It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Cornwall Bridge, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Other ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us”
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work”
“I am a current client of this provider We used Always Best Care for my mother.”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad”
“To honor Bob's memory, enjoy a round of golf, share your music with others, make”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Thank you for the excellent care given to my mom. It was a huge weight”
“The Renchy family of Guilford would like to thank the staff and caretakers at CT”
“Rick/Heather, Thank you for providing excellent customer service !! I have received several emails and”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a very good providers from this”
“Other ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I have spoken to at the agency have been extremely helpful but more importantly kind and understanding. I have gotten quick responses to any inquiries I have made. The caregiver has been more than flexible and provides reliable help for my mother. I am feeling confident my mother is getting quality care to help her stay in her home.”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us longer than we did. This was very sudden and in Gods hands I guess. Her last meal was the pasta you made. We tried it too. It was excellent. So you provided her favorite meal. Thank you for that. We would recommend you to anyone who is in need of such services. Be well.”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us longer than we did. This was very sudden and in Gods hands I guess. Her last meal was the pasta you made. We tried it too. It was excellent. So you provided her favorite meal. Thank you for that. We would recommend you to anyone who is in need of such services. Be well”
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work and truly cares about the people she is in contact with. She is dedicated, diligent, and is devoted to her job assignment. She not only takes care of my Mom, but she goes above and beyond her call of duty. Bessie has a unique ability to connect with every person she meets. No day goes by that my Mom is not pampered. Bessie make sure she's always comfortable. She makes exceptional meals for her 3 times a day, cleans her clothes, gives her showers, washes her hair and makes her look amazing every single day. Bessie is so beneficial to our family we can't imagine our family without her. I myself and my family members could never do what she does for our Mom. She has been with my mom and our family for almost 1 year and we don't know what we would do without her, she truly is a gift from God. She not only takes care of my Mom daily, nightly and weekly, she also takes care of her personal life and whatever life throws at her. She is a devoted caretaker and should be recognized with the utmost respect. Her dedication to improving the health and well-being of my Mom is commendable. You can't find anyone as special as she. Her life commitment has touched our lives through her delivery of exceptional care in a compassionate, respectful, and safe manner on a daily basis. She has become a member of our family and she has shown us the meaning of adaptability. Her strong faith in God, Forgiveness, and Believing in each other makes her the great person that she is. On behalf of our family, we would like to thank you for the extraordinary care and services your company has provided to us. Thank you for all you do”
“I am a current client of this provider We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a few hours a week, they were very thorough in asking about my mother's condition, and what were the needs that were required. It's more like bathing, medication, and companionship. We used them for about a week.”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad during his illness. We are so grateful that your service was available and that you were all true to your words - you were there to help EVERY step of the way - Our words don't seem enough to express our gratitude. We will miss you all but never forget and we tell everyone we know about your agency and staff.”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad during his illness. We are so grateful that your service was available and that you were all true to your words - you were there to help EVERY step of the way - Our words don't seem enough to express our gratitude. We will miss you all but never forget and we tell everyone we know about your agency and staff”
“To honor Bob's memory, enjoy a round of golf, share your music with others, make your town a better place, have coffee with a friend, help someone in need, and fill every day with two days' worth of life! The family would like to thank caregivers Pauline and Yvette of Always Best Care of Bristol and Hartford Healthcare at Home for their extraordinary care.”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of Always Best Care for the outstanding service you have provided for our parents. ABC provided professional, first-class support that allowed our parents to remain in their home while relieving of us of concern for their care and is something we will never forget. You can be sure we will happily refer any family member or friend that is seeking care at home to Always Best Care.”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of Always Best Care for the outstanding service you have provided for our parents. ABC provided professional, first-class support that allowed our parents to remain in their home while relieving of us of concern for their care and is something we will never forget. You can be sure we will happily refer any family member or friend that is seeking care at home to Always Best Care.”
