Old Wethersfield, CT

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Do you know where the oldest and largest historic district in Connecticut is?! Old Wethersfield, CT! Located 10 minutes outside of Hartford, CT. It is the quintessential New England village! I went to visit one weekend in early 2020, because I had noticed a lot posts at a particular location. I quickly fell in love with Old Wethersfield, I’ve returned many, many times! If it wasn’t for my love of the shoreline living, I would’ve picked to live in Old Wethersfield.

Here are some suggestions of what to do in Old Wethersfield:

Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre

This is the particular location that often popped up on Instagram. A natural food market combined with a cafe. What I love about the cafe is that they use fresh and local ingredients! They do offer gluten free options. I’ve stopped in for their sandwiches several times, even when I’m just passing through. It’s THAT GOOD! Walking in there always feels like a year-round farmer’s market. I also admire how it’s housed in an old historic (200+ years old!) industrial antique building. Truly the best spot to visit!

Walk around the district

It’s the best town for historic homes. I’m always in awe of the homes there, often photographing them during all seasons. I’ve learned the history of some homes which has been so fascinating to discover. I often walk on Main Street from Heirloom Market down to Wethersfield Cove and back. There’s also some historical buildings. The one that you can’t miss as it’s the first you see coming in Old Wethersfield from I-91 - the First Church, the brick church with a beautiful white steeple. Witch trials were held there during the 17th century. There is a cemetery behind it with some stones dating back to 1600’s.

Wethersfield Cove

At the end of Main Street, you’ll find yourself at Wethersfield Cove. It is a park, with a cove that is connected to Connecticut River. Plenty of picnic tables and benches are around the park to enjoy the beautiful waterfront views. Many people have fished here and use the public boat launch to access the Connecticut River. You can’t miss the historical building at the cove, the warehouse, built in 1600s. It was restored in 1934 and currently operates as a museum [Wethersfield Historical Society].

Visit the museums

  • Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum. The houses are from 18th century and was home of Revolutionary War diplomat Silas Deane. They are available to host for weddings, the rustic barn on their property would make a beautiful backdrop!

  • The Buttolph-Williams House, which was the setting in the book ‘The Witch of Blackbird Pond’.

  • Hurlbut-Dunham House, a historical brick house was the home of social and civic leaders, Jane and Howard Dunham.

  • Keeney Memorial Cultural Center is across the street from Webb-Deane-Stevens museum. It houses the visitor’s center for Old Wethersfield, where you can get more information about the town and what it has to offer. The Wethersfield Museum is also housed in there, providing more information about the history!

Silas W. Robbins House [bed and breakfast]

I quickly fell in love with this beautiful bed and breakfast. It is one of the most gorgeous home I have ever seen in my life! The house even caught the attention of Hallmark Channel, as it was the setting in a Christmas movie, ‘Christmas at Honeysuckle Lane’. The owners does an amazing job of exterior decor each season, especially at Christmas time! I’ve been lucky to photograph the house during all seasons. One year I finally got a tour of the inside - it is as gorgeous! It’s surely on my bucket list to stay there overnight!

Main Street Creamery

You cannot, I repeat, CANNOT, visit Old Wethersfield without getting an ice cream from Main Street Creamery! It’s one of my favorite ice cream shops in Connecticut with plethora of delicious flavors. Yes, there are gluten free/vegan options! Be sure to have some cash handy.

Support local

There are several shops across the street from the First Church. An antique shop, a home decor boutique, an old fashioned general store, seeds store and more. Pop in some of them and you’ll be sure to find something for yourself or someone!

Attend the events

Many events occur in Old Wethersfield from April to December! My two favorites are the Bicycles on Main [May] and Scarecrows Along Main [October].

Old Wethersfield is truly the perfect town for history lovers. The town preserved the rich history, making it perfect destination for a weekend getaway or for the day trippers. I also love that it’s a low cost, but still has plenty to do and see. You will fall in love with Old Wethersfield!