☀️ The Ultimate Guide: 40+ Must-Do Things in Litchfield County, CT This Summer
- Amber in New England
- Jul 16, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Mar 13
Summer's here and you're probably itching to ditch the screens and get outside. Litchfield County is basically your playground this summer!
Tucked in the northwest corner of Connecticut, this region attracts visitors year-round. It’s packed with historic towns like Litchfield and Kent, renowned for their architecture and arts, and features an extensive network of trails and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to farm-to-table dining, local art, or discovering hidden antique shops, Litchfield County is an amazing summer getaway in true New England style.
If you’re planning a visit to Connecticut, these activities are perfect for exploring the state’s natural beauty and local charm.
Quick Travel Guide to Litchfield County, Connecticut
Planning a trip to Litchfield County? This scenic region in northwest Connecticut is one of the most beautiful corners of New England and makes the perfect weekend escape from nearby cities.
Litchfield County offers something for every type of traveler, from outdoor adventurers to food lovers and antique hunters.
Best time to visit Litchfield County is beautiful year-round, but summer and fall are especially popular. Summer offers perfect weather for hiking, kayaking, and farm visits, while autumn brings some of the most spectacular fall foliage in New England.
How to get there The region is easily accessible by car.
From New York City: about 2 hours
From Hartford: about 1 hour
From Boston: about 2.5 hours
Driving is the best way to explore the area, since many of the best hikes, farms, and scenic viewpoints are spread throughout the countryside.
How long should you stay?
A weekend trip is enough to see many highlights, but spending 3–4 days allows you to explore multiple towns, hike several trails, and enjoy the local food scene at a slower pace.
Best towns to base yourself in
Many visitors choose to stay in one of the county’s charming small towns such as Kent, Litchfield, Salisbury, or Washington, which all offer great restaurants, cozy inns, and easy access to nearby trails and scenic drives.
Best Towns to Visit in Litchfield County
One of the best ways to experience Litchfield County is by exploring its charming small towns. Each one has its own personality, from quiet countryside villages to lively town greens filled with restaurants and local shops.
Here are some of the most beautiful towns to visit while exploring the Litchfield Hills.
Kent
Kent is often considered one of the most picturesque towns in Connecticut. Located along the Appalachian Trail and the scenic Housatonic River, the town is a hub for outdoor adventure.
Nearby highlights include Kent Falls State Park, scenic hiking trails, and some of the best waterfalls in the region. After a hike, the town’s walkable center offers excellent restaurants, cafes, and small local shops.
Salisbury
Located in the far northwest corner of Connecticut, Salisbury is home to Bear Mountain, the highest peak in the state. Outdoor lovers flock here for hiking, quiet forest trails, and stunning mountain views.
The town also sits near the Massachusetts and New York borders, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the Taconic Mountains and nearby scenic lakes.
Cornwall
Cornwall feels like classic rural New England. Rolling farmland, quiet forests, and historic landmarks make this town incredibly scenic.
One of the most iconic sights is the West Cornwall Covered Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in the region. The surrounding area also offers access to sections of the Appalachian Trail and peaceful countryside hikes.
Norfolk
If you're looking to escape crowds and enjoy deep forests and mountain views, Norfolk is a fantastic destination.
This quiet town is surrounded by nature and is known for its Haystack Mountain State Park fire tower, which offers incredible panoramic views. Norfolk also has a surprisingly vibrant arts scene, with music festivals and cultural events held throughout the year.
Washington
Washington is a charming collection of small villages, including the well-known Washington Depot. The area features scenic country roads, historic inns, and some of the county’s most beautiful rolling landscapes.
Visitors often come here for the farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, and relaxing countryside atmosphere.
Litchfield
The town of Litchfield offers one of the most iconic New England town greens in the state. Surrounded by historic homes, boutique shops, and restaurants, it’s a wonderful place to stroll and experience the region’s charm.