“Thank you for the excellent care given to my mom. It was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders knowing that Cynthia was there to care for her. Mom was very fond of Cynthia as well as the rest of the family.”
“The Renchy family of Guilford would like to thank the staff and caretakers at CT Hospice of Branford and the CT Hospice Homecare as well as the staff and caretakers from Always Best Care. A special thank you to Sue Dow who helped the family navigate the homecare process over the past several years.”
“Rick/Heather, Thank you for providing excellent customer service !! I have received several emails and phone calls from caregivers who have provided positive feedback about the aids that you deploy to their loved ones (my consumers). This can only be a reflection of your hiring practices and the training that you provide, we appreciate the excellent quality of service.”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of care will be recommended to others. You went above and beyond what was expected.”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at home assisted by the caregivers from your company Always Best Care of Greater Bristol. This letter is a personal thank you from my father and the entire Ceuch family on how your caregivers treated and attended to my father during this time. The caregivers became part of our extended family who shared in countless family events resulting in beautiful lasting memories. Caregivers Frances Boateng, Jeremy Turner, and Yanice Hernandez were awesome in their care of my father. I want to especially acknowledge Francis as a person who went above and beyond his responsibility and became part of the Ceuch inner circle. It was not uncommon for Francis on his off days to stop by during a family picnic to say hello...he is truly loved by my father. Again, I want to thank you for the loving care your caregivers provided my father. I would highly recommend your company to anyone interested in having a caregiver attend to a loved one. Thanks again”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my step father, Daryl. It's unbelievable how the progression of his illness happened so quickly, however, Always Best Care was always ready to provide the level of care he needed as it increased. Most importantly, I'd like to thank his aide, Sue Malasics. She was wonderful to Daryl and took great care of his needs. I knew I did not have to worry with Sue there with him. She was always cooking wonderful homemade meals and desserts and I was happy to see how happy she made Daryl. I think she is a wonderful asset to Always Best Care. Should I know of anyone needing help in the future, I would recommend Always Best Care and Sue Malasics.”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company, Always Best Care, offered our family and especially the caring, loving attitude that Amber and Natalie displayed to Carol at all times. They were outstanding and you should be proud to place them in any situation with the full expectation they will represent your firm in a most professional manner. Thanks again for all your help.”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company, Always Best Care, offered our family and especially the caring, loving attitude that Amber and Natalie displayed to Carol at all times. They were outstanding and you should be proud to place them in any situation with the full expectation they will represent your firm in a most professional manner. Thanks again for all your help.”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure. My mother was also very demanding about her care and who she would allow into her home. After several attempts with various in-home care agencies my mother really responded well to Always Best Care Senior Services of Greater Bristol and we cant thank them enough for the high level of compassionate care they were able to provide during my moms final months.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary caregiver for my husbamd/ My husband suffers from dementia and is aphasic. On a Saturday morning in October of 2015, a sudden change in my health required an emergent hospitilization, which late resulted in an extensive rehabilitation stay. Upon my hospitalization, my son reached out to Always Best Care Senior Services of greater Bristol. The Always Best Care team assessed my husband, his needs, and had his care staffed within hours of my son's call. The care provided to my husband has been exceptional. The caregivers as well as the office staff have been attentive to our needs and have met all of our expectations. I would highly recommend Always Best Care to you and anyone who is in need of care for their loved one.”