From my memory of previous suggestions.. In Conneticut, Gillettes Castle near Essex (rte 9) also Essex itself - Then Mystic Seaport and if interested, Groton for the submarines. In RHode Island - Newport is always a popular spot. In New Bedford, MA is the Whaling Museum, always nice and there is a small wonderful local veterans museum in the south end of New Bedford.

Then of course is Cape Cod and all the tourist "to-do's", don't miss Heritage Plantation!
You can ferry over to Martha's Vineyard and or Nantucket.. Then hit Plymouth and see the pebble on your way to Boston..

Of course with you right in my backyard.. we must visit!! I'll be / I am moving and will be juggling topics on a daily basis, but I'll set it all aside and would love to share a day with you!