck commands just as much respect and attention as every other truck from the Ford line, and we know you're going to love it. Five Truly Impressive Features of the 2021 Ford Ranger 1. Sportier Than Your Average Truck The new Ford Ranger proves that you can get that sporty feeling in a truck, thanks to its 2.3-liter turbocharged engine. The engine has 310 pound-feet of torque and 270 horsepower that will help you complete the job you need to and then get onto the fun. You'll be surprised at the speed and agility that this vehicle offers; once you get it out on the open road, there will be no stopping you. more 2. Towing Capabilities Meant To Impress The new Ranger proves that it too is a force to be reckoned with, especially when it comes to towing. Don't let its midsized stamp deceive you; the new Ford Ranger can tow up to 7500 pounds. That towing power will come in handy in many different situations, including taking a boat out or pulling your trailer. Not only can it tow, but it can do it well. The Trailer Sway Control is a feature that helps you transport large loads need safely and with ease. Your load won't sway to one side or the other while you're driving. 3. You Can Afford It With a base model that starts at $25,070 that will deliver you 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway, this is a vehicle that won't break the bank. It will give you good gas mileage, yet thanks to all its features and upgrade options, you will feel as though you're driving a far more expensive vehicle than you are. 4. It Will Turn You Into an Off-Roader You can't own a truck without taking it off-roading, at least once. This truck is equally as smooth as it is on the highway when you take it off-roading. Once you experience the thrill of getting your truck off the concrete into uncharted terrain, it will become your new hobby. 5. It Helps Protect You The new Ford Ranger is equipped with multiple different safety features that help keep you safe in a world where other drivers aren't. You'll have the option of different safety features based on the trim level you choose, including Blindspot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. Driving a truck was never so easy or affordable. The new Ranger is a truck that's going to change the way that you view driving. Visit us today at Bob Thomas Ford to test drive this impressive vehicle in person so that you can get out on or off the road as soon as possible.

Need to get a meal fast but don't have the time to prepare the food and clean up afterward? Not to worry, there's plenty of great delivery food you can find right here in the Hamden, CT area. We decided to put together a list of our favorite spots to order out from so that you can have a great meal delivered. Give any one of these spots a call and let somebody else handle dinner for you tonight. Where to Find the Best Delivery Food Near Hamden, CT Legend Pizza When you say ‘delivery,' most people's minds will immediately jump to pizza. So where else could we start our list but this local joint serving up legendary pies? For a pizza with the works on top, try out their House Special Pizza, which comes loaded with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, green peppers, mushrooms, onion, tomato, and mozzarella cheese. And nothing goes better with their pies than an order of their chicken wings, which come with a side of garlic bread. more Freskos If pizza isn't striking your fancy tonight, why not try some Greek food instead? Freskos serves up some great examples of this tasty cuisine. Their gyros, a popular Greek wrap, come with a mouth-watering mix of lamb and beef along with other toppings, all drizzled in a scrumptious sauce. You can wash it all down with the Greek coffee they serve up here, which makes the perfect pick-me-up at any time of the day. Taco King Get all the flavors from south of the border brought to your doorstep by Taco King. Their nachos are a crowd favorite, piled high with beans, cheese, tomato, salsa, and sour cream. But if you've got a big appetite, you've got to go for one of their burritos. ––Loaded up with just about every topping you can imagine, including their fresh homemade guacamole, these hearty treats will have you full for the rest of your day. China Wok Who doesn't like Chinese food? With such a variety of dishes available, there's something to please just about anyone in this cuisine, and China Wok has some of the best around. We absolutely love their sweet and sour shrimp, with a combination of fresh seafood and a tangy dipping sauce that will have you licking your plate clean. Hamden Town House For a family restaurant that will give you great food at an affordable price, give the Hamden Town House a call. They have a new soup of the day each time you visit, so be sure to check what tasty offering is on the menu when you call. As for a main course, their salmon burger is out of this world and a must-have for seafood lovers. You'll also love their dessert options, like the homemade carrot cake they serve. Give any of these places a call to have an excellent meal delivered right away. And for a dealership that always delivers, come down to our lot. Visit us at Bob Thomas Ford today!

