Clinton and Essex | New England Small-Town Charm
Experience the timeless allure of Clinton, Connecticut. Indeed, the enchanting riverside town of Essex, where small-town charm, rich history, and scenic pathways converge in picturesque coastal villages. The towns of Clinton and Essex have much to explore on your luxury yacht charter.
Clinton
Clinton is a charming village combining a small-town atmosphere and rich historical backdrop. This area showcases a wonderfully preserved mid-19th-century town center.
Places to see and things to do
- If you’re eager to connect with the local wildlife, the Meigs Point Nature Center is a fantastic destination.
- Explore the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling 950-acre park home to a variety of bird species and waterfowl.
- For a taste of local cuisine, be sure to try the classic lobster roll at Lobster Landing. If you prefer spending your time by the water, Clinton Town Beach is a great spot to soak up the sun.
- If you’re a wine enthusiast, Charmed Vineyards offers a wine-tasting room and a cozy café to enjoy.
- History buffs will find the historic Benjamin Bushnell Farm, established around 1790, to be a fascinating visit. This historically important place has an amazingly well-kept Federal-style farmhouse. It also has a 19th-century cranberry house.
Weather | Clinton
Clinton experiences warm and humid summers. Winters are very cold, wet, and windy. Temperatures range from 24°F to 81°F.
Marinas | Clinton
Indian River Marina offers 35 slips that can accommodate boats up to 22 feet and a maximum beam of 8 feet. Additionally, the marina has power, fresh water, a picnic and BBQ area, and a screened gazebo. Because the Indian River is tidal, navigating certain bends at low tide can be difficult. For this reason, the marina provides monthly custom tide charts for their location.
Essex
Just a short distance away, Essex, situated along the Connecticut River in Middlesex County, offers its own unique charm. Lined with sidewalks and historic homes, it’s an ideal place for leisurely walks and exploration.
Places to see and things to do
- Dine on the Essex Clipper Dinner Train. You’ll enjoy a four-course meal in beautifully restored 1920s Pullman diners pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive. The 2½-hour scenic journey through the pristine Connecticut River Valley offers an extraordinary dining experience.
- Visit the Connecticut River Museum. This museum focuses on the maritime heritage of the Connecticut River Valley.
- Sample unique cuisine at Abby’s Place and Olive Oyl’s.
- Griswold Inn: Visit one of the oldest operated inns in the United States. It offers history and a cozy pub atmosphere.
- Ivoryton Playhouse: Catch a live performance at the Ivoryton Playhouse, a historic theater.
- Antique Shopping: Essex is famous for its antique shops, making it a great place for collectors and vintage enthusiasts.
Weather | Essex
As for the weather in Essex, expect warm and humid summers, while chilly and wet conditions characterize winters. Temperatures typically range from 23°F to 81°F.
Marinas | Essex
Saybrook Point Marina offers indoor and outdoor heated pools, hot tubs, a sauna, and a steam room. They also have concrete floating docks, fixed docks with breakwater, docking assistance, and a 12-foot depth at low water. Also, the marina provides shuttle service to Historic Main Street, bicycles, loaner vehicles for short trips, and a fitness club. Additional amenities include a marine supply store, laundry, restaurant and bar, European Style Spa, and mail service.
Ragged Rock Marina provides bathhouses, a swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi. Although in a rural area, this clean, quiet marina has modern 24-hour monitored security.
The Safe Harbor Essex Island Marina has slips for boats up to 100 feet. They also have a waterfront restaurant, ship’s store, fuel dock, and swimming pool. They also have a children’s playground and a dog park.
