Day Tripping it to Washington Depot, CT

My husband is always asking me where I want to go for a ride. This is somewhat of a challenge because of the criteria...no more than 45 mins to an hour from home and windy roads for a fun driving experience. This got me thinking that there probably are a whole slew of people wondering where to go for a day trip when you live in Southern Fairfield County. I thought it would be fun to go explore, write a little blurb and put together a little video clip of our travels.

Our first stop in the series is Washington Depot, CT. Washington is best known for the Mayflower Inn. We stayed at the Mayflower a couple of years ago and had a great experience. Staying at the Inn and being pampered in the Spa was heavenly, but we quickly realized it was a quintessential New England town. Beautiful scenery, parks and traditional architecture won us over.

When you go to Washington Depot, forget your cell phone at home. Washington Depot has no cell towers and they aim to keep it that way. It’s not that the cell service is poor, it’s that there is none. If hiking and being in the throws of a massage don’t take your mind off of things the lack of your cell will force you to. I really didn’t mind that much, but did have to ask a local merchant to use their land line to set up an appointment for a client.

We had coffee at Marty’s, THE place to go for your Java fix. It is a bustling place with comfy couches, counters at the windows, and overstuffed chairs. Marty’s serves brunch, salads, sandwiches and light plates all prepared in the back kitchen. There’s also a large communal table. Marty’s has wireless internet and is a Gallery as well. You can enjoy the artwork while munching on a scone and then surf the web.

Across the way and owned by the same owners is Green Hill which is a lifestyle store and Washington Sports. The stores have an eclectic selection of items and look as if they would be found in SoHo.

If you’re looking for some reading material head directly to The Hickory Stick Bookshop. This is a great bookstore. It’s has an open feel, a large selection of books and is the small town bookshop you remember before the big name bookstores hit. Pick up a book and sit in one of the many cushy chairs.

Are you a knitter? No worries, The Village Sheep is a great place to touch and feel all those great yarns you might only see in the magazines or on line. Nate, a black lab mix rescue dog is the official greeter and will probably give you a tour if you have a treat for him. The owner Maggie, purchased the Village Sheep in 2008 and brought it to its current location in downtown Washington Depot. She is helpful and has a great selection of yarns and tools to choose from. Comfy chairs and sofas, cookies and a fireplace make this an inviting spot to, yet again, sit and relax.

Feeling hungry for lunch yet? The Pantry owned by Michael and Nancy Ackerman since 1986 is a good choice. In existence since 1977, it’s where day trippers and regulars alike go for gourmet chow. They are opened from 10-6, Tuesday through Saturday. They bake their own bread and what makes this eatery different is the housewares store that encircles the dining tables. Everything from exotic olive oils, to sea salts to beautiful french pottery. There are lots of baked goodies to choose from and a take out section of appetizing prepared foods. They also run a catering division.

You can work off all your calories by taking a walk or hiking on the many trails offered at Steep Rock Nature Preserve. Steep Rock is one of the oldest land trusts in CT. They have over 4,774 acres to explore. Everything from beginner to advanced trails, fishing and different programs are offered. Dogs are welcomed.

If hiking isn’t your thing then continue to explore the downtown. There are several galleries to sneak into and view the local art. Enjoy!