Connecticut is a small state with a big arts scene, and you can find world-class museums and cultural sites just a short drive away. Spring is right around the corner, and hitting the road to visit the destinations on the Connecticut Art Trail is a great cabin fever cure. Don’t forget that the Passport-Journal gives you a key to all of these sites, and unlocks several additional benefits as well!
Connecticut Art Trail Celebrates Doubling of Passport-Journal Sales
The Connecticut Art Trail experienced another banner year for its Passport-Journal program in 2024, with sales more than doubling compared to the previous year.
The Connecticut Art Trail includes 30 art museums and cultural sites. The Passport-Journal offers free admission to each of these sites, as well as additional perks such as discounts on museum memberships or gift shop purchases.
A total of 1,832 Passport-Journals were sold during the 2024 calendar year, up 108 percent compared to the 880 sold in 2023. The sales show continued strong growth for the Passport-Journal program, following a 79 percent boost in sales in 2023.
The Connecticut Art Trail also saw a 94 percent increase in sales during its buy one, get one offer period. At the end of each year, the Trail extends this offer so people can purchase two Passport-Journals for the price of one as part of their holiday shopping. In 2024, 1,258 Passport-Journals were sold during this period.
“This stellar growth of the Passport-Journal program reflects a growing appreciation for the rich cultural scene we have here in Connecticut,” said Carey Mack Weber, President of the Connecticut Art Trail and the Frank and Clara Meditz Executive Director at Fairfield University Art Museum. “We’re excited that more and more people are recognizing the fantastic value the Passport-Journal provides, and getting out to experience our state’s unique arts destinations.”
The Connecticut Art Trail has welcomed two sites in 2025, both located in New Canaan. The Glass House, the Modernist home of noted architect Philip Johnson, joined as a full member. Grace Farms, a cultural and humanitarian center featuring the serpentine River building, joined as an affiliate member.
Holders of the Passport-Journal who visit 24 select full member sites in the calendar year are eligible for a grand prize drawing for an overnight stay for two at the Delamar Hotel of their choice. More than a dozen people visited each site on the Trail in 2024.
Passport-Journals can be purchased at any Connecticut Art Trail site or online at ctarttrail.org/passport.
As we get closer to Valentine’s Day, we’re reminded just how much inspiration love has provided for arts and culture — from romantic love to the affection for natural beauty. This month, we invite you to explore some of the beautiful works on display at our 30 museums and cultural sites, and to rekindle your own love for art. The year is still young, so there’s plenty of time to pick up a Passport-Journal and get free admission to each of these locations!
The Connecticut Art Trail experienced another banner year for its Passport-Journal program in 2024, with sales more than doubling compared to the previous year.