Roadtrip from Kingston, NY to Winsted, CT
Are you looking for a short road trip to explore some of the best places in New York and Connecticut? Then embarking on a journey from the City of Kingston in New York to Winsted in Connecticut might be just what you need.
Did you know that Kingston, NY, was the first capital of New York State? Today it's a charming city with many historic sites, natural parks, and great food places to explore. From Kingston, head southeast on Route 209 to reach Winsted, a town located in Litchfield County, Connecticut.
Halfway between Kingston and Winsted is the village of Millerton, NY, where you can stop for a coffee break and visit Oblong Books & Music. It's a beautiful independent bookstore, with an excellent selection of books and records.
The total distance from Kingston to Winsted is about 81 miles, which takes around 1.5 hours by car. This road trip is ideal for a long day trip or a weekend getaway, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring each destination.
Here are the top five places to visit on a road trip from Kingston, NY, to Winsted, CT:
1. Olana State Historic Site
Located in Hudson, New York, Olana State Historic Site is a must-visit attraction for art lovers and history enthusiasts. This beautiful estate was the home of the painter Frederic Edwin Church, who designed the house, the landscape, and the artworks in the 19th century.
The house is a masterpiece of Victorian Architecture, and the surrounding park offers stunning views of the Hudson River Valley. Don't miss the guided tour of the house, which offers a glimpse into the life of Church and his family.
Point of interest recommendation: After you visit Olana, take a short scenic drive to the nearby Hudson Waterfront Park, where you can relax, stroll, and enjoy the view of the river.
2. Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
The Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is a unique attraction that offers a breathtaking view of the Hudson River. It's a pedestrian bridge that spans 1.28 miles, connecting Poughkeepsie, NY, and Highland, NY.
The bridge is the longest elevated pedestrian walkway in the world and offers a fantastic view of the river and the surrounding landscape. Walking or biking across the bridge is an unforgettable experience that you don't want to miss.
Point of interest recommendation: After you cross the bridge, have lunch at the nearby River Station Restaurant, where you can enjoy American cuisine, waterfront views, and outdoor seating.
3. Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, NY, is a fascinating museum that celebrates the life and legacy of the 32nd President of the United States. The museum contains priceless archives, documents, and artifacts related to the Roosevelt era and the history of the United States during the Great Depression and World War II.
The library is a significant research center that attracts scholars, historians, and students from all over the world. Don't miss the permanent exhibition, "A New Deal for a New Generation," which depicts the challenges and solutions of the Great Depression era.
Point of interest recommendation: After you visit the library, have dinner at the nearby Eveready Diner, a classic 1950s-style diner that offers all-day breakfast, burgers, and milkshakes.
4. Talcott Mountain State Park
Talcott Mountain State Park is a natural park located in Simsbury, CT, that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park features a 165-foot Heublein Tower, which is a popular attraction for hikers, nature lovers, and history buffs.
The tower was the summer home of Gilbert Heublein, a businessman who founded the famous Heublein Hotel in Hartford. Today, the tower is a museum that showcases the history of the hotel and the Heublein family.
Point of interest recommendation: After you visit the tower, drive to the nearby Maple Craft Foods store, where you can buy local maple syrup, jams, and other sweet treats.
5. White Memorial Conservation Center
The White Memorial Conservation Center is a nature reserve located in Litchfield, CT, that features over 4,000 acres of forests, lakes, and meadows. The center is a popular destination for hiking, bird watching, camping, and wildlife photography.
The conservation center offers many educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, workshops, and summer camps. Don't miss the chance to explore the Bantam River, which flows through the center and offers great fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Point of interest recommendation: After you visit the center, drive to the nearby Arethusa Farm Dairy, where you can taste artisanal ice cream, cheese, and milk from grass-fed cows.
In conclusion, the road trip from Kingston, NY, to Winsted, CT, is a fantastic way to explore some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks in the Hudson River Valley and Litchfield County. It takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and how much time you want to spend at each destination. From historic sites to natural parks, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack a picnic, grab your camera, and hit the road!