Vintage, red house with stone wall in foreground. Summer, nature scene in Guilford, Connecticut. Image credit Rachel Rose Boucher via Shutterstock.

7 Oldest Founded Small Towns to Visit in Connecticut

Norman Rockwell wrote that New England was home to a "people with great strength and unshakable pride." No more is that true than in the state of Connecticut. With one of the richest legacies in the country, it is a living monument to the battle to win our nation's independence. From the thousands of years of indigenous culture to colonial forefathers, the Constitution State has left indelible footprints in America's heritage. Over half of the state's towns date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Connecticut has more than stamped its place in history, from Georgian architecture and revolutionary battlefields to seaside ports and pioneering railways. Get to know more about some of the oldest-founded towns in the state that are worth a visit.

More in Connecticut9 of the most charming towns in Connecticut

Guildford

Hyland House Museum in Guilford, Connecticut. Image credit Rachel Rose Boucher via Shutterstock
Hyland House Museum in Guilford, Connecticut. Image credit Rachel Rose Boucher via Shutterstock

Founded in 1639, this hamlet is named after the area where the first settlers originated in England. Home to some of the oldest architecture in New England, Guilford is a town built on colonial heritage. With access to beaches, lakes, and mountains, there is something for everyone to explore.

The Town Green is located in the heart of Guilford and is the base for most of the town's activities. Shops and farm-to-table eateries line the main street, locally called Route One. Be sure to stop at the Village Chocolatier. It has consistently been named the Top Confectionery in Connecticut and offers all cocoa treats. Guilford is very walkable, so take advantage of tours offered by resident volunteers. From legends about historical homes to their role in the Salem Witch Trials, you will have over 400 years of memorable stories.

The Hyland House is a perfect example of evolving colonial architecture. This saltbox-style building, built in 1713, is on the Registry of National History. Bishop's Orchards Farm Market and Winery offers fun for the entire family. Run for over six centuries by the Bishop family, it has been servicing the Guilford community since 1871. Pick your fruits and shop for fresh-baked bread and pies after you have worked up an appetite exploring the nearby nature trails.

Windsor

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The Windsor Town Hall on Broad Street of Windsor, Connecticut. By John Phelan - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons.

This small village is one of the first English settlements in the state and is in the heart of Fairfield County. Named after Windsor, England, it was founded in 1637. Home to the first highway in Connecticut, it enabled trade with counties between Windsor and Hartford.

Built in 1921, the Windsor Historical Society house offers visitors the chance to be in the oldest-standing community in the state. With over four centuries of history to draw from, its exhibits always evolve to reflect the nature of the community around them. Vintage photographs and letters, along with guided narration, tell the storied heritage of this land.

Stop by the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum for a fun twist on history. With over 200 years of artifacts, guests can learn about how we interacted in the past. From Morse code to the smartphone, fascinating exhibits show us that we have come a long way electronically. The need to find ways to stay in touch with loved ones was universal. Grab a pint and shepherd's pie at the Union Street Tavern. Reminiscent of old-time England, this pub in the heart of town has been a local staple for years. Enjoy the vintage photographs from over a century that line the walls.

Milford

Aerial Shot of the New Milford, Connecticut. Image credit: JustinMurphyIsCool via Wikimedia Commons.
Aerial Shot of the New Milford, Connecticut. Image credit: JustinMurphyIsCool via Wikimedia Commons.

This coastal city is nestled between New Haven and Bridgeport. Founded in 1640, its indigenous roots are reflected throughout the town. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, portions of Milford broke off into their own incorporated towns, including Woodbridge and Bethany. Owing to its seaside location, its main industries were shipbuilding and oysters.

Spread across Milford Harbor sits The Eells-Stow House. Considered the oldest home in Milford, it is the former residence of Captain Stephen Stow, a medic during the Revolutionary War. The sea and salt air damaged much of the original structure, but in 1980, great efforts were made to restore it to its original glory. The Bryan Downs House is a six-room saltbox structure built in the late 1700s. Today, it's home to a museum that includes Native American Collections and a mini Country Store.

The Devon Center offers shopping, restaurants, and Revolutionary War Monuments. Milford Green, which dates back to 1649, is considered one of New England's largest downtown park areas. If theatre or open-air concerts interest you, then the Milford Arts Center is a must-see. Hosting year-round entertainment, this community-run organization sources most of its content from regional history and pop culture.

Deep River

Stone Bridge in Connecticut.
Stone Bridge in Connecticut.

Initially named Saybrook, this village was renamed in 1947 to commemorate the creeks that powered the mills in the original colonies. Founded in 1644, Deep River is part of the area locals call Tri-Town, including Chester and Essex.

In the mid-19th century, most of the ivory bought in the United States came through Deep River, earning it the name "Queen of the Valley" due to the extreme wealth brought in by his ivory trade.

The Deep River Freight Station, built in 1915, is a preserved example of twentieth-century train operations. Railfans will enjoy the anecdotal stories from the engineers who still manage the station for train rides and steamboats. It became a historical landmark in 1994.

