Inside: Discover Extraordinary Living
Welcome to Old Saybrook, Connecticut, a charming shoreline town steeped in history and coastal allure. With a picturesque waterfront setting, the town—which traces its roots back to 1635—features scenic beaches, parks, a signature lighthouse, nature preserves, and a marina. Old Saybrook is also known for its vibrant community bent, hosting popular events like arts and craft shows, boat shows, sidewalk sales, summer concerts and fireworks, the Taste-of-Saybrook Fest, and holiday caroling. Cultural standouts include the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center (the late actress kept a home in Old Saybrook) as well as several historically significant buildings and landmarks including the Old Saybrook Train Station.
Here are some of the best things to eat, buy, see, and do in Old Saybrook:
Dining
Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point
2 Bridge St, Old Saybrook
Boasting panoramic views of the marina, this waterfront restaurant housed in the luxury Saybrook Point resort offers a fusion of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavors. Visitors can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and Fresh Salt’s award-winning Sunday Brunch year-round. Fresh seafood is the main star here, but the restaurant also works closely with local farmers and artisans to source locally grown and harvested ingredients.
Liv’s Oyster Bar
166 Main St, Old Saybrook
Craving the freshest seafood in town? Liv’s Oyster Bar is the place to be. Start with the raw bar and then move on to Liv’s signature seafood dishes and handcrafted cocktails for a full serving of coastal dining. The menu includes classics like New England clam chowder and perfectly prepared lobster rolls—enjoyed in the charming atmosphere at its cozy Main Street location.
Attraction
Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse
Standing tall along the mouth of the Connecticut River, the Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse is a cherished symbol of Old Saybrook’s maritime heritage. Constructed between 1874 and 1877, the sparkplug lighthouse, known around town as “Breakwater Light” or “Outer Light,” offers a glimpse into the town’s seafaring past. While it’s closed to visitors, boat tours are available for a closer look at this iconic landmark.
Parks and Recreation
Fenwick Golf Course
580 Maple Ave, Old Saybrook
For golf enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet scenic course, Fenwick Golf Course is a must-play. Overlooking the Long Island Sound, this nine-hole gem is a fit for golfers of all skill levels. Bonus historic points: it’s the oldest public golf course in the State of Connecticut. Fenwick also offers a rebuilt and redesigned five-hole Ryder Cup course which is primarily for pre-teenage golfers.
The Preserve
1278 Essex Rd, Westbrook
Nature lovers will find solace in the pristine beauty of The Preserve, a 963-acre forest located in the towns of Old Saybrook, Essex, and Westbrook. The sprawling coastal forest is situated between Long Island Sound and the mouth of the Connecticut River, and boasts 114 acres of wetlands as well as a 30-acre scrub-shrub swamp and an Atlantic white cedar swamp. Expect plenty of wildlife on your visit: The Preserve is home to 25 species of amphibians and reptiles, 30 species of mammals, and 57 species of birds.
Culture
Acton Public Library
60 Old Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook
Housed within an historic building dating back to the early 20th century, the Acton Public Library offers a treasure trove of books, resources, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The library serves as a community gathering place as well, hosting literary events, art exhibitions and children’s programs. In keeping with the town’s historic background, the library was first founded in 1854.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing coastal getaway, Old Saybrook, CT, has something for everyone. Experience the historic landmarks, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this quaint Connecticut town.
