Florence Griswold Museum
www.florencegriswoldmuseum.org
Florence Griswold opened her timeworn family home to artists searching for a quiet country retreat where they could rejuvenate their spirits and find sources of inspiration. The group was known as the Lyme Art Colony and Miss Florence’s boardinghouse became the center of Impressionism in America. To honor Miss Florence and the Colony, the Florence Griswold Museum was established and has flourished in exciting ways.
The Ivoryton Playhouse
The Ivoryton Playhouse Foundation is a non-profit organization formed for the purpose of owning, restoring and operating the 100 year old Playhouse, maintaining its cultural, educational, entertainment and service value to the community at large.
The Ivoryton Playhouse is located in the scenic 3 village area of Essex, Centerbrook and Ivoryton.
Town of Essex, Connecticut
The official web site for the Town of Essex, Connecticut. Essex consists of three unique villages and is ideally located on the Connecticut River a few short miles from Long Island Sound. Well-known for its beautiful landscapes, majestic trees and gardens, fascinating architecture, and cultural and historical attractions, we are a boating and sailing destination as well. Essex is famous for hosting a multitude of parades throughout the year and offers an outstanding culinary and shopping experience to our residents and visitors.
Essex, CT
Enjoy three of the most picturesque villages in New England! Essex is on the Connecticut River with an excellent harbor for boaters from Long Island Sound. We are ready to show you the best in American living. Please use this site to make the most of your visit to Essex, one of the best small towns in America
Connecticut River Museum
Housed in an 1878 warehouse at the old Essex Steamboat Dock (#1 on your map), the Museum preserves and interprets the history of the Connecticut River Valley and its people, with emphasis on the lower Valley’s maritime heritage. Exhibits include ship models, a full-size reproduction of the world’s first submarine, navigational instruments and shipbuilding tools, Indian artifacts, Valley industry and agriculture, and small water craft used on the River.
Essex Steam Train
See Beautiful New England the old-fashioned way. All aboard for a leisurely 2 1/2 hour ride by rail and water through the natural beauty of the Connecticut River Valley. Let the train’s clickety-clack take you back to the 1920’s. You will ride in restored vintage cars to the boat landing where you will board a multi-deck replica steamboat. Fun for all ages, rain or shine. Open May through October. Special holiday runs for Easter and Christmas. Call for schedule. Located off Route 9, Exit 3, Essex. Dinner train May – October.
State of Connecticut Office of Tourism
The State of Connecticut Office of Tourism can help you plan your vacation or getaway to any of the interesting places to visit in Connecticut.
Mystic Country
A regional guide to dining, shopping, events and entertainment.
Looking for a Place to Stay?
Griswold Inn
“The Griswold Inn, sometimes known as the ‘Gris’, is an inn with the most extraordinary atmosphere in the nation. Indeed it is doubtful if another inn can go so far back in the country’s history. There is no other place to compare with the ‘Gris’ in atmosphere, in hospitality, in the excellence of its cuisine unless it is another ‘Gris.'”
The Copper Beech Inn
www.copperbeechinn.com
Rediscover the art of relaxation at a magical country inn and restaurant located just minutes from the scenic Connecticut River and the Long Island Sound shoreline. Experience the romance of a beautiful and historic inn — featuring 13-guestrooms and luxury suites restored with period antiques, oriental rugs, and richly textured upholstery and fabrics.
The Captain Stannard Bed and Breakfast Country Inn
www.stannardhouse.com
c. 1872
The Captain Stannard Bed and Breakfast Country Inn has charmed and welcomed local residents and out-of-town guests for over 150 years as Holly’s Barn Dance Hall, the St. Charles Inn, Kingsley Hall, an antique store, the Menunketesuck Inn, private residences, and currently as the Captain Stannard Bed and Breakfast Country Inn of Westbrook, CT. Located along the CT Shoreline midway between New York City and Boston, and only one hour from Hartford, with tons of local attractions both on the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River, the Captain Stannard Bed and Breakfast Country Inn is the perfect place to stay!
Westbrook Inn
www.westbrookinn.com
A Historic, Victorian CT B&B & Cottage
Located in the Relaxing, Shoreline Village of Westbrook, Connecticut & Walking Distance to Coastal, Long Island Sounds Beaches & Shoreline!
Voted “The Most Elegant Inn” by Arrington’s Bed & Breakfast Journal
At this charming, Bed & Breakfast in the historic, shoreline village of Westbrook, Connecticut a one of a kind, rejuvenating escape awaits! Centrally located to numerous area attractions and just a short stroll to sandy beaches & town shops lies this award winning New England B&B & cottage! Picturesque features such as a historic, wraparound front porch, private library courtyard, screened in gazebo and bistro style patio are surrounded by the Inns manicured grounds & gardens. Nine elegant rooms featuring fine antique accommodations offer period elegance while the Inn’s charming, 2 bedroom cottage features a state of the art kitchen plus a spacious living room with fireplace. In addition to lovely accommodations, guests are treated to the Inns candlelit, full breakfast every morning!
Whether it’s business, pleasure, a romantic getaway or just to relax the Westbrook Inn B&B is the place to be!
Riverwind Inn
www.riverwindinn.com
Located in the scenic lower Connecticut River Valley, amidst towns like Essex, Chester and Haddam, this traditional colonial inn transports you back in time, for a relaxing and memorable stay.
Featured in: Country Inns, New York, Country Living, Country Decorating, Travel & Leisure, The Discerning Traveler, Greenwich Magazine, Connecticut Magazine, N.Y. Times, L.A. Times, Boston Globe, Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, N.Y. Newsday, and the best regional, national and international Bed & Breakfast Guides and many more.
The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina
www.innharborhill.com
The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina is a beautiful Connecticut shoreline Bed and Breakfast located in the charming seaside village of Niantic, and just 20 minutes from The Spa of Essex. The Inn is known for award-winning hospitality and service, beautiful flower gardens, 9 guestrooms some with private balcony and fireplace and water views from every room. The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina is located in the marina district just steps from Niantic village which boasts unique antique and boutique shops, book stores, cafés and restaurants and a mile-long Boardwalk overlooking scenic Long Island Sound. We are nestled between Essex and Mystic, and centrally located to the world famous Foxwoods, MGM Grand and Mohegan Sun casinos. So, if you’re considering the comfort and relaxation of services at the Spa of Essex, also consider a stay at the Inn at Harbor Hill Marina. You won’t be disappointed!