Finally, the sun’s out and we’re hitting the road! ☀️ There’s no better time to plan a Northwest Connecticut road trip. We love when our blogging escapades take us to this corner of the state—it’s ridiculously pretty.
We’ve rounded up 11 must-visit spots where you can shop, dine, soak in the scenery, and try new experiences! Plus, we’ve added two nature stops that are pure heaven—perfect for a breath of fresh air (and maybe a picnic?).
Ready to roam? Let’s go!
Hidden Gems of NWCT: Choose Your Adventure
Get fired up @
Greenwood Glass Blowing Studio Gallery & School
A visit to Greenwood Glass Blowing Studio is always such a fun experience. If you’ve never tried glass blowing, this is your sign! Located inside a historic stone church built in 1829 in tucked-away Riverton, it’s pretty magical!
Take a workshop (no experience needed!) – a great idea for birthdays, team-building, or friend dates. Classes are open to anyone age 7+, with options for all levels, including full weekend glass blowing getaways. Not into hands-on? No problem. Browse Peter Greenwood’s stunning gallery and shop their collection of handcrafted glassware!
📍 3 Robertsville Rd, Riverton
Check out their Tie the Knot glass blowing ceremony! You and your partner (or you + your bestie) can make this glass knot together, and Peter will etch your names and date into the finished piece!
Stop for a cozy bite @
The Woodland Restaurant
The Woodland has been serving up a cozy atmosphere & fantastic seasonal American classics for 40+ years! You can expect an extensive menu with something delicious for everyone, a great selection of local beer, cider, and classic cocktails, plus desserts that are nothing short of glorious.
Bonus: the people-watching is 👌 (we just missed the Bidens by a few hours!).
📍192 Sharon Road, Lakeville
Take a peaceful time-out @
Sharon Audubon Center
The Sharon Audubon Center is such a great spot to explore nature! Set a date to get outside and visit. It’s set on over 1,100 acres of mostly forest, with 11 miles of trails and two ponds. We loved the raptor aviaries and gardens full of native plants and pollinators. There’s also a working sugarhouse (once an ice house).
📍325 Cornwall Bridge Road, Sharon
Stay the night @
Manor House Inn
Turn your day trip into an overnight getaway and book a stay at the Manor House Inn; it’s dreamy! This independently owned, historical boutique inn is full of charm. We love their blending of old-world elegance with modern comforts. We fell in love with it all—cozy rooms, delightful details, a fab location in beautiful Norfolk, and very welcoming innkeepers!
Exciting things are on the horizon for the Manor House Inn (hello, Nordic spa coming in 2027!). Stay tuned!
📍 69 Maple Ave #1104, Norfolk
Catch a stellar show @
Sharon Playhouse
The Sharon Playhouse is pure magic. We’ve LOVED every show we’ve seen here—no exaggeration. The performances are always top-notch, blending Broadway-caliber talent with some seriously impressive local stars. You can feel the history in the walls while enjoying some of the best live entertainment around.
And let’s talk about the food trucks and patio bar. Yes, please. There’s something special about sipping a glass of wine and savoring something delicious al fresco before curtain call—especially on a warm summer night.
📍49 Amenia Rd, Sharon
Treat your home to something new @
The McKenzie Shoppe by K. Kelley Design
The McKenzie Shoppe is a treasure trove of home inspiration. This bright boutique is filled with home furnishings, lovely candles, beautiful blankets, a unique UK paint line, timeless tableware, unique gifts, custom upholstery, and more!
Owner & designer Kaleigh Kelley blends handcrafted artistry with a whimsical, warm style. Interior design services are also available if you’re looking for some help to refresh your space. Visit Friday through Sunday from 11–4 (or make an appointment for a special midweek visit).
📍81 Main St, Sharon
Take a tour & a taste test @
Litchfield Distillery
Litchfield Distillery is home to a stellar lineup of award-winning bourbon, gin, vodka, agave spirits, and ready-to-pour cocktails. And this visit, we spotted a new Honey Gin (ooh!!).
They offer free tours and tastings daily, where you’ll see how CT-grown grains are transformed into liquid gold. Don’t miss a peek inside Connecticut’s largest rickhouse, with over 1,600 barrels of bourbon aging to perfection.
No surprise they’ve been named CT Distillery of the Year eight years running!
📍569 Bantam Rd, Litchfield
Buy a piece of history @
G. Sergeant Antiques
We were amazed by the treasures inside G. Sergeant Antiques—a spot we’ve driven past countless times…and wow, were we glad we finally stopped! This isn’t your average antique shop. Think: tables once sat at by kings, 2nd-century Roman mosaics, and authentic Chippendale furniture.
Their pieces are mainly first-period and always original, intact, and truly one-of-a-kind. Everything feels museum-worthy—but it’s all for sale. And just when we thought we’d seen it all, we were invited to explore their off-site warehouse…let’s just say, serious antique lovers, prepare to swoon.
📍289 Main St S, Woodbury
Farm-fresh in a historic setting @
The Smithy Market & Loft Gallery
The Smithy Market is a total gem—housed in a beautifully restored blacksmith’s shop, it’s everything you want in a quintessential New England market experience.
Inside, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated mix of specialty groceries, organic produce, prepared foods, and artisan-made gifts—perfect for stocking your pantry and picking up something uniquely local.
Don’t miss the chance to head upstairs for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the market below and to check out their rotating local art exhibit. It’s part market, part gallery, and all-around charming.
📍10 Main St, New Preston
Lunch stop @
The Smithy Cafe at 9 Main
Serving up farm-fresh breakfast, lunch, coffee, and fresh-baked confections, The Smithy Cafe at 9 Main is a cozy spot locals & visitors love. They proudly source ingredients from small farms and vendors, including their own Smithy Market (right across the road) and Sunny Meadow Farm nearby.
Dine inside or out, and don’t miss their grab-and-go selection of soups, salads, and dinners. Everything is so delicious and fresh here!
📍9 Main St, New Preston
Prospect Mountain Preserve
Lace up your hiking shoes and explore Prospect Mountain Preserve in Litchfield! Start with the red trail, where you’ll pass scenic Granniss Pond, wander through a peaceful pine plantation, and an old horizontal mine shaft. Then cross the road to take on the yellow trail, leading you up to the 1,350-foot summit with views well worth the climb!
📍Cathole Rd. & Prospect Mountain Rd., Litchfield
Hidden Gems of NWCT: Choose Your Adventure is a sponsored post.
Words: Bev / Pics: Lora (unless otherwise noted)