Litchfield also provides easy access to nearby outdoor destinations like White Memorial Conservation Center, which features miles of trails, boardwalks, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Sharon
Sharon is a peaceful rural town known for its scenic nature preserves and access to the Appalachian Trail. The surrounding countryside offers beautiful farmland, quiet forests, and some of the most tranquil hiking opportunities in the county.
It’s a wonderful place for visitors who want to experience the quieter side of the Litchfield Hills.
Barkhamsted
Barkhamsted is one of the most scenic outdoor destinations in northwest Connecticut. The town is home to People’s State Forest and the stunning Barkhamsted Reservoir, where deep forests and winding rivers create a truly peaceful landscape.
This area is especially popular for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and scenic drives through the forested hills of the region.
Table of Contents
Part 1: Hiking & Outdoor Adventure
Litchfield County is a hiker's paradise, offering trails for every skill level.
1. Hike to a View
Top Spots: Hike to the top of Macricosta's Lookout or Bear Mountain for panoramic county views.
The Reward: These vistas offer the perfect backdrop for taking beautiful sunrise or sunset photos.
Looking for more ideas? Check out my post: 11 State Parks to Explore in Litchfield County, Connecticut.
Best Hikes in Litchfield County
With miles of trails winding through forests, mountains, and river valleys, Litchfield County is one of the best hiking destinations in Connecticut.
Some of the most popular hikes in the area include:
Bear Mountain (Salisbury)
The highest peak in Connecticut, Bear Mountain offers incredible summit views and connects to sections of the Appalachian Trail.
Mount Tom State Park (Litchfield)
A short but rewarding hike leads to a stone observation tower with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Haystack Mountain (Norfolk)
This hike leads to a historic fire tower that provides one of the best panoramic viewpoints in northwest Connecticut.
Dennis Hill State Park (Norfolk)
A peaceful hike with a picnic area and scenic overlook, perfect for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
If you’re looking for more hiking ideas, check out my guide to the best day trips in Litchfield County for hikers, which highlights some of the area's beautiful outdoor destinations.
2. Hit the Trails
Top Spots: Explore miles of scenic trails at Peoples State Forest or White Memorial (Litchfield).
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, you might spot a curious deer, a bald eagle, or a family of beavers.
Always be prepared! Review your gear with my Day Hiking Essentials Checklist: What to Pack for New England & Beyond.
3. Chase Waterfalls
Top Spots: Litchfield County boasts over twenty-five waterfalls. Kent Falls and Campbell Falls are among the most beautiful, each offering a short, scenic walk from the parking area.
Experience: Feel the cool mist and enjoy the sound of rushing water. Don't forget your camera!
4. Go Fishing
Top Spots: Excellent fishing spots like Colebrook River Lake and the Farmington River.
Know Before You Go: Make sure to obtain a Connecticut fishing license, available online or at local sporting goods stores.
5. Go Horseback Riding
Try This: Explore the countryside with trail rides offered at Lee's Riding Stables.
Scenic Route: Explore paths that wind through Topsmead State Forest, offering a new perspective of the Litchfield Hills.
6. Play Some Sports
Options: Join a soccer or softball league, or gather friends and family for frisbee or tennis at local parks and fields. Challenge yourself with cycling or trail running along nature trails.
If you’re short on time, I also put together a list of short, beautiful hikes in Northwest Connecticut that are easy to fit into a day.
7. Go Geocaching
Top Spots: Various parks and trails across Litchfield County, including local towns like Barkhamsted, Cornwall and Kent.
Experience: Join the modern treasure hunt craze by finding hidden geocaches scattered throughout the forests and towns. Great for families, hikers, or anyone looking for an interactive outdoor adventure. Bonus: you can combine it with a trail hike or scenic picnic for double the fun.
Part 2: Water Activities & Relaxation
Beat the heat on the water or retreat to a quiet spa.
8. Paddle Peaceful Waters
Top Spots: Experience peace with a kayak or canoe adventure on the Housatonic River or Burr Pond State Park.
Rentals: Rent equipment and launch from scenic spots, or check out places like Clarke Outdoors.
Gear Must: Get yourself a waterproof case for your phone, you never know when you'll encounter a heron taking flight.
