Essex Vacations from $783

Things to do near Essex

Essex, Connecticut, offers a charming mix of outdoor and romantic activities perfect for a scenic getaway. Enjoy a round of golf at local courses, explore recreational areas, or relax at nearby resorts. Don't miss the iconic Essex Steam Train and the Essex County Holiday House Tour for a taste of local history. For family fun, head to amusement parks or Adventure Island, and take part in guided house tours to soak in the area's unique charm.

Shopping

In Essex, visit the Essex Plaza Shopping Center, just 1 mile away, for a family-friendly atmosphere. The Essex Saybrook Antique Village Shopping Center, located 3 miles away, offers unique finds. If you're up for a drive, the Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets, 9 miles from Essex, features numerous brand-name stores.

Recreation

Enjoy a refreshing swim at Ocean Beach Park, where family-friendly vibes and outdoor sports await just 16 miles away. Experience culture and romance at the Ivoryton Playhouse, located 3 miles from Essex, or hit the greens at Cedar Ridge Golf Course for a perfect day outdoors, only 9 miles away.

Adventure

At Stay and Play LLC, located 5 miles from Essex, enjoy an exciting arcadeAdventureZone filled with family-friendly games. For thrill-seekers, head to Waterford Speedbowl, 12 miles away, where you can experience exhilarating motorRacing action. Kids Quest, an arcadeAdventureZone 18 miles from Essex, offers fun for the whole family.

Nightlife

In Essex, Connecticut, enjoy a cozy nightlife featuring local bars and restaurants like The Griswold Inn and The Essex Steam Train. Experience live music and vibrant atmospheres along Main Street, where friendly locals create an inviting ambiance perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.

Find the best attractions in and around Essex

Essex, Connecticut, is a charming destination perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore scenic spots like the Essex River, the quaint Essex Village, and the fascinating Essex Shipbuilding Museum. With attractions that include beautiful beaches, historic houses, and nearby state parks, Essex offers a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a picturesque escape.

• Essex Steam Train: Experience the charm of a bygone era on the Essex Steam Train, where you can ride vintage steam locomotives through beautiful Connecticut scenery. Explore the railway museum and immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of rail travel in America.
• Essex Island Marina: Dive into outdoor adventures at Essex Island Marina, offering access to picturesque beaches and water activities. Rent a kayak, go fishing, or simply relax by the water while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this stunning marina.
• Gillette Castle State Park: Just a short drive from Essex, Gillette Castle State Park features breathtaking views and hiking trails. Explore the unique castle built by actor William Gillette, surrounded by scenic landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Essex

The best time to visit Essex is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Essex

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Essex.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.