Fun Family Adventures
Gillette's Castle, East Haddam (15 Minutes/7.25 Miles) Great place for picnics and hiking: A beautiful, picturesque spot overlooking the CT River. If lucky enough to visit when the castle is open for tours, it is a wonderful step back In time (www.reserveamerica.com for booking tours in advance). Otherwise the grounds are open daily 8am to sunset, with numerous hiking trails that include spectacular views of the CT River and other unique historical stone and rail systems along the routes. It is a very special local spot.
Chapman Falls, East Haddam-Devils Hopyard State Park (12 Minutes/4.7 Miles): Beautiful outdoor space with gorgeous falls with lots of hiking trails, picnic spots and camping too!
Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme (9 minutes/4.5 Miles): From the impressive Georgian architecture of the home of namesake Florence Griswold, to the light-filled and modern spaces of the Krieble Gallery, to the rolling landscape of their 12-acre site, the Florence Griswold is a truly special place that is privileged to serve as the home of American Impressionism.
Studio 80+ Sculpture Grounds (9 Minutes/5.5 Miles): A fun and interactive outdoor art exhibit for kids and adults. Art is encouraged to be touched and explored. This four-and-a-half ache sculpture ground will give you and your entire family hours of fun. The best part is admission is FREE to the public.
A Few Of Our Favorite Local Eateries
Coffee's Country Market, Old Lyme (10 Minutes/4.5 Miles) Local deli/bakery: Always busy and lots of options, this family owned and operated small grocery store serves up daily specials and all the classic deli options with made to go dinner specials and salads too. If you have a sweet tooth, you will find something to delight there!
The Hangry Goose, Old Lyme (10 Minutes/5.5 Miles) Breakfast and lunch only: If heading there for breakfast, it is worth the wait. Lovely spot to sit outside overlooking the Lieutenant River in the summer, but cozy and warm in the winter months. Great sweet potato fries and extensive menu, there is something for everyone's palette here.
Salem Valley Ice Cream, Salem (11 Minutes/7.5 Miles Seasonal): Window-serve style ice cream shop. Just off Route 11, this iconic ice cream parlor has been serving freshly made to order ice cream since 1988.
Olive Oyls, Essex (15 Minutes/10 Miles): Located in the heart of Essex Village, this sandwich shop has food options for everyone. Whether it be a fresh baked muffin in the morning, or a sandwich in the afternoon, Olive Oyls will always have an option for you. Its location is perfect for take out as just around the corner is Essex park. You can overlook Middle Cove as you eat at a picnic table.
The Monkey Farm Café (11 Minutes/7.7 Miles): This all American restaurant, originally specializing in roast beef sandwiches, has since became a full service restraint for everyone. Original owner Harry F. Corning started The Monkey Farm in the mid 70's and is now run by his three children.
Paperback Café (14 Minutes/8.1 Miles): If you're looking for a great breakfast option, Paperback Café is the place to go. Open 7 days a week, 7am-3pm, Paperback Café has a variety of breakfast options ranging from scrambled eggs, to breakfast sandwiches, and even gluten free options.


Unique Local Shopping Spots
Pearls and Plaid, Old Saybrook (15 Minutes/5.25 Miles) Clothing: Need a new outfit? Pearls and Plaid is the place to go if you're looking for cute yet affordable clothing. What started out as a dream, has quickly turned into a reality for shop owner Caroline. Now stocking accessories and men's clothing, Pearls and Plaid has something for everyone.
The Bowerbird, Old Lyme (10 Minutes/5.25 Miles) Decorative home and garden accessories, toys, jewelry, etc.: The Bowerbird in Old Lyme, Connecticut represents the quintessential family shopping experience. The Bowerbird strives to offer products and services that reflect quality, uniqueness, affordability and fun with an emphasis on superior customer service.
With over 4,500 square feet of "impulsive necessities" from over 2,000 vendors, their vast selection of great gifts includes; decorative home and garden accessories, toys, baby gifts, stationery, jewelry, gourmet food; all that's fun, special, and trendy.
Pieces, Old Saybrook (15 Minutes/8.3 Miles) Home décor and artisan items: "The shop is an elegant boutique/gallery showcasing the finest home decor and artisan items, many of which are truly one of a kind."
-
Reynolds' Subaru
268 Hamburg Rd.
Lyme, CT 06371
- Sales: 860-434-0028