Connecticut

8 Loveliest Small Towns to Visit in Connecticut This Summer

Published

2 years ago

July 13, 2024

8 Loveliest Small Towns to Visit in Connecticut This Summer

From the 250-mile Long Island Sound coastline and rolling Litchfield Hills to the pristine Connecticut River Valley, Connecticut’s sprawling open spaces give it some of the best natural scenery in New England. Tourists from around the country visit to explore exciting outdoor recreation and experience the rich cultural scene. Spread across these idyllic landscapes are little boroughs that are the true lifeblood of the Constitution State. Beyond buzzing metro areas like Hartford and New Haven lie quintessential New England towns capturing the essence of Nutmeg State charm.

These loveliest small towns to visit in Connecticut set the stage for easygoing yet invigorating escapes this summer. From maritime villages to mountain hamlets, explorers will find scenic beauty, local flavor, and true Northeast hospitality in these underrated gems.

Essex

The Griswold Inn Store, Essex, Connecticut. Image credit Rachel Rose Boucher via Shutterstock

This quaint village on the Lower Connecticut River Valley was once dubbed “The Perfect Small American Town,” a credit to stunning natural beauty, easygoing atmosphere, and quintessential rural feel. It offers exciting experiences to fuel your summer itinerary, such as relaxed sightseeing boat cruises on the Connecticut River curated to your satisfaction, courtesy of RiverQuest. The tour includes stops at major town attractions, with the Connecticut River Museum as the highlight. This wonderful facility offers three floors of rare exhibits, including art and artifacts chronicling the town’s shipbuilding heritage from as far back as 1733.

Tourists will find the Safe Harbor Essex Island appealing thanks to its waterfront setting and laid-back atmosphere. The 13-acre island provides the ideal escape for chilled-out summer picnics with friends or family. While in Essex, don’t miss the opportunity to sample richly flavored seafood at Black Seal Seafood Grille.

Litchfield

A hidden gem in the Northwest Hills, this charming town of Litchfield County invites holidaymakers to explore lush hills, stroll through manicured gardens, and discover 18th-century history. Litchfield has much to offer outdoorsy travelers, starting with Topsmead State Forest. This lush oasis houses numerous paths through woodlands and meadows, perfect for lazy strolls to unwind while enjoying the fresh country air. While discovering the exquisite outdoors, use the opportunity to watch local wildlife at the Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy. This wetland conservancy delights with its serene and secluded atmosphere, and is the ideal sanctuary for cute waterfowl.

Historians naturally gravitate towards the Litchfield Historical Society to glimpse the area’s past. Although small, the museum delivers an immersive experience with a colorful artifact exhibit telling the story of Litchfield. When the sun proves too hot for comfort, consider stopping by Peaches ‘N Cream to cool off with a delicious ice cream treat.

Old Saybrook

Relaxed beach days, easygoing boat cruises, and sumptuous seafood lay out the plan for the perfect summer stay in this lovely community of Middlesex County. Old Saybrook hosts one of the best beaches in the region. Visiting Harveys Beach encourages visitors to enjoy soothing water views and take stress-free strolls on sandy shores in a tranquil setting. The town’s rich history dates back to the 17th century, and exploring it enables you to discover unique treasures, including the conspicuous Lynde Point Lighthouse. This iconic landmark is always teeming with visitors trying to get the perfect selfie alongside it.

The General William Hart House has a more vivid perspective of Old Saybrook’s past. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 18th-century abode offers a hint of local history and culture through a vast artifact collection. You can get a feel for culture by catching a live performance at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center.

Niantic

This pleasant East Coast village boasts beautiful natural surroundings punctuated by lush parks and pristine Atlantic Ocean beaches. Due to the town’s wealth of kid-friendly attractions, it is a prominent destination for vacationing families. Beachgoers can find an excellent pursuit at Hole in the Wall Beach, whether picnicking on the smooth white sands or inspecting the shoreline to hunt for cute shells. The summer conditions compel visitors to get on the water and feel the wind in their hair during an exciting sailing excursion with Black Hawk Sport Fishing.

Visitors can take the kids to the Niantic Children’s Museum for a fun learning experience. This remarkable facility delights with hands-on activities tailored for kids’ entertainment, combining indoor exhibits and outdoor play spaces. After hours of playing and learning, a cold ice cream cone at Gumdrops & Lollipops Candy & Ice Cream is the best way to make the trip memorable for your loved ones.

