7 Time-Capsule Towns in Connecticut

As one of the original 13 colonies, Connecticut has a colonial history stretching back to the 17th century, accompanied by Indigenous history that extends back several millennia. As a result, it probably comes as no surprise that the state is filled with historic villages. Whether you want to explore Connecticut’s maritime history, stay in an inn from 1776, or take a ride on a historic steam train and riverboat, these seven towns offer a journey straight into history.

Wethersfield

Wethersfield is not only one of the oldest towns in the state but also home to the largest historic district, with more than 150 structures built before 1850. The Webb Deane Stevens Museum is located in the heart of it all, featuring three significant historic houses, including the Joseph Webb House, which was once George Washington’s headquarters in 1781! The Cove Warehouse is another notable landmark in town, with a history dating back to the late 17th century, now serving as the Wethersfield Historical Society’s Maritime Museum. Travelers can further immerse themselves in Wethersfield’s history by staying at the Silas W. Robbins House, which was built by Robbins in 1873 and features intricate Second Empire-style architecture.

Old Saybrook

Although Old Saybrook was not officially incorporated until 1854, its colonial roots stretch back to 1635 with the founding of the Saybrook Plantation. Travelers can begin their journey through time at the Fort Saybrook Monument, a 17-acre park that tells the original colony’s story through a series of educational storyboards. After, head out to the coastline to see the Lynde Point Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1803 to guide boats passing through the Long Island Sound. You won’t find a more charming and historic place to spend the night than at the James Pharmacy Bed and Breakfast, which began as a general store in 1790, today operating as a cozy inn.

Newington

Newington was actually part of Wethersfield until 1871, when it was approved to become an incorporated town of its own in Connecticut. Today, you will find plenty of colonial-era homes in the area, such as the Enoch Kelsey House, which was constructed by a farmer in 1799. The house is noted for its freehand-painted walls that mimic wallpaper and for several rare trompe l’oeil works. The Kellogg-Eddy House is another historic gem, a restored 1808 colonial home that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Make sure to check out Mill Pond Falls before leaving town! Claimed by the town to be the “smallest natural waterfall in the United States,” these falls are named after a sawmill that the town built on the pond in 1860.

Mystic

Once a major seaport in Connecticut, Mystic is filled with maritime history that visitors can explore through its museums and homesteads. The Mystic Seaport Museum has an abundance of history to check out, including the world’s last standing wooden whaleship, a recreated 19th-century seafaring village, and numerous art and history exhibits. Operating for over a century, art lovers will also want to stop by the Mystic Museum of Art, which has galleries open every day of the week and occasional educational events that travelers can attend. To see what farm life was like in town, travelers can also visit the Denison Homestead Museum, a 160-acre property that has been a family farm for over three centuries. Today, the museum offers museum tours Monday through Friday.

Simsbury

Recognized as one of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Dozen Distinctive Destinations,” Simsbury is a classic New England village with historic homes, active farms, and a notable cemetery. The Simsbury Cemetery offers scenic valley views and plenty of history, as it once held the town’s first meeting house, active from 1683 to 1739. Afterward, swing by the Simsbury Free Library, built in 1874 and serving for over a century as the town’s municipal library. Although a newer library was established in 1986, this library continues to house research, archives, and other educational materials. Enjoy even more history with a stay at the Simsbury 1820 House, a restored country inn that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Essex

Essex is a river town that built its prosperity on shipbuilding and rope walks. Travelers can learn about the town’s centuries of history beginning at the Connecticut River Museum, which contains three floors of exhibits, dating back more than 12,000 years to early Indigenous tribes that called the area home. Next, hop aboard the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, which offers a two and a half hour narrated tour through the gorgeous Connecticut River Valley. It is also the country’s only steam train and riverboat connection! The Griswold Inn is a fantastic place to spend the night. It is located in the heart of the village and has been operating since 1776.

South Windsor

Although South Windsor is widely known for its many shops, it is also filled with historic landmarks. The Wood Memorial Library, established in the 1920s, is an excellent starting point for a historic tour. Today, it serves as a cultural and historical center, featuring extensive collections, exhibits, and educational events. Right behind the library, you will find the Nowashe Village, an outdoor museum on a ¾ acre wooded property that tells the story of the area’s indigenous groups. Although the village has been closed for construction for a few weeks, visitors can keep an eye on the website for details on reopening. If exploring all of the town’s historic landmarks has worked up an appetite, consider grabbing dinner at The Mill on the River, an elegant restaurant that is located in a mill that dates back to the 18th century.

With so many historic villages in Connecticut, selecting just seven is a challenge. However, the towns listed above distinguish themselves, largely thanks to the work of their dedicated citizens and historical societies. This work is evident in 18th-century inns, expansive museums, and carefully restored colonial homes, to name just a few highlights. So if you have been thinking about exploring some of the state’s past, don’t hesitate to plan a trip to visit one of these destinations for yourself!