10 Best Things to Do in Avon, Connecticut

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A town in the Farmington Valley region of Connecticut, Avon is often recognized as one of the safest towns in America. The flourishing suburb is home to an array of attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ranging from the Avon Old Farms boarding school to the now-museum Pine Grove School House. It’s perfect for vacationers who are looking to include a bit of art, history, and outdoor recreation into their itinerary, especially because of Avon’s close proximity to Talcott Mountain. Some of the places you shouldn’t miss exploring while there include the Farmington Valley Arts Center, Horse Guard State Park, and the Blue Fox Run Golf Course.

© Avon Old Farms School

The Avon Old Farms School was founded in 1927 by one of the first female architects in America: Theodate Pope Riddle. The boys-only private boarding school operated for several years before it closed down for a period of time during World War II so that the building can be used as a place of recovery for blind veterans. The school, which sits on 900 acres of land, is up and running today and is one of the most prominent college prep boys’ school in the state. While in Avon, explore the unique campus, take in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it, and get a better understanding of the traditional values that are instilled on the campus.

500 Old Farms Rd, Avon, CT 06001

© Farmington Valley Arts Center

Enriching the lives of Avon’s visitors and residents through art since 1974, the Farmington Valley Arts Center is a wonderful place in which artists and art lovers can inspire each other, exchange ideas, learn, create, and exhibit their works. The participants vary in age, background, and ability, and the center creates the perfect community to better understand each person’s personal artistic journey. There are events held throughout the year so go and explore one of their gallery exhibits, attend a special exhibition, have an ‘art party’, or sit in one of the many workshops or educational programs on painting with watercolors, abstract painting, or mastering pastels.

25 Arts Center Ln, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-678-1867

© Knit & Pearls

Knit & Pearls is more than just a store selling yarn and other craft supplies; instead it’s a place for knitters, weavers, and crocheters of all ages and skill levels to come together and share their passion with each other. That’s not to say they don’t have an array of crochet and knitting patterns, unique knitting kids, needles, feltings kits and tools, yarns of all kinds, as well as their very own line of hand-dyed yarns, because they do. But they also provide services, guidance, and support that is often described by their regular patrons as ‘therapeutic’. Join one of their many classes and events to get hands on, no matter if you’re a beginner or a skilled expert.

395 W Avon Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-404-0694

© Blue Fox Run Golf Course

The Blue Fox Run Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course that was developed in the early 1970s. Though it has had many names throughout its history, one thing that remains clear is that it is a much-appreciated staple in the community. Golfers of all skill levels flock to the scenic property which was reconfigured by renowned golf architect, Steven Kaye, to ensure the championship quality of the course. There are several professional events that take place at Blue Fox Run such as the New England Public Links Championship and the LPGA Futures Tour which visitors are encouraged to attend.

65 Nod Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-678-1679

© Pine Grove School House

Built in 1865 and having operated until 1949, the Pine Grove School House educated students for eighty years before it was the last one-room school house in town to permanently close its doors. It was originally named Schoolhouse #7 until a teacher renamed it in the 1920 after noticing a grove of pine trees nearby; one of Avon’s current elementary schools bears the same name in honor of the original school. It’s a marvelous sight to explore as you’ll get a detailed understanding of how children attended school in the one room building which was lit by kerosene lamps and heated by a wood stove.

3 Harris Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-678-7621

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Established in 1964, Horse Guard State Park is a public recreation area which spans over 100 acres. Much of the land has experienced little to no development since it was purchased by the state, giving visitors an opportunity to take in and appreciate the unmarred beauty of the park. One of the key attractions there is the Avon Historical Society’s Derrin House, which can be found at the edge of the park. Nearby, you will also find a 1.5 mile long trail which visitors can hike or bike on; the trail takes you through an out-and-back scenic route.

245 W Avon Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-409-4332

© Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery

Susan Prentice is a Connecticut-based artist who graduated from The School of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University before heading out into the world of art and design. She’s exhibited her oil-on-canvas works in several shows and galleries throughout the United States. At the Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery you’ll be able to see many of these beautiful paintings, much of which get their inspiration from locations across the Eastern seaboard. The artist often takes the time to converse with visitors, letting them get an insight into her creativity and imagination. Take your time and look around, as you’re sure to find a piece that you love.

Farmington Valley Arts Center: 25 Arts Center Lane, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-985-4322

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© Max a Mia

Max a Mia is a casual Italian bistro which is the brainchild of Brad Karsky and Richard Rosenthal. It opened in 1991 and was soon recognized by Connecticut Magazine as “Best New Restaurant”. Now, over a decade later, the bistro has doubled in size and served as a staple dining establishment in the community. The awards have continued to come in over the years, and rightly so as the flavor of their traditional, authentic brick oven pizzas are unmatched by any other pizza parlor in Avon. Have a feast in their warmly-lit dining room or have a drink at their 25-foot granite bar - no matter how you choose to dine, you’re sure to have an incomparable experience.

70 E Main St, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-677-6299

© Seasons Restaurant at Avon Old Farms Hotel

Avon’s Seasons Restaurant & Tap Room can be found in the stunning Avon Old Farms Hotel and is open to guests and those who want an excellent dining experience. It is one of the area’s most popular restaurants and has won many awards since its inception. Guests can enjoy their meal surrounded by panoramic views of the Talcott Mountain Stream or of gorgeous artwork by local artisans in the restaurant’s Main Dining Room. The gourmet experience is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and their Sunday brunch serves a season-oriented menu which patrons have described as nothing short of sumptuous.

Avon Old Farms Hotel: 279 Avon Mountain Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-269-0240

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© The Elephant Trail

The Elephant Trail is a uniquely American, family owned and operated, restaurant with a culinary journey which spans four generations and starts all the way from Cambodia. Owner and Executive Chef Soden Tek shares his passion for Southeast Asian cuisine, which stemmed from watching his mother and grandmother expertly concoct meals which integrated traditions and flavors from their new homeland with those of Cambodia and Thailand. The restaurant has won numerous awards and accolades over the years, and rightly so, as their menu is nothing short of amazing. Feast on patron favorites such as their famous pad Thai, spicy drunken noodles, or basil fried rice.

85 E Main St, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-677-0065