Nestled in the southern foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, Brookfield, Connecticut offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and natural beauty.
You’ll find yourself enchanted by this affluent town just 43 miles northeast of New York City. Brookfield’s prime location and high quality of life have earned it the title of best place to live in Connecticut, according to Money magazine.
As you explore Brookfield, you’ll discover a wealth of outdoor activities and scenic vistas.
Take a stroll through one of the town’s lush parks or spend an afternoon at Candlewood Lake, Connecticut’s largest lake. For wine enthusiasts, a visit to the family-run vineyard on the eastern hills is a must. Here, you can sample flavorful reds and whites made from nine grape varieties.
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How To Get To Brookfield
Brookfield is easy to reach by car or public transport.
You can drive via Route 7 or Route 202, which both run through town. For a faster trip, take I-84 and exit onto Route 7.
Flying in? You have several airport options:
- Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks
- LaGuardia Airport in New York
- JFK Airport in New York
- Newark International Airport in New Jersey
From these airports, you can rent a car or take a bus to Brookfield.
For bus service, check out HARTransit. They offer routes connecting Brookfield to nearby towns and cities.
If you’re coming from New York City, you can take a train to Danbury and then catch a local bus to Brookfield. The trip takes about 2 hours.
What To See In Brookfield
Brookfield offers a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. You’ll find yourself surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Berkshire Mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for your visit.
Start your exploration at the Municipal Center. This hub of local activity often hosts community events and showcases local art exhibitions.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Candlewood Lake. As Connecticut’s largest lake, it’s perfect for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenic views.
For a taste of history, check out the Brookfield Museum. Here, you can learn about the town’s rich past and its place in the Greater Danbury area.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Gurski Farm. This preserved farmland offers hiking trails and a glimpse into Brookfield’s agricultural heritage.
Don’t forget to stroll down Federal Road. You’ll find a variety of local shops and restaurants that capture the essence of small-town Connecticut.
For a unique experience, visit the Blue Jay Orchards. In the fall, you can pick your own apples and enjoy fresh cider donuts.
Where to Stay in Brookfield
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 Brookfield
Brookfield’s roots stretch back to the early 18th century. The town was officially incorporated in 1788, carved from parts of New Milford, Danbury, and Newtown.
Before European settlement, the area was home to Native American tribes. The Wyantenuck and Paugusset people, part of the Algonquin Federation, lived on these lands.
In 1710, the first settlers arrived in what would become Brookfield. They encountered a local leader named Sachem Pokono, son of Sachem Waramaug.
The town’s early days centered around agriculture. Rich farmlands, game-filled forests, and fish-abundant streams made it an ideal spot for settlers.
Amos Northrop collected Brookfield’s first taxes before it was officially named. Back then, the area was known as the Parish of Newbury.
Religion played a big role in early Brookfield life. In 1752, winter church privileges were introduced. This allowed worship in homes from September to March due to harsh winter travel.
Today, you can explore Brookfield’s rich history at the Brookfield Museum and Historical Society. It’s a great place to learn about the town’s past and see artifacts from its early days.
Towns Near Brookfield
Brookfield is surrounded by charming towns and vibrant cities. Danbury is just a short drive away and offers a mix of history and modern amenities. You’ll find great shopping at the Danbury Fair Mall and interesting exhibits at the Danbury Railway Museum.
Newtown, known for its picturesque Main Street, is perfect for a relaxing day trip. Don’t miss the Edmond Town Hall, a historic building that now serves as a community center and movie theater.
For a taste of coastal Connecticut, head to New Haven. Home to Yale University, this city boasts world-class museums and renowned pizza joints. The Yale University Art Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
If you’re up for a longer journey, New York City is within reach. About an hour and a half drive from Brookfield, the Big Apple offers endless entertainment options. Take in a Broadway show or explore Central Park.
Remember to check local events calendars when planning your trips. Many of these towns host seasonal festivals and farmers markets that showcase local culture and products.
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Fairfield County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
