Inside: Discover Extraordinary Living
A popular Hartford suburb, Simsbury checks all the boxes for the quintessential New England town: rich history, small-town feel, vibrant community, and beautiful scenery. With a vista dominated by the famous Heublein Tower, the town sits on the banks of the Farmington River, offering canoe and kayak access as well as a gathering spot where residents watch live concerts and fireworks. Popular destinations include Talcott Mountain State Park and Rosedale Farms and Vineyards. The town is also known for its stellar public school system and prestigious private schools like Westminster School, The Master’s School, and The Ethel Walker School, which is renowned for its equestrian programs. Simsbury is roughly equidistant to both Boston and New York City, making it convenient for travel.
Here are some of the best things to eat, buy, see, and do in Simsbury:
Parks & Recreation
Talcott Mountain State Park
1 Summit Ridge Dr, Simsbury
A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Talcott Mountain State Park offers a wide variety of activities, from hiking the scenic Heublein Tower Trail to taking in panoramic views from the Heublein Tower summit, to picnicking and enjoying the gorgeous scenery. The famed tower sits atop Talcott Mountain, a 1,000-foot-high promontory that provides stunning views of the Connecticut landscape. Expect to find an array of wildlife including deer, fox, and rabbits, as well as turkeys and the occasional bald eagle. Seasonal wildflowers are another park highlight.
Local Attractions
Rosedale Farms and Vineyard
25 E Weatogue St, Simsbury
Farm-fresh produce and fine wine are the draws at Rosedale Farms and Vineyard, a family-owned Simsbury institution since 1920. Plentiful produce, including sweet corn, peaches, and more are on offer at the farm store, while the vineyard is known for its award-winning wines and beautiful setting. A visit to the 5th-generation family farm can also include a sunflower stroll, perfect for an impromptu photo shoot! While you’re there, sign up for the farm membership to receive farm-fresh produce every week throughout the summer.
Talcott Mountain Collective
140-C Nod Rd, Weatogue
Set on 75 acres at the edge of the Farmington Valley, the Talcott Mountain Collective is a unique destination that marries local creations and services, food trucks, beverages, entertainment, and more. This creative hub offers four seasons of indoor/outdoor experiences such as workshops and events plus outdoor fun, including fire pits, cornhole, yard games, disc golf, and music. Its founders are committed to ensuring that the Collective is always evolving with new ideas, but current offerings include the Collective Kitchen (in-house food service), a rotating slew of food trucks, a wide selection of local craft beers, and nightlife options including open-mic nights and live music.
Local Events
I Love Music Festival at Simsbury Meadows
22 Iron Horse Blvd, Simsbury
An annual end-of-summer event at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center, the I Love Music Festival is a celebration that includes food, fun, and great music. Attendees can bring their own picnic set-up, food, refreshments, and tents to relax and take in the top-tier musical talent. The lineup typically includes a diverse range of genres such as R&B, hip-hop, and other popular music from the ’60s to today. With a scenic backdrop of the Farmington River, this festival is a town favorite.
Dining
Millwright’s
77 West St, Simsbury
Millwright’s, housed in a 17th-century mill overlooking the Farmington River, combines history and culinary excellence, offering a high-end menu of farm-to-table cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients. Expect artful dishes such as braised short rib and foie gras mousse from executive chef and Connecticut native Ashley Flagg. Working with local farms and purveyors, the menu is inspired by New England ingredients but showcases global flavors and cooking techniques. Creative, rustic décor, a lovely outdoor area, and the cozy tavern room add to Millwright’s appeal.
Iron Horse Sports Pub
836 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury
This friendly neighborhood pub — a favorite among locals — serves up tasty pub grub, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere. The massive, juicy burgers are a must-order, and all food is made fresh and in-house. At the bar, enjoy a wide range of specialty beers as well as creative cocktails. Casual but attractive, the Iron Horse is an ideal destination for catching the big game, enjoying a round of pool, and socializing with friends and family.
