Connecticut may be a small state, but there is a ton of stunning natural scenery. From rivers and lakes to mountains and stretches of forests, Connecticut is brimming with natural beauty. One of the best places to enjoy the serenity that nature in Connecticut offers is in the state’s small towns. In small towns such as Kent, you can enjoy rugged, beautiful landscapes with waterfalls while immersed in local history. In Essex, you can see a town so charming it inspired the hometown in the television show Gilmore Girls. From historic buildings to a walk on the riverside, the small towns in Connecticut are undeniably scenic destinations. Here, we will explore the top six scenic small towns in the Green State.

Kent

Kent is a quiet town with a population of under 3,000. However, despite its small size, Kent is a scenic place. Being near two state parks, the town is full of ruggedly beautiful scenery. Some of the state’s best waterfalls are at Kent Falls State Park. Here, you can see waterfalls and covered bridges and explore miles of trails. Kent is also near Macedonia Brook State Park and the East Kent Hamlet Land Trust. These are both great places to enjoy a stroll through amazing natural scenery. Besides the natural scenery, Kent has some interesting history to explore. Visit the Kent Historical Society to learn more about the town’s history. Eric Sloane Museum is another historic site where visitors can see the artist’s work. The historic site contains his collection of early American tools, his artworks, his pioneer cabin, and the remains of the Kent Iron Furnace. This is significant since they are some of the first ironworks in the state.

Chester

Another scenic Connecticut town that attracted artists is Chester. Built in the hills on the side of the Connecticut River, Chester is a mix of forests, rivers, and historic sites. Near the town, there are wonderful natural sites to enjoy, including Cockaponset State Forest and the Selden Neck State Park. Both spots are great places to enjoy hiking, cycling, or camping. One of the must-visit attractions in town is Gillette Castle State Park. The medieval-style castle in the park is a stunning architectural attraction. There are trails to enjoy and amazing picnic spots to enjoy some lunch. For a unique experience, take the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry to reach the castle. Here, you will get a stunning view of the castle from the water. Another historic building to enjoy in Chester is the Goodspeed Opera House. The venue dates back to 1877 and is a great place to enjoy a local show today.

Essex

Just ten minutes outside Chester is another scenic Connecticut town, Essex. The cute town is recognizable as the location that may have inspired the famous Stars Hollow town in Gilmore Girls. Stepping into Essex is like stepping into the past. The town has an enduring historic charm, with old farmhouses from the Revolutionary War and other historic buildings. The First Baptist Church of Essex is a popular spot to visit. It is one of three Egyptian Revival churches built in the entire United States. Those looking for an old-timey feel should pay a visit to the Essex Steam Train. The original 19th-century railway locomotive gives a nostalgic tour of the area. Learn more about the history of the area by visiting the Connecticut River Museum. Here, enjoy the lovely view of the water and learn about Native American history, the river, and the local ecosystem. You can also appreciate the riverfront views in Essex by walking on the harbor. There are some nice photo opportunities at the harbor next to the cute little Essex Reef Lighthouse.

Chaplin

Chaplin is a quaint town with a population of under 2,500 residents. The town is a close-knit community with lovely historic buildings and natural places. Two notable places to visit in town are the Chaplin Historic District and Witter House. The Georgian architecture in these spots is from the 19th century and is something to admire. These are also great spots to learn more about the town’s history. One of the most scenic aspects of Chaplin is the rural nature of the town. There are many forested areas to explore. Some of the most popular include Diana’s Pool and James L. Goodwin Forest.

Cornwall

Those going to Connecticut for the mountains should pay a visit to Cornwall. The town has a hidden gem, one of the last covered bridges in the state. The West Cornwall Covered Bridge is 172 feet long and 15 feet wide and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Beyond the bridge, people come to Cornwall to experience the area’s green scenery. Full of mountains and forests, Cornwall is a hiker’s haven. A popular hike to do in town is the Pine Knob Loop Trail. Located in Housatonic Meadows State Park and Housatonic State Forest, the short hike is challenging, with rewarding mountain views. The Housatonic River has a section that runs through Cornwall. Paddling, fishing, and hiking are popular activities around the river.

Madison

Another town with stunning outdoor scenery in Connecticut is Madison. Madison is a beachside town near Long Island Sound. There is plenty to do in town to enjoy the scenery, including fishing, surfing, hiking, and picnicking. The Shoreline Greenway Trail is a popular place to enjoy a walk with shoreside views. Madison is near plenty of beaches, including Hammonasset Beach State Park, Surf Club Beach, East Wharf, and West Wharf. To explore and learn about nature in town, check out Meigs Point Nature Center. Those who are more interested in staying inside can still enjoy the town. The downtown has several cute shops to explore, including boutiques, bookshops, and restaurants. Movie lovers should check out the Madison Art Cinema. The local theater dates back to 1912 and is independently run. The interior of the theater is uniquely designed with a stunning color scheme of aquamarine, antique gold, and a tone of red.

Ultimately, these six small towns are some of the most scenic in Connecticut. Many of the towns have a mix of stunning natural scenery and unique historic architecture to admire. While all these towns have beautiful natural scenery, they are all quite different. Some of the towns, such as Cornwall, showcase the mighty Connecticut mountains. Others, such as Madison, show the relaxed, beachy environment the state can have. Chester, on the other hand, is a balance of natural beauty and architectural marvel. Overall, these towns all offer a unique experience of the state.