Looking for classic New England charm with scenic trails and small-town sophistication? Head to Avon, Connecticut! Nestled in the Farmington Valley, Avon offers a peaceful retreat with colonial roots, beautiful outdoor spaces, and easy access to both Hartford and the Berkshires. Whether you're hiking Talcott Mountain or browsing Main Street boutiques, Avon is a quiet treasure in central Connecticut.
Avon, CT Highlights:
- Hike Talcott Mountain State Park: Trek to the Heublein Tower for panoramic views of the Farmington Valley and beyond.
- Explore the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: Bike or walk this paved greenway that winds through Avon and nearby towns.
- Play a round at Blue Fox Run Golf Course: Enjoy 27 holes of scenic golf with river and mountain backdrops.
- Relax at Fisher Meadows Recreation Area: A hidden gem for kayaking, walking, and peaceful picnics by the water.
- Browse Avon’s boutique shops and cafés: Find stylish clothing, antiques, and cozy dining along Route 44.
When I like to visit Avon, CT
The best time to visit Avon is spring through fall (April–October). Late spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer is great for trails and festivals, and fall offers colorful foliage drives and pumpkin patches. Winters are quiet, with local charm and access to nearby ski areas.
Tips for getting to Avon, CT
- By Car: Avon is located on U.S. Route 44, about 20 minutes west of Hartford and 2 hours from both Boston and New York City.
- By Air: Bradley International Airport (BDL) is about 30 minutes away and offers flights from major U.S. cities.
Where I like to stay in Avon, CT
- Avon Old Farms Hotel – Elegant, colonial-style hotel with garden views, a pool, and proximity to trails and shops.
- The Simsbury Inn (10 min away) – Nearby upscale option with a cozy, countryside ambiance and full-service amenities.
- Charming Airbnbs and cottages – Stay in a historic home or modern farmhouse nestled among New England trees.
Best Things to Do in Avon, CT
1. Step Into Tradition and Excellence at Avon Old Farms School
© Avon Old Farms School
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What is the Avon Old Farms School?
- The Avon Old Farms School was founded in 1927 by Theodate Pope Riddle, one of the first female architects in America.
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Is Avon Old Farms a boys-only school?
- Yes, it is a private boys-only boarding school that has been dedicated to academic excellence for decades.
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Did the school close during World War II?
- Yes, during World War II, the school temporarily closed down so that the building could be used as a recovery center for blind veterans.
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How large is the Avon Old Farms School campus?
- The school sits on an expansive 900-acre campus surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
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Is the school still in operation today?
- Yes, the school is up and running today and remains one of the most prominent college prep boys’ schools in the state.
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Can visitors explore the campus?
- While in Avon, visitors can explore the unique campus, enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds it, and gain insight into the school’s traditional values.
500 Old Farms Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Map
2. Get Inspired at Farmington Valley Arts Center
© Farmington Valley Arts Center
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What is the Farmington Valley Arts Center?
- Enriching the lives of Avon’s visitors and residents through art since 1974, the Farmington Valley Arts Center is a place where artists and art lovers can inspire each other, exchange ideas, learn, create, and exhibit their works.
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Who participates in the center’s programs?
- The participants vary in age, background, and ability, creating a welcoming community that fosters a deeper understanding of each person’s personal artistic journey.
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Are there events held at the center?
- Yes, there are events held throughout the year, offering visitors opportunities to explore gallery exhibits, attend special exhibitions, and engage with the artistic community.
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What activities can visitors participate in?
- Visitors can enjoy an ‘art party’, sit in on various workshops, or attend educational programs focused on watercolor painting, abstract painting, and mastering pastels.
25 Arts Center Ln, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-678-1867, Map
3. Stitch Something Special at Knit & Pearls
© Knit & Pearls
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What is Knit & Pearls?
- Knit & Pearls is more than just a store selling yarn and craft supplies; it is a welcoming space where knitters, weavers, and crocheters of all ages and skill levels can come together and share their passion.
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What products does Knit & Pearls offer?
- The store carries a wide selection of crochet and knitting patterns, unique knitting kits, needles, felting kits and tools, and yarns of all kinds, including their own line of hand-dyed yarns.
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Does Knit & Pearls offer more than just supplies?
- Yes! The store provides services, guidance, and support that regular patrons often describe as therapeutic.
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Are there classes and events available?
- Absolutely! Visitors can join classes and events to get hands-on experience, whether they are beginners or skilled experts.
395 W Avon Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-404-0694, Map
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Tee Off with a View at Blue Fox Run Golf Course
© Blue Fox Run Golf Course
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What is the Blue Fox Run Golf Course?
- The Blue Fox Run Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course that was developed in the early 1970s. It has gone through several name changes but remains a beloved staple in the community.
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Who designed the Blue Fox Run Golf Course?
- The course was reconfigured by renowned golf architect Steven Kaye to enhance its championship quality.
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Is the course suitable for all skill levels?
- Yes, golfers of all skill levels visit Blue Fox Run to enjoy the scenic and challenging layout.
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Are there professional events held at Blue Fox Run?
- Yes, the course hosts several professional events, including 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, Map
5. Travel Back in Time at Pine Grove School House
© Pine Grove School House
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What is the history of the Pine Grove School House?
- Built in 1865, the Pine Grove School House operated until 1949, educating students for eighty years before becoming the last one-room schoolhouse in town to permanently close.
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What was the school’s original name?
- It was originally named Schoolhouse #7 until a teacher renamed it in the 1920s after noticing a nearby grove of pine trees.
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Does the name Pine Grove still exist in Avon?
