Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Simsbury, Connecticut
Year Listed: 2010
Located on the banks of the Farmington River in the outskirts of Hartford, Simsbury appeals to the curious heritage traveler – whether an outdoors lover or gastrophile who enjoys fresh, locally-grown dishes. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy three state parks, a large game refuge and a monument to Simsbury native Gifford Pinchot, founder of the United States Forest Service, which is located in front of his birthplace at the Simsbury 1820 House.
Downtown
Simsbury is an authentic New England village with over 350 years of well-preserved history and immaculately maintained buildings and heritage sites. Downtown Simsbury is one of four National Historic Register districts in the city and includes a nationally accredited Main Street lined with centuries-old sycamore and elm trees, shops, restaurants and a two-acre museum complex.
Activities
From the history buff to the active outdoor enthusiast, Simsbury promises plenty of enjoyment for all. Culturally, Simsbury benefits from being the summer home of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and from the recent addition of a large, downtown performing arts center. The Simsbury Farmers' Market serves as a community gathering place and as a venue for local and regional farmers to offer samples of their products: organic vegetables, free-range meat, wine tastings from a local vineyard and homemade ice cream sampling are only a few examples.
Don't Miss:
To plan your trip and learn more about Simsbury, visit the Simsbury Main Street Partnership.
Now it's your turn! Share your experiences or impressions of this Distinctive Destination: Unique restaurants, sights, family-friendly activities, hang outs, art galleries... tell visitors what they shouldn't miss!




Submitted by Karen at: March 12, 2010
Living in Simsbury is wonderful. It is not just a beautiful, safe and friendly place. I needed to use the emergency services recently and could not have been in better hands. Thank you!
Submitted by Anonymous at: February 28, 2010
Beautiful town, beautiful, friendly people
Submitted by Sue at: February 26, 2010
so much to do
Submitted by Janet at: February 26, 2010
great bowling
Submitted by Lee at: February 26, 2010
hockey town
Submitted by gram at: February 26, 2010
now my grandkids will enjoy this get school system
Submitted by elad at: February 26, 2010
my family grew up here
Submitted by Dale at: February 26, 2010
a beautiful place!
Submitted by KLH at: February 26, 2010
I am a New Yorker who relocated to Simsbury. Cant say enough about this beautiful town. Every season is a picture postcard. Love the town, the shops, the mountains and the restaurants. Great place to raise a family.
Submitted by a nonny moose at: February 26, 2010
The Farmington River is another great feature for Simsbury, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, Even a rowing association: FVRA.org
Submitted by Pat at: February 26, 2010
A visit to Simsbury is whatever you'd like it to be! Lovely each season of the year, with so many litlle surprises and so many places to explore. Lovely restaurants, galleries, and shops and plenty of places to walk and enjoy the scenery! Perfect for a visit or to build a new nest! Enjoy!
Submitted by Helen at: February 26, 2010
A beautiful village embraced by rolling hills. A river runs through it and hiking / biking paths wind beautifully along the river and up to Hubelin Tower, affording charming New England views. Restaurants are many - varied and superb. MetroBiz (sublime!), Sakimura (sushi supreme!), Plan B, Amelias, Maple Tree, The Meadows, Green Tea and on and on. Arts Exclusive, Inc. is a lovely gallery. Simsbury Library is state of the art and the staff there is straight from the heart! Connecticut's Best!
Submitted by Peg at: February 24, 2010
Golfing here is wonderful. Every hole has something to offer in glorious views and challenges.
Submitted by Lee at: February 23, 2010
Simsbury has it all. The library is fantastic. The people at the Senior Center are wonderful. The parades are great.
Submitted by Anonymous at: February 23, 2010
Love riding the bike trail along the river and farmlands. it is part of bigger greenway that stretches for miles!
Submitted by sandy at: February 23, 2010
simsbury has great walking trails and parks to enjoy in every season
Submitted by Shazia at: February 23, 2010
Love, Love this town. Its breath takingly beautiful and every nook and corner of the town offers a visual delight!
Submitted by Anonymous at: February 22, 2010
A wonderful place to live and visit
Submitted by Anonymous at: February 22, 2010
lovely town
Submitted by Mary Glassman at: February 22, 2010
Simsbury has something for everyone!