Madison

Centrally located along the Long Island Sound shoreline, this beachside haven in New Haven County promises a comfy summer getaway full of New England charm. Tourists have the opportunity to take advantage of the warm conditions by escaping to the Hammonasset Beach State Park beach. An amazing mix of refreshing sea breeze, sugar-white sandy shores, and impeccable sunset views over the horizon culminate in the perfect summer spot. Those who want to stretch their legs will find the right hiking opportunity along the Shoreline Greenway Trail.

Further inland, an opportunity to uncover Madison’s best-kept secrets awaits at the Madison Green Historic District. The venue displays rare artifacts about the town’s history and is surrounded by lovely greens for resting and people-watching. After a long day of exploration, restock with a delicious seafood dish at Lenny & Joe’s.

Westport

This precious gem on the Gold Coast invites you to spend the summer in one of the most picturesque towns to visit in Connecticut. Besides its sandy shores, Westport offers something to ensure everyone has a memorable stay. There is no shortage of beaches, but Compo Beach is among the most favored in the area, known for its breathtaking sunset views and family-friendly atmosphere. Away from the coast, Earthplace is a pleasant oasis with plenty of greenery. It is an excellent family venue and presents encounters with local wildlife species, such as the bald eagle.

Additionally, guests can watch an enthralling live performance inside the Westport Country Playhouse for an indoor pursuit. The historic theater is housed in a restored 19th-century tannery, and its rustic interior is always filled with good cheer. Alternatively, you can delve into the town’s colorful heritage by browsing diverse exhibits at the Westport Museum for History and Culture.

Kent

Hike cozy nature trails with scenic lake overlooks and discover rich local art in this adorable community in the Litchfield Hills. Kent’s remarkable outdoor scenery invites holidaymakers for exciting adventures in the open spaces. Kent famously houses Kent Falls State Park, where secluded nature trails through woods lead to an awe-inspiring 250-foot waterfall. The 2,300-acre Macedonia Brook State Park also adds to your outdoor experience by offering endless opportunities, from hiking and camping to fishing and sightseeing.

Beyond the great outdoors, the Kent Historical Society presents a unique perspective of the region’s past by examining various archives, manuscripts, and artifacts. You can also experience the local arts culture at Morrison Gallery, which specializes in fine and contemporary art and features intricate sculptures.

Woodstock

Escape to the beautiful Connecticut countryside in this cozy Northeastern community known for its rich history, tranquil setting, and hospitable townsfolk. Roseland Cottage is an unmissable landmark in Woodstock. This historical homestead sticks out for its alluring Gothic Revival facade, and touring its rustic interior transports visitors back to the Victorian era. Exploring the delightful open spaces in Woodstock gets even more satisfying when you are sipping a tasty glass of wine from Taylor Brooke Winery. This 44-acre farm embodies the beauty of Connecticut’s backcountry, providing guests with pleasant wine-tasting opportunities.

Woodstock’s tight-knit community welcomes visitors for family-friendly live shows at Loos Center for the Arts. This is a chance to mingle with locals and learn an important aspect of their culture while enjoying plays, musicals, concerts, and other theatrical productions.

The quintessential small towns in Connecticut, from seaside villages to mountain hamlets, promise a true taste of idyllic New England living this summer season. Perfect for outdoor recreation, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing at a slower pace, these underrated gems spread across diverse scenery are among the loveliest towns to visit in Connecticut. Discovering their historic downtowns, natural beauty spots, and tight-knit hospitality could become seasonal traditions for years to come. A trip to any of these Nutmeg State communities will result in memories of summer charm in the Northeast at its finest.

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Connecticut

Opinion: A lifeline in CT’s childcare desert

Published

9 hours ago

July 8, 2026

Press Room

Opinion: A lifeline in CT’s childcare desert

by Michelle Gagliardi, CT Mirror
July 8, 2026

As Connecticut grapples with a persistent childcare crisis, parents are facing a perfect storm: years-long waitlists, skyrocketing tuition at corporate centers, and the grueling logistics of balancing a 9-to-5 with a rigid pickup schedule.

