Are you looking for a getaway in Washington, Connecticut? Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or a lover of fine arts, this charming New England town has something to offer everyone. From the Hickory Stick Bookshop to the Averill Farm, there are plenty of things to do in Washington, CT, to help you make memories that will last for years. Please look at our guide to the top attractions and activities in this quaint corner of Connecticut, and start planning your trip today!
Hickory Stick Bookshop
Hickory Stick Bookshop is a delightful place to explore and browse in Washington, Connecticut. Located in the historic center of Washington, this charming bookshop offers an impressive selection of titles from bestsellers and lesser-known authors. With over 25,000 books in stock, Hickory Stick Bookshop has something for everyone.
The shop has two floors full of books organized by genre and theme, with well-lit aisles that make it easy to find your next favorite read. Along with traditional print books, they also offer an extensive range of ebooks. The knowledgeable staff will gladly help you find the right book or answer any questions about their selection. They also host regular author events where guests can meet local authors and get signed copies of their books.
In addition to selling books, Hickory Stick Bookshop stocks a wide range of gifts, including jewelry, home decor items and art prints. There’s even a cozy cafe in the store’s back corner that serves coffee, tea and light snacks—the perfect place to relax with a good book!
THE WELL at Mayflower Inn
The WELL at Mayflower Inn is a unique destination for visitors to Washington, Connecticut. This luxurious spa and wellness center is located in the heart of Washington and offers many health and wellness services. The WELL has something for everyone, from massage and reiki to yoga classes and life coaching.
The tranquil atmosphere inside this beautiful building creates a peaceful environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can enjoy various treatments such as facials, body wraps, and aromatherapy. In addition, the indoor pool is perfect for swimming laps or simply unwinding in its warm waters. The WELL also boasts an impressive fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, making staying active easy and fun.
What sets The WELL apart from other spas is its commitment to holistic health and wellness. Their team of professionals strives to create individualized experiences that will leave guests feeling invigorated, energized, and hopeful about their future well-being. Additionally, they offer individual consultations with certified wellness coaches who provide personalized advice tailored to each client’s specific goals.
At The WELL at Mayflower Inn, visitors can find solace in the calmness of nature while indulging in premium spa treatments that promote physical health and emotional balance. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to relax and recharge while meaningfully engaging with their surroundings!
Institute for American Indian Studies
Discover the past and explore a culture of innovation at the Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS). Located in Washington, Connecticut, this educational center offers visitors a unique experience to learn about the culture, history and traditions of Native Americans in the region.
The IAIS features an impressive array of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the life and customs of various tribes in the area. Learn about their tools, clothing, art, music and more. Get up close and personal with some rare artifacts as you take a guided tour or browse the museum’s displays. Examine ancient pottery shards from thousands of years ago or observe handcrafted jewelry made by local artisans.
Take part in special events throughout the year, such as storytelling sessions, drumming circles, workshops and film screenings. Join other guests in participating in traditional ceremonies like sweat lodges and tobacco circles while learning about their spiritual significance to Native American people.
The Institute for American Indian Studies is an excellent place to learn more about local indigenous cultures and have a great time with family or friends.
Wigwam Escape
Wigwam Escape is a unique and exciting experience for the whole family. In Washington, CT, Wigwam Escape is an outdoor adventure park with various activities. Wigwam Escape has something that everyone will love, from zip lining and a giant swing to archery and disc golf.
The zip-lining course at Wigwam Escape is especially thrilling. The course takes you high up into the air over the trees and gives you a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful countryside. You can race your friends down the lines or take your time to enjoy the sights – either way, it’s sure to be a great time!
Try out the giant swing if you want something less intense than zip-lining. This fun ride lets you soar high above the ground as you swing back and forth like a pendulum. Don’t worry – there are safety harnesses, so you don’t have to worry about falling off!
If your family loves competing against each other in friendly competition, Wigwam Escape also offers archery and disc golf courses. In addition to these two classic sports, many other activities are available such as laser tag, paintball, hiking trails, climbing walls and even gold panning!
You will have a blast no matter what activity you choose at Wigwam Escape! With all these different activities available in one place, it’s easy to see why this outdoor adventure park is a popular destination for families visiting Washington, CT. So come on down and see what all the excitement is about!
