We spent a picture postcard blue-sky weekend in Kent, Connecticut, and while it may be small in population with just over 3,000 residents, this Litchfield County town and its nearby neighbors are abundant in things to do. Incorporated in 1739, Kent is a gorgeous New England town located in the Northeast Corner of Connecticut and is close to the New York border, a mere 30 miles from Poughkeepsie, New York; 51 miles from Westchester, New York; 53 miles from Hartford, Connecticut; 63 miles from Greenwich, Connecticut, less than 90 miles from Manhattan, 125 miles from Providence, Rhode Island, and 152 miles from Boston, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. With so much to experience in all seasons, Kent, Connecticut has a lot to offer visitors.
Where to Stay
The Victorian – The Kent Collection, Kent, Connecticut
The Victorian – The Kent Collection
We stayed at two of The Kent Collection properties, The Victorian and The Firefly Inn, both gorgeous, intimate, exclusive, boutique, luxurious Inns located across the street from one another.
The Victorian, built in 1890, and totally renovated in 2022, is stunning and is located on North Main Street within walking distance of interesting shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The Inn has five exquisite guestrooms that are offered as single guestrooms or is available to rent as the entire Inn. Imagine the possibility of gathering your family or friends together to celebrate a special birthday, anniversary, or “just because” party and having the entire Inn at your disposal; that is true luxury.
The Victorian – Victoria & Albert – Guestroom
There is a guestroom on the first floor and four additional bedrooms (two are suites) located on the second floor reached by walking up a dramatic curved stairway. All of the guestrooms are sumptuously and luxuriously appointed.
The Victorian – Living Room
Common areas include a Games Room where you can relax and watch a large flatscreen television, read one of the many books, or play one of the games including Monopoly, or enjoy a game of chess; a Living Room complete with fireplace, a large Dining Room that can easily seat 12, a beautiful Bar Room with assorted complimentary snacks, and a step-down, large, gourmet Kitchen with Nespresso and Keurig Coffeemakers, an electric kettle to heat hot water for tea, microwave, large refrigerator, 4-slice toaster, and a six-burner Bosch gas stove. Guests who rent the entire house have the ability to cook in the kitchen, and there is a Weber grill outdoors.
Gorgeous surroundings, complimentary teas, coffees, juices, waters, yogurt, granola, and a variety of snacks, ensure that you have everything you need to start your day. Check-in is at 4:00 pm, check out is at 11:00 am.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit their website: www.KentCollection.com
Read more about our stay at The Victorian in the Hotels and Resorts section.
The Victorian (part of The Kent Collection)
81 North Main Street
Kent, Connecticut 06757
United States
Telephone: +1-860-592-0042
Email: info@kentcollection.com
Website: www.KentCollection.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/KentCollection.CT/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kentcollection.ct @kentcollection.ct
The Firefly Inn – The Kent Collection, Kent, Connecticut
The Firefly Inn – The Kent Collection. Kent, CT
The Firefly Inn, part of The Kent Collection, is a luxury boutique Inn with nine gorgeous guestrooms (two of them are fireplace suites) located at 88 North Main Street in the heart of Kent, Connecticut. Set on two acres, The Firefly Inn is all about New England charm from its gorgeous white and black exterior to its sweeping expanse of lawn where guests can play croquet or cornhole. Sumptuous surroundings, a baby grand piano in the Living Room, well-appointed guestrooms, complimentary snacks, and the utmost in gracious hospitality make The Firefly Inn incredibly special.
The Firefly Inn – The Peter Starbuck Guestroom
We spent a night at The Firefly Inn and fell in love with the Inn, and with its sister property, The Victorian, (which has 5 guestrooms) located directly across the street, where we had also spent a night. The Kent Collection consists of five very unique and attractive properties, The Victorian, The Firefly Inn, and The Garden Cottages, consisting of The Little House, The Train Car, and The Bunkhouse located at 9 Railroad Steet in Kent.
Read more about our stay at The Firefly Inn in the Hotels and Resorts section.
The Firefly Inn
88 North Main Street
Kent, Connecticut 06757
United States
Telephone: +1-860-592-0042
Email: info@kentcollection.com
Website: www.KentCollection.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/KentCollection.CT/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kentcollection.ct @kentcollection.ct
Things To Do – Hopkins Vineyard, Warren, Connecticut
Warren, Connecticut is located 8.4 miles from Kent and is the home of Hopkins Vineyard, a true New England experience with an interesting history as the Hopkins Family are descendants of Stephen Hopkins, who was a passenger on the Mayflower. In 1787, Elijah Hopkins purchased the Hopkins Farm after returning from the Revolutionary War, and the farm has remained in the Hopkins Family since the time of its purchase. In 1956 William L. Hopkins took over the running of the Dairy Farm. In 1979, William and his wife Judith filed for a Farm Winery permit, and the dairy herd was sold off and the vineyard and winery began. Always with an eye towards the future, in 1980 they took on the restoration of the 19th century barn. In 1988 the United States Department of Agriculture honored the Hopkins Farm as Bicentennial Farm, having been in the same family since the birth of the Constitution.