But while the public debate often centers on expanding massive commercial childcare centers, a quiet, deeply rooted alternative is keeping Connecticut’s working families afloat. It is called family childcare —licensed, professional early childhood care operated out of a provider’s home.

Far from a fallback plan, family childcare is increasingly the gold standard for parents seeking a blend of high-quality early education, financial sanity, and emotional peace of mind. For families navigating the Nutmeg State’s early childhood landscape, here is why choosing a home-based provider is a powerful, beneficial choice.

A true “home away from home” environment

For infants and young toddlers, the transition from a parent’s arms to a bustling commercial facility can be jarring. Large centers often feature bright fluorescent lights, high-density classrooms, and a rotating cast of staff members.

Family childcare offers the exact opposite: a cozy, familiar home environment. Children learn, play, and nap in spaces that feel like an extension of their own living rooms. This familiar setting significantly lowers stress levels for young children, helping them feel secure enough to explore, socialise, and learn.

Consistency of care (no staff turnover)

One of the most disruptive aspects of modern commercial childcare is staff turnover. Because of industry-wide low wages, center teachers frequently move on, meaning a child might have three or four different primary caregivers in a single year.

In a family childcare setting, the business owner is the teacher. Your child builds a deep, secure attachment to one consistent educator from infancy until they drop their backpacks off for kindergarten. This continuity of care is crucial for healthy emotional and neurological development in a child’s first 1,000 days.

Mixed-age groupings mirror real life

Unlike traditional centers that rigidly separate children by age into 12-month increments, family childcare homes naturally feature mixed-age groups. Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers interact throughout the day.

This model offers profound developmental benefits:

For younger children: They learn language, social skills, and behavioral cues rapidly by watching and mimicking older peers.
For older children: They develop empathy, patience, and leadership skills by helping and looking out for the littler ones.
For siblings: Brothers and sisters can stay together in the same program, rather than being split up into different wings of a building.

Unmatched flexibility for working class families

Connecticut’s economy doesn’t just run on a traditional 9-to-5 schedule. Shift workers, healthcare professionals, first responders, and service industry employees are routinely left behind by corporate childcare centers that charge massive penalties if a parent is five minutes past a 5:30 p.m. closing time.

Home-based providers understand the realities of working families. Because they operate independently, many offer more flexible drop-off and pick-up windows, and some accommodate non-traditional hours or part-time schedules that commercial centers reject.

Financial sanity in a high-cost state

Let’s talk numbers. Connecticut routinely ranks among the top ten most expensive states for childcare in the nation, with center-based infant care averaging well over $18,000 a year.

Family childcare providers offer a much-needed financial breathing room. Because their overhead costs are lower —utilizing their own homes rather than renting commercial real estate— they are able to pass those savings on to parents. On average, family childcare in Connecticut costs 20% to 35% less than center-based care, without sacrificing licensing rigor, safety standards, or educational quality.

The state standard: Licensed family childcare providers in Connecticut are strictly regulated by the Office of Early Childhood (OEC). They undergo background checks, regular home safety inspections, and must meet the exact same core health, safety, and CPR training requirements as large-scale centers.

Elevating the profession

For too long, outdated stereotypes dismissed home-based providers as “babysitters.” Today’s family childcare providers are micro-entrepreneurs, early childhood experts, and community anchors. Many hold degrees in early education, participate in Connecticut’s Sparkler developmental screening initiative, and build robust, play-based curriculums tailored to individual children rather than a corporate mandate.

As state lawmakers debate how to build a more resilient care infrastructure, they must recognize that family childcare isn’t just an alternative —it is a cornerstone of the system. For Connecticut parents seeking community, affordability, and a nurturing environment where their child is truly known, the best choice might just be right down the street.

Michelle Gagliardi is leader of the CT Family Child Care Coalition.

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Connecticut

Here’s How Much Rain Fell in Your Town

Published

20 hours ago

July 7, 2026

Press Room

HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) – Rain totals across Connecticut from July 5–7 ranged from just over 1 inch in parts of northern and eastern Connecticut to nearly 6 inches in Fairfield County.

All eight Connecticut counties recorded at least 1 inch of rain during the period, with totals as high as 5.91 inches in Danbury and as low as 1.01 inches in Storrs.