Brush Hill Gardens
Brush Hill Gardens is a hidden gem located in Washington, Connecticut. Located on a sprawling property of over 5 acres, Brush Hill Gardens offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and various attractions. Visitors can enjoy strolling through lush gardens featuring an array of perennial flowers and trees and viewing sculptures and fountains scattered throughout the property.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, Brush Hill Gardens also offers guided tours with knowledgeable and friendly staff who will share unique stories about this delightful spot. Additionally, guests can participate in workshops where they will learn about gardening, landscaping, and conservation from experts in the field. Each workshop contains hands-on activities designed to help participants learn about plant life.
For those who want to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty, Brush Hill Gardens has plenty of benches, picnic tables and walking trails perfect for an afternoon stroll or quiet contemplation. The garden also offers special events throughout the year, such as art classes, live music performances, cooking demonstrations and festivals that attract visitors from all over the state.
So if you’re looking for a tranquil place to unwind amidst stunning natural beauty, Brush Hill Gardens is worth a visit!
The Washington Art Association & Gallery
The Washington Art Association & Gallery is wonderful for art lovers to explore. Located in the heart of Washington, Connecticut, it has provided visitors with high-quality exhibitions since its founding in 1932. With over 2,000 works of art in its collection, there’s something for everyone here.
The gallery displays a variety of pieces from local and international artists. Here, you’ll find it all, from traditional landscape paintings to contemporary installations. Additionally, the WAA offers educational programs throughout the year, including workshops and lectures on traditional techniques or contemporary practices.
If you’re looking for a unique gift to give someone special, why not consider picking up a piece of artwork from the WAA? They have an impressive selection of original paintings and prints for sale at reasonable prices. If you’re an aspiring artist, they even offer classes covering various art creation aspects, like color theory and composition.
No matter your interests, The Washington Art Association & Gallery will surely provide something special for every visitor! Whether you want to learn about art history or explore some beautiful artwork, this gallery is worth checking out.
Strawberry Farm
Strawberry Farm is a delightful destination for the whole family. Located in Washington, Connecticut, this family-run farm offers a variety of activities, from picking your fruit to visiting their petting zoo. Here you can explore the orchard and pick your apples, peaches, plums, pears and more, depending on the season. You also have the option to buy pre-picked produce from their store.
Animal lovers will enjoy spending time at the farm’s petting zoo, where they can meet some animals like goats, sheep, llamas and even alpacas. You may even spot one of the resident barn cats roaming around if you’re lucky! Visitors can take part in wagon rides through the orchard and get up close to some of their friendly livestock.
At Strawberry Farm, there is something for everyone! From berry picking to hayrides to tractor rides – there’s so much fun to be had! So whether you’re looking for a morning stroll or an afternoon adventure, check out Starberry Farm for some good old-fashioned family fun!
Gunn Historical Museum
The Gunn Historical Museum in Washington, Connecticut, is a must-see for lovers of history and the past. Here you can explore the town’s rich heritage, from its colonial origins to its current status as a vibrant community. From rare artifacts to interactive exhibits, visitors will learn about the people who lived in this area and how they shaped it into what it is today.
The museum’s permanent collections include documents, books, photographs and artifacts that tell stories of life in Washington over the centuries. Some highlights include a 17th-century bible owned by Reverend Thomas Hooker (founder of Hartford), handcrafted furniture from early settlers and decorative items crafted by local Native Americans. In addition to these permanent displays, temporary exhibitions change regularly to provide fresh perspectives on local history.
One of the museum’s most popular attractions is its educational programs for students and adults alike. Through lectures and workshops, visitors can gain an understanding of local culture through hands-on activities such as quilting classes or pottery-making demonstrations. The museum also offers special events throughout the year that focus on topics such as conservation or archaeology.
Whether you want somewhere to take your family on a weekend getaway or want to learn more about your community’s past, the Gunn Historical Museum has something for everyone!
Hidden Valley Preserve
Hidden Valley Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure and exploration. Located in Washington, Connecticut, just a short drive from New York City, this unique park is a haven for nature lovers. The preserve offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, bird watching and horseback riding. Two large ponds on site can be used for fishing and kayaking.
