15 Best Things To Do In And Near Bloomfield, Connecticut

things to do in Bloomfield CT
Hannah
Hannah 
Updated
| 7 min read

Whether you are new in town, a local, or are just cruising through, there are lots of fun activities to do and see in this majestic town situated in Hartford County, north-central Connecticut in the United States. The town has existed for over three centuries since 1660 as part of Windsor It borders, Windsor to the northeast, Farmington to the north, and Simsbury and Avon to the west. The town’s major developments started in 1957 but initially, it was an agricultural hub. It has been blessed by mother nature with the iconic Farmington River on its northern border, the beautiful Talcott Mountain flanking the west side, and the Metacomet Ridge, a notable mountainous trap rock. If you love hiking then it’s the most suitable place for you. You will also get to visit the amazing Penwood State Park and play golf at Gillette Ridge Golf Club. Lined up for you below is a list of things to do in Bloomfield, Connecticut.

1. Dive into history at Oliver Ellsworth Homestead

Oliver Ellsworth Windsor CT
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chrissypan used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

A delightful, two-story house-museum, Oliver Ellsworth Homestead lies on the western banks of the Connecticut River. The former home of American lawyer and politician Oliver Ellsworth, the building is also locally known as “Elmwood” due to the 13 elm trees that the owner planted to symbolize the historic 13 colonies. A celebrity of his time, Ellsworth was Connecticut’s first senator and the author of the Judicial Act, which constitutes the basis of the country’s current federal judicial system. Amongst the many memorabilia, don’t miss the letter penned by George Washington who visited the Ellsworth family in 1789.

Oliver Ellsworth Homestead

Address: 778 Palisado Avenue, Windsor, Connecticut

Website: Oliver Ellsworth Homestead

Opening hours: Temporarily closed due to current Covid-related restrictions

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2. Have fun with science at the Connecticut Science Center

Connecticut Science Center
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Josephtbrophy used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Overlooking the placid Connecticut River, the impressive building that hosts the Connecticut Science Center was completed in 2009. With over 165 hands-on, interactive exhibits, four educational labs, and a 3D digital theatre, the center has succeeded in making science largely available - and fascinating - to visitors of all ages.

Connecticut Science Center

Address: 250 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, Connecticut

Website: Connecticut Science Center

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 24.95 USD

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3. Play golf at the tranquil Gillette Ridge Golf Club

Posted by Gillette Ridge Golf Club on Saturday, 12 October 2019

Designed by a professional golfer called Arnold Palmer, this is absolutely one of the best designs and creations of the Palmer Course Design, It boasts over 14 years of experience serving its clients in a calm and beautiful environment. The club dates its roots back to 2004 when it was established. It is delighted to serve both beginners and experienced golfers with unbeatable golf experience, unparalleled golf tournaments, and delicious food. You will get the best out of playing golf at the golf course; the golf club will test, amaze, and excite you as you exercise via a variety of terrains such as spectacular carries, tree-lined fairways, and several obstacles.

Gillette Ridge Golf Club

Address: 1360 Hall Blvd, Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Gillette Ridge Golf Club

Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)

Price: From 35 USD

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4. Go hiking at Penwood State Park

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Posted by Katie Meighan Iwans on Tuesday, 22 October 2019

Sitting on a large piece of land, Penwood State Park prides itself as the biggest popular recreational park in Bloomfield. The park was established in 1944 and was donated by Curtis Vendor who loved spending most of his time outdoors. This nature preservation facility has turned out to be a vital recreational facility. The park has a lot of trails and it’s a perfect spot for various outdoor activities from hiking to jogging, going on a picnic, and strolling and biking on paved paths. It is also a nice calm place to chill out with friends or families. During winter, skiing is the most popular sport in this park.

Penwood State Park

Address: 560 Simsbury Road Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Penwood State Park

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5. Sample fine beer at Thomas Hooker Brewery

Stop in for an iced cold taste of what's brewing! #hellolover #prettybrew #sotasty

Posted by Thomas Hooker Brewery on Friday, 9 August 2019

After a long week of touring places and being engaged in numerous indoor and outdoor activities, why don’t you take some time off on a Friday evening and visit Hooker Brewery on Tobey Road? This a perfect place for you to rock your weekend and have an awesome time with your loved ones. With guided tours around the brewery experience the inventiveness and techniques that crafting undergoes to produce Bloomfield’s finest beer. Visit the taproom at the end of your tour and get to taste some of their beers at the eight-tap tasting bar. You can also get yourself a few items sold at the bar and buy some merchandise from the gift shop. Free parking, gaming facilities, free WiFi, and multiple restrooms are among the amenities available in the facility.

