Title: Visit Essex: Best of Essex Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide - Expedia.ca [Hotels in Essex](https://expedia.ca/Essex-Hotels.d183061.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Vacation Rentals in Essex](https://expedia.ca/Essex-Vacation-Rentals.d183061.Travel-Guide-VacationRentals)[Flights to Essex](https://expedia.ca/Cheap-Flights-To-Essex.d183061.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Essex Car Rentals](https://expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Essex.d183061.Car-Rental-Guide)[Essex Vacation Packages](https://expedia.ca/Essex.d183061.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Essex ## Travel Guide ![Essex showing a house](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/94000/94231-Essex.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Essex](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/94000/94228-Essex.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Essex which includes a house](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/94000/94230-Essex.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Essex featuring a marina](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/94000/94229-Essex.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Essex showing a marina](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/94000/94232-Essex.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Essex Things to do #### The charm of Connecticut is abundantly clear in this historic town with inextricable links to the river and an enticing old-world atmosphere. Essex has been described as “one town, three villages,” a description that captures the varied charms of this riverside community. Travel between Essex Village, Centerbrook and Ivoryton to enjoy the numerous attractions. Fascinating museums, classically American main streets and atmospheric arts venues characterize a place that has been voted one of the country’s finest small towns. European settlers first established communities here in the late 17th century. The town was once one of New England’s crucial shipbuilding centres. Wander the banks of the Connecticut River, where over 600 vessels were built between the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Discover more of Essex’s maritime past and the history of boating in the Connecticut River Museum. Exhibits here include a full-scale, working replica of the first American submarine and displays showing how Native Americans relied on the river. The museum also offers excursions along the water in a historical vessel and a river festival every May. Browse the stores on Main Street, where traditional timber buildings, hotels and storefronts hark back to a bygone era. Take a break from shopping in one of the restaurants or art galleries along the way. Stroll along the walking trails of Canfield Woods, a pleasant nature preserve on the edge of town. Paths lead beneath red maples, American chestnuts and spruces, among others. Bring your binoculars to spot deer, foxes and a variety of birds. Relax for an evening in the Ivoryton Playhouse, a stunning theatre that has stood on this site for over 100 years. Professional musicals, dramas and comedies are performed in this storied venue throughout the year. Essex is about 40 minutes away from [New Haven](https://www.expedia.ca/New-Haven.d180036.Destination-Travel-Guides) and 20 minutes from Middletown by car. Travel by boat to arrive here in style, docking in one of the marina slips in the centre of Essex Village. Come to Essex in any season of the year. Spring and summer bring warm days by the river, while fall promises New England’s famous colourful foliage. - Essex Hotel Deals - Vacation Rentals in Essex ![Mohegan Sun](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/900000/894300/894248/60dec0f3_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Mohegan Sun 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Montville, CT CA $261 CA $335 total Oct 22 - Oct 23 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Montville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 indoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ... 9/10 Wonderful! (2,012 reviews) "Staff very helpful and pleasant" Reviewed on Oct 6, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=22%2F10%2F2025&endDate=23%2F10%2F2025&selected=894248&PinnedHotelID=894248&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=183061) ![Holiday Inn Norwich by IHG](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/1500/1450/d9b5e4b8_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Holiday Inn Norwich by IHG 10 Laura Blvd, Norwich, CT CA $128 CA $147 total Oct 13 - Oct 14 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Norwich. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ... 7.4/10 Good! (1,003 reviews) "It was great" Reviewed on Oct 7, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=13%2F10%2F2025&endDate=14%2F10%2F2025&selected=1450&PinnedHotelID=1450&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=183061) ![Hyatt Place Uncasville - Casino Area](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2600000/2593900/2593874/46d6d7fc_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hyatt Place Uncasville - Casino Area 2049 Norwich, New London Turnpike, Montville, CT CA $144 CA $165 total Oct 27 - Oct 28 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Montville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ... 