Scenic Road Trip from Dunkirk MD to New London CT with Outdoor Adventures and Relaxation Avoiding Delaware Seashore

Day 1: Drive and Hike

Dunkirk, MD to New London, CT on June 19, 2025

9:00am

Depart Dunkirk, MD

Begin your northbound drive from Dunkirk toward New London CT while avoiding Delaware Seashore State Park and Lewes to minimize drive detours.
USD0, 1h

10:30am

Dog-Friendly Hike at Patapsco Valley State Park, MD

Stop at the Patapsco Valley State Park, which offers numerous dog-friendly trails. Enjoy a 2-3 mile hike through forested paths alongside the river, a pleasant break on your journey.
USD5 parking, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cafe at Patapsco, Catonsville, MD

Have a casual lunch featuring fresh sandwiches and salads at a local café close to the park, with outdoor seating where your dog is welcome.
USD15-25, 1h

1:30pm

Continue Driving to New London, CT

Resume your drive following routes north through Pennsylvania and up the coast toward New London CT, avoiding heavy traffic near NYC.
USD0, 4h30m

6:00pm

Check-in and Dinner at New London Area

Arrive in New London and settle in. Enjoy dinner at 350 Thames St, a popular waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and dog-friendly outdoor dining.
USD30-45, 1h30m
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Day 2: Relax and Explore

New London, CT on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gather New London

Start the day with a delicious breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
USD15-20, 1h

10:00am

Visit Mystic Seaport Museum

Explore America’s maritime history with exhibits, historic ships, and recreated village scenes. Dogs are not allowed inside, but there are nearby outdoor areas for short walks.
USD31, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at S&P Oyster Co., Mystic

Enjoy fresh seafood on the waterfront with dog-friendly outdoor seating for a relaxed midday meal.
USD25-40, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Ocean Beach Park, New London

Spend a leisurely afternoon walking the dog-friendly beaches and trails with beautiful views and ample relaxation opportunities.
USD10 parking, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Fishermen's Table

Dine on creative New England cuisine featuring fresh local seafood with dog-friendly patio seating available.
USD30-45, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mountain Biking and Drive

Groton, CT to En Route Home on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at First City Coffee

Enjoy fresh coffee and breakfast sandwiches to fuel your mountain biking adventure.
USD10-15, 45m

9:00am

Mountain Biking at Bluff Point State Park, Groton

Take on 10 miles of dog-friendly trails featuring scenic waterfront views, a great way to experience Connecticut’s outdoor beauty.
USD0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mystic Market

Grab a quick, casual meal offering sandwiches and salads with dog-friendly outdoor seating.
USD15-20, 1h

1:30pm

Drive Back Toward Dunkirk, MD Avoiding NYC

Commence your return journey using alternate routes west of NYC to avoid congestion while enjoying scenic views through Pennsylvania and Maryland.
USD0, 4h

6:00pm

Dinner Stop in Harrisburg, PA - The Millworks

Relax with farm-to-table dishes in a dog-friendly setting before the final drive home.
USD30-40, 1h
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Day 4: Hiking and Return

Near Dunkirk, MD on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Home or Local Café

Enjoy a light morning meal to prepare for a scenic hike.
USD10, 30m

9:00am

Dog-Friendly Hike at Cunningham Falls State Park, MD

Explore a beautiful 2-3 mile loop with waterfall views and wooded trails, ideal for dogs and their owners to enjoy nature near home.
USD10 parking, 2h

11:30am

Return Drive to Dunkirk, MD

Complete your trip with a short drive back to Dunkirk, reflecting on your active and relaxing getaway.
USD0, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Local Favorite in Dunkirk

Conclude your trip with a casual lunch featuring comforting home-cooked dishes at a local café.
USD15-20, 1h
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