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal care assistant until placement in a quality skilled nursing facility became available. We reached out to home health care agencies in her local area but, by this point, had already worked with several agencies for med reminders for Barbara (and 24/7 care for our Mom in another area of CT) and were a bit skeptical that that we’d find one that could provide consistent quality of care.When I spoke with Rick Downey of Always Best Care Senior Services in Bristol, he conveyed both confidence in his knowledge of health care and empathy in understanding the frustrations that families experience when seeking quality care for their loved ones. We were next contacted by their care coordinator,Heather Kozikowski, who came to our sister’s home to conduct an assessment and further explain the services offered by Always Best Care.A further testament to the exceptional quality of Always Best Care is the service and care we’ve received after Barbara is no longer a client; our thanks to Always Best Care for the excellent care of our sister, and the peace-of-mind it afforded our family knowing that she was in such kind and competent hands!”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary caregiver for my husbamd/ My husband suffers from dementia and is aphasic. On a Saturday morning in October of 2015, a sudden change in my health required an emergent hospitilization, which late resulted in an extensive rehabilitation stay. Upon my hospitalization, my son reached out to Always Best Care Senior Services of greater Bristol. The Always Best Care team assessed my husband, his needs, and had his care staffed within hours of my son's call. The care provided to my husband has been exceptional. The caregivers as well as the office staff have been attentive to our needs and have met all of our expectations. I would highly recommend Always Best Care to you and anyone who is in need of care for their loved one.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of care will be recommended to others. You went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a very good providers from this Company”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Housatonic Meadows State Park - Picnic Area with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local RSVP or visit Cornwall Historical Society, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Cornwall Bridge, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Cornwall Bridge, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Cornwall Bridge, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
This year or the next, connect to some of the most captivating small towns in Connecticut. In a state so named after the Connecticut River—which in turn got its name from the Mohegan word “Quonehtacut,” meaning "long tidal river”—travelers will be enlightened by new insights into America’s past in ...
This year or the next, connect to some of the most captivating small towns in Connecticut. In a state so named after the Connecticut River—which in turn got its name from the Mohegan word “Quonehtacut,” meaning "long tidal river”—travelers will be enlightened by new insights into America’s past in historic towns such as Kent and Cornwall. Additionally, you will get to know all about the indigenous cultures in Connecticut in welcoming communities like Branford and Washington, while towns like Mystic and Old Saybrook give visitors a grand appreciation of the Constitution State’s many waterways. Last of all, you will be awestruck by the many captivating small towns in the most pivotal state of the original 13 colonies that openly defied the British Empire.
Charming Connecticut DestinationsVisit seven whimsical towns in Connecticut.
Cornwall, approximately 42 miles from the city of Hartford in the Berkshire Mountains, is a town of many titles. It has been lauded by travelers and locals alike for being the “greenest town” in Connecticut, the “Home of the Covered Bridge” because the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge was built in 1864, and a place where “The mind, eager for caresses, lies down at its own risk in Cornwall” by the poet Mark Van Doren. This small town that got its name from the county of Cornwall in England certainly lives up to its many titles and praises, and you can create new titles for Cornwall yourself when exploring the Wyantenock State Forest, Mohawk State Park, and Housatonic Meadows State Park. One can also admire the former homesteads of the founders of Vermont, Ethan Allen, and Ira Allen, as well as the home of another author named James Thurber and the house of a Broadway producer named Oscar Serlin. No need to feel unwanted in Cornwall, especially when you are staying in the welcoming hearths at the Cornwall Inn.
One cannot get enough of the small town of Kent. Only about 18 minutes from Cornwall, an author named Eric Sloane, who wrote over 38 books, used to live in Kent, which the Eric Sloane Museum explores. Meanwhile, the Kent Iron Furnace is one of a few historic ruins that helped develop Kent into the industrial age. For those of you eager to go venturing into the outdoors, you can always journey to the Macedonia Brook State Park for scenic sights of the Taconic Mountains and the Catskill Mountains, or perhaps take the Appalachian Trail all the way to the Kent Falls State Park and Falls Brook. Naturally, you can also admire Kent Falls, which gave the town its name, although it was originally called “Scatacook” by the Native Americans who once inhabited the area. So, if you are enthusiastic about seeing more of Kent’s attractions, you ought to at least book a room at either the Cooper Creek Bed & Breakfast or The Spirit Horse Farm.