Hopkins Vineyard Winery Team – Ruby, Lynn, Hilary, Irene, Dani
In 2005, William and Judith appointed their daughter Hilary as President of Hopkins Vineyard. In 2012 Hopkins Vineyard hosted a Colonial themed event to celebrate 225 years of family farming. The next generation continues on as in 2018 Hilary and her husband Jorge “George” Criollo purchased Hopkins Vineyard from William and Judith, marking now over 230 years of history.
Tasting Room
We visited Hopkins Vineyard on Saturday, March 22, 2025 and enjoyed sampling flights of their excellent wines including some wines that do you not see at many places including their Lemberger – Estate Bottled Heritage Series, Ice Wine – Estate Bottled made from Vidal Blanc grapes handpicked when the weather dropped to 7 degrees Fahrenheit, and their very special Elijah Hopkins 1787 Brandy distilled from Vidal Blanc grapes estate grown that was distilled and bottled for them by Litchfield Distillery under the supervision of Hopkins Vineyard, LLC, made in small batches, and barrel aged for 3 years.
Chardonnay 2021
Hopkins Vineyard Hours: January through April: Wednesday through Friday from 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm.
Hopkins Vineyard Hours: May through October: Monday through Friday from 11:00 pm until 5:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am until 6:00 pm.
Hopkins Vineyard Hours: November through December: Sunday through Friday from 11:00 pm until 5:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am until 6:00 pm.
For more information on visiting Hopkins Vineyard or purchasing their wines, please visit their website: www.hopkinsvineyard.com
Read more about experience at Hopkins Vineyard in the Wine Cellar section.
Hopkins Vineyard
25 Hopkins Road
Warren, Connecticut 06777
United States
Telephone: +1-860-868-7954
Email: contact@hopkinsvineyard.com
Website: www.hopkinsvineyard.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hopkinsvineyard
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/hopkinsvineyard @hopkinsvineyard @warrent-connecticut
Things To Do – Litchfield Distillery, Litchfield, Connecticut
Litchfield Distillery, Litchfield, CT
We spent a perfect Friday morning and early afternoon in Litchfield, Connecticut located 21 miles from Kent, which is another interesting small town with historic interest. Incorporated in 1791, there is much to experience including Litchfield Distillery founded by the Baker Brothers – David, Jack, and Peter in 2014. Since then, they have accumulated many awards for their excellent Bourbons and other spirits including Gin, Vodka, Rye, Agave Spirits, and Ready-To-Drink products.
Jack, Debra C. Argen, Peter
The tour followed by tastings at Litchfield Distillery is always interesting and enjoyable, and we always enjoy experiencing their new products as well as some of our favorites.
Rickhouse
Tours and Tastings: Monday through Sunday beginning at 11:00 am. The last tour begins at 4:00 pm. On Sundays, the last tour begins at 3:00 pm. Tours and Tastings are free.
The Distillery Store Hours: Monday through Friday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm.
Award Winners
For more information on Litchfield Distillery, purchasing their products, or visiting them, please visit their website: www.LitchfieldDistillery.com or call them at +1-860-361-6503.
Read more about experienced at Litchfield Distillery in the Liquor Cabinet section.
Litchfield Distillery
569 Bantam Road
Litchfield, Connecticut 06759
United States
Telephone: +1-860-361-6503
Website: www.LitchfieldDistillery.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/litchfielddistillery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/litchfielddistillery/ @litchfielddistillery
Things To Do – Outdoor Adventures
If you only do one “outdoorsy” thing during your visit to Kent, you should definitely visit Kent Falls State Park. Kent Falls cascades down an impressive 250 feet to reach the Housatonic River, and while you can easily see the waterfalls in the distance from the parking lot, they are so magnificent that you will want to take time to appreciate them up close. Do make time in your schedule to hike to the top of the Falls if you can, or at the very least, bring a picnic and enjoy their beauty from one of the many picnic tables.
Kent Falls, Kent, CT – Debra C. Argen
Our adventure started by walking across a historic covered bridge from the parking lot into the Park, and from there the view just kept getting better and better! It was definitely worth our effort to hike to the top of the trail!
