Tolland Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Tolland, Connecticut? This extensive travel guide highlights the best places to see, things to do, where to stay, what to eat and buy, local customs, safety, and transportation options, to help you make the most of your visit!


Introduction to Tolland

Tolland is a small town located in the heart of Connecticut River Valley, in the New England region of the United States of America. This charming town offers an excellent blend of captivating natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and rich history dating back to colonial times. Tolland has a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or indoor cultural experiences, Tolland has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Tolland

Tolland is a picturesque town with numerous attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit in Tolland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tolland Historical Society Museum: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Tolland and its evolution over the years. With its extensive collection of colonial artifacts, visitors can explore the town’s history from its founding in 1715 to present day.

  • Old Tolland County Jail and Museum: Built-in 1827, this historic jail offers visitors a chance to explore the cells and see firsthand what life was like behind bars. The museum also features exhibits on the history of crime and punishment in Tolland.

Natural Attractions of Tolland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tolland State Forest: This beautiful state forest offers breathtaking hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnicking spots amid beautiful natural surroundings. There are also camping areas available with various amenities and facilities.

  • Shenipsit State Forest: This 7,000-acre forest is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has a range of different terrains, including forests, wetlands, and ponds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tolland

Tolland is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with several scenic routes available. Here are some recommended hiking/biking trails in Tolland:

  • Parker Bridge Road Trail: A 2.5-mile trail that leads through rolling farmland and picturesque woods. It is a perfect trail for a relaxing morning or afternoon hike.

  • Shenipsit Trail: A 40-mile trail, which runs through Tolland County, making it a perfect trail for experienced hikers can explore along ridges, through dense forests, and past picturesque ponds.

Best Things to Do in Tolland: Activities and Tours

There are various things to do in Tolland, Connecticut. Here are some recommended activities and tours:

  • Tolland County Agricultural Center: Take a tour of the agricultural center and learn about farming and agricultural practices from local farmers.

  • Live Music at Hartford City Limits: The perfect spot to enjoy live music performances by local and national artists in a beautiful venue in Hartford.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tolland

Here is an itinerary for one week in Tolland:

Day Morning Afternoon Evening
Day 1 Tolland Historical Society Museum Picnic at Granville State Forest Dinner at Celestial Cafe
Day 2 Hebron Fairgrounds Flea Market and Antiques Tour of Old Tolland County Jail and Museum Drinks at Tolland County Agricultural Center
Day 3 Tolland Green Farmer’s Market Hiking Shenipsit State Forest Dinner at The Red Onion Restaurant
Day 4 Cross Country Skiing at Shenipsit State Forest Lunch at Federico’s Pizza & Restaurant Live Music at Hartford City Limits
Day 5 Ice Fishing at Shenipsit Lake Tolland State Forest Camping Experience Campfire Dinner at Tolland State Forest
Day 6 Horseback Riding at Tolland County Agricultural Center Guided Tour of Horton Trail Wine Tasting at Lost Acres Vineyard
Day 7 Dining at The Hidden Still Guided Tour of Tolland County Winery Happy Hour at Tolland County Agricultural Center

Food and Drink Scene of Tolland

The food and drink scene in Tolland offer scrumptious dishes and refreshing beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: Taste a mouth-watering roll filled with succulent chunks of lobster meat.

  • Pizza: Federico’s Pizza & Restaurant serves some of the most delicious pizza in Tolland.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Sample some of the locally brewed beers at Tolland’s The Hidden Still.

  • Local Wine: Savor delicious wines at nearby vineyards like Tolland County Winery and Lost Acres Vineyard.

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

Tolland has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some recommended hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Tolland:

  • Tolland Inn: Offers comfortable and affordable accommodations in the heart of Tolland’s historic district.

  • Best Western Storrs: Located just 4 miles from Tolland, this hotel offers spacious rooms and excellent amenities.

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

Tolland offers various local products and souvenirs that visitors can bring home as a reminder of their trip. Here are some local products to consider buying:

  • Maple Syrup: Tolland is well-renowned for its maple syrup. Get a bottle or two as a flavorful souvenir.

  • Handmade Jewelry: Check out the various jewelry shops in Tolland to find unique pieces made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Tolland

Tolland prides itself on its rich cultural heritage and colonial history. It is essential to respect local customs and traditions while you visit Tolland. Here are some things to keep in mind during your stay in Tolland:

  • Be mindful of noise levels at night in residential areas.
  • Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.
  • Wear appropriate clothing while visiting religious or cultural sites.

Best Time to Visit Tolland

Tolland is gorgeous all year-round, but the best time to visit is from late Spring to early Fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The peak tourist season is from June to August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tolland

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and culture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking.
  • Enjoy outdoor adventure sports in groups.

Don’t:

  • Litter public places.
  • Disturb the wildlife and natural settings.
  • Ignore traffic rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tolland

Tolland is a safe place to visit, but it is always advisable to take appropriate precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips:

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure at all times.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Avoid walking alone in secluded areas.

Health in Tolland

Tolland has good medical facilities and hospitals in case you require medical attention. Carry necessary medication and follow standard sanitary measures to reduce health risks.

Getting to Tolland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tolland is easily accessible by various transport options. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Tolland

  • Bradley International Airport: Situated just 25 miles from Tolland, it offers frequent direct flights to numerous cities in North America.

Bus Stations Near Tolland

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines: A reliable bus service that connects Tolland to many cities across the state.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: It is advisable to rent a car for easy accessibility and flexibility around the city.

How to Get Around in Tolland

Tolland is a small town, and most attractions are within walking or biking distance of the downtown area. Car rentals also available on both short term and long-term rental to tourists.

Where to Go Next from Tolland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tolland is centrally located from multiple cities in the state and region. Some of the nearby cities and towns that you can visit are:

  • Hartford: Connecticut’s capital city is just a 20-minute drive from Tolland, offering cultural, historical, and modern sights.

  • Storrs: Located just 8 miles from Tolland is the home to the main campus of the University of Connecticut, which hosts various educational and sporting events.

Conclusion

Tolland is an enchanting destination with something unique to offer every visitor. Whether you are interested in discovering its rich history, exploring natural landscapes, or indulging in outdoor adventures, Tolland has it all. Plan a trip today to explore the charm and beauty of Tolland, Connecticut.