Top reasons to visit Essex
- Essex Steam Train: Experience a unique journey through scenic views on this historic train.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy beautiful state parks, picturesque beaches, and recreational areas perfect for adventure.
- Charming Downtown: Explore historic buildings and a picturesque downtown filled with local shops and eateries.
- Romantic Escapes: Ideal for couples, Essex offers serene landscapes and cozy accommodations for a romantic getaway.
- Diverse Lodging Options: From charming bed & breakfasts to hotels, find the perfect stay for every traveler.
Find great hotels near Essex
Discover the charm of Essex, Connecticut, with a range of lodging options perfect for every traveler. From cozy bed & breakfasts to welcoming hotels, you'll find accommodations that cater to families, pet owners, and beach enthusiasts alike. Enjoy convenient amenities and read reviews to find the best hotel for your stay. Essex promises a delightful vacation experience with options to suit all preferences.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Groton: Experience a family-friendly retreat at Super 8 by Wyndham Groton, located 27.4km from Essex. This motel is perfect for travelers seeking a cozy atmosphere with amenities tailored for children. Families will appreciate the complimentary cribs available, making it easier to travel with little ones. With its straightforward accommodations, this property emphasizes comfort, convenience, and a welcoming environment, ensuring that every family member feels at home during their stay.
- Holiday Inn New London - Mystic Area by IHG: Situated just 24.1km from Essex, the Holiday Inn New London - Mystic Area by IHG is a distinguished 3-star hotel that caters to both business travelers and the LGBTQIA community. Its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. This hotel provides modern amenities and a professional environment ideal for business needs, while also being close to local attractions. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay with quality services designed to meet diverse needs.
- Baymont by Wyndham Groton/Mystic: Just 27.4km from Essex, Baymont by Wyndham Groton/Mystic combines business convenience with family-friendly amenities, making it a versatile choice for your vacation. The hotel offers direct access to the beach, perfect for those looking to relax by the water. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs for children, ensuring a hassle-free stay. With a welcoming atmosphere for all types of travelers, this hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the beautiful Connecticut coastline.
Where to stay near Essex
Essex, Connecticut, offers a memorable getaway with its picturesque downtown and charming historic buildings. This outdoor-friendly city is perfect for couples seeking romance or families looking for relaxation. Nearby neighborhoods provide a friendly atmosphere, whether you prefer a budget-friendly escape or a touch of luxury. Explore the scenic beauty and unique experiences that Essex and its surrounding areas have to offer, making your visit truly unforgettable.
- Westbrook: Nestled 9.7km from Essex, Westbrook offers a delightful retreat with a mix of outdoor beauty and romantic charm. Known for its stunning scenery, this city attracts visitors primarily during the summer months, from June to August. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities at local golf courses, recreational areas, and resorts. Don't miss the nearby beaches, which provide perfect spots for family outings and relaxation. With its seasonal visitor appeal, Westbrook is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying local attractions and events.
- Old Saybrook: Located just 8.0km from Essex, Old Saybrook is a vibrant city that welcomes travelers year-round. While peak visitation occurs from June to August, the city maintains a steady flow of visitors even in the quieter winter months. Old Saybrook is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, outdoor activities, and romantic settings. Popular venues include scenic golf courses and resorts, while the nearby beaches and national state park offer fantastic opportunities for exploration and relaxation. This charming city is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility.
- Old Lyme: Situated 8.0km from Essex, Old Lyme is a seasonal gem that sees its highest visitor numbers from June to August. Known for its outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, this city is a playground for nature lovers. With recreational areas, mini-golf, and resorts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The local beaches and national state park beckon visitors to explore their natural beauty. Old Lyme's unique combination of adventure and scenic charm makes it an enticing destination for a memorable vacation experience.
Things to do near Essex
Essex, Connecticut offers a charming getaway perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic escapes. Visitors can enjoy major attractions like the Essex Steam Train, a unique experience that showcases scenic views. The town features recreational areas, a golf course, and shopping centers, making it ideal for a memorable stay. Don’t miss the picnic areas for a relaxing afternoon amidst beautiful scenery.
Shopping
For convenient shopping, visit the Essex Plaza Shopping Center, just 1.6km away, offering a lively atmosphere. The Essex Saybrook Antique Village Shopping Center, located 4.8km away, features unique finds. If you're up for a drive, check out Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets, 14.5km away, for more shopping options.
Recreation
Enjoy a day at Ocean Beach Park's pool, perfect for families seeking outdoor fun. For golf enthusiasts, Fox Hopyard Golf Club offers a scenic course just 9.7km away, while the nearby Banner Country Club provides an inviting outdoor atmosphere for a round of golf.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Waterford Speedbowl, located 19.3km from Essex, where adrenaline runs high. For skiing enthusiasts, Powder Ridge Mountain Park and Resort offers exciting slopes 32.2km away. Enjoy the scenic beauty and outdoor adventure of the Airline State Park Trail, situated 30.6km from Essex.
Nightlife
Experience the enchanting nightlife in Essex by visiting the Ivoryton Playhouse for captivating performances, or dive into fun at Stay and Play LLC's arcadeAdventureZone. Don't miss the Goodspeed Opera House for a blend of romance and culture, all within a short drive from Essex.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Essex
To save money during your trip to Essex, Connecticut, consider visiting in March or December to January, when hotel prices are lower. Booking your stay on a Tuesday can also help you save, as Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare room rates and find budget-friendly hotels, including eco-certified options. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings. Don’t forget to explore free activities in the area to make the most of your vacation without overspending.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Essex are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Essex is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Essex is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Essex with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Essex
Essex, Connecticut, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and romantic scenery, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore local attractions such as beautiful state parks, picturesque beaches, and historic houses. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or simply want to enjoy the scenic landscapes, Essex has a variety of points of interest that cater to all types of travelers looking for an unforgettable experience.
- Essex Steam Train: Experience the charm of a historic railway museum where you can ride vintage steam trains through picturesque landscapes, immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of the region.
- Essex Island Marina: Enjoy the great outdoors at Essex Island Marina, where you can partake in beach activities, rent boats for adventure on the water, and soak in the sun while surrounded by scenic views.
- Gillette Castle State Park: Explore the stunning Gillette Castle State Park, located 8.0km from Essex, featuring a unique castle, beautiful hiking trails, and breathtaking scenery that invite outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Best time to go to Essex
The best time to visit Essex can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Essex falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Essex falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Essex
When visiting Essex, Connecticut, you have several airport options. Hartford's Bradley International Airport (BDL) is 67.6km away, with nearby accommodations like the DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford - Bradley Airport, just 1.6km from the airport. Providence's T.F. Green Airport (PVD) is 88.5km away, offering hotel choices such as the Omni Providence Hotel, located 11.3km from the airport. Islip's MacArthur Airport (ISP) is 86.9km away, with options like the Hyatt Regency Long Island, situated 6.4km from the airport. Each of these airports provides convenient access to local hotels, making your travel experience smoother.