9. Go for a Swim
Top Spots: Black Rock Pond and Lake Waramaug are popular swimming and sunbathing choices.
Safety Tip: Many state parks have designated swim areas with lifeguards on duty. Always check signs for designated swim areas.
10. Go for a Sunset Cruise
Top Spots: Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Waramaug or Bantam Lake.
Rentals: If you don't have your own boat, rent one at O'Hara's Landing Marina in Salisbury. A serene way to soak in the golden hour.
11. Have a Spa Day
Luxury Retreats: Pamper yourself with a day of relaxation at luxurious spas such as Mayflower Inn & Spa or A Healing Trail Wellness Center.
Experience: Enjoy soothing massages and rejuvenating facials, offering a quiet retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
12. Take a Yoga Class
Options: Join an experienced instructor for sessions in Litchfield County. Try a heated room at Sanctuary Power Yoga, outdoors at LAM Yoga, or even Goat Yoga at Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust.
13. Read a Book in a Hammock
Find Your Spot: Find a peaceful spot, grab a good book, and unwind surrounded by nature. Litchfield County’s many state parks are bound to have the perfect location.
14. Float or Tube Down the Farmington River
Top Spots: Experience river tubing down the scenic Farmington River at Satan’s Kingdom State Recreation Area in New Hartford.
Experience: Float down stretches of gentle water with natural rapids for a fun and refreshing summertime activity. Local outfitters like Farmington River Tubing offer rentals for a guided float, or you can bring your own tube and enjoy a more relaxed river adventure. It’s a joyous way to cool off, laugh with friends, and enjoy riverside views.
Part 3: Farm-to-Table, Food & Drink
Litchfield County is a celebrated hub for local flavors.
15. Sample Local Flavors (Farm-to-Table)
Top Spots: Go out for farm-to-table cuisine at restaurants like Arethusa Farm or Community Table.
The Ethos: These restaurants showcase the freshest locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage.
16. Take a Winery Tour
Top Spots: Go for a tasting at a vineyard like Hawk Ridge Winery or Sunset Meadow Vineyards.
Experience: Explore the vineyard landscapes, learn about winemaking, and sample handcrafted wines unique to Litchfield County.
17. Explore the Brewery Scene
Top Spots: Sample Connecticut craft beers at local breweries like Norbrook Farms Brewery, Kent Falls Brewing Co., or Legitimus Brewery. Cheers to a fun summer!
18. Sip at the Distillery
Try This: Sample handcrafted spirits and learn about the distillation process at the Litchfield Distillery.
19. Pick your Own Berries
Top Spots: Head to a local farm like Litchfield Hills Blueberry Farm or Deeply Rooted Farms to pick fresh berries. There's nothing quite like the taste of fresh-picked berries!
20. Grab a Scoop (or two)
Top Spots: Beat the heat with artisanal ice cream from local favorites like Arethusa Dairy or Scoop It Up.
Part 4: Arts, Culture & History
Dive into the rich history and vibrant arts scene of the area.
21. Catch an Outdoor Summer Concert
Venues: Pack a blanket and lawn chairs for outdoor concerts at charming spots like Litchfield Town Greene or South Farms in Morris.
Experience: Enjoy live music against the backdrop of a summer sunset—a perfect way to relax and unwind.
22. Step Back in Time
Top Sites: Visit historical sites like The Tapping Reeve House, Institute for American Indian Studies, or the Lock Museum of America.
The View: Each offers a unique look into the county's past with artifacts and exhibits.
23. Explore Art Galleries
Top Spots: Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at galleries like Five Points Gallery or the Aloft Gallery.
Discover: These venues showcase works by talented local artists spanning a variety of mediums.
24. Go Antiquing
Top Spots: Hunt for unique treasures at shops like RT FACTS Design & Antiques (Kent) and Flea At 99 Indoor Flea Market (Canaan).
Finds: These shops offer vintage furniture, collectibles, and decor pieces that reflect the region's rich history.