- Yes, one of Avon’s current elementary schools bears the same name in honor of the original schoolhouse.
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Can visitors explore the Pine Grove School House?
- Absolutely! It is a marvelous sight to explore, offering a detailed look at how children attended school in a one-room building lit by kerosene lamps and heated by a wood stove.
3 Harris Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-678-7621, Map
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
6. Explore Hidden Trails at Horse Guard State Park
© af99999/stock.adobe.com
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What is Horse Guard State Park?
- Established in 1964, Horse Guard State Park is a public recreation area that spans over 100 acres.
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Has the park undergone significant development?
- No, much of the land has experienced little to no development since it was purchased by the state, allowing visitors to enjoy its unmarred natural beauty.
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What is a key attraction within the park?
- One of the main attractions is the Avon Historical Society’s Derrin House, which is located at the edge of the park.
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Are there any trails in Horse Guard State Park?
- Yes! The park features a 1.5-mile-long trail that 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, Map
7. Discover Emotion in Color at Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery
© Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery
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Who is Susan Prentice?
- Susan Prentice is a Connecticut-based artist who graduated from The School of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University before pursuing a career in art and design.
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Where has Susan Prentice exhibited her work?
- She has exhibited her oil-on-canvas works in several shows and galleries throughout the United States.
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What can visitors expect at the Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery?
- At the Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery, visitors can view a collection of her beautiful paintings, many of which are inspired by locations across the Eastern seaboard.
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Does Susan Prentice interact with visitors?
- Yes, the artist often converses with visitors, providing them with insight into her creativity and imagination.
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Can visitors purchase artwork at the gallery?
- Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the gallery, as they are sure to find a piece they love.
Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery, Farmington Valley Arts Center: 25 Arts Center Lane, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-985-4322
Where to Eat:
8. Savor Italian Favorites at Max a Mia
© Max a Mia
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What is Max a Mia?
- Max a Mia is a casual Italian bistro founded by Brad Karsky and Richard Rosenthal.
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When did Max a Mia open?
- The bistro opened in 1991 and was quickly recognized by Connecticut Magazine as the "Best New Restaurant."
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How has Max a Mia grown over the years?
- More than a decade later, the restaurant has doubled in size and continues to be a staple dining establishment in the community.
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Has Max a Mia received any awards?
- Yes! The restaurant has continued to receive awards over the years, particularly for its authentic brick oven pizzas, which are unmatched by any other pizza parlor in Avon.
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What is the dining experience like at Max a Mia?
- Guests can enjoy a meal in the warmly-lit dining room or have a drink at the 25-foot granite bar. No matter how you choose to dine, the experience is sure to be incomparable.
70 E Main St, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-677-6299, Map
9. Dine Fireside at Seasons Restaurant, Avon Old Farms Hotel
© Seasons Restaurant at Avon Old Farms Hotel
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What is Seasons Restaurant?
- Seasons Restaurant is located in the stunning Avon Old Farms Hotel and is open to both hotel guests and visitors looking for an excellent dining experience.
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Is Seasons Restaurant popular?
- Yes! It is one of the area’s most popular restaurants and has won many awards since its inception.
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What is the dining ambiance like?
- Guests can enjoy their meal with panoramic views of the Talcott Mountain Stream or admire gorgeous artwork by local artisans in the restaurant’s Main Dining Room.
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When is Seasons Restaurant open?
- The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a gourmet experience throughout the day.
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What makes the Sunday brunch special?
- The restaurant’s Sunday brunch features a season-oriented menu, which patrons describe as nothing short of sumptuous.
Avon Old Farms Hotel: 279 Avon Mountain Rd, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-269-0240, Map
10. Spice Things Up at The Elephant Trail
© The Elephant Trail
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What is The Elephant Trail?
- The Elephant Trail is a family-owned and operated restaurant that offers a unique American take on Southeast Asian cuisine, with a culinary journey that spans four generations and originates from Cambodia.
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Who is the owner and executive chef?
- The restaurant is run by Owner and Executive Chef Soden Tek, who shares his deep passion for Southeast Asian cuisine.
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What inspired the restaurant’s cuisine?
- Chef Soden Tek’s love for cooking was inspired by watching his mother and grandmother create meals that blended traditions and flavors from their new homeland with those of Cambodia and Thailand.
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Has The Elephant Trail won any awards?
- Yes, the restaurant has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, thanks to its exceptional cuisine.
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What are some must-try dishes?
- Guests can enjoy patron favorites such as their famous pad Thai, spicy drunken noodles, and basil fried rice, all of which showcase bold and authentic flavors.
85 E Main St, Avon, CT 06001, Phone: 860-677-0065, Map
My favorite local events:
- Avon Day (September) – A community celebration with vendors, food, games, and live entertainment in the heart of town.
- Farmington Valley Symphony Orchestra concerts – Classical music performances held at various venues throughout the year.
- Holiday events & tree lightings – Avon hosts small-town holiday cheer with decorations, crafts, and festive fun.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Avon, CT:
- Hartford (20 min) – Visit the Wadsworth Atheneum, Mark Twain House, and local breweries and restaurants.
- Litchfield Hills (45 min) – Enjoy scenic drives, antique hunting, and quintessential New England villages.
- Northwest CT wineries (1 hr) – Sip and relax at vineyards like Sunset Meadow or Haight-Brown in the countryside.
- New Haven (1 hr) – Explore Yale University, museums, and some of Connecticut’s best pizza.
- The Berkshires (1.5 hrs) – Drive north for arts, hiking, and charming Massachusetts towns like Lenox and Great Barrington.
Plan Your Trip