Gillette Castle State Park Tours and Activities

Snap some shots outside, your the beautiful gardens and water views, and then take a tour of the rustic/cabin style interior.

#stunningstructures this little gem on the Connecticut river was a surprise find!

One New Years Eve, my sister and I made the decision to drive up to Maine, as far east as we could get to be among the first to see the sun rise New Year's Day in America. On our way back from this pretty epic adventure (it was a long drive considering both of us had worked until about 10 pm New Years Eve!), we passed by a sign for Gilette Castle in Connecticut. On a whim we decided to stop by- because adventure was what this trip was all about! Well, we found it which was no easy feat. We took all back roads which were not lit and it was pretty dark by the time we made it there. The castle tours were closed for the season but we did get the opportunity to walk around the absolutely beautiful park that the castle sat on. We were blown away- this place was incredible! We vowed to make the trip again during the summer when it was warm and hopefully still daylight!

And that is what this picture is from. It took several years but we did make it back! It was June, so all of the trees are in full bloom and it made a stroll through the park just perfect. We got to check out the outside of the castle in depth (unfortunately we were too late in the day for an inside tour, but peeking through the windows let me see how fancy-pants it was in there).

Here is what I learned: This castle was built in 1919 (well, that's when it was finished anyway) for the famous produced/actor William Gilette, who was best known as the original Sherlock Holmes! He designed what he wanted and this was the home he retired to! I couldn't picture a more fitting place.

If you happen to be in the area, check out this tucked away spot in Connecticut. The drive alone is exquisitely beautiful and worth it!

Gillette Castle State Park Home to famous Actor William Gillette. A door inside the interior of the Castle ! And interesting find I. Connecticut

Visit Gillette Castle State Park

Activities

Plan a trip to see Gillette Castle State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Arthouse Hotel New York City

Manhattan

CA $1,441

per person

Mar 14 - Mar 21

found 3 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YTO) to Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR)

8.8/10 Excellent! (1,678 reviews)

Hip boutique hotel with an industrial cozy vibe. Rooms are sumple but have everything you need. The libby bar and cafe are nice. Attached to Serafina restaurant. Great lication overall and parking across the street.

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2026

Fouquet's New York

Manhattan

CA $2,853

per person

Mar 11 - Mar 16

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YTO) to New York (JFK)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (60 reviews)

Lovely staff. Incredible property. The hype is real. This is by far and away the nicest property we’ve stayed at in Manhattan in a long time.

Reviewed on Oct 10, 2025

Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson

Downtown Jersey City

CA $2,049

per person

Apr 26 - May 2

found 2 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YYZ) to Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR)

8.4/10 Very Good! (1,565 reviews)

We loved to stay here but hotel wifi is too mush slow and some the telephone doesn’t work.all other the staff was so good and nice rooms.

Reviewed on Feb 8, 2026

Popular places to visit

Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail

You can take time to visit Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail during your travels to Deep River Center.

Goodspeed Opera House

You can make plans for a show at Goodspeed Opera House during your stay in East Haddam. Wander the riverfront and beaches in the area.

Beverly Public Library at 32 Essex Street in historic city center of Beverly, Massachusetts MA, USA.

Essex Library

After visiting Essex Library, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Essex Village. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Essex Steam Train

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Essex Steam Train during your travels in Essex Village. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Chester Creek Marina

Explore the waterfront in Chester with a trip to Chester Creek Marina. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

East Haddam Historical Society and Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in East Haddam Historical Society and Museum during your travels in East Haddam. Wander the beaches and marina in the area.

Best Lodging Options Near Gillette Castle State Park

Check availability on hotels close to Gillette Castle State Park

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

East Haddam CT

The little Chestnut. A charming historic apartment in Downtown Chester

Chester CT

The Millhouse Downtown Chester

Chester CT

Stunning Artisan Waterfall Escape [Walk to Downtown]

Chester CT

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

East Haddam CT

The little cottage on the ct river

Haddam CT

Autumn and Winter at the Haddam House

Haddam CT

Walk To Goodspeed Opera House!

East Haddam CT

Pet-Friendly Getaway in Historic East Haddam Home

East Haddam CT

See all 458 properties in Gillette Castle State Park

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.