Unlocking Granby: Your next fun day trip starts here!
Bookmark this for your next little getaway with your BFF, family, or solo-adventure! We always include the good stuff in all of our day trips: baked goods, shopping, hikes & vistas, a winery, and ice cream…did we miss anything?
Spend the day in Granby (the Unlocking Connecticut way!)
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Farmington Valley, Granby delivers everything we love in a day trip – scenic hikes, waterfall moments, local gems, and seriously good eats. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, wander a little, and still pack a lot into one perfectly planned day.
First stop: Julien’s Bakery
Okay, it doesn’t have to be your first stop – but it is a must-stop! Julien’s Bakery has been blowing up on IG, and now we fully understand why. The line? Worth it. The vibe? A room full of very happy pastry people. The menu? Dangerous in the best way (and yes, there are gluten-free options too).
We split a passion fruit curd brioche donut (dreamy), a pillowy focaccia layered with prosciutto, pesto, and burrata (we’re still thinking about it), and a pistachio, blackberry, and fig knot that tasted as good as it sounds. Honestly, we’ll be making more “casual” trips to Granby just for this.
History & a great photo op at the Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine
History, but make it cool – literally. This spot left such an impression on us the first time that we had to go back! Dating back to 1709, this site is known as one of the first state prisons in early America, and it’s built around an abandoned copper mine you can actually explore.
Visitors can self-guide through the grounds and exhibits, then take a tour descending 75 feet underground into the mine. It’s a constant 52 degrees down there, so if you get chills, it’s not just the history. Above ground, you’ll also find sweeping views of the Farmington Valley that are well worth a pause (and a few photos).
Brignole Vineyard – where the wine (and views) flow!
We never skip a Connecticut winery, and Brignole Vineyard made for the perfect midday stop. Picture this: a chilled glass of rosé, rolling countryside views, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. They’re open seven days a week and cater to more than just wine lovers – families and pets are welcome, making it a great spot to linger.
During our visit, the place was buzzing with celebrations—from a baby shower to a family reunion—so if you’re looking for a gathering spot, this is a good one. With an extensive selection of wines, there’s truly something for every palate!
Scoop, there it is! Grassroots Ice Cream
Ohhh, this one lives up to the hype. Grassroots Ice Cream is a family-owned favorite known for its small-batch, house-made flavors that range from classic to completely unexpected. Think Goat Cheese Blackberry, Honey Lavender, and Blood Orange Chocolate Chip, alongside fan-favorite staples like Toasted Almond (which definitely has a following).
We’ve visited their New Milford and Simsbury locations before, so checking out the original Granby shop completed the trifecta for us. Bonus: the Granby and Simsbury spots also offer a full menu of comfort food and globally inspired dishes, so you can easily make this more than just a dessert stop.
Closet goals, but make it affordable at Top Drawer Consignment
We love a good local tip-off, and this one delivered. Top Drawer Consignment is packed with labels we all know and love – at prices we really love. The space is impressively organized, with room after room dedicated to different categories, including a Lilly Pulitzer section, women’s and men’s clothing, activewear, shoes, accessories, housewares, and more.
We walked out with a perfect pair of Calvin Klein shorts and nearly-new leggings that felt like a total score.
Take a walk on the wild side at McLean Game Refuge
If there’s an opportunity to explore a new refuge or wildlife sanctuary, we’re in. McLean Game Refuge offered the perfect change of pace with peaceful trails and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and just enjoy being outside.
The refuge also has meaningful roots. It was established to honor the legacy of Senator George P. McLean, who played a key role in championing the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 – one of the most important conservation laws in U.S. history! Today, the refuge continues that mission by protecting wildlife and offering a serene escape for visitors.
(Water)falling for Enders Falls in Enders State Forest
We will absolutely go chasing waterfalls – and Enders Falls is the perfect place to do it. This picturesque, roughly one-mile hike leads you through the woods to a series of cascading waterfalls, each one more photo-worthy than the last.
The walk starts with a gentle downhill path before opening up to a river dotted with massive boulders, where people gather and relax. As you continue, you’ll find multiple waterfalls, with safe stair access, handrails, and lookout spots that make it easy to take it all in (and snap a few photos along the way).
Pics: Lora Noyes / Words: Bev Canepari