Only a fifteen-minute drive away in Essex is one of the oldest continuously running inns in the country. Built in 1776, this magnificent structure has witnessed the Revolution, the Civil War, the Temperance movement, and more. Each room is boutique decorated to celebrate the heritage without sacrificing modern comforts.

Simsbury

Stratton State Park is a great recreational venue near Simsbury, Connecticut.
Stratton State Park is a great recreational venue near Simsbury, Connecticut.

Incorporated in 1671, this town was indigenous to the Wappinger group of tribes. Designed in 1892, Drake Hill Road Bridge is a popular spot for wedding and engagement photos. Spanning over the Farmington River, it's one of the state's finest examples of metal truss design. Up until this time, most bridges were made of wood or cement. The metal truss design allowed for more stability and flexibility in adjustment.

Simsbury abounds with architectural masterpieces. The Simsbury Center Historical Society provides maps and visitor information. With so many opportunities to immerse yourself in colonial history, you will be spoiled for choice.

Situated in Talcott Mountain State Park stands Heublein Tower. The original structure was built in 1810 but has been renovated four times over the past two centuries. It has six stories, bedrooms, and bathrooms, and the observation deck provides 360-degree views of the entire region. A classic example of Georgian architecture is the John Humphrey House, built in 1760 and open for tours. Now referred to as The Phelps Tavern Museum, the estate was the former home of Captain Elisha Phelps, one of the commanders of the Continental Army.

Spend the night at the Stanton House Inn. Family-owned and operated, the Inn was initially a private residence. Built by legendary New England architect Stanford White in the early 1900s, it is within walking distance of historic downtown Simsbury.

Wethersfield

Joseph Webb and Isaac Stevens houses in Wethersfield, Connecticut. By Daderot - Own work, Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons Wethersfield is one of the oldest towns in Connecticut, founded in 1634 by a 10-man Puritan settlement party known as “The Ten Adventurers.” Until its incorporation in 1637, it was known as Watertown, but changed to its current name, taking after a village in Essex County, England. After this, the story continues, as Wethersfield was the site of four witch trials and three executions in the 17th century, giving its history a chilling undertone. Today, it is an open-air museum that echoes life from a bygone era with many historic attractions. The Webb Deane Stevens Museums is one attraction worth mentioning, as it is home to the 1752 Joseph Webb House. Here, George Washington planned the Siege of Yorktown - the last major battle of the war that led to Britain's surrender and the subsequent independence of its colonies. The museum is also home to two other historic 18th-century houses, including the 1769 Silas Deane House and the 1789 Isaac Stevens House. The Wethersfield Museum at Keeney Memorial Center is another must-see historic landmark in this town that offers a peek into the area's storied past via exhibits. Lastly, visiting Wethersfield is also an opportunity to see the First Church of Christ built in the authentic 18th-century Georgian style. Newington The Willard Homestead in Newington, Connecticut. The Willard Homestead in Newington, Connecticut. By Sage Ross - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons. After Wethersfield, Newington is the perfect historic destination, as both towns have an interlinked past. This is because Newington was first settled in 1636 by homesteaders from Wethersfield. In 1721, these farmers asked the General Assembly of Connecticut Colony to name the area Newington, and the request was granted. While it took over 100 years for the town to be incorporated, rapid development kicked off in the 19th century with the arrival of the railroad. Visitors to Newington today can check out the 18th-century Willard Homestead. This iconic landmark was home to one of the town's early settlers and showcases the design, lifestyle, and stories from that time. Kellog-Eddy House and Museum is another must-visit historic attraction, as it features permanent exhibits such as farm tools from the town’s early days. If this doesn’t quench your thirst for the past, visit the Iwo Jima Survivors Memorial Park to see the statues and cenotaphs of the 100 Connecticut indigenes who fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. After all the history, take a relaxing break at Churchill Park, where there are walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more fun facilities. Simsbury The Eno Memorial Hall in Simsbury, Connecticut. The 1932 Eno Memorial Hall in Simsbury. Editorial credit: CJY Images / Shutterstock.com Simsbury was incorporated in 1670 after John Case, a police constable, and Joshua Holcomb petitioned the General Court that Massaco (the town's native name) should become a town. The town was named Simsbury after the court granted the petition, and it later became a hot spot for the 1675 King Philip War, a battle between native tribes and English settlers. History buffs visiting Simsbury today can have a slice of history at the 1932 Eno Memorial Hall. It once served as a courthouse, city hall, and a government office complex. To stay in the past, tourists can explore the local Simsbury Center Historic District. This district has many 19th- and early 20th-century buildings, such as the Simsbury Railroad Depot and Simsbury Townhouse. They display intricate Greek Revival-style architecture and riveting tales of old that are a blast for history enthusiasts. Before leaving the town, stop by the 1892 Drake Hill Road Bridge over the Farmington River. It is a rustic gem appreciated as one of Connecticut's three surviving Parker Truss bridges. Windsor Photo of the Windsor Town Hall in Windsor, Connecticut. The Windsor Town Hall on Broad Street of Windsor, Connecticut. By John Phelan - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons. Windsor is a monumental town in Connecticut’s history, as it is the first English settlement in the state. Initially developed as a trading port in 1633, it was incorporated as a town four years later. Today, visitors can immerse in its history by first visiting the First Church Meeting House, built in 1794 and serving as the worship site for English settlers. Also, historic travelers love the Windsor Station, built in 1870, and flock to the 1867 Farmington River Railroad Bridge. Whether it is the iconic Victorian architecture of the station or rustic tracks along the bridge, these spots are a treat for anyone in town. Before leaving, visit the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut for a unique take on the past. This exciting museum displays the development of communications technology, with all sorts of radios, equipment, and items for hands-on learning. Guilford A colorful store in Guilford, Connecticut. A colorful jewelery store in Guilford, Connecticut. Editorial credit: Rachel Rose Boucher / Shutterstock.com Guilford is one of Connecticut's oldest towns and is bustling with a rich history. The town was founded in 1639 after a treaty with Native Americans in the area, and it got its name from Guildford in England, where some of its first settlers came from. Today, the town boasts five house museums and over a dozen historic attractions. Among these is the Henry Whitefield House, one of the top house museums in this town, which is a sight to behold as the oldest residential building in Connecticut and the oldest stone house in New England. Guilford also features the 1695 Comfort Starr House, now considered one of the oldest timber frame houses in the US. While these spots hold the limelight, a stroll through the Guilford Town Center Historic District is just as vibrant. From appreciating the architecture of the First Congregational Church to grabbing a bite at Quattro’s Italian, one will never get bored. Visitors can also check out the Faulkner Island Lighthouse on Long Island Sound if there's still time. Thomas Jefferson commissioned this iconic structure in 1802, making it the second-oldest lighthouse in the state after the New London Harbor Light. Another Side of Connecticut Enjoy Connecticut's beauty with these scenic road trips. Connecticut is truly a blast from the past as history resonates across its small towns and cities. There is no shortage of historic attractions to explore once here, and the experience hits differently because they retain their old-world character. Across museums, lighthouses, and historic homes, one can easily taste life in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries in these small towns of Connecticut. Plus, the quaint and laid-back allure of these towns makes for a peaceful immersion into the historic times of New England and an escape from the noise of the cities. Share Home Places Cities 8 Must-See Historic Towns in Connecticut Joshua Chiedu February 21 2024 in Places More in Places The iconic Devil's Doorway with Devil's Lake in the background in Devil's Lake State Park. The Natural Wonders in Wisconsin Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. By Doug Kerr, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons 6 Budget-Friendly Towns in The Poconos for Retirees Fort Flagler State Park in Washington. The Best State Parks To Visit In Washington Bullard Street in downtown Silver City, looking north early on a summer morning. 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Joseph Webb and Isaac Stevens houses in Wethersfield, Connecticut.