Litchfield County

State leaders toured storm damage in Harwinton and Torrington Tuesday morning.

New Milford: 3.33 in.
Woodbury Center: 3.23 in.
South Kent: 1.80 in.
Norfolk: 1.74 in.
Bakersville: 1.66 in.
New Hartford Center: 1.66 in.
Warren: 1.54 in.
Canaan: 1.18 in.
Norfolk (CWOP): 1.15 in.

Hartford County

Road damage closed a portion of Prospect Avenue in West Hartford.

Power restoration was complicated in Bristol due to Monday’s rainfall.

Berlin: 1.93 in.
West Hartford: 1.73 in.
North Granby: 1.69 in.
Bristol: 1.68 in.
Suffield Depot: 1.63 in.
Canton: 1.60 in.
Farmington: 1.59 in.
Southington: 1.58 in.
Plainville: 1.55 in.
Salmon Brook: 1.46 in.
Kensington: 1.45 in.
Windsor Locks: 1.41 in.
Simsbury: 1.39 in.
Bradley Airport: 1.39 in.
Suffield: 1.38 in.
South Glastonbury: 1.38 in.
Hartford (1.8 mi. NW): 1.37 in.
Hartford-Brainard Airport: 1.36 in.
East Granby: 1.31 in.
New Britain: 1.25 in.
Vernon: 1.23 in.
Newington: 1.22 in.
East Granby (1.9 mi. N): 1.19 in.
Rocky Hill: 1.16 in.
Bloomfield: 1.15 in.
Wethersfield: 1.15 in.
West Simsbury: 1.14 in.
Manchester: 1.10 in.
Enfield: 1.05 in.
South Windsor: 1.02 in.

Tolland County

Amston: 1.75 in.
Ellington: 1.68 in.
Somers: 1.39 in.
Hebron: 1.35 in.
Willimantic (3.8 mi. SW): 1.28 in.
Columbia: 1.28 in.
Stafford: 1.23 in.
Tolland: 1.06 in.
Storrs: 1.01 in.

Windham County

Ashford: 1.97 in.
Moosup: 1.95 in.
Baltic: 1.28 in.
Sterling: 1.20 in.
Canterbury: 1.15 in.
Willimantic: 1.13 in.
Danielson: 1.12 in.
South Windham: 1.11 in.
Eastford: 1.07 in.
East Killingly: 1.04 in.

Fairfield County

Danbury: 5.91 in.
Newtown: 5.45 in.
Bethel: 5.36 in.
Ridgefield: 5.11 in.
Redding (1 mi. WNW): 5.07 in.
Brookfield: 4.28 in.
Stratford: 4.25 in.
Trumbull: 4.25 in.
Sandy Hook: 3.89 in.
Shelton: 3.86 in.
Bridgeport Airport: 3.78 in.
Stamford: 3.35 in.
New Canaan: 3.33 in.
Fairfield: 3.17 in.
Weston: 3.14 in.
Westport: 3.05 in.
Darien: 2.70 in.
Norwalk: 2.61 in.
Greenwich: 2.06 in.

New Haven County

West Haven utilized flood gates after the water level on Campbell Avenue reached 3 feet at the storm’s peak Monday.

Milford: 4.78 in.
Branford: 4.69 in.
Orange: 4.36 in.
Guilford: 4.20 in.
Southbury: 4.04 in.
Madison Center: 4.00 in.
New Haven Airport: 3.81 in.
Seymour: 3.63 in.
Ansonia: 3.55 in.
Hamden: 3.47 in.
Outer Island, Branford: 3.38 in.
Oxford: 3.29 in.
Woodbridge: 3.24 in.
Prospect: 3.10 in.
Waterbury Airport: 2.96 in.
Wallingford: 2.91 in.
Yalesville: 2.60 in.
Bethany: 2.44 in.
Meriden Airport: 1.96 in.

Middlesex County

Saybrook Manor: 3.61 in.
Clinton: 3.28 in.
Westbrook: 3.26 in.
Chester Center: 2.41 in.
Durham: 2.40 in.
Higganum: 2.01 in.
Moodus: 1.98 in.
Cromwell: 1.92 in.
Moodus (0.7 mi. SSW): 1.81 in.

