8 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Connecticut

Have you ever wondered what secrets Connecticut’s quiet towns hold beyond the well-trodden paths of its bustling cities? The charming state of Connecticut has naturally beautiful towns filled with beaches, dams, forests, and trails. Lovers of nature and tranquility will find solace in these places. From The Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam to The Bradley Playhouse in Putnam, you can visit parks and historic houses with breathtaking architecture. If you are looking to explore the less populated areas in the United States this year, you can begin with these towns in Connecticut.

East Haddam

East Haddam is a beautiful town in Middlesex County of Connecticut with over 9000 population. The town is known for its charm and natural beauty, which was one of the reasons many were drawn to it in the 1900s, including William Gillette, who portrayed Sherlock Holmes on stage.

The Gillette Castle State Park is located in this town. In this park, you will find the stone mansion, Gillette Castle, built by the Actor inside. The park also has campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic spots. You can also hike or bike to the waterfall vistas in Devil's Hopyard State Park, and enjoy a leisurely carriage ride at Allegra Farm Horse & Carriage. You can learn the town’s history at East Haddam Historical Society and Nathan Hale Schoolhouse East Haddam. If you are a book lover, book recommendations are available at Rathbun Free Memorial Library. Also, stopping by Yankee Cider Company for a cup of cider is a delightful option.

Granby

Granby is a town filled with hills, mountains, and dense woods. Discover the Brewery at Maple View Farm, where ample beer-tasting opportunities await enthusiasts. Clark Farms Inc. at Bushy Hill Orchard is a cafe, orchard, beer pub, and bakery in one. At Enders State Forest, immerse yourself in the tranquil activities of fishing, hiking, and birdwatching amid scenic waterfalls. Discover charming keepsakes to remember your visit at Old Mill Pond Village or Salmon Brook Shops. Learning more about the town at Salmon Brook Historical Society is a worthwhile activity. Tired and hungry? Consider savoring a happy-hour meal at Farley Mac's for a delightful dining experience. If you have a dog, check out the Granby Dog Park and get to know other dog parents. The serene McLean Game Refuge is a nature preserve dedicated to wildlife preservation. Enjoying the breathtaking view at the park is a highlight for many visitors.

Madison

Madison is home to Connecticut’s largest public beach, Hammonasset Beach State Park, where you can go camping, picnicking, biking, or strolling. The Meigs Point Nature Center at the park boasts a fascinating glimpse into local wildlife and ecosystems, inviting visitors to engage directly with nature. The 25-mile Shoreline Greenway Trail beckons with its scenic views and promises a rewarding adventure for avid cyclists. Salt Meadow Park is a popular venue where locals and visitors often gather for friendly games of soccer. Surf Club Beach offers cool waters ideal for a refreshing swim, making it a favorite for relaxation and family outings. Rockland Preserve Singletrack is a great place for a run and mountain biking. Watch art exhibitions at Susan Powell Fine Art or Stuart Alan Lerner Gallery. Support a local by buying books at RJ Julia Booksellers. Madison has about eight places listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One of them is the Madison Green Historic District. Touring the house and attending available events provides a rich experience. Another is the Deacon John Grave House, a notable museum built in 1681.

Old Saybrook

The Algonquin Nehantic Indians first inhabited the Old Saybrook before the arrival of the Europeans. The town is the oldest on the mouth of the Connecticut River. It is also the oldest town in Connecticut with an English name. Visit the Essex Saybrook Antiques Village, The Trove, and The Antiques Depot for some antiques. The South Cove Wildlife Area, Fort Saybrook Monument Park, and Clark Community Park are gateways to exploring the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. The Old Saybrook Historical Society preserves and promotes the town’s history. Visit General William Hart House, a local museum situated in the Historical Society. Have fun at Harveys Beach with friends and family as you go swimming and boating. Get some eats and drinks at Johnny Ad's, Liv's Oyster Bar & Restaurant, and Penny Lane Pub, or at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina when you lodge for the night. Relaxing to live music and shows at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center is a popular choice.

Guilford

The town of Guilford was named after West Surrey County’s Guildford in England. The town has about five historic houses, with the Henry Whitfield House known for being Connecticut’s oldest dwelling house and North America’s oldest stone house built by English settlers. Visitors can attend any of the community events held throughout the year at The Dudley Farm, one of the historic houses in town. Tour the other historic houses, such as Hyland House and Thomas Griswold House, or take paper artistry classes at Paperscape Artworks. It's also recommended that you visit the Greene Art Gallery. The Guilford Lobster Pound tempts with its delightful seafood dining, showcasing the freshest catches and culinary expertise. Go for a swim at Lake Quonnipaug and Jacobs Beach. Take a walk along Chaffinch Island Park while enjoying the pristine river view.

Stonington

Stonington is the only town in Connecticut opposite the Atlantic Ocean. The town’s Borough is also the oldest borough in the state. At the center of the Borough is Canon Square, featuring two cannons commemorating the 1814 Battle of Stonington. The Stonington Lighthouse Museum and Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House Museum are two historical structures in town. Although they are temporarily closed, visitors can see these stunning monuments from a distance. Mystic Seaport Museum is the United States’ largest maritime museum, and it is known for its outstanding portrayal of the 19th-century seaport village. Check out the Mystic Aquarium to explore different species of marine mammals and fishes in Mystic town, 10 minutes from Stonington. Shop handcrafts and wear at The Velvet Mill; while you are there, shop artwork at Nautical by Nature. Enjoy a peaceful day at DuBois Beach, where watching sailboats and fishermen is a relaxing way to unwind. Wine tasting at Stonington Vineyards, Saltwater Farm Vineyard, and Beer'd Brewing Co. features an enjoyable experience.

Barkhamsted

The historical town of Barkhamsted is known for its natural beauty and resources. It is a tranquil town filled with camping grounds, rivers, and reservoirs. On the southwest of Barkhamsted is the picturesque Saville Dam, which creates the Barkhamsted Reservoir, a serene place to take pictures while on a stroll. Lake Mcdonough is a great fishing area. The American Legion State Forest is a recreational area where activities like hunting and winter sports take place. Burr Pond boasts refreshing swimming opportunities in a picturesque setting. Stop over at The Brass Horse Cafe for food and drinks.

Putnam

Putnam was named after General Israel Putnam, an American Revolutionary War hero. The breathtaking town of Putnam has numerous historical landmarks for visitors to see, such as the Aspinock Historical Society and The Bradley Playhouse, a performing art theater. Bring your dog to the Putnam Lions Memorial Dog Park. Dine with the locals and other tourists at The Crossings Restaurant & Brew Pub or The Stomping Ground. Check out art exhibits at The Empty Spaces Project. Go golfing or attend events at Connecticut National Golf Club. Taking pottery classes at Sawmill Pottery invites creativity and learning. Bear Hands Brewing Company invites visitors to sample local brews through guided tastings and tours, creating a memorable experience for craft beer enthusiasts. Selecting a keepsake at Antiques Marketplace helps crystallize the memories of your adventure.

Discover Connecticut's Hidden Highlights

From Stonington's seaside views to the architectural marvel of Gillette Castle in East Haddam, each town presents a unique slice of New England charm. Whether it's Putnam's arts-rich environment or Mystic's historic maritime allure, these towns are ideal for those looking to enrich their travel experiences with both natural beauty and cultural richness. Planning a visit to these hidden treasures features a unique opportunity to discover distinct stories and peaceful retreats.