Historic homes, scenic views and antique shopping make Woodstock, Connecticut a gem of rural small town travel. To visitors, Woodstock is frozen in a time of gabled roofs, dirt roads and simple ideals. The waterfront parks and rolling hills of farms produce a backdrop of serene relaxation into which small town explorers can melt. Even if only for a late afternoon drive along a dirt road in the fall, everyone who appreciates the historic and cultural roots of rural New England should pay a visit to Woodstock, Connecticut.

Historic Homes

One of the best ways to step back in time is to visit and experience the preserved architecture of Woodstock, Connecticut’s historic homes. Roseland Cottage, also known as the Bowen House or Pink House, is the cornerstones of the historic homes in Woodstock but it is difficult to turn around without a historically significant and stunningly beautiful piece of architecture turning up.

Roseland Cottage is hands down one of the most impressive examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Constructed in 1846 by the Bowens as a summer cottage, the home remains preserved and tours are offered of the estate. Even the gardens are original to the home’s design and visitors can go see the elegance and opulence of Roseland Cottage Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There is a small cost for admission but fans of Gothic Revival architecture will find the experience more than worth the price.

Antiques

A common staple in small town attractions is a wealth of antique shopping. Woodstock, Connecticut is no exception to that rule. The antique shopping travelers will find in Woodstock is impressive, given the town’s small size and rural atmosphere.

Scranton’s Shops

300 Route 169

South Woodstock, CT 06267

(860) 928-3738

A combination of old New England architecture and top of the line antique shopping, Scranton’s Shops should be the first stop for travelers looking for one of a kind antiques in a unique, historic environment. The large antique shop is located in a building that, in its previous life, was a blacksmith’s shop. Several rooms and a wide variety of items to look at will keep visitors of Scranton’s Shops entertained for hours, even if they do not end up buying anything.

Scenic Destinations

The rural nature of Woodstock, Connecticut allows for breath taking views and country roads perfect for a scenic drive. Connecticut State Route 169 that runs through the most gorgeous and scenic portions of Woodstock is a registered scenic drive route and is a great place to start a day trip adventure. There are four lakes around Woodstock that are open to the public, including Roseland Lake, donated by the same Bowen family that built Roseland Cottage.

For a relaxing excursion away from the bustle of major cities, travelers should stop by Woodstock, Connecticut. Starting with a scenic drive on Route 169 and ending with antique shopping, a day spent in Woodstock will be a historic trip to remember.