There's a lot of reasons why the residents love living in Hamden, CT. The town presents the perfect urban lifestyle, offering many of the big city's conveniences and opportunities while still being small enough to avoid the associated problems. 8 Reasons to Love Living in Hamden, CT 1. Annual Fireworks on the Green Hamden's annual fireworks display on the green is one of the highlights residents look forward to each summer. In the early part of the evening, there is a chance to socialize with friends while enjoying the live music and culinary treats on offer. As the night turns to black, the main event proves to be well worth the wait as the night sky becomes ablaze with color. more 2. The Bobcats Hockey Team Quinnipiac University's Bobcats are a firm favorite among the locals. Most of the locals agree, its pretty cool when your hockey team from a small town half the country hasn't heard of can foot it among the big boys. 3. Sleeping Giant State Park Just outside the town is the Sleeping Giant State Park. A favorite activity for families is spending a warm summer's day hiking up the Sleeping Giant Mountain (also known as Mount Carmel) to take in the sights from the castle at the top. 4. The Field of Dreams For those that love the movie, there's the chance to visit the field of dreams. It may not look quite like it does in the movie, but the short hike following a path through the woods and the surrounding beauty of the hills, lake, and even the occasional deer passing by make it a fun activity enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. 5. Paradise Country Club A firm favorite for an end-of-year field trip among the district's schools, the Paradise Country Club has plenty of activities on offer for the entire family. With the nearest beach some distance away, Paradise and its two swimming pools, tennis courts, and lake aren't a bad substitute over the summer months. 6. Brooksvale Park Brooksvale Park offers a whole range of seasonal activities, including a fall festival, sledding down the big hill, and maple sugaring. For the younger family members, there's the chance to get up close with the animals on the grounds. 7. Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library Home to one of the largest collections of rare books, medieval manuscripts, maps, and limited edition books, the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library is a source of pride for locals. The collection includes the Voynich Manuscript and a copy of the Gutenberg Bible. 8. Yale University Located just 10 miles from Yale University, the town has one of the top schools in the country right on its back doorstep, providing students the chance to study among the academic elite. Not many towns can boast the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle along with the conveniences of a big city. This is perhaps one of the many reasons locals love living in the town. In the market for a new vehicle to get around town, call in and see the team at Bob Thomas Ford.

Are you in search of a wonderful trail for cycling and exploring the great outdoors? Hamden, CT is a fantastic place to enjoy eye-catching scenery and photographic opportunities on some of the best biking trails you'll discover. 6 Best Biking Trails and Paths Near Hamden, CT 1. Farmington Canal Greenway Trail This trail is one of the best paths to explore amazing scenery, from the Farmington Canal Heritage Greenway to dense forests and lots of natural wonders and wildlife. The trail is 84 miles and stretches from New Haven, CT, until Northampton, MA. It's the perfect way to explore multiple states from your bike while enjoying a fantastic workout and taking breaks to capture natural beauty along the path. The trail system offers facilities and bathrooms for your convenience. more 2. Tidal Marsh Trail The Tidal Marsh Trail is a wonderful, quiet place to enjoy the sights on foot or by bicycle. This place offers some unique views of historic rail and many fantastic views of the lake, surrounded by marshlands. It's the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, cycling, walking, canoeing, kayaking, and studying wildlife. 3. West Rock Ridge State Park If you're looking for a large recreation area with excellent scenery and lots of outdoor space, you'll want to visit the West Rock Ridge State Park. The park is located in New Haven, Hamden, extending to Woodbridge in Connecticut. Popular activities at this state park include cycling, camping, sightseeing, hiking, stream fishing, and picnics. There's an impressive observation deck for nature lovers and lots of trails for mountain bike riders of all levels. 4. Brooksvale Park Brooksvale Park is a wonderful public space that stretches 500 acres and offers great hiking and cycling trails. The park features a local farm, complete with farm animals, an organic garden, a bee apiary, and a sugar shack for making maple syrup in the winter. It's the perfect place to visit with family for a picnic. The pavilion is open on a seasonal basis between May and October. A Veterans Memorial Hall is also available for rent between November and April. 5. Naugatuck State Forest Quillinan Reservoir Block This fantastic space offers hiking and cycling trails for mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts. The park covers 5,000 acres of forested space and lots of amazing views available to explore year-round. Naugatuck State Forest Quillinan Reservoir is popular for fishing and the perfect destination for snowshoeing in the winter. It's a terrific spot to spend a short break or a visit for the day. 6. Racebrook Tract The Racebrook Tract is a local escape from the city that features diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery. It's a relatively small park, though it offers great paths for hiking and cycling to explore the natural surroundings. The park is popular among mountain bikers. You'll encounter superb outdoor recreation and scenic parks in and around Hamden for your cycling travels. Visit us at Bob Thomas Ford to inquire about our impressive vehicle selection on your next drive to town.