Last winter, I shared a guide to visiting Litchfield County during the holiday season. Since then, a lot of people have asked if I’d put together a version for spring and summer, so consider this your warm-weather update… A lot of my favorite restaurants, shops, and places to stay from the winter guide are still on this list, but spring and summer bring a completely different energy.
If you’re looking for an easy weekend escape from New York City, it’s hard to beat Litchfield County this time of year.
Just a couple of hours from the city, it’s the kind of place where you can spend the day wandering through small towns, stopping into antique shops, taking a hike, grabbing an ice cream cone, and somehow still feel like you haven’t seen everything. The roads are scenic, the towns are charming without trying too hard, and there’s always something worth pulling over for.
One thing I’ve learned after living here for a few years is that there really isn’t a “perfect” Litchfield County itinerary. There are too many towns, too many back roads, and too many places you’ll want to stop unexpectedly along the way. My advice is always the same: pick a few towns, don’t over-schedule yourself, and leave room for a little wandering.
With that, here’s my updated list of favorite places to stay, eat, shop, and explore in Litchfield County during spring and summer…
Central Litchfield County includes Litchfield, Bantam, Washington, New Preston, and Kent. If you’re visiting for the first time, this is definitely the area I’d recommend you focus your stay on, as it has the highest concentration of things to do and see.
WHERE TO STAY
Belden House - Litchfield, CT: A beautifully restored inn where you can stay and dine: the restaurant draws on seasonal New England produce (and coastal seafood) for elegant meals in a cozy, historic-house setting. It’s one of those stays where you can roll out of bed and into a comfy fireplace-lit dinner, or the town center. https://www.instagram.com/beldenhouse
Lost Fox Inn – Litchfield, CT: This place is such a vibe: a restored 1740s tavern turned boutique inn that blends historic charm with rustic-elegant style — perfect for a cozy weekend away that feels both special and relaxed. If you like character-filled stays and good food, this will hit the spot.
https://www.instagram.com/lostfoxinnMayflower Auberge – Washington, CT: The definition of country luxury — fireplaces, a dreamy spa, and the most serene property. If you want to splurge, this is the spot.
https://www.instagram.com/mayflowerauberge/
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