Thomas Hooker Brewery

Address: 16 Tobey Rd Bloomfield, Connecticut

Website: Thomas Hooker Brewery

Opening hours: Sat - Wed: 11am - 5pm; Thu - Fri: 11am - 9pm

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6. Grab a bite at Town & Country Restaurant

things to do in bloomfield ct | grab a bite at town & country restaurant
Source: instagram

Situated on Park Avenue, Town & Country restaurant is not only popular for delivering delicious authentic cuisines but also for its hospitality. It prides itself as Bloomfield’s treasure. The staff are courteous and friendly, not to mention quickly bring food to your table after you order. You can decide to enjoy their amazing pastrami sandwich for breakfast in the serene outside seating or relish it in their relaxed atmosphere inside. From breakfast all the way to dinner they are always dedicated to serving you warmly. However, try and arrive there early especially during the weekends to avoid the crowd at the restaurant.

Town & Country Restaurant

Address: 820 Park Ave Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Town & Country Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 7am - 3pm

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7. Have some quiet time at Samuel Wheeler Reed Park

Posted by Dennis Hubbs on Friday, 11 May 2018

This park is a nice place to witness the magical sunset as you sip in a cup of coffee or bite a snack. It is dedicated to a long-time councilman who was vocal in advocating for the preservation of open space. This 90-acre (36.4 hectares) piece of land located in School Street is a perfect place for hiking, bird-watching, and passive recreation. It’s a nice place to stroll around with your pet as you enjoy the beautiful distant view of Talcott Ridge and the Heublein Tower off to the west. It’s also a nice spot to tour and breathe in the fresh Bloomfield air in a unique way by enjoying the beautiful sights.

Samuel Wheeler Reed Park

Address: School Street Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Samuel Wheeler Reed Park

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8. Stroll around Auerfarm State Park

Posted by Friends of Auerfarm Scenic Reserve on Saturday, 10 June 2017

Tracing its roots back to 1927, the farm existed as part of the historic Auerfarm property that operated as a farm for over 40 years. It was then donated and made a public state park in 2015. The park is a nice spot for people to stroll around as they marvel at Metacomet Ridge that’s close by in the Talcott Mountains, the apple orchards, the woodlands, and the valuable grasslands at the farm. On a clear day, you will get a chance to view the beautiful Connecticut River Valley or Mount Tom. Visit this lovely park and get the most out of your visit in Bloomfield.

Auerfarm State Park

Address: Auerfarm State Park c/o Penwood State Park 57 Gun Mill Road Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Auerfarm State Park

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9. Bike through Marion K. Wilcox Park


A little escape to northern Bloomfield will lead you to this hidden gem away from the busy streets and traffic. Located on Hoskins Road in Bloomfield, Marion K. Wilcox Park features 98 trails in the locality–86 for hiking and the rest for walking and other activities. They go up to 22.2 miles (35.7km) long. The most common and popular trail is Metacomet Trail that is 22.2 miles (35.7km) long. It is a perfect place for hiking and biking during dry weather. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture moments at the park.

Marion K. Wilcox Park

Address: 71 Hoskins Road Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002

Website: Marion K. Wilcox Park

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10. Enjoy delicious high-quality ice cream at Bloom Hill Farm

Posted by Bloom Hill Farm on Thursday, 15 August 2019

Tucked away at Cottage Grove Road, Bloom Hill Farm has since gained its fame for the production of not only delicious but also high-quality ice cream. The place is quiet and serene and most people prefer to take their ice cream while enjoying the sun outside as they listen to birds singing. While here, you can decide to order the standard soft serve or the mouthwatering hard ice cream and get a chance to choose your favourite flavour out of almost 30 different flavours. You can have it served in waffle cones or dishes depending on your preferences. They also prepare sundaes with a lot of toppings. With all this, everyone should find something perfect for them. at Bloom hill ice cream.

Bloom Hill Farm

Address: 696 Cottage Grove Rd Bloomfield, Connecticut 06002-3034

Website: Bloom Hill Farm

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 8pm (closed on Mon)

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11. Relish the delicious Italian desserts at Pasticceria Italia

Pasticceria italia in Bloomfield

Posted by Innocenzo Padula on Sunday, 11 August 2019

Located in Wintonbury Mall, this Italian café is a perfect place for cakes, dessert, and chocolate lovers. It is not like any other bakery–it has a very unique lunch service and offers pizza, salads, and soups. They have a very large selection of pastry and you can decide to enjoy a cup of coffee at the shop or choose from a variety of delicious pastry to bring back home. If you are having a birthday party, it is the perfect place to get a mouthwatering cake for your loved one.

