On the way up I would stop at the Mystic Seaport Museum.You can see and tour the The Charles W. Morgan the last of an American whaling fleet. They also have a traditionally built Viking long boat.
https://www.mysticseaport.org/
I spent some time in The North East this summer. Went all the way to East Port.
You should also stop in Freeport.
https://www.visitfreeport.com/visit/shop/
The kids might like the tour at Ben & Jerry's. Check out the "Graveyard of failed flavors"
https://www.benjerry.com/waterbury
Bill
