Connecticut, a state as charming as a well-dressed gentleman at a cocktail party, is rich in history. Its quaint towns look as if they’ve been plucked from a painting, and its landscapes are as picturesque as a postcard. Nestled above the bustle of New York City and just below the intellectual hub of Boston, it is a lovers’ Eden. Connecticut is a canvas of:
- Beautiful lakefronts
- Stunning coastlines
- Lush countryside
- Dense forests
Historic sites and museums that whisper tales of times gone by dot the landscape. For a New England-style escape, Connecticut offers a collection of 16 romantic inns, each with its own unique charm. So, if you’re looking to pen your own love story, consider starting with our list of the most romantic inns in Connecticut.
Quick hits:
- Explore the most romantic inns in CT and fall in love all over again
- Discover luxurious amenities, secret beaches & historic gems for the perfect getaway
- Enjoy wine tasting tours, beach walks & outdoor adventures with your special someone
Top 10 Most Romantic Inns in Connecticut
Connecticut is a state filled with enchanting locales that can captivate even the most stoic hearts. Read on for our list of the top 10 most romantic inns in this charming state. Follow along for a whimsical journey through coastal retreats, historic sanctuaries, and lavish hideaways.
Each inn offers its own unique allure. We’ve got the perfect destination for you if you’re dreaming of a secluded beachfront retreat or a historic gem tucked away in the lush countryside. These Connecticut love nests are guaranteed to make your heart flutter.
Map design by Stanton House Inn with elements from Flaticon
1) Stanton House Inn
Hidden away in downtown Greenwich, CT, the historic Stanton House Inn is a tableau of elegance and charm. Its gardens, resplendent with beauty, and its style, echoing the elegance of a bygone era, make it an idyllic backdrop for a romantic escapade.
Picture this: you and your love, sharing a glass of wine on one of our private balconies, basking in the quiet of the evening. Or, if you fancy a bit of adventure, saunter down to the swanky boutiques and gourmet restaurants lining Greenwich Avenue. And for an extra dash of pampering, our bed and breakfast spa services offer a couples’ massage right in your guest room. Or enjoy the seasonal outdoor pool for the day. A truly timeless gem, the Stanton House Inn is your perfect setting for a love story to rival the classics.
2) Inn at Stonington
A quaint 18-room sanctuary, the Inn at Stonington is nestled in a historic New England seaport village. Boasting views of Fishers Island Sound, the Inn at Stonington provides rooms with private balconies. Gas fireplaces and luxurious soaking jacuzzi tubs further enhance your guest room.
At the Inn at Stonington, evenings feature complimentary wine and cheese soirees. And mornings start with a continental breakfast. The inn is surrounded by award-winning eateries, boutiques, and galleries in charming Stonington, CT. With the addition of Google Home and binoculars for rooms with water views, the inn is a blend of antique charm and modern convenience. Though the budget leans higher, the seafront views are worth the indulgence. For an adventurous twist, consider kayaking in the picturesque surroundings.
3) The Griswold Inn
Step into the past with a visit to The Griswold Inn, a jewel nestled in the heart of Connecticut River Valley. Its historic charm and opulent features harken back to the rustic charm of the colonial era. The Griswold Inn has been a beacon of hospitality since 1776, making it one of the oldest inns in the country. Its doors are open to both weary travelers and starry-eyed romantics. The walls of this historic inn have even featured in cinematic tales, such as the Hallmark Channel’s Christmas at Pemberley Manor. That little fact should win major brownie points if your significant other is a Hallmark fanatic. Be sure to enjoy the culinary delights of the Tap Room while you’re here. Critics recognize it as one of America’s finest watering holes.
There are plenty of things to do in Essex, CT, too, like the Essex Steam Train.
4) The Homestead Madison
The Madison Beach Hotel is a well-known luxury hotel in Madison, CT. And it’s hard to argue with a beachfront hotel, as rare as hen’s teeth in Connecticut. And yet, it’s not the only game in town.
Just a short stroll away, The Homestead offers an idyllic retreat for lovers. With plush bedding and vintage turntables in each room, it’s a haven of comfort and nostalgia. Whether it’s dancing to vinyl records or relaxing in the hot tub, The Homestead is a place where romance flourishes.
5) Inn at Harbor Hill Marina
A sanctuary of tranquility and luxury, the Inn at Harbor Hill Marina offers an unobstructed view of the waterfront. This charming year-round B&B is conveniently located just 2 hours from Boston and New York. It serves as a tranquil haven for city dwellers in need of a peaceful retreat. The marina offers bedrooms with waterfront views, private balconies, and fireplaces for a cozy atmosphere. You can enjoy wine in the gazebo, taking in the marina view, or relax on lawn chairs in the backyard. The charming town of Niantic is nearby. So you’ll get your fill of antique shops, boutique cafes, and romantic CT restaurants. Guests can unwind on private balconies, watching boats glide lazily in and out of the marina. Or take a leisurely stroll along the marina to soak in the picturesque atmosphere.