The resplendent town of Essex on the Connecticut River is an excellent destination in the Lower Connecticut River Valley Planning Region. Only about 32 miles west of New Haven, travelers will be amazed by the different attractions within the three communal towns that compose Essex—these being Centerbrook, Ivoryton, and Essex Village. A complex called the Ivoryton Playhouse at Ivoryton offers several venues for local performances. Meanwhile, one can board a schooner cruise that goes through the Connecticut River in the district of Essex Village. Lastly, you can ride a vintage train known as the Essex Steam Train at Centerbrook, which is connected to other nearby towns and cities in the Lower Connecticut River Valley Planning Region. If you are excited about more sights, then head over to The Preserve for some birdwatching detours, or you can always spend your evenings in humble accommodations such as the Griswold Inn, Safe Harbor Essex Island, or Copper Beech Inn.
Old Saybrook, about nine minutes away from Essex, is a good place to learn all about some of Connecticut’s historic past. On land that formerly belonged to the Algonquin-speaking peoples of the Nehantic and Pequot, Old Saybrook was initially visited by Dutch traders who established a brief presence before the English Puritans permanently settled the area in 1635 as part of the Saybrook Colony. Many of the historic New England buildings along the Connecticut River have retained their original designs, as best seen in either the General William Hart House—with its artifacts of a famous leader during the American Revolutionary War—or Fort Saybrook Monument Park. Regions like the Ferry Landing State Park and Harvey’s Beach promise leisurely boat tours of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, where herons and ospreys are in abundance. Fine lodgings like the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina and the Pier Blue Inn will allow you to sleep peacefully after a long day of vacationing in Old Saybrook.
In the year 1638, after New Haven colonists traded "eleven coats of trucking cloth and one coat of English cloth made in the English fashion" to the Mattabesec tribe in a land once known as Totokett, commonly believed to mean 'Tidal River,' the town of Branford soon rose up to be one of the oldest communities in Connecticut. Only six miles away from New Haven, Branford has retained much of its old New England splendor minus the British Empire’s colonialist administration, and newcomers will be astounded by the excellent craft beers of the Thimble Island Brewery, Duvig Beer Company, and Stony Creek Brewery. In homesteads like the Harrison House Museum, one can see what the Americana lifestyle was like, while magnificent destinations like the Lake Saltonstall Recreational Area will keep you entertained and rejuvenated for the outdoors. Should you desire a more extended stay in Branford, you can always seek accommodations at either the Owenego Inn or American Inn.
On the Mystic River lies the town of Mystic, which is similarly named. Since the 19th century, shipwrights, blacksmiths, builders, and seafarers have called Mystic their home away from home and have contributed much to the town’s development. One can learn all about Mystic’s historic chapters at the Mystic Seaport Museum. You can also admire Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship preserved in the US. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge leads travelers toward the Mystic Aquarium, where one can admire the marine wildlife in the Mystic River. Meanwhile, the Mystic Museum of Art exhibits numerous masterpieces from Mystic’s artisans. Mason’s Island’s Tree Trails will leave you mesmerized by all the mystical flora and foliage surrounding the town, and majestic abodes like the Inn at Mystic, The Whaler’s Inn, and Harbor View Landing will have you wanting to see more of Mystic’s wonders.
Lounging beside the Saugatuck River, Westport promises visitors a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Only about 52 miles from New York City, many of you might be familiar with the town even if you never actually stepped foot on it. That is because Westport has been the setting of several American TV series, among them Billions, American Housewife, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2, The Stepford Wives, and more. For a more vicarious experience of Westport, you can watch lively performances at Levitt Pavilion or traipse through Cockenoe Island in Long Island Sound, in addition to Sherwood Island State Park’s beaches and shorelines. Compo Beach, meanwhile, contains the remains of British cannons left behind after their defeat in the Revolutionary War. So, in this town founded by five Bankside Farmers in Westport in 1648, give yourself a much-desired getaway from the big cities in accommodating hostels like The Inn at Longshore.
