7 Prettiest Towns In Connecticut
Connecticut, nicknamed The Constitution State, is among the oldest states in the US. This New England state is filled with beautiful foliage in Autumn, miles of beaches to enjoy in the summer, and countless cold-weather activities in the winter and spring seasons. In addition to the idyllic scenery and rich cultural heritage, Connecticut has gained a reputation for being the submarine capital of the world! The state has over 5,000 square miles that range from quiet forest hideaways to bustling cityscapes. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly vacation spot or a romantic getaway, here are the seven prettiest towns in Connecticut that you should consider visiting.
Granby
In Hartford County, Granby is a charming town that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town has a population of just over 11,000 residents and shares a north-central border with the neighboring state of Massachusetts, making it a perfect location for a day trip. Granby is an excellent destination for nature lovers or those looking to spend time outdoors, as the area is surrounded by picturesque rolling hills and valleys. The town center, called Salmon Brook, is known best for the Civil War monument on display that was first dedicated in 1868.
One of Granby's most popular attractions is Enders Falls, in Enders State Forest. The waterfall sits at the end of an easy one-mile hike, with the Purple Blaze trail being a well-maintained, family-friendly way to see the stunning waterfall. Another great spot to check out is the Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine. This seasonal museum allows visitors to visit the country's first chartered copper mine and the first state prison. You can also spend the afternoon at Old Mill Pond Village, which has shops, restaurants, Christmas decor, and family fun activities.
Chester
Another small but beautiful town in Connecticut is Chester, which sits on the west bank of the Connecticut River. Chester was once home to the Wangums tribe, which lived among the settlers until 1785. Visitors can view the official cemetery for the tribe in the Old Burying Ground at the town hall or stop into the Chester Historical Society in a historic 19th-century mill. The town is known for having a picture-perfect downtown section filled with locally-owned shops, galleries, and cafes. One of the most popular attractions on Main Street in Chester is Honeycomb, an ice cream shop with unique homemade flavors and seasonal items.
The Cockaponset State Forest is easily accessible from Chester and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. For a more laid-back experience, visitors can take a stroll on the Chester Creek Overlook or go for a scenic drive through one of the most beautiful routes in the town that leads to Brushmill by the Waterfall. Another incredibly popular location just a short drive away is Gillette Castle State Park, the former castle home for the stage actor who portrayed Sherlock Holmes.
Westport
The town of Westport, Connecticut, is on the Long Island Sound and is known for its fantastic beaches, ranging from private spots you can rent to public beaches open to all. Westport is a beautiful town that combines elegance, charm, and stunning views along the Saugatuck River. If you're in the mood to see a live performance, the Westport Country Playhouse is a historic building from 1835 that once operated as a leather manufacturing tannery. Today, the playhouse brings live theater productions, musical performances, and orchestra concerts. The Westport Museum for History & Culture is located nearby, which has a fascinating exhibit on celebrities who have lived in the town.
Nature enthusiasts can spend the day at Sherwood Island State Park, known best for being Connecticut's oldest state park. It's a great spot for a picnic, a walk along the water, or to enjoy a seasonal event. For visitors driving through the area looking for beautiful sights, the Green's Farm neighborhood of Westport is not only the oldest town but has delightful foliage in the Autumn, coastal views, and stunning winding country roads.
Colebrook
Colebrook, Connecticut, is a gorgeous town in the northwest corner of Litchfield County. The town is home to just over 1,000 people and is surrounded by wooded mountains and lakes, making it an ideal location for a peaceful weekend getaway. Colebrook was founded in 1779 and has kept much of its historical charm, with buildings dating back to the 1800s lining the town's roads today. A popular spot for visitors is the Colebrook Store, which serves as a general store for the town that sells groceries, deli items, and baked goods.
One of the top attractions in Colebrook is Soldiers' Monument and Memorial Park, known for its beautiful views, the historical significance of soldiers from the town's past, and a peaceful resting spot for visitors. Another must-see location is Colebrook River Lake, a popular area with fishing spots, boat launches, and picnic areas. Visitors interested in history can also take a self-guided tour along the Colebrook Center Historic District, encompassing Connecticut Route 183.
Ansonia
Another visually stunning town in Connecticut is Ansonia, found on the Naugatuck River's west bank. The town was incorporated in 1864 and has a population of just over 18,000 people. The town is sometimes called "The Copper City" due to its large concentration of machine manufacturing in the Naugatuck Valley. Ansonia is only six square miles, but it's packed with beautiful sites, including the Ansonia Nature Center, which has a garden and hiking trails through picturesque scenery. Another popular spot to visit is Ansonia Riverwalk Park, along the water, where visitors can look at the wildlife and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
For those interested in historical architecture, Ansonia is home to General David Humphreys House. This now museum was once the home of George Washington's aide-de-camp during the Revolutionary War. Visitors can take a guided tour through this 1699 house to learn more about its history and view artifacts from the time period. Even with its small size, Ansonia is full of life and stunning scenery, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Stonington
On the southeastern corner of Connecticut, Stonington is a charming coastal town filled with sprawling farmland and picture-perfect historic stone walls. It's the only town in the state of Connecticut directly facing the Atlantic and is truly a unique location, as it has beaches, country roads, quaint villages, and stunning farms all in one place. Visitors can spend the day at Stonington Point, enjoying picturesque views of the lighthouse and Fishers Island Sound, or take a scenic drive downtown filled with restaurants like the popular Dog Watch Cafe.
One of the most notable attractions in Stonington is the Stonington Lighthouse Museum, which has been standing since 1840 and boasts incredible views of Long Island Sound. The museum is close to Dubois Beach and gives visitors breathtaking views of Stonington Harbor. The combination of historic charm and natural beauty makes Stonington a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike.
Pomfret
Pomfret is a quintessential New England town, filled with rolling hills, babbling brooks, and historic buildings. It's in the northeast corner of Connecticut, known as the "quiet corner," and is a perfect place to feel like you're being transported back in time. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the town center, where they'll see colonial-style homes and natural landmarks, such as Pomfret Town House and Abington Congregational Church. The tiny town has a population of around 4,000 people and is home to several farms, making it a great spot for apple picking in the fall at Lapsley Orchard or exploring the local farmer's market.
Pomfret also has several natural attractions, including Mashamoquet Brook State Park, which offers hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and a small swimming area. Another popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts is Wolf Den Land Trust, where visitors can explore 13 miles of walking trails through woodland and fields filled with wildlife. With its small-town charm and natural beauty, Pomfret is a must-visit for those looking to experience the true essence of New England.
The charm and beauty of Connecticut's towns lie in their unique blend of history and scenic beauty. From the coastal vistas of Stonington to the New England charm of Pomfret, each town offers a distinct yet equally enchanting experience. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, these seven picturesque towns in Connecticut promise a beautiful journey through the state's diverse landscapes.
