Gillette Castle State Park Tours

Photo by Annette Babek
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Photo by Brandon Miller
Photo by Kathryn Reichert
Photo by Dawn Madden


Get away from it all and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings of Gillette Castle State Park. Make use of any hiking trails and picnic areas dotted around this protected habitat.

This protected natural landscape is situated in Coastal Connecticut, a destination that has so much on offer! Essex Steam Train, Goodspeed Opera House, and Machimoodus State Park are other interesting sightseeing options close by when you've finished up at Gillette Castle State Park.

Plan a trip to see Gillette Castle State Park

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Best Lodging Options Near Gillette Castle State Park

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Spacious Lakefront Home|Bikes|Hot Tub| Kayak|Group

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The little Chestnut.  A charming historic apartment in Downtown Chester

The little Chestnut. A charming historic apartment in Downtown Chester

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Stunning Artisan Waterfall Escape [Walk to Downtown]

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Spacious 5-bedroom, 6 bath vacation home just 30 min drive to beaches and casino

Spacious 5-bedroom, 6 bath vacation home just 30 min drive to beaches and casino

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Spacious 5-bedroom, 6 bath vacation home just 30 min drive to beaches and casino
Bimbadeen Loft: Huge Open Plan 2-bedroom! Bring the boat, kids, and the dog!

Bimbadeen Loft: Huge Open Plan 2-bedroom! Bring the boat, kids, and the dog!

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Bimbadeen Loft: Huge Open Plan 2-bedroom! Bring the boat, kids, and the dog!
Summer at the Haddam House

Summer at the Haddam House

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Walk To Goodspeed Opera House!

Walk To Goodspeed Opera House!

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Walk To Goodspeed Opera House!
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Pet-Friendly Getaway in Historic East Haddam Home

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Pet-Friendly Getaway in Historic East Haddam Home
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Gillette Castle State Park

At Gillette Castle State Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area, guided tours of the unique castle, and serene river camping sites. Additionally, the park features a charming goldfish pond, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. Nearby, you can also explore options for golf, boating, and even a nearby casino for entertainment.

Shopping

For shopping near Gillette Castle State Park, visit Essex Saybrook Antique Village Shopping Center, just 8 miles away, for unique finds. If you're up for a drive, check out Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets and North Madison Shopping Center, both offering diverse shopping experiences around 11 to 12 miles away.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at Fox Hopyard Golf Club, where you can enjoy the outdoors and refine your skills. For relaxation, visit Devil’s Hopyard State Park, perfect for unwinding amidst nature’s beauty and tranquility. Ocean Beach Park offers family-friendly fun, ideal for a refreshing pool day.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Waterford Speedbowl, located 13 miles from Gillette Castle State Park, where adrenaline meets speed. For a scenic hike, explore the Airline State Park Trail, situated 15 miles away, offering breathtaking views and a connection to nature. Enjoy the outdoors at Cromwell Meadows Wildlife Management Area, 17 miles from the castle.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of the Goodspeed Opera House, only 2 miles away, where you can enjoy captivating performances. For family fun, visit Stay and Play LLC, 9 miles away, with its exciting arcade adventures. Don’t miss the Van Vleck Observatory, 15 miles away, for a night under the stars.

Find the best attractions near Gillette Castle State Park

At Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, Connecticut, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Explore the historic Gillette Castle, relax at nearby beaches and lakes, and venture into nearby parks for more adventure. This destination is perfect for those seeking a blend of nature and history, making it an ideal spot for your vacation.

  • Essex Steam Train: Experience the charm of yesteryear aboard the Essex Steam Train, located 5 miles from Gillette Castle State Park. This railway museum offers a scenic ride through Connecticut's picturesque landscape, immersing you in the rich history and culture of steam locomotion.
  • Essex Island Marina: Just 6 miles away, Essex Island Marina is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor adventurers. Enjoy water activities, stunning views, and the relaxing atmosphere of this vibrant marina, perfect for a day of exploration or leisure.
  • Hammonasset Beach State Park: Situated 13 miles from your starting point, Hammonasset Beach State Park is a must-visit for those seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. With miles of sandy shoreline, hiking trails, and picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gillette Castle State Park

To save money during your visit to Gillette Castle State Park, take advantage of the free entry and consider traveling between December and February for lower hotel rates. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by filtering options from lowest to highest price and exploring eco-certified hotels. By bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia packages, you can secure additional savings. Joining their One Key membership offers exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Gillette Castle State Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Gillette Castle State Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Gillette Castle State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will show you a list of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Gillette Castle State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.