Farmington Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Farmington, Connecticut with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to where to stay and what to eat.


Introduction to Farmington

Farmington is a picturesque town located in the Connecticut River Valley, in the state of Connecticut. It is a town that is rich in history and culture, and there is plenty to see and do here for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation, Farmington has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Farmington

If you’re planning a visit to Farmington, here’s a list of some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stanley-Whitman House: This historical house museum provides a glimpse into life in Colonial New England. It features exhibits of art, furniture, and household items from the 18th century.

  • Hill-Stead Museum: This former home of the Pope family showcases their collection of art, antiques, and artifacts. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house or walk the beautiful grounds.

  • Farmington Historical Society: Learn about the history of Farmington and the surrounding area through exhibits, lectures, and special events.

Natural Attractions of Farmington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Farmington Canal Trail: This 84-mile trail runs from New Haven to Northampton, Massachusetts, and is great for biking, walking, or jogging. The trail passes through scenic areas of Farmington and is perfect for taking in the beautiful countryside.

  • Westwoods Trails: With over 1,200 acres of woodland, Westwoods is a great place to explore nature. The trails here are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.

  • Talcott Mountain State Park: This park offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Hartford and the Connecticut River Valley. There are hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend a day.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Farmington

Farmington is an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Unionville Rail Trail: This trail stretches for 1.2 miles and offers a smooth surface that is great for all skill levels.

  • Farmington Canal Trail: As mentioned before, this trail runs for 84 miles and passes through the heart of Farmington.

  • Tunxis Trail: This 79-mile trail winds through the heart of Connecticut and is great for experienced hikers. The trail passes through rugged terrain, diverse forests, and serene streams.

Best Things to Do in Farmington: Activities and Tours

In addition to the sights mentioned above, there are plenty of other things to do in Farmington. Here are some options:

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride and see the stunning Connecticut River Valley from above.

  • CT Bike Tours: Explore the town and countryside by bike with a guided tour.

  • Farmington River Tubing: Take a leisurely ride down the Farmington River in a tube.

Week-Long Itinerary for Farmington

If you have a week to spend in Farmington, here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Hill-Stead Museum and take a scenic drive through the Connecticut River Valley
Day 2 Spend the day hiking at Talcott Mountain State Park
Day 3 Explore the shops and restaurants of downtown Farmington
Day 4 Visit the Stanley-Whitman House and take a guided tour
Day 5 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Connecticut River Valley
Day 6 Spend the day biking on the Farmington Canal Trail
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the day at one of the many spas in Farmington

Food and Drink Scene of Farmington

No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • New England clam chowder: A classic seafood soup made with fresh clams and potatoes.

  • Apple pie: This dessert made with locally sourced apples is a New England staple.

  • Lobster roll: A sandwich made with lobster meat and served on a grilled hot dog bun.

Local Beverages

  • Connecticut craft beers: There are many local breweries in the Farmington area, such as Stubborn Beauty Brewing Company and Relic Brewing.

  • Apple cider: Made with local apples, apple cider is a refreshing drink that is perfect for fall.

Where to Stay in Farmington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Farmington has a variety of options for accommodations. Here are some of the top choices:

  • The Farmington Inn: A historic inn located in the heart of downtown Farmington.

  • Marriott Hartford Farmington: A modern hotel with a fitness center and indoor pool, located just outside of town.

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Hartford-Farmington: A comfortable hotel with spacious suites, perfect for families.

What to Buy in Farmington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some products that are unique to Farmington and make great souvenirs:

  • Handcrafted pottery: Farmington is home to many local potters who create beautiful, functional pieces.

  • Connecticut maple syrup: A sweet souvenir that is perfect on pancakes or French toast.

  • Locally made soap: Made with all-natural ingredients, these soaps are a great gift to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Farmington

Farmington has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and landmarks. The residents of Farmington are proud of their town’s heritage and welcome visitors to explore it.

Best Time to Visit Farmington

Farmington is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the summer and fall. The summer months are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, while the fall offers stunning foliage and harvest festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Farmington

Do:

  • Visit the historical landmarks and museums to learn about the town’s rich history.

  • Explore the scenic outdoors by hiking, biking or kayaking.

  • Try the local cuisine and brews.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind when visiting natural areas.

  • Disrupt the peace and quiet of residential areas.

  • Enter private property without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Farmington

Farmington is generally a safe town, but visitors should still take normal precautions and be aware of their surroundings. Lock doors and windows and don’t leave valuables in your car.

Health in Farmington

Farmington has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the University of Connecticut Health Center and John Dempsey Hospital.

Getting to Farmington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Farmington

The nearest airports to Farmington are Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, CT (20 miles away) and Tweed New Haven Regional Airport in New Haven, CT (32 miles away).

Bus Stations Near Farmington

Farmington is served by the CTfastrak bus line, which connects to the Hartford bus station.

Other Options

Renting a car is a good option for travelers who want to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Farmington

Farmington is a small town that is easy to navigate by car or bike. Visitors can also take advantage of the Farmington area’s excellent bus system, CTfastrak, which connects to the surrounding communities.

Where to Go Next from Farmington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your New England adventure, here are some nearby destinations:

  • Hartford: About 10 miles northeast of Farmington, Hartford is the capital city of Connecticut and has many cultural attractions to explore.

  • New Haven: Located approximately 40 miles south of Farmington, New Haven is famous for its Ivy League university and excellent dining scene.

  • Newport: This Rhode Island seaside town is known for its stunning mansions and yacht-filled harbor.

Conclusion

Farmington is a fascinating destination that has something to offer everyone. From stunning natural beauty to historic landmarks and museums, there are many things to see and do in this charming New England town. Plan your trip today and experience all that Farmington has to offer!