Litchfield County is stunning this time of year! We recommend bookmarking this post and hitting a few or all 15 of these fun spots locals love (for such good reason). From new restaurants and vineyards to try, shops to visit, tours to take, activities to do, and hikes to walk, have a scroll and let us know where you decide to go!
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Hopkins Vineyard
(Warren) Ok, this has to be your next day-date! Hopkins Vineyard is perched atop Lake Waramaug (one of CT’s loveliest lakes!) – go have fun tasting their selection of reds, whites, rosés, and ice wines and take in the views. The tasting bar is located in the Hopkins family’s 19th-century barn (they’ve been farming here for over 235 years!). In the warmer months, take your flight outside and enjoy live music and the countryside!
Charym Yoga Studio
(Litchfield) Charym is a community of gentle, happy people who appreciate a diversity of yoga classes including hatha, vinyasa, ballet yoga flow, and sound bath meditation. We love it when we get to attend a class there! Sign up for their 2-week Move Well Membership and experience unlimited access to classes that the Inner Circle Members enjoy!
Housatonic Trading Company
(Bantam) Housatonic Trading Company is always a good stop to make if you’re heading north on 202! Robert Graham has a great eye for eclectic art, antiques, furniture, and home decor. You can get lost for an hour or two poking around this large airy showroom of finds! Whether you’re in the market for awesome vintage chairs, antique tables, fine art, or gifts from little to large, you’ll be glad to discover this one!
Camp Columbia State Park
(Morris) Once farmland, Columbia University purchased the property in 1903 for its engineering students to get hands-on field experience. Enjoy the park’s trails, and climb up the “Class of 1906” observation tower (dedicated in 1942) for beautiful views!
Litchfield Distillery
(Litchfield) Litchfield Distillery is celebrating its 10th year of operations (just like us!) having become the state’s premier craft distillery and home to the largest rickhouse in Connecticut. They distill award-winning spirits including bourbon, rye whiskey, gin, vodka, agave spirits, and ready-to-drink bottled cocktails. Take a tour and walk among over 1,600 resting barrels of whiskey, learn the fascinating distilling process, and then, of course, taste!
The distillery is open 7 days a week and offers free tours & tasting at the top of each hour.
The Hunt
(New Milford) The Hunt has done the hunting so you don’t have to! Locals know they’ll find amazing bargains in this fab store on Bank Street (a great street to spend an afternoon). They’re on a mission to change people’s perception of shopping secondhand & vintage by offering a super-curated inventory at a price point that’s reasonable for everyone.
They have 2 new additions to the downstairs treasure trove; kid’s clothing (now the whole fam can find something cute!) and a movie shop which is an awesome step back in time!
Bantam Cinema & Arts Center
(Bantam) The historic Bantam Cinema & Arts Center may be the most charming place to see a movie. Founded in 1929, this nonprofit theater showcases art house & mainstream films and hosts cool guest speakers, music, and special events. They seek to inspire, educate, and engage!
Also very charming, getting a glass (or bottle) of wine to take into the movie along with warm buttery popcorn and cookies!
Little Pond Boardwalk at White Memorial
(Litchfield) Little Pond Boardwalk is a 1-mile boardwalk trail that runs the perimeter of Little Pond, allowing its walkers to get up close to nature and pond life! In some sections, you’ll feel like you’re walking on water!
Sparrow Bar + Restaurant
(New Milford) Sparrow is new to the Litchfield County scene and already has a following. Having just visited, we totally get it. The global menu is as delicious as it is pretty (including the cocktails & mocktails)! There’s also a gallery upstairs with a rotating representation of local artists. Go here for authentic traditional dishes from afar, and creative cuisine made with the freshest ingredients!
The Smithy Cafe at 9Main
(New Preston) Whether you’re a regular or a one-time visitor, you’ll instantly feel comfortable and part of the community when you visit The Smithy Cafe at 9 Main! With a menu full of farm fresh offerings, specialty drinks, and handmade baked goods (including vegan & gluten-free) it’s easy for all to enjoy something at The Smithy Cafe.
Top tip: Order your sandwich (OMG the sandwiches!), and while you wait, take your buzzer across the street to The Smithy Market to explore that magical little historic spot filled with goodies!
The Smithy Market
(New Preston) The Smithy Market is a small store nestled in the quaint town of New Preston (directly across the street from The Smithy Cafe). Originally an 1800s blacksmith shop, they offer fresh bread, local produce, handmade baked goods, cheese, wholesome & gourmet yummies, plus lovely gifts. The historic two-story building is filled with handcrafted items and is an experience just to browse!
The Spa at Litchfield Hills
(Litchfield) The Spa at Litchfield Hills has been providing holistic healing through world-class beauty, health, and wellness experiences since 2004. This is the spot for luxurious self-care. They’ve been going through some exciting renovations and expansion, with the new & improved nail salon being a local favorite for relaxing mani/pedis. Check out the Balanced Chakra offering!
The White Hart
(Salisbury) Schedule a beautiful weekend drive to The White Hart! We always love heading up to the Northwest corner! They have a wonderful hotel to enjoy a relaxing getaway and their Tap Room serves dinner Thursday through Monday evenings with a fresh seasonal menu & yummy craft cocktails. White Hart Provisions (for delish food to enjoy on the porch or the front lawn) is open 7 days a week serving breakfast and lunch. Happy 10th year in business, White Hart!
West Shore Seafood
(Morris) When you’re yearning for great seafood and a relaxed casual setting, West Shore Seafood is the place! And good news, what used to be a summer-only business, is now going to be open year round! From lobster rolls (both varieties), fish & chips, raw bar favorites, burgers, vegetarian, and fabulous cocktail menu, to freshly baked desserts, West Shore Seafood has something yummy for all diners!
Soulbury
(Woodbury) Soulbury is a unique store overflowing with unique magical items! Once you discover this shop you’ll become Soulbury repeat customers like us and so many others! Eclectic and beautiful jewelry, clothes, local artist creations, plants, decor, gifts and so much more – ready for you to discover!
15 Spots Litchfield County Locals Love