Approximately 50 miles from the city of Hartford, the small town of Washington welcomes visitors to a handful of attractions along the Shepaug River. Whether you are kayaking through Lake Waramaug or gallivanting across the green pastures if Litchfield Hills, you will undoubtedly be amazed by the natural sceneries surrounding this small town so named after President George Washington. At the Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS), one can learn all about the Native American tribes that once thrived in Connecticut. Elsewhere, the Judea Parish House, the Smithy Loft Gallery, and St. John’s Church are among the many historic structures that showcase an inkling of early Americana life—many of these buildings were made by a single architect, whose name was Ehrick Rossiter. However, more modern buildings like the Mayflower Inn & Spa, Windemere Bed & Breakfast, and Hopkins Inn are more suitable for nightly and daily accommodations than tourist appeal. So, whatever you intend to do in Washington, do so with aplomb and appreciation.
In the land where the first Thanksgiving was held in 1621 and where the oldest US-based newspaper, The Hartford Courant, continues to stay relevant, Connecticut contains a number of captivating small towns for you to visit this 2024 and beyond. From Westport’s recognizable locales to Old Saybrook’s architecture reminiscent of Europe’s old towns, travelers will find many things, both old and new, to cherish upon one’s homely return. So go exploring in the homeland of ESPN and Yale University, and use that freedom that Connecticut fought the British Empire to give you in fruitful and fantastic explorations in the most captivating small towns in Connecticut.
Connecticut's Fall Hotspots for 2024Discover towns in Connecticut that come alive in the fall of 2024.
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Although the New England state of Connecticut is known for its rich history and serious abundance of cultural and natural attractions, it still knows how to embrace its whimsical side. Travelers looking for a fun, lighthearted escape are in luck in Connecticut, which is home to a long list of interesting small towns that are ready to show visitors a good time. Whether you want to kick back and enjoy nature at a beautiful preserve or park o...
Although the New England state of Connecticut is known for its rich history and serious abundance of cultural and natural attractions, it still knows how to embrace its whimsical side. Travelers looking for a fun, lighthearted escape are in luck in Connecticut, which is home to a long list of interesting small towns that are ready to show visitors a good time. Whether you want to kick back and enjoy nature at a beautiful preserve or park or kick up your heels at a local festival, you will find it in Connecticut. Discover seven hometowns worth adding to your "must-visit" list.
Incorporated in 1740, pretty Cornwall is set in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains and was dubbed the greenest town in Connecticut due to its abundant natural surroundings. The idyllic town is also situated among the Mohawk State Forest, which is known for its rugged hills, miles of trails for hiking and biking, diverse wildlife, and lush forest. Although Cornwall has a rich farming and industrial history dating back to the 1700s, and plenty of serious attractions and sites worth seeing, it maintains a whimsical, free-spirited feel.
You are in luck if you love outdoor adventures, as the area is ideal for fishing, all types of water sports, skiiing in the winter, and golfing, just to name a few. Climb up to the top of Mohawk Summit, which has an impressive elevation of 1,683 feet and is the highest point on the Mattatuck Trail. Anglers can spend a day on pretty Mohawk Pond, a 16-acre kettle pond that is stocked to the gills with largemouth bass. Do you love the romantic allure of covered bridges? The town is home to the West Cornwall Covered Bridge, which makes the ideal backdrop for photographs.
Best known as the setting for the classic '80s hit movie Mystic Pizza, the fun, quirky town of Mystic stepped into the ship-building scene soon after it was founded in the mid-17th Century. Today, the quaint, scenic town, situated on the Mystic River, has the quintessential New England feel, complete with plenty of seaport charm.
Explore historic downtown Mystic while you are in the area, and discover a fun and vibrant collection of waterfront shops and eateries. You can sample freshly caught seafood at the family-owned and operated J&R Seafood Market. For dessert, satisfy your sweet tooth at Kenzie's Fudge and Chocolate Shop. If you love learning about local history, check out the historic Mystic Drawbridge, as well as a variety of sea captains' homes from the Colonial Era. Also, don't miss the Mystic Museum of Art or the Mystic Aquarium, both of which are fun for visitors of all ages.
