These 9 Towns In Connecticut Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2024
As one of the original 13 colonies, Connecticut has a rich history peppered throughout its beautiful landscape. Scattered amongst the Appalachian Mountains and Long Island Sound are delightful gems ranked among America’s favorites. Relax on Compo Beach in Westport, or explore the highly-regarded Mystic Aquarium in Mystic. These towns are home to manicured city streets, sweeping views, and some of the friendliest locals on the East Coast! So, pack a bag, and explore the best that the Nutmeg State has in store!
Mystic
Nestled along the banks of the Mystic River is the picturesque village of Mystic. Aside from lovely waterfront views in the downtown area, Mystic is home to two of Connecticut's most popular attractions, the Mystic Seaport Museum and the Mystic Aquarium. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a wonderful indoor/outdoor space where visitors can explore antique ships or a recreated 19th-century seafaring village. The Mystic Aquarium is another must-see in the area with exhibits such as sea lions, Beluga whales, and interactive exhibits.
If you love shopping, Mystic is a great place to spend an afternoon. Walk the well-maintained street with a view of the water while you stop in quaint shops like the Olde Mistick Village and The Cloak and Wand. With lovely views and a vibrant downtown area, Mystic is a delightful space to spend a weekend.
Essex
Essex is the quintessential New England town! With classic Colonial architecture and beautiful views of the Connecticut River, it’s a sleepy hamlet locked in time, perfect for a slow-paced weekend retreat. To capture the unique beauty of Essex, take a ride on the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat that travels down through the Connecticut River Valley. For more information on the area, the riverside Connecticut River Museum is a great place to explore steamboat exhibits and all about the iconic British raid during the War of 1812.
The Griswold Inn, the heart of Essex, adds to the beauty of the charming downtown district. Opened in 1776, it is the longest-operating inn in the United States! If you love shopping, be sure to head to the Ivoryton Historic District. Not only is it listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but it also has quaint little shops like the Essex Saybrook Antiques Village. If you need to relax and unwind, Essex is sure to melt away your stress.
Westport
Situated on both the Long Island Sound and the Saugatuck River, Westport is a delightful waterside town with so much to explore. If you love beach getaways, add Westport to your Connecticut bucket list! Compo Beach is a popular spot to curl up with a book and soak in the sun along the Long Island Sound, listening to the waves crash along the pristine shoreline.
The quaint downtown district has amazing Colonial and Federal-style buildings with intricate details that add to the town's upscale ambiance. Grab a healing cup of tea at Arogya Tea, and spend a day window shopping and taking in the scenery. And if you plan your visit just right, you can catch the annual Westport Fine Arts Festival! The friendly locals, amazing waterside views, and beachy vibes make Westport a great place to spend a long weekend.
Simsbury
Fun fact: Founded in 1670, Simsbury is one of the oldest towns in all of Connecticut! Bordered by natural beauty, Simsbury is a fantastic hidden gem that’s worth checking out. It’s the perfect blend of historic landmarks and classic New England charm. If you love spending time in nature, you have to stop by the Pinchot Sycamore. Hidden away in a small park along the river is the Pinchot Sycamore, the largest tree in the state (and almost 300 years old!).
One of the most famous attractions in Simsbury is the Heublein Tower, which is a sight to behold. Secluded in the middle of the beautiful Talcott Mountain State Park, this 165-foot tower lends panoramic views of the Farmington Valley. Lace off your hiking boots and take the afternoon hiking to this stunning and isolated tower for one of the best views Connecticut has to offer! Nature lovers will get lost in the magnificent beauty of Simsbury.
Old Saybrook
Founded in 1635, Old Saybrook is one of the oldest towns in the state! It’s a lovely blend of historical attractions, a lively shopping district, and beautiful scenery. Situated on the Connecticut River, Old Saybrook is a great place to relax on the beach. Harvey’s Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists for its calm waters and uncrowded beaches. For more excitement and things to see, Saybrook Point features the Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse and Saybrook Point Marina, where you can rent a boat to spend the day on the water.