New London County

Niantic: 3.63 in.
Old Lyme: 2.81 in.
Waterford: 2.57 in.
New London: 2.57 in.
East Lyme: 2.54 in.
Ledyard: 2.17 in.
Mystic: 2.13 in.
Salem: 2.01 in.
Groton: 2.00 in.
Pawcatuck: 1.95 in.
Oakdale: 1.90 in.
Preston: 1.86 in.
Norwich: 1.85 in.
Stonington: 1.80 in.
Colchester: 1.77 in.
Lyme: 1.67 in.
Griswold: 1.58 in.

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Connecticut

Connecticut Forests Are Healthier, And The Porcupines Have Noticed

Published

1 day ago

July 7, 2026

Press Room

Connecticut Forests Are Healthier, And The Porcupines Have Noticed

Have you ever seen a porcupine in the wild? I haven’t. Honestly, it never even crossed my mind that they lived anywhere around Connecticut or New York. Apparently, I’ve been missing out. According to I-95 wildlife expert Jen the Zookeeper, your odds of spotting one is actually increasing. She says these prickly little animals are becoming more common throughout our area, meaning you may run into one sooner than you think. Here’s what Jen had to say about the newest furry neighbor making itself at home in our neck of the woods.

Prickly Population Boom: Connecticut’s Newest Neighbors

Move over deer—Connecticut has another backyard celebrity on the rise: the North American porcupine! These slow-moving, tree-climbing rodents have been popping up more often across the state, and they’re impossible to hug… for obvious reasons.

Despite what cartoons might suggest, porcupines can’t shoot their quills. Instead, they rely on a simple strategy: if a predator gets too close, the porcupine turns around and lets nature do the rest. Each quill has tiny barbs that make it surprisingly difficult to remove, making curious coyotes, dogs, and other predators think twice before trying again.

So why are more porcupines showing up? Scientists believe healthier forests, fewer natural predators, and plenty of tasty trees to nibble on have helped their numbers grow. They’re especially fond of bark, leaves, twigs, and even the occasional garden snack—though your favorite landscaping shrub may disagree with their menu choices.

Porcupines are also excellent climbers and spend much of their time in trees, often snoozing through the day and becoming active at night. If you spot one waddling across a trail, give it plenty of space and enjoy the rare chance to observe one of Connecticut’s most unique mammals.

The good news? Porcupines are peaceful, important members of our forest ecosystems. They help shape forest growth through their feeding habits and provide scientists with another reminder that healthy habitats support diverse wildlife.

So, if you notice a prickly visitor wandering through your neighborhood, remember: admire from a distance, keep curious dogs on a leash, and whatever you do… don’t ask for a hug.

More on Jen the Zookeeper

Jen has spent more than 30 years immersed in the fields of animal care, conservation, and science education. As the former Director of Animal Care for the New Canaan Nature Center in Connecticut, she oversaw the care of native mammals, reptiles, and birds of prey while educating the public about the important roles these wild neighbors play in our ecosystem. Her experience also includes time with both the Bronx Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo, where she focused on the care of African and Asian wildlife and helped teach visitors about the delicate balance between humans and natural habitats.

Later, while working at a wildlife sanctuary in Half Moon Bay, California, Jen played a key role in training and handling nearly 50 exotic species. She also developed educational programs for at-risk and foster youth, helping historically underserved kids build trust, confidence, and healing connections with the non-releasable animals at the sanctuary.

In addition to her extensive wildlife work, Jen has experience in horse and dog training, animal control, veterinary care, and all things conservation education. Today, she owns and operates Jen Kotkin Pet Care, where she provides personalized care, exercise, and enrichment for dogs, cats, horses, birds, and more.

10 of the Best Places in Connecticut to Enjoy a Juicy Hot Dog

The Three Worst Parking Lots For The Nervous Drivers of Southbury

Do you ever dread going someplace because of it’s parking lot? That’s why I avoid any Trader Joe’s in Connecticut. There are three parking lots along Main Street in Southbury where I can’t let my guard down as I drive in.

Look Inside the Largest Indoor Collaborative Artwork in the World

I visited the American Mural Project in Winsted, Connecticut for the first time recently, and for those who haven’t seen it, here’s a quick peek at what to expect when you gaze upon the largest indoor collaborative piece of artwork in the world

Gallery Credit: Photos by Large Dave

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