Founded in 1634 by Puritans, Windsor is the oldest village in the state, although Windsor residents try to challenge that claim. Known for four witch trials, its rich heritage is felt throughout the village.

Old Wethersfield Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places; over 50 houses date back to the Revolutionary War and 100 before the Civil War. The Joseph Webb House was the site of a five-day conference between George Washington and French Commander Rochambeau.

Mill Woods Park is the ideal place for a picnic, relaxing stroll, or community garden. During the warm months, there are outdoor concerts. In the winter, the pond freezes over and has been used as a skating rink. Plaques commemorate the area where Revolutionary soldiers set up encampments.

Shop on Main Street for authentic local flavor. Antique and specialty stores like Antiques on Main, Heart of the Country, and House of Images Gallery celebrate the heritage of Connecticut's oldest town.

Stratford

Historic residential houses aerial view in summer in the town center of Stratford, Connecticut
Historic residential houses aerial view in summer in the town center of Stratford, Connecticut

Settled by Puritans in 1839, Stratford is unprecedentedly woven into Connecticut's history. Unlike other towns on this list, many of its residents are directly related to the Puritan ancestors who migrated here from England.

With one and a half miles of beach on Long Island Sound, Stratford residents take advantage of the suburban community but with easy access to the coast. Lordship Seawell boasts great restaurants and hotels. Fishing and water activities are plentiful as well. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes for the day at the visitor's center. Stroll over to Stratford Point and Lighthouse for amazing views of the coastline.

The Stratford Historical Society takes its place in the nation's founding seriously. With an extensive catalog of information to provide tourists, you will go away with a true sense of what it means to live in this hamlet. The Captain David Judson House is a little gem. Built in 1763, it is one of the finest examples of Georgian Colonial architecture in the entire state. Now open to the public as a museum, the stone structure houses artifacts and exhibits, all guided by period-costumed docents.

After working up a thirst head over to for artisanal lager at Two Roads Brewing Company. Influenced by their regional history , they make an effort to highlight the heritage and balance it with contemporary life in Stratford.

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Connecticut is a year-round destination. Each season sets the ideal backdrop for a visit, whether it's the fall foliage, snowy mountaintops, fields of wildflowers, or the sun reflecting off the whitecapped saltwater waves. However, Its undeniable history remains constant no matter what the forecast. From colonial homes to indigenous trails, the narrative of America's humble beginnings is waiting to welcome you.

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