Gillette Castle State Park Tours

Things to do near Gillette Castle State Park

At Gillette Castle State Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking the scenic trails, experiencing outdoor plays, and taking a pony ride. For those looking to explore further, a trip to Chester and a ride on the Essex Steam Train add to the adventure. Additionally, golf and boating options are available nearby, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience, visit Essex Saybrook Antique Village Shopping Center, just 8 miles from Gillette Castle State Park, offering charming antique finds. If you're up for a drive, check out Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets, 11 miles away, for a variety of brand-name stores and entertainment.

Recreation

At Devil’s Hopyard State Park, immerse yourself in nature's tranquility with hiking trails and serene picnic areas. Nearby, Fox Hopyard Golf Club offers a challenging golf experience amidst beautiful landscapes, while Banner Country Club provides an enjoyable golfing atmosphere perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at Waterford Speedbowl, located 13 miles away, where you can enjoy an exciting motorsport atmosphere. For a scenic adventure, hike the Airline State Park Trail, 15 miles away, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Explore the natural beauty at Cromwell Meadows Wildlife Management Area, situated 17 miles away.

Nightlife

Experience enchanting nights at the Goodspeed Opera House for a romantic theater performance just 2 miles away. For adventure seekers, the Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park offers thrilling arcade fun 15 miles away, while the Van Vleck Observatory provides captivating stargazing entertainment, also 15 miles from the castle.

Find the best attractions near Gillette Castle State Park

Visitors to Gillette Castle State Park can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, with nearby attractions including beautiful beaches and serene lakes. Explore local hotels for convenient stays and discover the unique charm of the castle itself. Whether you're hiking the trails or soaking in the views, there's plenty to keep travelers engaged in this picturesque area.

• Essex Steam Train: Experience the charm of a bygone era aboard the Essex Steam Train, a museum on wheels where you can enjoy scenic rides through picturesque landscapes. This attraction immerses you in the rich culture of steam railroading in Connecticut, making it a unique journey through history.
• Hammonasset Beach State Park: Explore the stunning shoreline of Hammonasset Beach State Park, a perfect spot for outdoor adventures. With its beautiful scenery, you can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and hiking along nature trails, making it a great destination for families and nature lovers alike.
• Essex Island Marina: Visit the Essex Island Marina for a relaxing day by the water. This marina offers outdoor activities and beach vibes, including boating, fishing, and kayaking, providing a perfect getaway to enjoy the beauty of Connecticut's coastal charm.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gillette Castle State Park

To save money on your visit to Gillette Castle State Park, consider traveling during the off-peak season from December to February, when prices are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days for accommodations, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find the best hotel deals by filtering prices from lowest to highest, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you rewards for future stays.

• 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 Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Gillette Castle State Park is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation 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.