6) The Litchfield Inn
The Litchfield Inn is a historic haven brimming with warmth and charm. It’s an ideal setting for a romantic interlude. The inn offers twelve themed rooms and standard rooms. They’re the quintessential destination for a small-town retreat. Nearby attractions include the White Memorial Conservation Center, Mt. Tom State Park, and the vibrant flower fields of White Flower Farm. For adventure seekers, there’s horseback riding at Lee’s Stables and a tour of Litchfield Distillery. Hopkins Vineyard, overlooking Lake Waramaug, offers live music performances and picnics on weekends. The inn itself features lush gardens and a rejuvenating spa treatment (or four) before retiring to your luxurious guest room. The Litchfield Inn, with its charm and romantic allure, is the perfect setting for a memorable escape or a ski trip laced with romance.
7) Interlaken Inn
The Interlaken Inn in Lakeville, CT, is a romantic oasis of a lakeside inn nestled in the Berkshires. It even has a private beach! It has been a favorite retreat for generations of parents and friends of Hotchkiss School. The inn’s charm attracts newlyweds and romantic couples. The expansive property features:
- 40 rooms and suites
- Quaint cottages
- A refreshing outdoor pool
- Tennis courts
- A private beachfront and dock on Lakeville Lake
The Penthouse Suite is a dream come true with a private rooftop garden, a hot tub for chilly nights, and a linear fireplace. The inn is set on 30 scenic acres of lush gardens and offers a variety of lakefront activities like kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Spa services are available for pampering, and the farm-to-table restaurant, Morgan’s, is perfect for a candlelit dinner of fine dining. Nearby, you’ll find opportunities for hiking, biking, and more kayaking. With its lakeside location and amenities, the inn is a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape.
8) The White Hart Inn
Another option to consider is The White Hart Inn, a historic gem in Salisbury, CT, lovingly restored by locals including:
- Meredith Rollins
- Malcolm Gladwell
- Annie Wayte
This elegant inn, with its marbled bathrooms and large flat screens, serves up a delightful array of dining options. From the cozy tap room to the upscale café, Provisions, and the airy dining room offering locally sourced food. Room rates also include a complimentary breakfast. Nearby, Lime Rock Park offers the thrill of race-car driving, adding a dash of adventure to your stay.
9) The Inn at Woodstock Hill
Experience a romantic escape from the everyday at The Inn at Woodstock Hill, a Connecticut treasure. This inn seamlessly blends the charm of yesteryear with today’s amenities. Located in Connecticut’s “Quiet Corner,” it offers fireplaces in rooms upon request. They turn cool New England nights into cozy, romantic evenings. The inn in the town of Woodstock, CT, often presents special offers. One of the most unique features a bottle of Hallmark wine and a copy of the Hallmark movie filmed on-site. With wineries, antique shops, and hiking trails nearby, the inn is a romantic destination for all seasons.
10) Manor House Inn
Situated amidst five acres of the idyllic Litchfield Hills region, the Manor House Inn is a sanctuary of elegance. It features gardens that are a feast for the eyes. Its luxurious suites feature amenities like wood burning fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with champagne and strawberries dipped in chocolate, setting the stage for a romantic stay. The following morning, breakfast is conveniently delivered to your door. Nearby Norfolk, CT, attractions such as the Infinity Music Hall and The Norfolk Pub add a local touch to your stay.
Even More Romantic Connecticut Inns to Explore
Dear reader, if our top 10 list left you yearning for more, fear not! The romance of Connecticut is as boundless as the sea, and we have even more charming inns for your exploration. Each one, a unique gem, offering a myriad of experiences and amenities that would make even the most discerning of lovers swoon.
Read on to find even more reasons to fall in love with the irresistible charm of Connecticut.
11) Westbrook Inn
Experience the charm of the Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast in Westbrook, CT, built in 1876. This inn offers 10 rooms, each reflecting a bygone era with gas fireplaces, private entrances, and comfortable beds. Guests can order Prosecco, wine, a cheese and fruit board, or a celebration cake. A hot gourmet breakfast is served each morning in the dining area or on the back patio, overlooking the gardens. Bikes and kayaks are available for a more outdoorsy romantic weekend getaway. The Westbrook Inn provides plush linens, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi during your stay.
