This Is The Friendliest Small Town in Connecticut
In Simsbury, fifth-generation farms, summer concerts at the Talcott Mountain Music Festival, scenic afternoons at Stratton Brook State Park, and busy local restaurants all help create the kind of close-knit atmosphere that makes visitors feel instantly welcome. Settled in the mid-17th century as one of the first western outposts beyond the Connecticut River Valley, the town has long been shaped by a strong civic pride evident during the Revolutionary War, when nearly 1,000 residents served in support of the young nation.
That same community-minded spirit still defines Simsbury today, from family-friendly stops like Rosedale Farms and Vineyards, Flamig Farm, and Folly Farm Show Stables to beloved gathering places like Millwright’s and Plan b Burger Bar. If you are looking for a Connecticut town where history and hospitality still bring people together, Simsbury stands out.
Farming and Agricultural Community
Simsbury, located in northcentral Connecticut, is home to a thriving agricultural community, with more than ten farms scattered throughout the surrounding areas. Many of the farms welcome visitors, eager to share some of their agricultural traditions. Rosedale Farms and Vineyards, a fifth-generation family farm, is an excellent destination for visitors. They sell fresh produce, flowers, and wines, along with hosting a variety of seasonal events. In the fall, guests can enjoy activities like a sunflower stroll, farm fest, and corn maze. In the warmer months, the farm also hosts chef-to-farm dinners that consist of a chef-designed, six-course feast. Make sure to stop by the farm on the weekends to enjoy live music in the afternoons!
Whether travelers are new riders or more experienced, Folly Farm Show Stables is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon horseback riding. This farm, which the Patricelli Family has owned for over 40 years, is situated at the foot of Talcott Mountain and spans 175 acres. Friendly instructors offer visitors the chance to learn about the horses and go horseback riding, appreciating the gorgeous countryside.
From April through November, Flamig Farm is a wonderful destination for families, offering a charming farm animal petting zoo. Kids can happily interact with and feed adorable animals like pigs, chickens, goats, rabbits, turkeys, ponies, donkeys, peacocks, cows, and sheep. Plus, there are fun pony rides and tractor rides that everyone can enjoy!
Performing Arts
Simsbury’s residents have a deep appreciation for the arts, with numerous opportunities to enjoy live music and theater performances. Each summer, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra makes the Simsbury Performing Arts Center its home for the Talcott Mountain Music Festival. This summer series features five concerts, allowing visitors to relax on the lawn while enjoying the music. The festival's highlight is the special 'Celebrate America!' concert on the 4th of July, which concludes with a fireworks display.
The Simsbury Light Opera Company, a wonderful community-driven nonprofit, frequently brings joy to Simsbury with their performances. They focus on delightful Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, and each spring, they also present charming light operas by other composers. For those who enjoy live music, there are plenty of welcoming venues to explore! Some favorite spots around town include the Old Well Tavern, LittleHouse Live, and the Maple Tree Cafe, each offering a unique feel and great performances.
Outdoor Recreation
Simsbury offers a wonderful variety of outdoor activities with its 10 municipal parks and four state parks, perfect for residents and visitors alike to enjoy nature with loved ones. Stratton Brook State Park, which became a state park in 1949, is a fantastic place for a fun day outdoors. In 1996, it proudly became Connecticut's first fully wheelchair-accessible state park. Visitors who enjoy biking can traverse a charming trail that meanders past white pines, sparkling brooks, and a quaint covered bridge. The park also invites everyone to swim, fish, and picnic, making it a versatile spot for all kinds of outdoor fun.
The Pinchot Sycamore is a popular picnicking site, home to the oldest and largest tree in the state, standing around 100 feet tall with a circumference of over 28 feet. Located near the Farmington River, this spot not only offers a nice place to relax in the tree's shade but also serves as a launch site for kayaks and canoes.
Culinary Scene
On any weekend in Simsbury, you'll find the local restaurants bustling with cheerful people eager to enjoy a delicious meal in great company. Millwright's Restaurant, one of the town's top-rated spots, delights diners with innovative dishes created by Chef Tyler Anderson. The restaurant offers three inviting dining areas: The Dining Room, a sophisticated space with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the falls; The Tavern, a warm and cozy spot featuring charming stone walls and a friendly fireplace; and The Loft, a private and intimate event area with its own entrance, perfect for gatherings of 10 to 40 guests.
Plan b Burger Bar Simsbury is another highly recommended dining option. This burger bar serves burgers made from 100% Certified Black Angus beef, sourced from Midwest ranchers. It also has 14 rotating drafts and a selection of high-quality bourbons, perfectly complementing your meal.
Although there are many historic towns in New England and Connecticut, Simsbury’s strong sense of patriotism and community involvement truly sets it apart from the rest. The town’s community opera companies, family-owned horse stables, fall farm festivals, and hole-in-the-wall music venues are just a few parts of the friendly community that has a way of bringing people together. By the time you finish your tour of Simsbury, you will feel right at home, just like one of the locals!