Kent Falls State Park Hours: The Park is open from 8:00 am until sunset. No entry into the water or swimming allowed. Pets allowed on leash in the picnic areas and hiking trails. There is onsite parking, picnic tables, restrooms, and there is a paved pathway to the base of the Falls. The trails are for foot traffic only. No alcohol is allowed in the Park. Check their website for fishing guidelines, permits required, and other information: https://ctparks.com/parks/kent-falls-state-park
Made It!!
Kent Falls State Park Fees: In-State (CT) Registered Vehicles: Free; Out-of-State Vehicles: $15 on holidays and weekends, $10 on weekdays, and $112 for Out-of-State Vehicles for a Season Pass.
Read more about our experience at Kent Falls State Park in the Adventures section.
Kent Falls State Park
42 Kent Cornwall Road
Kent, Connecticut 06757
United States
Telephone: +1-860-927-3238
Website: https://ctparks.com/parks/kent-falls-state-park
@kent-ct @kent-connecticut
Covered Bridges – Kent and West Cornwall
Kent Falls, Kent, CT – Covered Bridge
There is something special about covered bridges, and Kent has two of them, one is located in Kent Falls State Park, and there is another one located a short ride from the center of town, and a half mile from the New York State border, called Bull’s Bridge, which was built in 1842. The bridge measures 109 feet in length and is open for single-lane vehicular traffic.
Bulls Bridge
Bull’s Bridge
Route 7
Kent, Connecticut
United States
@kent-ct @kent-connecticut
Cornwall Covered Bridge, Cornwell, CT
There is also a third covered bridge, the Historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge that spans the Housatonic River. The bridge measures 172 feet in length, 15 feet wide, is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and was built around 1864. We loved experiencing all three of the bridges up close.
Historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge
Housatonic River
West Cornwall, Connecticut
@kent-ct @kent-connecticut
Where To Dine – West Street Grill, Litchfield, Connecticut
We had a fabulous lunch at West Street Grill a gorgeous and welcoming bistro in the historic section of Litchfield, after visiting Litchfield Distillery. Owned by James O’Shea, the restaurant will celebrate its 35th anniversary in May 2025, which is a testament to its consistent quality of Modern American cuisine, the drinks, and the gracious hospitality and service. The diverse menu will appeal to meat and seafood lovers, as well as to vegans, vegetarians, and there are also gluten-free options. The restaurant has a well-curated bar and also has a wide selection of no-alcohol options making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner.
James O’Shea
One of the many highlights of our lunch was the Smoked Atlantic Salmon, Irish Style, “On the Boards” and is definitely worth a trip to Litchfield to enjoy this beautiful presentation and incomparable taste. West Street Grill serves their Cold Smoked Salmon on a large wooden board covered with a glass dome which arrives at the table in a dramatic cloud of smoke that wafts in the air when the dome is removed enticing all your senses, visually, to its aromas, and finally when you take your first bite of the delicious salmon. This was not only a visual showstopper, but the salmon was also pure magic on the palate accompanied by a perfectly cooked Mullet Egg, Shallot Caper Crème Fraiche, and Crostini.
West Street Grill Hours: Lunch is served Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:30 am until 2:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 am until 3:30 pm. Dinner is served from 5:30 pm until 9:00 pm Wednesday through Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Smoked Atlantic Salmon Irish Style
For more information, please visit their website: www.WestStreetGrill.com or call to make a reservation: +1-860-567-3885.
Read more about our dining experience at West Street Grill in the Restaurants section.
West Street Grill
43 West Street
Litchfield, Connecticut 06759
United States
Telephone: +1-860-567-3885
Website: www.WestStreetGrill.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestStreetGrill/?fref=nf
Instagram: www.instagram.com/westgrill @westgrill
Where To Dine -109 Cheese Market, Kent, Connecticut
109 Cheese Market, Kent, Ct
109 Cheese Market in Kent is much more than a well-stocked artisan cheese market with local and imported cheeses. This charming shop also carries a wide selection of homemade soups, pâtés, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and homemade muffins.
They also carry an excellent line of smoked salmon, charcuterie, gourmet sausages like Miso Scallion, and Raven & Boar Sausages from the Hudson Valley, as well as frozen food to prepare at home. In the summer they offer wines by-the-glass on their beautiful patio in the back to pair with their delectable cheeseboards, sandwiches, or other goodies. They also have a diverse selection of well-curated condiments, crackers, and snacks. In addition to their edible items, they also carry a gorgeous line of gifts and also sell flowers. Owned by Monica and Todd Brown, 109 Cheese Market has called Kent home for the past 9 years. They also own a sister shop in Ridgefield that celebrated 15 years.
109 Cheese Market Plater
We enjoyed a selection of their fabulous cheeses and charcuterie paired with prosecco for a perfect “Happy Hour” at The Victorian, where we were staying in Kent.
109 Cheese Market Spring Hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, Sunday from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm.
