USA Travel Guide

Some of my Texas colleagues find it a bit nippy, but for me there’s no better time to visit New England than right now. The fall’s in full fire and the cool temperature has just enough to bite to make you think, “Yep, the holidays are coming.” It’s scenic, nostalgic, inviting and just wonderful, especially if you head through Connecticut.

A perfect stop in Connecticut for fans of history, quaint ambiance and, of course, shopping is the Cannondale Village in Wilton, Connecticut. A town within a town, Cannondale Village is a small community of 19^th-century buildings preserved to give visitors the experience of visiting a historic New England village dating back more than 150 years.

The history alone is worth the visit, but behind the evocative scenery lies an unusual shopping destination. The shops at Cannondale Village seem normal enough at first, but each brings a unique take to the classic scene. Annabelle Green Flowers of Finery, for instance, employs an “Old World” take on the antique shop, including Old English Garden designed flower arrangements.

Or take Penny Ha’Penny, a sundries store also bringing a little British flavor. This gift and grocery shop is stocked like a traditional English corner store, an ideal place for britophiles and Old Country transplants to pick up their Branston pickle, frozen Scottish meat pies and Cadbury Crunchies. (English accents included!)

Cannondale Village is a place of upscale delights as well. The former Cannondale Schoolhouse has been converted into a prestigious fine dining restaurant beloved for its dedication to local ingredient sourcing. Connecticut diners even named it the best restaurant in the state. It’s a bit pricey, with plates at $30+, but you won’t find a better choice in Connecticut for a special occasion meal. Learn more.

Cannondale Village is a perfect daytrip. Spend a casual afternoon walking the shops and enjoying the sights, then tuck into an unforgettable meal at the schoolhouse. To stay, we actually prefer nearby Trumbull. The Holiday Inn Express Shelton – Trumbull is a quick trip out from Cannondale and Wilton, about 15 miles, and we’ve always had a relaxed, comfortable stay when passing through.

Have fun!