Glastonbury, Connecticut is a charming New England town that offers a perfect blend of history and modern attractions. Just 15 minutes from Hartford, this picturesque destination boasts tree-lined streets and historic homes.
You’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Glastonbury, from exploring scenic parks to enjoying local cuisine.
Riverfront Park is a must-visit spot where you can relax by the Connecticut River and catch stunning sunsets.
For nature lovers, hiking through Cotton Hollow Preserve or getting splashed at Blackledge Falls are great options.
History buffs will enjoy riding on the oldest ferry service in the country, which runs for seven months each year.
After a day of sightseeing, you can rest at comfortable accommodations like the Hilton Garden Inn Hartford South/Glastonbury or the charming Connecticut River Valley Inn.
With its mix of outdoor activities, historical sites, and cozy lodgings, Glastonbury is an ideal destination for your next Connecticut getaway.
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How To Get To Glastonbury
Getting to Glastonbury is easy with several travel options. You can reach this charming town by car, bus, or train.
If you’re driving, Glastonbury is conveniently located near major highways. It’s about 10 minutes from Hartford, making it a quick trip from the state capital.
Public transportation is also available. You can take a bus from various nearby cities. The 95 bus line serves Glastonbury, connecting it to other parts of Connecticut.
For those coming from further away, flying into Bradley International Airport is a good choice. The airport is about 30 minutes from Glastonbury. You can rent a car at the airport for an easy drive to town.
Once in Glastonbury, you’ll find it’s a walkable community. Many attractions are close together, letting you explore on foot.
Remember to check travel times before your trip. Traffic can vary depending on the day and time you’re traveling. Planning ahead ensures a smooth journey to this delightful Connecticut town.
What To See In Glastonbury
Glastonbury offers a mix of natural beauty and historical charm. Start your visit at Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Connecticut River. It’s perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
For nature lovers, Cotton Hollow Preserve provides scenic hiking trails. You can also visit Blackledge Falls to see beautiful waterfalls.
History buffs will enjoy the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry, the oldest continually operating ferry in the U.S. It’s a unique way to cross the Connecticut River.
Don’t miss Rose’s Berry Farm for seasonal berry picking and farm-fresh treats. It’s a fun activity for all ages.
Main Street is worth exploring for its charming shops and restaurants. Stop by River Bend Bookshop for a local reading experience.
For a taste of local wine, visit Crystal Ridge Winery. You can enjoy tastings while taking in beautiful vineyard views.
If you’re looking for indoor activities, check out Central Rock Gym for rock climbing or the Welles-Turner Memorial Library for a quiet retreat.
Where to Stay in Glastonbury
If you know when you are planning to go but haven’t decided on accommodation, then use the map below to get an idea of which properties are available and to compare prices during the period you wish to travel.
Enter your proposed dates and use the ‘+’ to zoom in on a location and reveal more properties. Click on the price above a property to see more information.
(Please note that this selection will also include some vacation homes, AirBnBs, and VRBOs for those who are interested in that form of accommodation!)
History Of Glastonbury
Glastonbury’s story begins in 1636. It was first part of Wethersfield and called Pyaug. In 1693, it became its own town. The name comes from Glastonbury in England.
You’ll find a rich history here. The town has the oldest continuously running ferry in the U.S. It’s been working since 1655.
Native Americans lived here long ago. The Wangunk people called this area home for hundreds of years before settlers came.
Glastonbury has kept much of its past alive. You can see this in the Glastonbury Historic District. It’s full of old buildings that tell the town’s story.
The Historical Society of Glastonbury helps preserve the town’s history. They run the Museum on the Green. It’s open three days a week for you to explore.
One must-see spot is the Hurlbut-Dunham House. This old home shows you how people lived long ago.
Glastonbury’s past is a big part of its charm. As you walk around, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time in this lovely New England town.
Towns Near Glastonbury
Glastonbury is surrounded by charming towns and cities, each offering unique experiences. You’ll find plenty to explore within a short drive.
Hartford, the state capital, is just 10 miles northwest. Here you can visit the Mark Twain House and Museum or catch a show at the Bushnell Theater.
East Hartford, right across the Connecticut River, is home to Rentschler Field, where you can watch exciting football games.
Manchester, about 7 miles northeast, boasts great shopping at Buckland Hills Mall and beautiful hiking trails at Case Mountain.
Rocky Hill, 6 miles southwest, features Dinosaur State Park. You can see real dinosaur tracks and enjoy nature walks.
Wethersfield, 8 miles west, is Connecticut’s oldest town. It’s perfect for history buffs with its charming Old Wethersfield historic district.
South Windsor, 8 miles north, offers pick-your-own farms and the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum.
These nearby towns make Glastonbury an ideal base for exploring central Connecticut.
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