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Culinary Delights and Scenic Charms of Essex, CT - 5-Day Itinerary Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Historic Charm and Riverside Dining

Morning

Begin your Essex journey with a delightful breakfast at Essex Coffee and Tea Company, savoring their freshly brewed coffee and pastries. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Essex, admiring the well-preserved colonial architecture and the quaint shops.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to The Black Seal Seafood Grille and enjoy their signature seafood dishes in a cozy setting. Post-lunch, take a scenic cruise on the Connecticut River Museum (67 Main St, Essex, CT 06426), learning about the rich maritime history of the region.

Evening

Dine at The Griswold Inn, one of the oldest continuously operated inns in the United States. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner accompanied by live music, immersing yourself in the historic ambiance. Conclude the evening with a serene walk along the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat (1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426) platform, taking in the tranquil riverside views.

Bedtime

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Artisanal Eats and Cultural Exploration

Morning

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Essex, where you can enjoy a classic American morning meal. After breakfast, visit the Ivoryton Playhouse (103 Main St, Ivoryton, CT 06442), known as the "birthplace of the American musical," for a guided tour and a glimpse into its rich theatrical history.

Afternoon

Have a leisurely lunch at Copper Beech Inn, indulging in their elegant ambiance and fine cuisine. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Gillette Castle State Park (67 River Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423) with its unique architecture and beautiful grounds, offering panoramic views of the Connecticut River.

Evening

Dine at The River Tavern, a farm-to-table restaurant known for its innovative dishes and welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, take a short drive to Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center (The Kate) (300 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475) for an evening performance or simply to admire the building's architecture.

Bedtime

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Gillette Castle State Park
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Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center (The Kate)
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Coastal Flavors and Maritime Adventures

Morning

Enjoy a breakfast with a view at Dockside Restaurant at the Essex Island Marina, savoring the fresh sea breeze along with your meal. Post-breakfast, embark on a Charter Fishing Excursion from the marina, trying your luck at catching some local fish under the guidance of experienced captains.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to Liv's Oyster Bar & Restaurant in nearby Old Saybrook, where you can relish a variety of oyster preparations and other seafood delights. Afterward, take a leisurely drive to Hammonasset Beach State Park (1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443) and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the nature trails.

Evening

Conclude your day with a dinner at Red House, known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable menu. If you're up for some post-dinner entertainment, visit Mohegan Sun Casino (1 Mohegan Sun Blvd, Uncasville, CT 06382) for gaming, live shows, or vibrant nightlife.

Bedtime

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Hammonasset Beach State Park
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Mohegan Sun Casino
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Scenic Drives and Countryside Dining

Morning

Start with a breakfast at Cafe Routier, a hidden gem known for its European-style cuisine. After breakfast, take a scenic drive along the Essex Scenic Byway (Essex, CT 06426), passing through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.

Afternoon

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Sage American Grill & Oyster Bar, where you can dine on their outdoor patio and savor the flavors of the season. Post-lunch, visit the Chatfield Hollow State Park (381 CT-80, Killingworth, CT 06419) for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature, with options for hiking, picnicking, and even swimming in the pond.

Evening

Dine at The Blue Hound Cookery & Taproom, a local favorite for its innovative dishes and extensive beer selection. After dinner, head back to Essex and take a twilight stroll through the Essex Village (Essex, CT 06426), enjoying the quiet charm of the town under the soft glow of streetlights.

Bedtime

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Essex Scenic Byway
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Culinary Tour and Lighthouse Serenity

Morning

Begin your morning with a visit to Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale - Westbrook for a classic New England breakfast by the shore. After breakfast, drive to Falkner Island Lighthouse (Lighthouse Point) (Guilford, CT 06437) and take a boat tour to admire this historic lighthouse and the surrounding wildlife sanctuary.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to La Foresta Italian Cafe & Pizzeria and enjoy their authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed setting. Afterward, spend your afternoon at Essex Steam Train & Riverboat (1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426), taking a nostalgic train ride or a scenic riverboat cruise, immersing yourself in the bygone era of steam travel.

Evening

Conclude your culinary journey with a dinner at The Griswold Inn, revisiting this historic establishment for a different dining experience. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at The Essex (30 Main St, Centerbrook, CT 06409), where you can unwind in a sophisticated setting, reflecting on the memorable flavors and moments of your Essex escapade.

Bedtime

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