9/10 Wonderful! (2,577 reviews) "Very nice" Reviewed on Oct 8, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=27%2F10%2F2025&endDate=28%2F10%2F2025&selected=2593874&PinnedHotelID=2593874&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=183061) [See all 1,412 properties in Essex](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=11%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025®ionId=183061) 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. ![Postcard Cabins Machimoodus](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/111000000/110240000/110235400/110235311/02403776_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Postcard Cabins Machimoodus 298 E Haddam Moodus Rd, East Haddam, CT Stay at this cabin in East Haddam. Enjoy free parking, patios, and climate control. Popular attractions Machimoodus State Park and Amasa Day House are located ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (70 reviews) "Our cabin was in a great spot backed up against high ground in a nicely wooded area. It was secluded & very quiet. Firewood was provided. Close proximity to hiking & Chester, CT with nice restaurants. The staff were proactive & very thoughtful." Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/East-Haddam-Hotels-Postcard-Cabins-Machimoodus.h110235311.Hotel-Information) ![Cliffside Resort Condominiums](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/11000000/10450000/10449100/10449005/1638a16b_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Cliffside Resort Condominiums 61475 Route 48 (North Road), Greenport, NY Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Greenport. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Railroad Museum of Long Island and ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (241 reviews) "Easy in and out. Safe parking. Everything was set up for you" Reviewed on Sep 29, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Greenport-Hotels-Cliffside-Resort-Condominiums.h10449005.Hotel-Information) ![The Stern at Soundview · Beach+Ocean+Sunrise](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/107000000/106150000/106148000/106147914/691fdd98_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### The Stern at Soundview · Beach+Ocean+Sunrise Old Lyme Book a stay at this beach apartment in Old Lyme. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Lyme Academy of Fine Arts and ... 10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews) "Perfect for a weekend beach getaway. Very small but accurately portrayed in the pictures. It was clean and the host was very helpful and responsive." Reviewed on Aug 6, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Old-Lyme-Hotels-The-Stern-At-Soundview-BeachOceanViewSunrise.h106147914.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Essex](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=183061&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) 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. ## Check Essex hotel availability [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [Tonight](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11)[Oct 10 - Oct 11](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [Tomorrow night](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12)[Oct 11 - Oct 12](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) [This weekend](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025)[Oct 10 - Oct 12](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=183061&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) ### Popular places to visit ![Essex Steam Train](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/8eef2c8ad67c91f8b3aed358efe8404e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Essex Steam Train 4/5(1 review) 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. [](https://expedia.ca/Essex-Steam-Train-Essex.d6171206.Vacation-Attraction) #### Essex Island Marina 4/5(1 review) Explore the waterfront in Essex Village with a trip to Essex Island Marina. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches. [](https://expedia.ca/Essex-Island-Marina-Essex.d6326375.Vacation-Attraction) #### Connecticut River Museum You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Connecticut River Museum during your trip to Essex Village. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches. [](https://expedia.ca/Connecticut-River-Museum-Essex.d553248621532665790.Vacation-Attraction) #### Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center during your trip to Essex. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches. [](https://expedia.ca/Mashantucket-Pequot-Museum-Research-Center-Essex.d553248621533116825.Vacation-Attraction) #### 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. [](https://expedia.ca/Essex-Library-Essex.d553248621558114264.Vacation-Attraction) #### Pratt House You can learn about the history of Essex Village with a trip to Pratt House. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches. [](https://expedia.ca/Pratt-House-Essex.d553248621532665794.Vacation-Attraction) - Cities near Essex - Places of interest - [Essex Steam Train](https://expedia.ca/Essex-Steam-Train-Essex.d6171206.Vacation-Attraction) - [Mohegan Sun Casino](https://expedia.ca/Mohegan-Sun-Casino-Montville.d6170930.Vacation-Attraction) - [Ocean Beach Park](https://expedia.ca/Ocean-Beach-Park-New-London.d6071449.Vacation-Attraction) - [Kontokosta Winery](https://expedia.ca/Kontokosta-Winery-Greenport.d6326928.Vacation-Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels and earn double points when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app ![QR code to download the app](data:image/png;base64,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)