The preserve has many interesting features, such as an old stone bridge and several creeks that meander through the park. There are also some beautiful rock formations to enjoy hiking along the trails. Visitors can also take advantage of the picnic area that overlooks one of the ponds.
The preserve is home to many species of native plants and animals, including deer, turkeys, eagles, hawks and songbirds. In addition to these animals, numerous wildflowers bloom throughout the year, creating a stunning display of colors as they dot the landscape around you.
Hidden Valley Preserve is open all year round. Still, it is especially beautiful during autumn when the leaves start to change colors making it an ideal spot for those looking to take in some fall foliage or enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by nature at its finest!
Hollister House Garden
Hollister House Garden is a tranquil oasis in the quaint town of Washington, Connecticut. This serene and picturesque garden offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and reconnect with the environment. The estate comprises twelve acres of gardens, meadows, ponds and historic buildings, all combined to create an idyllic setting for any visitor.
The garden has something for everyone; it features walking trails that wind through flowering shrubs, wooded areas and native wildflowers. For those looking for a more stroll through the grounds, a paved path takes you past ponds, gardens and even an old carriage house. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the many species that inhabit the grounds, while amphibian enthusiasts can observe frogs in their natural habitat at the nearby wetlands.
Visitors can also explore independently or participate in one of Hollister House Garden’s educational programs. Through these interactive programs, guests can learn about local plants, animals and ecology, as well as gain an appreciation for the beauty of nature. These educational activities are designed to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the environment around them and how they can help preserve it
Hollister House Garden is open year-round from dawn until dusk allowing visitors to take full advantage of its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery throughout all four seasons. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing place or an engaging educational experience, Hollister House Garden promises to provide something special for all its guests.
Averill Farm
Visiting Averill Farm is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Washington, CT. This family-run farm is located on 110 acres of land and offers visitors a variety of activities that appeal to all ages. From picking your fruit and vegetables in their orchards and fields to visiting their friendly animals, this farm truly has something for everyone.
You can take a self-guided orchard tour, pick fruits and vegetables, and explore the farm’s beautiful gardens. The farm also offers educational programs throughout the year that focus on sustainable farming practices and creative workshops such as painting with fruit and vegetable prints.
Averill Farm also has an extensive animal area which includes alpacas, chickens, goats, sheep, cows and pigs. Visitors can feed the animals and even purchase some of their fresh eggs! They also have a small selection of farm-raised meats for sale, making them a great addition to any meal you make at home.
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience in Washington, CT, then Averill Farm might be just what you need! With its tranquil setting, friendly animals, delicious produce and educational programs – it’s sure to be an enjoyable day trip for all who visit.
Steep Rock Preserve
Steep Rock Preserve is a tranquil nature preserve located in Washington, Connecticut. It features a variety of trails for hiking and biking, with stunning views of the Litchfield Hills. The preserve also offers fishing in the Shepaug River and bird-watching opportunities.
Steep Rock Preserve has many wildlife species, including deer, woodchuck, fox, beaver, rabbits and turtles. Many varieties of plants, trees and wildflowers bloom throughout the year. Visitors can explore the woods independently or join a regular guided walk offered by local naturalists.
The preserve is part of the Steep Rock Association, dedicated to protecting and preserving its beauty for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to take only pictures and leave footprints when visiting this unique natural area. Whether looking for a peaceful stroll through nature or a chance to observe some rare wildlife, Steep Rock Preserve is an ideal destination for those who love being outdoors!
Conclusion
To conclude, Washington CT is a great place to explore and experience a variety of activities and attractions. From exploring the Hickory Stick Bookshop, enjoying THE WELL at Mayflower Inn, discovering the Institute for American Indian Studies, taking on Wigwam Escape, strolling through Brush Hill Gardens, admiring the art at The Washington Art Association & Gallery, picking fruit at Strawberry Farm, learning about history at Gunn Historical Museum, exploring Hidden Valley Preserve, admiring nature in Hollister House Garden, visiting Averill Farm or wandering around Steep Rock Preserve – there is something to do for everyone in Washington CT. Whether you are looking for an adventure or a peaceful getaway – this charming town has it all!