Beautiful Bethel's claim to fame is that it was the birthplace of the late, great circus ringmaster PT Barnum, and that piece of historical significance adds to the town's whimsical feel. Although it's just over 70 miles from New York City, Bethel is able to maintain plenty of small-town charm, as well as more than its fair share of green spaces and natural beauty. Let loose at one of Bethel's well-planned parks, including Meckauer Park and Bennett Memorial Park.
Take a stroll through downtown Bethel, where you will encounter adorable antique shops, farm-to-table eateries serving food made with regional ingredients, and cute cafes, including the mouth-watering Putnam House Restaurant & Tap Room. If you are a movie lover, the Greenwood Features Theater shows a mix of new releases, independent, and classic films.
The fun never ends in charming Chester, which plays host to a wide variety of fun special events all year long. Its rich and varied social calendar includes festivities such as December's Starry Nights Illumination Celebration, spooky Halloweentown, and weekly farmers markets. The whimsical town is also filled with natural delights, including nearby lakes, brooks, and even waterfalls. Appreciate nature during a trip to the nearby Cockaponset State Forest, where you will find miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as a lake for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.
Although picturesque Branford is located just over five miles away from the bustling city of New Haven, it has an idyllic, New England small-town vibe. Situated on the scenic Long Island Sound, Branford offers visitors 20 miles of beachfront, opportunities for hiking and biking on the 30-mile circular Branford Trail, which winds past wetlands and woodlands, and plenty of scenic roads for exploring the region.
Adults looking to have a good time while sampling local craft beer can head to Thimble Island Brewery, Stony Creek Brewery, or the Duvig Beer Company. Constructed in 1724, the Harrison House Museum gives history lovers a look into Branford's past with a vast collection of memorabilia.
Lovely Westport, which has long been known as a relaxing respite for New Yorkers looking for a break from city life, has both a quaint and cosmopolitan appeal. Visitors come from all over to experience the Westport Country Playhouse and the Westport Museum of History and Culture, as well as a variety of other fun and interesting attractions. Westport cs a touch of whimsy with its playful feel, as it perfectly straddles the line between urban and rural life.
Among Westport's long list of recreational and leisure activities are lounging on sandy Burying Hill Beach and strolling through the vibrantly colored and sweet-smelling Gilbertie's Herb Gardens in the spring and summer months.
Despite Old Saybrook's name, the town has a youthful feel, as well as unparalleled natural beauty, a rich history, and plenty of the famous New England charm to spare. Old Saybrook is well-known for being the former home of the world-renowned classic actress Katharine Hepburn and for being one of Connecticut's oldest towns. Settled in 1635, Old Saybrook is situated at the point where the Connecticut River meets the Long Island Sound, making it a water-lovers paradise. There are many nearby places where visitors can enjoy stunning water views and outdoor activities, such as the breathtaking Rocky Neck State Park and family-friendly Harvey's Beach. Get in touch with your playful side by checking out Mini-Golf at Saybrook Point or browsing quirky local shops such as Re-Unique.
Towns in Connecticut with Vibrant Downtown AreasFrom bustling downtowns filled with neat shops and delicious food options to picturesque villages along the Connecticut shoreline, this small state offers big adventures for anyone with some time on their hands.
From funky, historic towns teeming with quaint boutiques, cultural attractions, family-run eateries, seaports, and even pristine beaches to fast-paced, world-class cities, the picturesque state of Connecticut has it all. Visitors seeking a lighthearted, stress-free getaway, whether it be for a family summer vacation or a weekend respite, are especially in luck in this New England state. Not only do Connecticut's picturesque small towns have a warm and welcoming ambiance, but they also offer an abundance of fun activities to enjoy at any age or time of the year.
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