This 13.5-square-mile town offers both small-town tranquility and easy access to I-95, I-91, and I-84. Just 14 miles from Hartford and 28 miles from New Haven, it’s perfectly positioned for city escapes or outdoor adventures. Discover River Highlands State Park, a scenic gem overlooking the Connecticut River, where visitors can hike, camp, and birdwatch amid stunning natural surroundings.

Waterbury, known as the "Brass City," offers a vibrant blend of historic architecture with a classic New England twist. The city has transformed to meet the needs of residents and visitors alike, featuring centralized shopping centers, family-owned restaurants, and unique activities. At the Brass Mill Shopping Center, you can catch a movie or explore a variety of shops. For a more hands-on experience, head to Fascia’s Chocolates, a family-owned chocolate factory where you can enjoy a “full chocolate experience,” including a tour, tasting, and the chance to create your own chocolate bar. Or

Known as the “Home of the Covered Bridge,” this peaceful northwest Connecticut town boasts the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge, still in service today. Nestled along the Housatonic River, it offers abundant outdoor adventures, from river rafting and canoeing to fly fishing. Mohawk Mountain Ski Area, the largest in the state, features 25 trails and 7 lifts across 330 acres. Nearby, Mohawk State Forest invites visitors to hike its rugged hills, immersing them in the beauty of this protected wildlife sanctuary. For information on what to do an see in Cronwall visit explorecornwallct.com .

Just west of New Haven, Orange offers the perfect small-town feel with close proximity to a bustling city. This town remained a simple farming community until the 1940s, when postwar residential construction began. Field View Farm, one of the oldest farms in the country, has operated here since 1639—visit to explore the farmlands and enjoy some homemade ice cream. The PEZ Candy factory, located in town, has been making candy with collectible dispensers for over 50 years. The factory also offers tours, where you can watch the candy-making process and take home a sweet treat!

Sprague is a collection of three villages: Baltic, Hanover, and Versailles, each rich in history, charm, and architectural significance. The town has successfully balanced economic development with the preservation of the rural and agricultural character that defined these villages many years ago. Today, Sprague is a modern-day fusion of history, business, education, and recreation. Visitors can enjoy the wildlife preserve, baseball fields, skate park, community center, and pond. The Shetucket River runs through the heart of the town, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fly

Griswold is a scenic town nestled among rolling hills and picturesque rivers, including the Pachaug and Quinebaug. The charming Borough of Jewett City lies where these rivers merge, adding to the town's natural beauty. With its tranquil lakes and outdoor landscapes, Griswold offers a serene retreat surrounded by the peaceful countryside. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a scenic, historical New England experience.

Set along the scenic shores of Long Island Sound, this affluent community invites you to experience the charm and culture of Darien. Explore beautifully preserved historic homesteads, unwind on pristine beaches, and wander through lush parks. Art lovers and history buffs can delight in local museums and galleries, while upscale dining and wellness options offer the perfect touch of luxury.

Yankee Magazine named Stonington one of the “Top 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in New England,” thanks to its mile-long beaches, charming historic homes, and eclectic mix of shops and boutiques. Explore the Old Lighthouse Museum to learn about Stonington's maritime and agricultural history, dating back to 1895. Unwind at a vineyard or on DuBois Beach with swimming, boating, and sunbathing, or indulge in fresh, seaside dining at one of the many local restaurants. Head to "The Point" at the tip of the peninsula for amazing sunset views and panoramic vistas stretching across Connecticut, Rhode

Hawk Ridge Winery, part of Hidden Breeze Farm, is a peaceful farm setting in which to enjoy friends, family, and fantastic wine. We decided to name our winery after the abundance of red-tailed hawks on the property. Hawk Ridge has an array of seating. We have open seating on the lawn, open seating on the deck area, and in the pavilion. The pavilion is a turf floor with seating up to 260 people. We have three bars open on the weekends. The main tasting room, the pavilion area, and the lawn area. We do accept reservations on the weekends only for the pavilion area for parties of 10 guests or

The Connecticut River Museum is pleased to welcome Onrust, a replica of Adriaen Block’s vessel- one of the first western style ships built in the New World, and the first ever to sail up the Connecticut River. Built over several years in upstate New York using traditional plans and means, the Onrust is a wholly unique ship that serves to educate and entertain visitors curious about the age of exploration, the fur trade, and our early colonial history. River cruises will be offered aboard Onrust Wednesdays through Sundays during the sailing season. Learn more about the history of the Onrust and