Looking for a peaceful New England escape? Discover charming Goshen in the Litchfield Hills! This quiet countryside town is known for rolling farmland, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly fairs. Whether you're hiking, wine tasting, or just unwinding, Goshen offers a relaxing rural retreat with scenic beauty year-round.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Goshen is from late spring through fall (May to October). These months showcase the region’s natural beauty, including blooming gardens, summer festivals, and vibrant fall foliage.
How to Get There
- By Car: Goshen is easily accessible via Route 4 and Route 63, about 2.5 hours from New York City and 1 hour from Hartford.
- By Train: The nearest Metro-North station is in Waterbury; from there, a rental car or rideshare is recommended.
- By Air: Bradley International Airport (BDL) is about 1 hour away by car.
Where to Stay
- Litchfield Inn – Upscale boutique inn just a short drive away, with cozy rooms and a peaceful setting.
- Interlaken Inn – Country resort in nearby Lakeville offering lakeside activities and romantic getaways.
- Airbnb & Farm Stays – Find charming cottages or farmhouse rentals with scenic views and rustic charm.
Top Attractions
Where to Eat
- AJ’s Steak & Pizza – Local favorite for casual eats, including pizza, subs, and comfort food classics.
- Goshenette – Cozy country café serving breakfast, lunch, and homemade baked goods.
- Saltwater Grille – Upscale seafood and steakhouse in nearby Litchfield with elegant ambiance.
Local Events
- Goshen Fair (Labor Day Weekend) – One of Connecticut’s largest agricultural fairs with rides, food, and live entertainment.
- Northwest Connecticut Dog Show (Summer) – Annual event drawing top canine competitors to the fairgrounds.
- Goshen Stampede (June) – Country-style festival with a rodeo, demolition derby, and live music.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Goshen, Connecticut
- White Memorial Conservation Center (10–15 min) – Explore miles of nature trails, visit the museum, and paddle Bantam River wetlands.
- Sunset Meadow Vineyards (5–10 min) – Sip award-winning wines while taking in vineyard views of the Litchfield Hills.
- Downtown Litchfield (15–20 min) – Stroll historic streets, shop local boutiques, and dine at charming cafés and taverns.
- Goshen Fairgrounds (0–5 min) – Attend seasonal events including one of Connecticut’s largest agricultural fairs each Labor Day weekend.
- Topsmead State Forest (15–20 min) – Tour an elegant English-style cottage and walk peaceful meadows and forest trails.
- Action Wildlife Foundation (5–10 min) – Drive or walk through enclosures housing exotic and native animals on a 116-acre preserve.
- Warner Theatre (Torrington) (20–25 min) – Catch a concert, play, or film in a beautifully restored 1931 Art Deco theater.
- Bantam Lake (15–20 min) – Swim, paddle, or relax lakeside at Connecticut’s largest natural lake.
- Haight-Brown Vineyard (20–25 min) – Sample Connecticut wines, tour the cellar, or enjoy a cheese board in a rustic tasting room.
FAQ
- When was Goshen, CT founded?
- Goshen was founded in the year 1739 in the scenic Litchfield Hills.
- What makes Goshen a great destination?
- Goshen is home to vineyards, farms, dairies, chocolatiers, farmers markets, restaurants, orchards, and theaters, making it a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and beautiful countryside blooms.
The Litchfield Inn – A charming boutique hotel nearby.
Visit Mohawk Mountain State Park – Enjoy scenic hiking and wildlife viewing.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather and great for outdoor festivals.
Interlaken Inn – A relaxing lakeside resort in the region.
Attend the Goshen Fair – Experience a classic New England agricultural fair.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage and crisp autumn air.
Winvian Farm – A luxurious getaway with unique cottages.
Drive the Litchfield Hills Scenic Route – Enjoy breathtaking fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Cold with opportunities for winter sports.
Falls Village Inn – A cozy and historic stay in the area.
Ski at Mohawk Mountain – A great spot for skiing and snowboarding.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Hike, Picnic, or Leaf-Peep in the Tranquility of Mohawk State Forest
- 2. Meet Exotic Animals and Farm Favorites at Action Wildlife Foundation
- 3. Sip Local Wines With a View at Sunset Meadow Vineyards
- 4. Taste Handcrafted Sweets at Thorncrest Farm and Milk House Chocolate
- 5. Relax and Sample at the Charming Miranda Vineyard
- 6. Unwind Your Body and Mind at October Gardens Yoga and Meditation Center
- 7. Ski, Ride, or Hike the Slopes of Mohawk Mountain