Shelton, Connecticut is a hidden gem in Fairfield County. This riverside town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
You’ll find lush green spaces and scenic trails that showcase the area’s stunning landscapes.
Shelton’s rich history and vibrant community make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic New England experience.
You can explore the Shelton Historic District to admire well-preserved 19th-century architecture or visit local farms like Jones Family Farms for a taste of rural life.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or simply relaxing in a picturesque setting, Shelton has something for everyone.
Plan your visit today and discover why this beautiful Connecticut town is becoming a favorite among travelers.
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How to Get to Shelton
Shelton is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. You can reach this charming Connecticut city by car, bus, or train.
If you’re driving, Shelton is conveniently located off Route 8. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from New York City and 45 minutes from Hartford.
Public transit options are available too.
You can take a train to nearby stations and then connect via bus to Shelton.
For those flying in, the closest major airports are:
- Bradley International Airport (Hartford)
- Tweed New Haven Airport (New Haven)
- LaGuardia Airport (New York)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York)
From these airports, you can rent a car or use a combination of train and bus services to reach Shelton.
Once in Shelton, getting around is easy. The city has a good road network for driving.
There’s also a local bus service for public transportation.
For a more personalized experience, you might consider booking a private sightseeing tour.
This can be a great way to explore Shelton and its surroundings with expert guidance.
What to See in Shelton
Shelton offers a mix of natural beauty and fun attractions. You can start your visit at Indian Well State Park, where you’ll find a lovely waterfall and beach area.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Shelton Lakes Recreation Path provides great hiking and biking opportunities. You can enjoy beautiful views of lakes and forests along the way.
Downtown Shelton is worth exploring. The area hosts the Downtown Sounds Summer Concert Series, perfect for a relaxing evening.
You’ll also find unique shops and independent eateries here.
Nature lovers should check out the Housatonic River. It’s great for fishing, birdwatching, and photography. In spring, you can spot wildflowers along the riverbanks.
For family fun, head to the Sports Center of Connecticut. It offers mini-golf, bowling, and other activities. Kids will love the Giggling Pig, an art studio with creative classes.
Don’t miss the Shelton Riverwalk for a scenic stroll. In fall, the foliage here is spectacular. Veterans Memorial Park is another spot for picnicking and relaxation.
Remember to visit local bakeries for delicious treats. The area is known for its tasty pies and donuts.
Where to Stay in Shelton
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 Shelton
Shelton’s story begins in 1639 when English settlers first arrived. The area was originally part of Stratford.
In 1789, the town was incorporated as Huntington. It kept this name for nearly a century.
The year 1882 brought a big change. The town was renamed Shelton after Edward N. Shelton, a local industrialist.
Shelton’s industrial past is rich. Mills and factories once lined the Housatonic River. These powered the town’s growth.
You can explore this history at the Shelton History Center. Here, you’ll find old buildings and exhibits about the town’s past.
Shelton has several places on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Plumb Memorial Library and the Commodore Hull School.
The city’s landscape still shows signs of its past. You can spot 18th and 19th-century farmhouses in Long Hill, Huntington, and White Hills areas.
Downtown Shelton is a mix of old and new. Many factories from the late 1800s still stand. They now sit alongside modern buildings.
Today, Shelton balances its historical charm with modern development. It’s a place where you can step back in time while enjoying present-day comforts.
Towns Near Shelton
Shelton is surrounded by charming towns, perfect for day trips. You’ll find plenty to explore within a short drive.
Derby, just across the Housatonic River, offers a quaint downtown with shops and restaurants.
Nearby Ansonia boasts beautiful parks and hiking trails.
In Trumbull, you can pick your own apples and pumpkins at local orchards. It’s a great fall activity for families.
Monroe is home to Webb Mountain Park, ideal for nature lovers. You can hike, fish, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Stratford, on Long Island Sound, features beaches and coastal views. It’s perfect for a summer day out.
Oxford has several wineries where you can taste local vintages. It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
Seymour offers the Naugatuck State Forest for outdoor adventures. You can hike, bike, or go horseback riding.
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