A Perfect Weekend in Kent, Connecticut
In Yankee’s No. 1 New England foliage town of Kent, Connecticut, there’s much more to love than just the leaves.
By Yankee Magazine
Oct 04 2017
Nestled along the New York border in Connecticut’s rural Litchfield Hills, this picture-perfect hamlet offers breathtaking views across the Harlem Valley to the Taconic and Catskill mountains. With diverse dining options, outdoor adventures, and a thriving art scene, Kent is full of not only color but also surprises.
A Perfect Weekend in Kent, Connecticut
WHAT TO DO
Lake Waramaug
Named after a chief of the Wyantenock tribe, this peaceful lake draws visitors to swim, fish, boat, and camp at Lake Waramaug State Park. And when the fall colors reflect on the lake’s glassy surface, you definitely won’t want to miss this Instagram-worthy destination. ct.gov
Macedonia Brook State Park
On your way up Cobble Mountain (1,365 feet) on the blue-blaze trail, be sure to stop and check out the foundation of an old iron smelting furnace, built in 1826. The peak offers expansive views of both the Catskill and Taconic mountains. ct.gov
Kent Falls
If you’re looking for a shorter walk with equally stunning views, try the ¼-mile Kent Falls Trail, which takes you over a covered bridge to the 250-foot cascade. Picnic tables make this the perfect spot for a family gathering. ct.gov
Kent Falls Brewing Co.
Though this brewery broke ground just a few years ago, it grows its hops on land that’s been used in agriculture for almost 250 years. The tasty beer—with such names as the Gardener’s Tale (a tart saison infused with mint and chocolate) and the Juicemaker (an IPA infused with mango)—is sold on tap and in bottles at the retail location. kentfallsbrewing.com
Eric Sloane Museum & Kent Iron Furnace
View artist-author Eric Sloane’s collection of early American hand tools, and study his artwork and his pant-spattered easel in his re-created studio. There’s also a historic iron furnace on site. ericsloane.com/museum.htm
WHERE TO EAT
Gifford’s
The ambiance is elegant and contemporary; the food is from-scratch New American cuisine created by Culinary Institute of America–trained chef and co-owner James Neunzig. Don’t miss the signature fried chicken breast with Belgian waffles. giffordsrestaurant.com
Kingsley Tavern
A middle-of-the-village gathering spot for local families as well as visitors, Kingsley offers up a menu that’s locally sourced to the max. Try the pan-seared yellowfin tuna steak.kingsleytavern.com
Kent Coffee & Chocolate Co.
Though the local hand-dipped truffles are the main draw here, the small-batch roasted coffees from around the world don’t disappoint, either. There’s also a line of raw cacao bars and products for those wishing to skip the processed sugars. kentcoffee.com
WHERE TO STAY
Starbuck Inn
Park your car and take advantage of Starbuck’s in-town location. The six guest rooms offer fine linens and other comforts, and the living room is stocked with enticing books.starbuckinn.com
Fife ’n Drum
Housed in a converted carriage house, the Fife ’n Drum offers 13 moderately priced rooms on two floors. Décor varies, but all have been thoughtfully, comfortably furnished and the baths have recently been updated. fifendrum.com
The Inn at Kent Falls
A handsome bed-and-breakfast dating back to 1741, the inn is situated near the expansive grounds of Kent Falls State Park and features a mix of antiques and modern comforts. Check out the spa, and don’t miss the delicious breakfast. theinnatkentfalls.com