Maine has seven fingers across its MidCoast, each having characteristics that make them staples in the region for tourists and locals alike.
Niantic, a quaint seaside village of East Lyme, has become a tourist destination in its own right, with Niantic Bay and Long Island Sound to the south, and the Niantic River to the east. Niantic is the only community on the Connecticut coast where the “Main Street” runs parallel to beautiful Long Island Sound. It’s the home of a mile-long waterfront boardwalk overlooking Long Island Sound offering inspiring views of Niantic Bay and Long Island Sound.
When is the last time you can remember laughing and being in a place that makes you feel like a kid again? Come to Eastham, a small town with less than 5,000 residents that stands out when it comes to beauty, friendliness and recreation. My family and I love living here and wake up each day to a list of places to explore and learn about.
The beaches are untouched, pristine and available to all, some of Eastham’s special places are:
Glastonbury, Connecticut is a town with the perfect blend of both historic beauty and modern convenience. We are fortunate to have The Historical Society of Glastonbury which informs residents and visitors alike about our rich history at the Museum on the Green, as well as through educational and promotional events such as the Bread and Beer Demonstration and the Walking Tours. Did you know Glastonbury is the Connecticut town with the largest inventory of Colonial homes? We also are proud to have the oldest continuous operating ferry in the country, dating back to 1655. The Ferry Landing is my favorite place to park the car, and take a walk past sunflowers, tobacco barns, and working farms.
As a visitor to this quintessential New England town, you will be greeted by warm smiles and enlightening conversations with the locals. You can stay at the one of the six B and B’s and Inns where you will be spoiled by your innkeepers. Or, if you are smitten by Kent (and who isn’t), you can choose a tour of your future home with one of the real estate agents in town or nearby New Milford, CT.
Get up early Saturday morning and take a walk through Woodland Park with it’s many trails. You will feel like you are miles away from civilization. Alternatively, try the loop around Long Neck Point with beautiful vistas of Darien Harbor and Long Island Sound. On a clear day, you will be able to see New York City. You will likely see many other people out on this route jogging, pushing strollers or walking dogs. Then go out for breakfast at one of the many local spots for the perfect bacon, egg and cheese or a fresh bagel. Some favorite spots are Jake’s Place, Uncle’s Deli or UCBC for great bagels.
Growing up, my Dad used to tell me that Middlefield was once a part of the city of nearby Middletown but a tax difference between the urban “Towners” and the rural “Fielders” caused tensions and so, the towns split apart. Although I haven’t found anything to back up his claim, Middlefield remains a sacred place to me and now, to my own family.
The Darien Nights Concert Series was launched by Darien residents David Genovese and Penny Glassmeyer, who head up Baywater Properties and Grove Street Plaza, respectively. During the Winter of 2008-2009, the two decided it was time to do something positive for residents who would be staying around town because of the unsettled economic climate and to encourage them to shop locally and support Darien’s merchants. The first series was such a great success this yearly tradition has continued ever since and every year attendance grows.
Midway between New York and Boston and easily reachable by train or interstate, Branford offers an exciting coastal region for foodies, arts and theater lovers, as well as outdoor enthusiasts. While usually a historic summer destination that includes Pine Orchard and Stony Creek and the Thimble Islands, Branford is also a vibrant year-round community situated just 15 minutes from New Haven. The town comes alive in the summer beginning with the family-oriented Branford Festival and road race in mid-June and weekly Jazz on the Green. Boaters, hikers, cyclists, kayakers, and sunbathers find pleasure in the varied scenery of lakes, rivers, marshes, woods, and dramatic shoreline.
New England Begins Just North of New Haven and the “Q” Bridge. Branford, Connecticut is the first notable stop along that New England shoreline. It’s where a lobster roll contains hot steamed lobster meat, drizzled with butter on a toasted hot dog roll. Take your kids to Branford and the whole family can tour Stony Creek’s fabled Thimble Islands by boat and hear the tall tales of pirates hiding from the British navy. Afterwards, the adults can indulge with Montowese oysters and a Thimble Island IPA on the deck at Lenny’s while listening to jazz and watching the ospreys circling overhead.
Situated north of the Merritt Parkway, in Greenwich, Connecticut, there is a feeling of being in Vermont but with the proximity of 35 miles to New York City. The homes all have four acre zoning which gives privacy and offers extraordinarily beautiful countryside with large luxury properties and small charming ones as well. Many “rich & famous” have lived here and currently do. One exception to this zoning is Conyers Farm (former owner was CEO of Schenley’s Liquors) which has zoning of 10 minimum acres lot and estates with 60 lots.
Florida has been home to the Florida Grapefruit league for over 125 years. Each spring, 15 MLB teams more south to Florida to prepare for the season ahead, all while basking in the Florida Sunshine. Teams include: Boston Red Sox, Minnesota Twins, Tampa Bay Rays, Detroit Tigers, and more.
