Somers Travel Guide

Discover all the must-visit places, activities, food, and cultural experiences in Somers with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip with transportation options and logistics and explore the best of Connecticut River Valley, in Connecticut, in New England, in United States of America, in North America.


Introduction to Somers

Located in the Connecticut River Valley, Somers is a picturesque town in the state of Connecticut that attracts tourists with its historic sites, scenic natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. The town is part of the New England region of the United States of America and is known for its small-town charm, friendly locals, and delicious food.

List of Places to Visit in Somers

If you’re planning a trip to Somers, you won’t be disappointed with its abundance of attractions. Here’s a list of our recommended places to visit, divided into cultural and natural attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nathan Hale Homestead: Visit the birthplace of the American patriot and spy, Nathan Hale, and explore the 18th-century historic house and museum.
  • New England Motorcycle Museum: This museum features a collection of rare vintage motorcycles and memorabilia, as well as exhibits highlighting the history of motorcycles in the region.
  • Somers Historical Society Museum: Learn about the town’s history through the artifacts and exhibits at this local museum.

Natural Attractions of Somers: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Somers Mountain: Hike up this beautiful mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
  • Shenipsit State Forest: Explore the forest’s hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic picnic areas.
  • Powder Hollow Park: This park is perfect for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Somers

Somers is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town offers an array of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • The Shenipsit Trail: This 45-mile long trail passes through the Shenipsit State Forest and offers stunning views of the river valley and the surrounding hills.
  • The Trustees’ Trail: This trail passes through the Somers Conservation area and offers a tranquil hiking experience with wildflowers, streams, and scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Somers: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking and exploring the local attractions, Somers also has some exciting activities and tours to offer. Here are some of our recommendations:

  • Tree Climbing Adventures: Get an adrenaline boost and climb trees with safety gear and expert guidance.
  • Vineyard Tours: Visit the local vineyards and learn about the winemaking process while taking in the scenic views of the rolling hills and valleys.
  • Organic Farm Tours: Take a tour of the local organic farms and learn about organic farming techniques and practices.

Week-Long Itinerary for Somers

If you’re planning to spend a week in Somers, here’s a comprehensive itinerary that covers the best of the town and its surroundings:

Day Activity
1 Visit Nathan Hale Homestead, Somers Historical Society Museum, and enjoy a picnic at the Powder Hollow Park
2 Hike Somers Mountain and Shenipsit State Forest
3 Explore the New England Motorcycle Museum and enjoy a vineyard tour
4 Tree climbing adventure and a visit to the Connecticut Trolley Museum
5 Organic farm tours and a scenic drive through the countryside
6 Bike ride along the Trustees’ Trail and visit the local artisan shops and markets
7 Spend the day at Lake Congamond and enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking

Food and Drink Scene of Somers

Somers has a rich culinary scene that offers a diversity of options, from local comfort food to gourmet dining. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Connecticut-style Lobster Roll: This delicious sandwich features fresh lobster meat, celery, and herbs, served on a buttered New England-style split-top bun.
  • Apple Cider Donuts: These sweet treats are a fall favorite and are made from fresh apple cider and a blend of spices.
  • New England Clam Chowder: This creamy soup is a classic New England dish made with clams, potatoes, and a rich broth.

Local Beverages

  • Connecticut Craft Beer: Visit the local breweries to taste the region’s best craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
  • Apple Cider: This refreshing and crisp drink is a favorite in the fall season and is made from fresh apples.
  • Maple Syrup: This sweet and rich syrup is made from the sap of maple trees and is a classic New England product.

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

Somers offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious guesthouses. Here are some of our recommendations:

  • Kathryn’s Vacation Suites: This charming guesthouse offers comfortable suites with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Sheraton Hartford Hotel at Bradley Airport: This hotel is conveniently located near the airport and offers spacious rooms and modern amenities.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Enfield: This budget-friendly hotel is perfect for travelers on a tight budget and offers basic amenities and comfortable rooms.

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

Don’t forget to bring home some unique souvenirs and local products from Somers. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Maple Syrup: Take home some authentic Connecticut maple syrup, which is a local specialty.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Visit the local pottery studios and bring home some beautiful handcrafted pieces.
  • Local Artisan Products: Shop for handmade items like soaps, candles, and textiles from the local artisan shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Somers

Somers is known for its small-town charm and friendly locals. Visitors are encouraged to respect the town’s culture and customs, which include:

  • Respecting Personal Space: The locals value their privacy and personal space, and visitors should respect this by not approaching them without permission.
  • Tipping: It is customary to tip 15-20% in restaurants and for other services.
  • Cultural Festivals: Somers hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year to celebrate the town’s heritage, including the Somers Great American Picnic, the Somers Cultural Commission Concert Series, and the Somers Antique Car Show.

Best Time to Visit Somers

The best time to visit Somers is during the fall season, from September to November, when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the weather is mild and pleasant. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers can be hot and humid, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Somers

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while exploring Somers:

Do:

  • Respect the Culture and Customs of the Locals
  • Plan Ahead for Weather Conditions
  • Try the Local Food and Drinks

Don’t:

  • Litter or Damage the Natural Attractions
  • Interfere with the Local Wildlife
  • Be Disrespectful to the Locals

Safety and Health

Somers is a safe and healthy town, but visitors should take precautions and follow safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Safety in Somers

  • Carry a Map and a First-Aid Kit
  • Be Mindful of Wildlife
  • Stay Hydrated and Wear Appropriate Clothing for Hiking Trails

Health in Somers

  • Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations
  • Carry Prescription Medications and First-Aid Supplies

Getting to Somers: Transportation Options and Logistics

Somers is easily accessible by various transportation options, and visitors can choose the most convenient one based on their location and budget.

Airports Near Somers

  • Bradley International Airport: This is the nearest major airport, located approximately 10 miles from Somers.

Bus Stations Near Somers

  • Springfield Terminal Station: This station is located approximately 18 miles from Somers and offers both local and regional bus services.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Visitors can rent cars from various rental agencies located at the airports and major cities.
  • Taxis and Rideshare Services: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area.

How to Get Around in Somers

The best way to get around Somers is by car, as the town is spread out, and public transportation is limited. Visitors can rent cars, use taxis or rideshare services, or use bike rentals for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Somers: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Somers is located in a scenic region of Connecticut and is close to some other popular destinations and excursions, like:

  • Hartford: Explore the capital city of Connecticut and visit its historic landmarks and museums, like the Mark Twain House and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art.
  • Springfield: Visit the birthplace of basketball and enjoy the rides and attractions at the Six Flags New England amusement park.
  • Sturbridge: Explore the living history museum of Old Sturbridge Village and experience life as it was in the early 19th century.

Conclusion

Somers is a charming town that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Somers with ease and explore the best of Connecticut River Valley, in Connecticut, in New England, in United States of America, in North America.