12) Silas W Robbins House
A restored Victorian bed and breakfast the Silas W Robbins House is a testament to elegance and grandeur. Each room dances on the fine line between past and present. This ‘new house in an old shell’ has been welcoming guests since 2007 with sumptuous rooms and a king’s breakfast served in a formal tearoom. For extra romance, The Cupids and Roses Room offers rainfall showers in a beautiful setting. Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast before exploring historic Wethersfield.
13) Inn at Ocean Avenue
The Inn at Ocean Avenue in New London, is a relic of pre-WWI New England. With its boutique atmosphere and beds as soft as a dream, it’s the perfect stage for a love story straight out of a turn of the century novel. Nestled near the beach, the Eugene O’Neill Theater, and the whimsical town of Mystic, it’s a playground for lovers seeking a dash of adventure. Each room is a symphony of old glamour, adorned with mirrored furniture and soothing hues of white and off-white.
14) The Whaler’s Inn
Step into The Whaler’s Inn, a coastal charm on the Mystic River, just a stone’s throw from the Historic Mystic Bascule Drawbridge. This boutique hotel offers 45 unique rooms spread across five buildings. The Morgan Suite, nestled in the 1865 House, is a haven for romance with a double-sided gas fireplace and a view over Main Street. The inn provides special packages like Bubbles and Blossoms and A’Board & Bottle, complete with curated charcuterie boards and wine. You can also dine at the on-site restaurant, The Shipwright’s Daughter. From here, you can embark on sunset cruises, harbor tours, or simply stroll down the Main Street of Mystic, CT.
15) Old Lyme Inn
The quarters at the Old Lyme Inn are perfect for a weekend love affair or a grand vacation, are a spectacle of modern convenience and old-world charm. Each room is a symphony of gas fireplaces, luxurious bedding, modern baths, flat screen televisions, and air conditioning. The furniture is antique and grand, while local artwork adds a touch of the contemporary. The seductive landscape of Old Lyme, CT, is the backdrop to this gem, which gained a new lease on life in 2012. For a bit of rhythm in your romantic life, The Side Door, a cozy jazz club, is tucked away downstairs.
16) Steamboat Inn
The Steamboat Inn styles itself a grand tribute to the industrial prowess of New England’s past. This waterfront sanctuary marries the rough-and-tumble aesthetic of a steamboat with luxury and romance, all while adding a touch of modern comfort. Picture awe-inspiring waterfront vistas of the Mystic River. Visualize spacious chambers for rest and intimate hearths perfect for snuggling. All these wonders are yours to discover at The Steamboat Inn. Beyond the inn, the quaint allure of Mystic, Connecticut, founded in 1654, invites you to explore its many charms.
17) Grace Mayflower Inn and Spa
Experience the luxury of the Grace Mayflower Inn and Spa, a jewel nestled within 58 acres of woodland in Washington. The guest rooms are spacious and elegant, reflecting the style of a New England country house. The WELL spa offers exotic treatments that blend eastern and western traditions. This hotel, part of the luxury hotel brand Relais and Châteaux, is set amongst the rolling hills of Litchfield County. The accommodations are equipped with balconies, fireplaces, and sitting areas. The property oozes a quaint country charm perfect for a romantic weekend.
18) Saybrook Point Inn & Spa
Perched in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, the Saybrook Point Inn & Spa is more of a resort at this point. I included it because it at least has “inn” in the name. With 81 rooms, guest houses, indoor pool, and a unique lighthouse suite, Saybrook Point Resort offers a panoramic view of the Long Island Sound and Connecticut River. Whether you choose the traditional rooms on the marina or the romantic theme rooms, you’re stepping into a world of elegance. This Connecticut resort also offers a marina cruise, pool dips, and on-site dining.
What makes an inn romantic?
This article stemmed from looking over top recommendations for romantic inns in Connecticut. And what jumped out at me was a lot of chain hotels and casino hotels.
I’m not saying that there’s no way you can enjoy romantic getaways at a chain. And I love Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT, as much as the next Connecticutian. But if you’re looking for a romantic inn, it seems important to find a list of actually inns for your next weekend getaway.
What distinguishes a romantic inn? It’s the attention to details. A romantic inn offers amenities like:
- Cozy gas fireplaces or wood burning fireplaces
- Romantic dining at world class establishments, either on-site or nearby
- Delightfully charming, uniquely decorated, guest rooms in which to luxuriate
- Beautiful gardens
- Spa services, either at a full service spa, or ones you can enjoy in your room
- Private entrances that allow for a private and intimate romantic weekend getaway
And, of course, great beds. Most inns offer a queen sized bed, at minimum. You can also find options with four poster beds and king sized beds.
All of these contribute to the unique setting a romantic inn provides for memorable romantic getaways in Connecticut.
