Connecticut River Towns

 

If you’re thinking about moving to this area, you’re not alone—many of my buyers have asked for quick snapshots of the key towns I work in. Below, you’ll find short descriptions and handy links to explore some of the wonderful communities along the Connecticut River.

TOWNS ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE CONNECTICUT RIVER

Essex

Essex is a postcard-perfect town on the Connecticut River, known for its historic charm, colonial architecture, and nautical heritage. Its Main Street leads down to a scenic harbor and is lined with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. Popular attractions include the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, the Griswold Inn, and waterfront parks. With a strong cultural scene and timeless atmosphere, Essex is both a tourist favorite and a sought-after place to live.

Click here for the Essex town website.
Click here for the Essex town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Essex.
Click here for the Regional School District #4 website.

Chester

Chester is a small, artistic town tucked into the hills near the Connecticut River. Its walkable village is full of galleries, artisan shops, and upscale restaurants, many housed in 19th-century buildings. The town is known for its creative community, local events, and the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry that crosses the river to Gillette Castle State Park and which has been operating continuously since 1769 (the boat, the Selden III, just celebrated its 75th birthday). Chester combines rustic charm with a cosmopolitan flair.

Click here for the Chester town website.
Click here for the Chester town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Chester.
Click here for the Regional School District #4 website.

Deep River

Deep River is a quiet, close-knit town that borders both Chester and Essex, with easy access to the Connecticut River. Its compact downtown features locally owned shops, cafés, and a classic town green. The Deep River Landing offers a boat launch and access to the river, and the town shares in the region’s strong sense of history and natural beauty. It’s a peaceful residential community with small-town warmth.

Click here for the Deep River town website.
Click here for the Deep River town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Deep River.
Click here for the Regional School District #4 website.

TOWNS ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE CONNECTICUT RIVER 

Lyme

Lyme is a rural, picturesque town known for its rolling hills, preserved woodlands, and classic New England farms. It’s ideal for those seeking privacy and natural beauty, with hiking trails, horse farms, and scenic drives. The town borders the Connecticut River and is home to several nature preserves, including the Nehantic and Selden Neck State Forests. Lyme has no commercial center, emphasizing open space and tranquility.

Click here for the Lyme town website.
Click here for the Lyme town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Lyme.
Click here for the Lyme-Old Lyme schools.

Old Lyme

Old Lyme is both a coastal and cultural destination, famous as the birthplace of American Impressionism. It offers beautiful beaches on Long Island Sound, as well as galleries, historic homes, and the Florence Griswold Museum. Old Lyme blends seaside living with artistic heritage, and features a charming village center, waterfront neighborhoods, and easy access to I-95.

Click here for the Lyme town website.
Click here for the Lyme town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for Lyme.
Click here for the Lyme-Old Lyme schools.

East Lyme

East Lyme includes the villages of Niantic and Flanders, and offers a mix of shoreline charm and suburban convenience. Niantic is a lively waterfront district with a boardwalk, beaches, shops, restaurants, and a year-round calendar of community events. The town also features parks and marinas. East Lyme is popular with families, vacationers, and commuters alike, with a relaxed coastal lifestyle and easy highway access.

Click here for the East Lyme town website.
Click here for the East Lyme town profile from CT Data (pdf file).
Click here for the Niche Report Card for East Lyme.
Click here for the East Lyme schools.

Thinking about purchasing a home in Connecticut? I'm here to help. The search for a home is more than a transaction—it’s a journey, and I’d be honored to take it with you. Let's start with an area tour.

Let’s talk.

David Mayhew, REALTOR®
Pearce Real Estate, 18 Church Street, Guilford, CT 06437
dmayhew@hpearce.com, call or text 203.533.5621
Licensed in the State of Connecticut #RES.0784723