Bloomfield, Connecticut

Start your trip to Bloomfield with a rocking good time by visiting the Thomas Hooker Brewery. Go on a guided tour of the brewery which will delve into the creativity and technique that goes into crafting your very own beer. End your tour at the tap room, in which you can try an array of their beers at the 8 tap tasting bar, purchase cans and growlers, get awesome merchandise at the gift shop, or just wind down on the outdoor patio with friends and family. Other features of the tap room include flat screen televisions often showing sporting events, group gaming facilities, multiple restrooms, free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and much more.

16 Tobey Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-242-3111

Spanning 787 acres, Penwood State Park was established in 1944 and has been a popular public recreation area since then. The park was donated to the state by inventor and industrialist, Curtis H. Veeder, who spent much of his time outdoors on this property and wanted to preserve it for future generations. There are several activities you can partake in such as picnicking in the designated areas or hiking or biking on paved paths; the Metacomet Trail runs the entire length of the park and is extremely popular with joggers throughout the year. During the winter months, you can enjoy cross country skiing or find the perfect slope for sledding.

560 Simsbury Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002

The Wintonbury Hills Golf Course is a beautifully conditioned course which is also Pete Dye’s first championship design in the area. Just fifteen minutes away from Hartford, visitors are amazed by the peaceful and relaxing setting which they find themselves in. Golfers find the 6,711-yard, par 70 layout both enjoyable and challenging. Visitors will find a private club experience at a surprisingly affordable price, which is why Wintonbury Hills is often recognized as one of the top golf courses in the entire state. Other aspects include The Tap Inn and a pro golf shop at The Clubhouse.

206 Terry Plains Rd, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-242-1401

Founded by cousins Edward Fabrycki, Jr. and Tony Karlowicz, the Back East Brewery is one of Bloomfield’s most beloved craft breweries. The passion that the cousins have for concocting creative craft brews can be seen in each of their great tasting, high quality beers. Visitors are invited to come and explore the small, state-of-the-art brewery and relax in the comfortable and friendly tap room. Some of their year-round beers include the Misty Mountain IPA, the Back East Ale, Golden Ale, and Porter, a full-bodied chestnut brown porter with hints of caramel and chocolate; if you’re able to, be sure to try some of their seasonals such as the Summer Ale which is available between April and August or Winterfest, which is available from November to February.

1296A Blue Hills Avenue, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-242-1793

Waypoint Spirits started with one moment of clarity on a beach, just as the sun was about to set and sailboats can be seen drifting along the Long Island Sound. It was at this time that a group of friends realized that life was too short to not be passionate and share their unique journey with the world. Though it took a lot of time and effort, they were soon recognized for their production of unique and flavorful spirits such as the Wintonbury Gin, Labrador Noon Vodka, Spiced Rum, Special Batch Whiskey, and much more. Visitors are invited to visit the distillery and enjoy a fun tour which ends with a tasting of some of their current offerings.

410 Woodland Ave, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-858-1446

The Gillette Ridge Golf Club was established in 2004 and has been popular with both beginner and experienced golfers since then. The stunning course was designed by Arnold Palmer, an American professional golfer, and Gillette Ridge is often considered one of the Palmer Course Design Company’s best creations. The course is sure to challenge and amaze you, test your playing skills against a variety of terrain from tree-lined fairways to spectacular carries. Other features include a pro golf shop and practice fields. After a day on the greens head over to the golf club’s restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal or a cold beer as you overlook the 10th and 18th holes.

1360 Hall Blvd, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-726-1430

Free to explore and experience, Talcott Mountain State Park is a 574-acre land that was established in 1965. The public recreation area is located on the stunning Talcott Mountain, a 13-mile long trap rock mountain ridge. One of the main features of the park is Heublein Tower, a 165-foot-tall structure that is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The tower was constructed in 1914 and served as the summer home and retreat of Gilbert Heublein, a magnate who notable manufactured Smirnoff vodka and A. 1. Steak Sauce. Other aspects of the park include an associated museum, designated picnicking areas, a 1.25-mile-long trail, as well as hiking along the Metacomet Trail.

Summit Ridge Drive, Simsbury, CT 06070, Phone: 860-242-1158

Restaurants for a Date

Since it opened in 2012, Carbone’s Kitchen has skyrocketed in popularity not only for its delicious cuisine but also their excellent hospitality. Reviews from TripAdvisor, Hartford Magazine, and Connecticut Magazine have been nothing short of positive, and rightly so. Their menu includes everything from calamari and crispy brussel sprouts to pizza by the slice and veal marsala complete with mushrooms, onions, polenta, and green beans. It is one of the best places in Bloomfield to go to when you’re in the mood for authentic, traditional Italian cuisine. Complete your dining experience with one of their homemade desserts such as their fall fruit crisp, tiramisu, peanut butter chocolate layer cake, or one of their many gelato selections.

Wintonbury Mall: 6 Wintonbury Mall, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-904-2111

Owned and operated by the Wu family, Thai Palace has been the go-to restaurant for authentic Thai cuisine since it opened in 2003. In addition to their delicious food which is made from 100% fresh and high quality ingredients, you also get an amazing dining experience in an ambient setting and a welcoming staff that will cater to your every culinary need. Stop by their full bar for a special cocktail or refreshing beer before feasting on one of their several entrees; there are several options for those who prefer vegetarian or gluten-free foods. House specials include the shrimp dumplings, beef casserole, house egg noodles, and the spicy chicken salad.

Wintonbury Mall: 18 Wintonbury Ave, Bloomfield, CT 06002, Phone: 860-242-6363