Romantic Activities for Couples in Connecticut
Connecticut is a place where love is as abundant as the leaves in the fall. It’s a playground for those in love. Historic towns here are as charming as a well-aged book. And outdoor adventures that stir the spirit of even the most hardened adventurer. It’s a state that whispers sweet nothings to lovers, offering a smorgasbord of experiences just waiting to be devoured.
Winery Tours
Engage in the delightful dance of wine tasting across the verdant vineyards of Connecticut. Let the wine, as vibrant and varied as the state’s landscapes, roll over your tongue as you learn the secrets of its creation from the wise vintners.
Connecticut boasts a wealth of wineries and tasting rooms. It’s an excellent choice for couples who want to relax and enjoy each other’s company. The stunning backdrop of vine-laden landscapes adds to the romantic atmosphere.
Scenic Beach Walks
Picture this: you and your sweetheart, strolling side by side along Connecticut’s stunning beaches. From Hammonasset to Compo Beach, each sandy stretch is a new chapter in your shared love story. These Connecticut beaches, my dear reader, are more than just scenic spots – they’re memory-making machines.
Historic Town Exploration
Immerse yourself in Connecticut’s history by exploring its historic towns. Wander hand-in-hand through the narrative-rich streets of Westport or the chronicle-filled corners of Wethersfield. Admire architectural gems in downtown New Haven, CT. Hunt for treasures in antique shops and absorb culture in Connecticut’s museums.
Outdoor Adventures
For couples who love the great outdoors, Connecticut offers a variety of adventures to enjoy together. Here are some options:
- Hiking through the stunning landscapes of the best parks in CT, like Talcott Mountain State Park
- Bike along the scenic biking trails of Hop River State Park
- Kayak through the serene waters of the Connecticut River
- Luxuriate by outdoor pools at Stanton House Inn or Interlaken Inn
Spa Retreats
Indulge in relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments as a couple during your romantic getaway in Connecticut. Many of the state’s luxurious inns and hotels offer a variety of spa services, including:
- Massages
- Facials
- Body treatments
- Wellness therapies
Treat yourselves to a day of pampering and relaxation, leaving you both feeling refreshed and reconnected.
Most Romantic Hotels in CT
Connecticut’s romantic appeal isn’t limited to its inns. The state also boasts some of the most romantic hotels in Connecticut. Each of these luxury boutiques feature luxurious accommodations and memorable experiences. The likes of the stunning Delamar Greenwich Harbor, Madison Beach Hotel, or Norwich Inn are prime examples. These romantic hotels provide an ideal setting for unforgettable Connecticut romantic getaways.
Take the Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel, for instance. This beautiful boutique hotel in Greenwich, CT, offers 82 luxury rooms and suites. And some have small private balconies that overlooks Greenwich Harbor. It’s one of the few waterfront hotels in all Connecticut. Its location is convenient, being close to the Metro-North train station and I-95. This means guests have easy access to the upscale shops and restaurants on Greenwich Ave. Its full service spa hosts a much sought-after couples’ massage. And the fine dining spot on-site, L’Escale Restaurant, offers outdoor seating on the water.
So, whether you’re marking an anniversary, plotting a surprise weekend, or simply craving some quality time, these romantic Connecticut hotels are poised to cater to your needs.
Tl;dr
Connecticut is a trove of unique romantic experiences. It’s an ideal destination for couples seeking a memorable getaway. The state boasts charming inns, luxurious hotels, and a variety of romantic activities. With its picturesque landscapes, it’s the perfect escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. So, if you’re ready for a romantic adventure, grab your sweetheart, pack your bags, and head to the enchanting state of Connecticut.
Be sure to read our full guide to romantic getaways in Connecticut for even more options!
Frequently Asked Questions about romantic inns in CT
What are some of the most romantic inns in Connecticut?
From the charming Stanton House Inn to the elegant Interlaken Inn, Connecticut has no shortage of romantic inns for those looking to spark some romance.
What makes an inn romantic?
A cozy atmosphere, intimate dining, luxurious guest rooms and beautiful gardens make an inn a perfect setting for a romantic escape with your loved one.
What are some romantic activities for couples in Connecticut?
For a romantic Connecticut getaway, wine tasting tours, beach walks, historic explorations, outdoor adventures, and spa retreats make for an unforgettable experience.
Are there any unique accommodations for a romantic getaway in Connecticut?
Spoil your special someone with a romantic getaway in Connecticut, complete with unique accommodations like the Lighthouse Suite or Water Forest Treehouse Retreat.
When is the best time to plan a romantic getaway in Connecticut?
Fall is the perfect time for a romantic getaway in Connecticut, with its breathtaking foliage and cozy atmosphere – it’s hard to beat!