25. Catch a Show
Venues: Enjoy a summer production at the renowned Infinity Music Hall in Norfolk or Torrington Warner Theater. These theaters offer a diverse range of performances.
26. Attend a Summer Festival
Events: Get into the spirit of summer with festivals like the Podunk Bluegrass Music Festival or the Litchfield Jazz Fest.
27. Attend a Farmers Market
Support Local: Browse the fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and delicious treats from local farmers and artisans.
28. Visit a Working Farm
Top Spots: Learn about sustainable agriculture and farm life at places like White Flower Farm or Thorncrest Chocolate Goshen.
29. Smell the Flowers
Gardens: Wander through the blooms at Hollister House Garden, Topsmead State Forest, and Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden.
Part 5: Unique Summer Fun
Looking for something different? Litchfield County has a wide variety of quirky and memorable activities.
30 . Test your Axe-Throwing Skills
Try This: Become a lumberjack at Litchfield County Axe House. It challenges your accuracy and precision, safety is a top priority with trained staff guiding you.
31. Bike the Scenic Routes
Ride Options: Cruise along country roads or dedicated bike paths. Rent electric bikes from places like Covered Bridge Electric Bike for an effortless ride.
32. Go Mini-Golfing
Try This: Challenge your friends and family to a round of mini-golf at local courses like R&B Mini Golf. (Don't forget the go-karts and ice cream!)
33. Stargaze at Night
Why Here: Escape the city lights! Litchfield County has many dark sky locations away from light pollution, providing optimal conditions for stargazing.
34. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Try This: Soar above the picturesque Litchfield Hills with Berkshire Balloons for panoramic view, an unforgettable experience.
35. Take a Pottery Class
Studios: Get creative and learn the art of pottery making at a local studio like Glazey Dayz or Create Escape Studio.
36. Destroy Some Objects
Release Stress: Visit Smash Room CT in Watertown. Suit up, grab a bat, and let loose on breakable objects for a memorable and stress-relieving experience.
37. Go Bowling or Play Arcade Games
Try This: Head to a family entertainment center like Thomaston Lanes for classic fun. Perfect for a rainy summer day or a summer night indoors.
38. Savor a Picnic
Pack Your Basket: Grab goodies from local shops and find a scenic spot at White Memorial Conservation Center or set up at a picnic table at Mohawk State Forest.
39. Have a Bonfire
The Classic: Gather around a crackling bonfire under the stars, roast marshmallows, and share stories. A cozy way to spend summer evenings.
40. Explore the Scenic Backroads
The Route: Hop in the car and wind your way through charming villages, past historic landmarks, and alongside rolling hills.
Discover: Look for quaint country stores and panoramic viewpoints. These drives deliver the true charm of Litchfield County.
41. Find Covered Bridges
Top Spots: Discover some of Litchfield County’s most charming historic bridges, including the West Cornwall Covered Bridge, Bull's Bridge, and the small Little Red Bridge at Kent Falls.
Experience: These bridges feel like stepping back in time. Surrounded by forests, rivers, or quiet country roads, they’re perfect stops for scenic photos. Many visitors combine a covered bridge stop with a waterfall hike or a relaxing drive.
Best Time to Visit Litchfield County
Litchfield County is beautiful in every season, but each time of year offers something different.
Spring
Waterfalls are at their strongest after snowmelt, and wildflowers begin appearing along forest trails.
Summer
Warm weather makes summer perfect for hiking, swimming in lakes, kayaking rivers, and exploring farmers markets.
Fall
Autumn is one of the most magical times to visit. The rolling hills of the Litchfield Hills explode with vibrant fall foliage, making it one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in New England.
Winter
Winter brings a quiet beauty to the region. Snow-covered forests create peaceful landscapes ideal for snowshoeing, cozy cabin stays, and scenic winter drives.
If you're looking for a perfect summer getaway that's all about exploring New England charm and enjoying the great outdoors, Litchfield County, Connecticut should definitely be on your radar.
Start planning your adventure today and discover why Litchfield County is the perfect destination for your next outdoor getaway!
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