Where to Stay in Connecticut

Connecticut’s got a surprising mix of places to stay, no matter your vibe or budget. The best areas to stay include New Haven for culture, Mystic for coastal charm, Stamford for city amenities, and the casino resorts of Uncasville for entertainment. Each spot gives you a different slice of Connecticut’s personality—sometimes it feels like you’re in a whole new state just by driving a few miles.

Whether you’re after a luxury resort or a cozy country inn, you’ll find plenty of options for a memorable getaway. Want to splurge? There are beachfront properties along the shoreline calling your name. Or maybe you’re hunting for a comfy hotel near the main attractions. Some folks get a kick out of the quirky stays here—think lighthouses, treehouses, and historic B&Bs in towns like Essex and Old Lyme. There’s something a little magical about waking up in a place with some real history or character.

It’s worth thinking about what you want to do before you book. Hartford is a solid pick for business trips and history lovers, while Old Saybrook and Mystic are perfect if you just want to chill by the sea. The shoreline towns feel peaceful and a bit slower, while cities pack in more restaurants and things to do right outside your door. It’s really about what kind of trip you’re after.

Litchfield Hills and Romantic Getaways

The Litchfield County area is basically Connecticut’s answer to a romantic escape. The Mayflower Inn & Spa is a local legend—think elegant rooms and a spa that’ll make you forget your phone for a while.

Winvian Farm is another standout for couples, especially if you’re into unique places. Each cottage has its own theme (there’s literally a treehouse cottage—how cool is that?).

Small inns and B&Bs are scattered all over the rolling hills, many with fireplaces and hot tubs. If you care about food, lots of these spots serve up farm-to-table meals that really show off Connecticut’s local flavors.

Not everyone wants to rough it, even if they want to be close to nature. Glamping is big here—upscale tents with real beds, electricity, and even private bathrooms. It’s camping for people who like their creature comforts.

Coastal Retreats: Mystic, the Long Island Sound, and the Beaches

New London County is home to Mystic, which draws a crowd for good reason. The Hampton Inn & Suites Mystic is always a safe bet if you want a reliable, top-rated hotel.

Mystic puts you close to Mystic Seaport and the peaceful Mystic River. If you’re after something a little quieter, towns like Old Saybrook, Essex, and the Lymes have waterfront places that feel a world away from the crowds.

Madison and Guilford are great if you want to roll out of bed and straight onto the sand. A lot of vacation rentals here even throw in beach passes—nice touch, right?

Traveling with kids or a group? Beach cottages in Old Lyme are affordable and usually come with kitchens, which is a lifesaver. Plenty of coastal places have outdoor dining spaces, so you can eat fresh seafood while catching the sunset over the water. It’s the kind of thing you remember long after the trip’s over.

Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun: Resort and Casino Stays

Connecticut’s casino resorts are more than just places to gamble. Mohegan Sun, for example, gets high marks for its plush rooms and modern perks.

Both Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun have a wild range of restaurants, from quick bites to fancy dinners. Even if you’re not into slots or tables, you’ll find shops, concerts, and activities that make these resorts feel like mini-cities.

The Hyatt Place in Uncasville is a convenient pick if you want to be close to Mohegan Sun without staying right in the action. And if you love a good spa day, both resorts have top-notch spas to help you unwind after all the excitement.

Golfers, take note: the championship courses here are a real draw. Some packages even bundle golf, meals, and entertainment—it’s a nice way to get more for your money.

Historic and Unique Accommodations

If you want a taste of old Connecticut, check out the historic inns. The Griswold Inn in Essex has been around since 1776 (seriously!), and it somehow nails the balance between old-school charm and modern comfort.

If you’d rather be outdoors, state parks rent out cabins and campgrounds. Some are pretty basic, but others have all the amenities you’d want.

Staying in New Haven puts you near Yale’s gorgeous campus and a food scene that’s way better than you’d expect. The New Haven Hotel is a popular pick if you want to be close to everything.

Delamar hotels in Greenwich Harbor, Southport, and a few other spots mix luxury with a distinctly local vibe. Several historic buildings have been turned into boutique hotels, and you can still see the original architecture—love that kind of detail.

Hotels, Inns, and Suites

There’s no shortage of hotels in Connecticut, from splashy resorts to wallet-friendly chains. Mohegan Sun and the other casino hotels are kind of like self-contained worlds, with restaurants, spas, and pools right on site—perfect if you don’t want to drive around all day.

Looking for something more personal? Historic inns like the Steamboat Inn in Mystic have elegant rooms with river views, and you can walk to downtown attractions. Many of these places serve homemade breakfasts and actually remember your name—something you don’t get at big hotels.

Fairfield County is loaded with upscale hotels near shopping and the coast. If you’re stopping in New Haven, the New Haven Hotel puts you close to Yale and some of the state’s best restaurants.

If you need more space, most suites come with kitchenettes and separate living areas. Handy for families or anyone planning a longer stay.

Cabins, Campgrounds, and Glamping

If you’re drawn to the outdoors, cabins and campgrounds in Connecticut offer a more laid-back retreat. State parks let you pitch a tent or park your RV right by hiking trails and fishing spots—nothing fancy, but that’s kind of the point.

Private campgrounds usually have more perks: electric hookups, showers, and sometimes even activities for kids. They’re often close to local attractions, but you still get that peaceful, away-from-it-all feeling.

Glamping’s caught on here, too. You’ll find safari tents, yurts, and tiny houses with real beds and electricity—basically, all the fun of camping without the hassle. It’s a good compromise if you want fresh air but also want a hot shower.

Lakeside cabins in Middlesex County are perfect for anyone who just wants to relax by the water. Many come with private docks, fire pits, and grills—ideal for lazy afternoons and evenings by the lake.

Vacation Rentals and Private Stays

Vacation rentals offer more space and privacy than most hotels. You’ll find everything from snug apartments to sprawling beach houses along Connecticut’s coast. Having a full kitchen? That’s a huge plus—cook your own meals and maybe save a few bucks.

Airbnb and VRBO have tons of listings across the state. There are some real gems out there: think renovated barns, old historic homes, even waterfront cottages with private beach access. Staying in one of these places feels a bit more like living in Connecticut, not just passing through.

Got a big group or planning a family reunion? Larger vacation homes in Hartford County can keep everyone together. And if you’ve got a pet, you’re not out of luck—lots of rentals are happy to welcome furry friends, which isn’t usually the case with hotels.

It’s easy to find a rental close to whatever you want—maybe near a favorite attraction, tucked away in the quiet countryside, or right in the middle of all the action in Mystic or New Haven. There’s something for just about every vibe.