Pasticceria Italia

Address: 10 Wintonbury Mall Bloomfield, CT

Website: Pasticceria Italia

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 7:30am - 7pm; Fri - Sat: 7:30am - 8pm; Sun: 7:30am - 4pm; Mon: 7:30am - 6pm

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12. Taste the local cuisine at Republic Restaurant

Posted by Republic on Friday, 25 October 2019

Don’t finish your stay in Bloomfield without feasting on rounds of deliciousness awaiting you at Republic Restaurant. Indulge in the local cuisine and choose from their wide menu that includes delicious burrata and figs appetizer, cheesesteak, seasonal crème brulee, crispy chips, and their amazing onion soup just to mention a few. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff are always ready to help. The food here is of high quality and the service is top-notch.

Republic Restaurant

Address: 39 Jerome Ave Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Republic Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30 am - 10pm; Fri: 11:30am - 11pm; Sat: 5pm - 11pm; Sun: 4pm - 9:30pm

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13. Enjoy the scenery at Talcott Mountain State Park

For those in Connecticut who are asking, “when will the fall colors reach us?” Here’s the answer. Looking out over the...

Posted by Rodney Brock on Friday, 18 October 2019

Enjoy a remarkable vista from the top of this beautiful park named after the Talcott family. It is nestled along the famous Farmington River and is a historical landmark in Bloomfield that not only attracts locals but also international visitors. Visit the Heublein Tower on top of the mountain and learn about its rich history that traces its origins to 1914. The tower can only be accessed via a walking trail that is 1.25 miles (approximately 2 kilometers). Along the trail, you will spot a variety of wildlife that includes foxes, deer, and rabbits. Whether you are obsessed with birds or not, you will get an incredible chance of witnessing turkey, vultures, bald eagles, and woodpeckers. The place is serene and lively.

Talcott Mountain State Park

Address: 560 Simsbury Rd Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Talcott Mountain State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

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14. Do some shopping at Copaco Shopping Center

It's been more than 20 years since direct bus service operated between Wedgewood Apartments and Copaco Shopping Center...

Posted by CTtransit Planning & Scheduling on Monday, 9 November 2015

Dedicated to serving both local and international customers, the facility has remained a ‘neighbourhood shopping tradition’ dating its roots to 1914. Thiis the best shopping facility in Bloomfield, CT. It has over thirty businesses, from McDonald’s where you can enjoy delicious burgers to a fueling spot for your car, and also a fitness centre. There are lots of activities you can do at Copaco. It is dedicated to providing its customers with a dynamic blend of locally owned and operated business ensuring you get the best out of your stop at the shopping centre.

Copaco Shopping Center

Address: 335 Cottage Grove Rd Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Copaco Shopping Center

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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15. Book a tasting tour with Waypoint Spirits


The daily hustle and bustle, the worries of work, bills, and kids might be tiresome–you might need something to spice up and enjoy this short life. These were the thoughts of some friends one day as they strolled the sands of Fisher’s Island, watching the sun being buried in the horizon and the boats sailing towards the shore. This was how one of the most famous distilleries known for its authentic unique purely handcrafted spirits was born. Spare a day between Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with your friends and book a Groupon taste tour of unique and flavorful spirits such as Wintonbury Gin, Labrador Noon Vodka, Special Batch Vodka, Man Overboard Spiced Flavoured Rum, and Labrador Noon Spicy XIII. The staff are super friendly and they will welcome you warmheartedly, ready to make your tour a unique experience. The facility is located at Woodland Avenue, Bloomfield.

Waypoint Spirits

Address: 410 Woodland Ave Suite C, Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: Waypoint Spirits

Opening hours: Fri: 4pm -7pm; Sat - Sun:12pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Thu)

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The picturesque Bloomfield

Village Green - Bloomfield, CT - DSC09378
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Daderot used under CC0

Apart from the warm welcome by the friendly locals, beautiful nature, and delicious cuisines, this town should top your list if you are preparing to have a fantastic holiday ahead. Whether alone, or with family and friends, there are dozens of amazing activities you can engage yourself in at this remarkable town and various wonderful places you can tour and have fantastic moments. We’ve narrowed down for you the best of the best places to visit and things to do in Bloomfield.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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In addition to her love for writing and adventurous spirit, Hannah is a dedicated learner, always striving to acquire new knowledge with each passing day.

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