Heading inland, the downtown Old Saybrook has plenty of attractions when you’ve had your fill of the beach scene. Downtown is a charming blend of Colonial and Federal style buildings with a mix of modern Contemporary. Walk the spotless sidewalks and grab a meal of fresh seafood at places like Skippers Seafood Restaurant. With a blend of history and modern attractions, Old Saybrook is a must-stop on your next Connecticut road trip.
Ridgefield
Settled in the foothills of the Berkshire mountains in Ridgefield, a charming city with a history as vast as its dramatic landscapes. In the heart of the rustic downtown area is the Keeler Tavern Museum, which serves as the heart of Ridgefield. The museum is perfectly preserved in its original Colonial and Federal style and allows visitors to walk back in time as they explore its halls. And if you visit in the summer, be sure to stroll through the amazing gardens!
To admire the area's beauty, Ridgefield is just a hop, skip, and jump from some amazing parks. Seth Low Pierrepont State Park is a popular place among the locals thanks to its varied hiking trails and densely wooded areas. In the summer, you can relax along the shores at Martin Park Beach, located just over three miles from downtown.
Bethel
With a strong community spirit, iconic landmarks, and picturesque city streets, Bethel is a wonderful place to visit. Stop in during one of their lively community events, such as the Bethel Farmer’s Market (held every summer since 1981) or the Memorial Day Parade. Or, just stroll down Greenwood Avenue Historic District for a day of shopping and eating at charming local cafes like Café Duo.
While Bethel is surrounded by state parks, you need not travel far for amazing views. Overlook Park is just a few blocks from Greenwood Avenue and provides sweeping, wooded views of the area. Just a short drive outside of town is the Stephenson Nature Preserve, which provides accessible trails with unique art installations along the way. Bethel is one of those perfect little New England towns with such a big heart in a small space.
Cornwall
Far removed from the bustle of the noise of the big cities is the delightful area of Cornwell. Settled in the foothill of the Berkshire Mountains, it’s a nature-lover’s paradise. The most iconic attraction in Cornwell is the West Cornwall Covered Bridge with fantastic views of the Housatonic River below. While the town may be small, the tight-knit community comes together with seasonal festivals and events. The Coop Farm Market and Original Farmer’s Market at the Wish House are two of the more popular festivals held in the summer and fall.
To enjoy the views that Cornwall has to offer, Mohawk State Forest is a great destination year-round, and it’s less than 20 minutes from the heart of Cornwall. Hike the historic Native American footpath that leads you to Mohawk Moutain, or fish, canoe, or swim in its pristine waters. If you need a scenic and peaceful getaway in your life, Cornwall is a great place to recharge your batteries.
New Canaan
One can describe the classic town of New Canaan in two words: sophisticated and classic. The downtown district blends Colonial Revival architecture with Contemporary buildings that fuse seamlessly with the rustic style. Inside these beautiful buildings are quirky little shops, like Odesmith & Richards antiques. There’s no better example of New Cannaan’s blended style than the Glass House. Designed by architect Philip Johnson in 1949, it’s a beautiful community landmark that offers tours in the spring through autumn.
The parks in New Canaan are almost as impressive as their architectural design. Public spaces like the New Canaan Nature Center provide manicured hiking trails as well as a botanical garden, arboretum, and nature preserve. It’s a great spot to take the whole family for a casual afternoon! Other notable parks include Irwin Park (with its impressive Flexi-pave walking trail) and Bridle Trail.
Discover The Best Of Connecticut
Connecticut is often the forgotten child of the original 13 colonies. States like New York and Virginia often get all the praise, but Connecticut is often overlooked! With its stunning landscapes, historical towns, and unique East Coast quirks, these hidden gems are well worth the drive. Walk the sleepy coastlines in Old Saybrook, or get swept up in the modernist charms of New Canaan. Whether you love lush forests, untouched coastlines, or unique towns with eye-catching attractions, Connecticut is ripe for discovery.
