Guilford
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Guilford's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the historic Guilford Green, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant gardens. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After your meal, take a stroll to the nearby Guilford Art Center to appreciate local artworks and crafts.
In the afternoon, dive deeper into Guilford's rich history by visiting the Henry Whitfield State Museum, the oldest house in Connecticut. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the area's colonial past and take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating stories behind the artifacts. Afterward, explore the charming shops along the main street, picking up unique souvenirs and local goods.
As the sun sets, gather for dinner at one of Guilford's delightful restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood caught from the nearby Long Island Sound. Post-dinner, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline at Jacobs Beach, enjoying the sound of the waves and the beautiful twilight sky. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub, sharing stories and laughter with friends.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, fueling up for a day of fun in the sun. Head to Jacobs Beach, where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the gentle waters of the Long Island Sound. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy shores, soaking up the sun and enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze.
After a morning of water activities, grab lunch at a beach picnic spot, enjoying fresh sandwiches and snacks you've packed. Spend the afternoon playing beach volleyball or building sandcastles with family and friends, creating lasting memories. If you're feeling adventurous, consider signing up for a sailing lesson or a guided boat tour to explore the nearby islands.
As the day winds down, treat yourself to a seaside dinner at a local seafood restaurant, relishing the catch of the day with stunning ocean views. After dinner, take a peaceful sunset walk along the beach, watching the vibrant colors paint the sky. End your day with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast at your accommodation or a local café, energizing yourself for a day of exploration. Head to the nearby Guilford Land Conservation Trust trails for a scenic hike through lush woodlands and along picturesque waterways. Breathe in the fresh air as you encounter local wildlife and beautiful flora along the winding paths.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic overlooks, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding nature. Continue your outdoor adventure at the nearby Westwoods Trails, where you can hike, bike, or even partake in birdwatching. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and serene moments.
Return to Guilford and unwind at a charming restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine, where you can savor locally sourced ingredients. Post-dinner, head to the Guilford Performing Arts Center for an evening of live music or community theater, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Wrap up your night with a stroll through the quaint streets, illuminated by soft streetlights.
Start your day with breakfast at a local diner, enjoying classic American dishes and the warm atmosphere. After breakfast, visit the Guilford Historical Society to learn about the town's heritage through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Take time to explore the surrounding gardens, enjoying the tranquility of the historic site.
For lunch, embark on a culinary adventure by participating in a local food tour, sampling various dishes from hidden gems around town. Spend your afternoon at the local farmer's market, interacting with vendors and picking up fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage in a cooking class at a community center, where you can learn to prepare traditional New England recipes.
As evening approaches, gather your newly acquired ingredients and enjoy a group dinner at a communal space, sharing the dishes you've prepared. After dinner, indulge in dessert at a local bakery known for its delicious treats. Finish your evening with a cozy nightcap at a local wine bar, enjoying a selection of wines from nearby vineyards.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Guilford Art Center, where you can explore various art exhibits showcasing local artists. Afterward, enjoy brunch at a nearby bistro, savoring creative dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients. Spend some time in the center's gift shop, picking up unique handcrafted items and art pieces.
In the afternoon, visit a local gallery showcasing rotating exhibits from both established and emerging artists. Participate in a painting or pottery workshop, allowing your creativity to flow as you create your own masterpiece. Spend the late afternoon exploring the artistic community in Guilford, visiting studios and chatting with artists about their work.
As the sun sets, attend a live music event at a local venue, where you can enjoy performances by talented musicians from various genres. Relish dinner at a restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and art-inspired décor, where the local art scene is celebrated. Conclude your evening by participating in an open mic night, showcasing your own talents or simply cheering on others.
Start your day with a breakfast at a historic inn that exudes charm and character. Visit the iconic Guilford Green, where you can explore its historical landmarks, including the First Congregational Church and the Old Stone Church. Allow yourself to be captivated by the stories behind these significant structures as you stroll through the green.
Afterward, embark on a guided tour of the Henry Whitfield State Museum, where you can learn about the colonial history of Guilford and explore its artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, discussing the fascinating facts you’ve learned. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Caswell Cove, where you can appreciate the natural beauty of the coastline.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot for dinner in one of Guilford's historic restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal steeped in local traditions. After dinner, take a guided ghost tour that delves into the spooky history of the town, uncovering tales of the past. Wrap up your night at a local tavern, sharing your favorite ghost stories over drinks.
Begin your day with a family-friendly breakfast at a local pancake house, where everyone can choose their favorite toppings. After breakfast, head to the Guilford Recreation Department for a day filled with fun activities, including mini-golf and playgrounds. Enjoy the outdoors as you participate in games and sports tailored for all ages.
After a fun-filled morning, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the nearby Lake Quonnipaug, where you can also rent paddleboats for a delightful afternoon on the water. Engage in family games like frisbee or soccer on the grassy areas nearby. Spend time exploring the nature trails around the lake, spotting wildlife and enjoying the scenic views.
As the day winds down, gather for a casual family dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, where everyone can choose their favorite meal. After dinner, indulge in dessert at a local ice cream shop, savoring unique flavors that are sure to delight. Finish your day with a fun movie night at a nearby cinema, enjoying the latest family-friendly film.
Start your day at a local café with a warm cup of coffee and a freshly baked pastry. Visit the Guilford Farmers Market, where you can interact with local farmers and artisans, sampling fresh produce and handmade goods. Take your time exploring the colorful stalls filled with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and crafts.
After the market, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby deli, featuring local ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting artisan studios and galleries, where you can meet local craftspeople and learn about their creative processes. Engage in hands-on workshops, trying your hand at pottery or weaving, and creating something special to take home.
As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that prioritizes local ingredients, allowing you to taste the essence of Guilford. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, enjoying the charming shops and vibrant street art. End your night with a sweet treat from a local bakery, reflecting on the unique finds of the day.
Begin your adventure with breakfast at a waterfront café, fueling up for a day of island exploration. After breakfast, board a ferry from Guilford to one of the nearby islands, such as Thimble Islands, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. Spend your morning exploring the island's trails and taking in the stunning vistas.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the island, surrounded by picturesque scenery and the soothing sounds of nature. After lunch, embark on a guided eco-tour to learn about the local ecology and history of the islands, spotting wildlife along the way. Take a moment to relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and the tranquil atmosphere.
As the day comes to a close, catch the ferry back to Guilford and unwind with dinner at a coastal restaurant, sampling local seafood specialties. After dinner, enjoy a sunset walk along the beach, soaking in the last rays of the day while savoring the peaceful ambiance. Conclude your day with a visit to a local craft brewery, enjoying a refreshing drink and reflecting on your island adventure.