Read more about our experience at 109 Cheese Market in the Gastronomy section.
109 Cheese Market
6 Kent Green Boulevard
Kent, Connecticut
Telephone: +1-860-592-0366
Website: www.109cheeseandwine.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/109cheeseandwine
Instagram: www.instagram.com/109cheese/ @109cheese
Things To Do – Art Galleries
Earthbound by Eleanor White
Art lovers will find a little slice of paradise as art galleries abound in Kent. During our stay in Kent, we visited Kenise Barnes Fine Art and experienced the exhibition, Director’s Choice – Celebrating 30 Years.
Sprite And Anemone by David Konigsberg
There were many stellar works of art, however three larger scale pieces especially caught our attention. Artist David Konigsberg: Sprite and Anemone, oil on canvas, 2022, measuring 55 x 44 inches; Artist David Collins: Here and There, a new work from 2025, acrylic on canvas, measuring 60 x 60 inches, and Artist Eleanor White: Earthbound, 2022, a mixed media piece with crushed jade, snakeskin shed, porcupine quills, bonded copper, fossilized wood, eggshell, wood ash, glass beads, and polymer medium om painted paper, measuring 44 c 25 inches (unframed) and 47.25 x 27.75 inches (framed).
Here and There by David Collins
Kenise Barnes Fine Art Hours: Thursday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 5:30 pm, Sunday from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm, and by appointment. Sales and Customer Service: Tuesday through Saturday: +1-860-560-3085.
For more information on Kenise Barnes Fine Art or the artists represented, please visit the website: www.kbfa.com.
Kenise Barnes Fine Art
Kent Barns
7 Fuling Lane
Kent, Connecticut 06757
Telephone: +1-860-592-0220
Website: www.kbfa.com
@kenisebarnesfineart
Old Cheery Tree by Rick Shaefer
We also made a visit to the Carol Corey Fine Art, another excellent and welcoming contemporary art gallery located in the Kent Barns complex. During our visit to the gallery, the exhibition was Hazy Shade of Winter (which closed on March 23, 2025) featuring works by several talented artists including Rick Shaefer, Barn Owl, 2020, pencil, charcoal, and highlight on toned Canson paper 32×24 inches, and Old Cherry Tree, 2021, pencil on paper, measuring 30 x 23 inches. The intricate detail on both of them caught our attention. Also interesting was the stunning painting by Andy Harper entitled Rumblestone, 2021, oil on canvas, measuring 31 7/8 x 41 3/8 inches, which requires the viewer to pay attention to see all of its almost hidden details.
Barn Owl by Rick Shaefer
Carol Corey Fine Art Hours: Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 am until 5:30 pm, and by appointment.
For more information on Carol Corey Fine Art or the artists represented, please visit the website: www.carolcoreyfineart.com
Carol Corey Fine Art
Kent Barns
6 North Main Street
Kent, Connecticut 06757
Telephone: +1-917-797-9654
Website: www.carolcoreyfineart.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CarolCoreyFIneArt
Instagram: www.instagram.com/carolcoreyfineart @carolcoreyfineart
With so much to do and see in Kent and its neighboring towns year-round, and in all seasons, this is an area that we will want to return to many a time. Until next time, keep enjoying travel with Luxury Experience!
Driving Distances to Kent from:
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Albany, New York
|
84 miles
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Boston, Massachusetts
|
152 miles
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Greenwich, Connecticut
|
63 miles
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Hartford, Connecticut
|
53 miles
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Litchfield, Connecticut
|
21 miles
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Manhattan, New York
|
90 miles
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New Haven, Connecticut
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57 miles
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Newport, Rhode Island
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138 miles
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Poughkeepsie, New York
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30 miles
|
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Providence, Rhode Island
|
125 miles
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Springfield, Connecticut
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69 miles
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Warren, Connecticut
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8.4 miles
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Westchester, New York
|
51 miles
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Worcester, Massachusetts
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116 miles
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Kent, Connecticut offers visitors much to experience year-round. A sampling of offerings include:
| January | Annual Scottish Burns Supper |
| February | Kent Restaurant Week |
| March – April | Daffodil Days |
| Mid-May to End of October | Farmer’s Market |
| August | Kent Sidewalk Days |
| Late October | Pumpkin Run |
| November | Shop Small Business Saturday |
| Early December | Kent Holiday Fest |
| December | Kent Gingerbread Fest |
See you around the Kent, CT area!
Read other features on Kent, Connecticut and the surrounding area in the Destinations, Hotels and Resorts, Restaurants, Liquor Cabinet, Wine Cellar, Gastronomy, and Adventures sections.
For more information on Kent, Connecticut, and its many offerings, please visit the website: https://www.kentct.com/
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