Best Bargains in Connecticut | 2014 Editors’ Choice Awards

Pinching pennies never felt so good! Check out our picks for the best bargains in Connecticut for 2014. BEST HALF-PRICE HAPPY HOUSE: LITCHFIELD SALTWATER GRILLE, Litchfield Weekdays from 4:00 to 6:00, the lounge menu is half price for simple, fresh choices such as Prince Edward Island mussels, Caesar salads, and wedge salads with steak, tuna, chicken, or shrimp for just $8. Lift a beer for $3, or tilt a glass of wine for $5. Half-price small plates: from $6. 26 Commons Drive. 860-567-4900; litchfieldsaltwatergrille.com BEST HILLTOP PARK: HUBBARD PARK, Meriden Daffodils flourish here, along with hiking trails, playgrounds, and tennis courts. Up on East Peak, climb 32 feet to the top of Castle Craig Observation Tower for free 360-degree views. The free admission makes the views even more spectacular. 999 West Main St. 203-630-4259; cityofmeriden.org/content/Hubbard_Park BEST PERSONAL GIFT SHOP: SWAG, Old Saybrook Books, French milled soaps, jewelry, clothes, kids’ toys, and furnishings accessories are priced to take home. Even handmade greeting cards are never more than $2. The shelves are stocked with good values gathered from across the country. 117 Main St. 860-388-5500; swagfan.com BEST COLLEGE ART GALLERY: Yale University Art Gallery, New Haven World class art, all for free. Three historic buildings laced together by a recent renovation mount classic canvases by Hals, Trumbull, and van Gogh, among others. Encounter new acquisitions, including an exceptional Indo-Pacific exhibition. Across the street, visit the Yale Center for British Art—also free. 1111 Chapel St. 203-432-0600; artgallery.yale.edu BEST ROLLER RINK: GALAXY ROLLER RINK, Groton The wheels on the skates go ’round and ’round … as families and friends spin along the 166-foot-long oval. Built in 1955, it’s great retro exercise—and it’s just $6. 210 Bridge St. 860-448-3882; galaxyrollerrink.com