Things to Do in Essex for Seniors

IT’S ALL CONVENIENT FROM ESSEX MEADOWS

Just minutes from the shoreline and Old Saybrook Station, Essex Meadows connects you to everything you love in one of Connecticut’s most historically rich and culturally vibrant communities. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or enriching activities, opportunities to enjoy nature or to explore all that Essex, CT, has to offer, our carefree lifestyle makes it simple to embrace the possibilities of each day.

“Essex Meadows has really picked up the pace in my life.” – Judy Kells

History Is Alive in Essex

Nestled along the Connecticut River, Essex has been a beacon of maritime heritage since the 1600s. This charming New England town, with its deep roots in shipbuilding and sailing culture, offers modern a perfect blend of historical significance and contemporary amenities. No matter your passions or hobbies, Essex, CT, offers something for everyone while keeping you connected to centuries of American history.

The Great Outdoors

Essex Meadows puts older adults in the very heart of nature and history. In fact our 104 acres of beautiful natural grounds abut a 1,000-acre coastal forest and wildlife refuge called The Preserve. Walk the trails, catch sight of the bountiful flora and fauna, and enjoy the beauty that surrounds our community—the same natural landscapes that have inspired artists and sailors for generations.

Beyond our campus, opportunities to enjoy nature abound. Charter a boat in the Essex River Estuary and look for stripers, or rent a kayak to enjoy a trip along Falls River. Hike the various trails in the surrounding area, many of which follow paths used by early settlers and maritime workers. Looking for something a little further away? The Connecticut Shore is only 20 minutes away, where you’ll find a plethora of beaches, including Harvey’s Beach, Hammonasset Beach, and Rocky Neck State Park Bathing Beach.

Cultural Connections

For those a penchant for the arts and culture, Essex is a wonderful place to be, steeped in both maritime tradition and artistic excellence.

The Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in nearby Old Saybrook presents world-class performances in a venue named after the legendary actress who called this area home. This state-of-the-art facility hosts everything from Broadway-style shows to intimate concerts.

Ivoryton Playhouse hosts award-winning performances in a historic setting. Catch a performance or audition yourself in this venue that has been entertaining audiences since 1930.

Experience Essex’s maritime heritage firsthand during the Burning of the Ships Day commemoration. On April 7, 1814, during the War of 1812, British troops attacked Essex and destroyed 27 privately owned American warships that preyed upon British merchant ships. The event signified one of the greatest financial losses of the war and underscores Essex’s crucial role in America’s early naval history.

Just a short drive away, Old Lyme stands as the birthplace of American Impressionism. This neighboring town was the summer home to dozens of renowned artists in the early 1900s, creating a legacy that continues to influence the region’s cultural landscape today.

You can also catch the many parades, summer concerts and festivals, or join local clubs that have been pillars of the community for decades:

  • The Lions Club
  • Sailing Masters of 1812
  • Essex Garden Club
  • Essex Rotary Club
  • Essex Historical Society

Essex Meadows residents are always involved in local volunteer opportunities and community organizations, continuing the town’s long tradition of civic engagement and neighborly support that has defined Essex for over three centuries.

Educational Adventures

There are opportunities to learn around every corner of Essex and our greater community, much of it centered around our rich maritime and artistic heritage.

Delve into the maritime history of the region at the Connecticut River Museum. From artifacts dating back to the War of 1812 to exhibits celebrating Essex’s legendary shipbuilding industry and the town’s connection to the Long Island Sound, this museum offers a captivating glimpse into Essex’s seafaring past. Learn about the famous Essex-built ships that sailed the world’s oceans and the skilled craftsmen who made this small town a maritime powerhouse.

Experience the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley aboard the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Relish the views as the train winds through picturesque landscapes before embarking on a leisurely riverboat cruise along the same waters that carried Essex-built vessels to distant shores.

Visit the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, the former boarding house that served as the heart of the American Impressionist movement. Here, renowned artists like Childe Hassam and Willard Metcalf created masterpieces that captured the unique light and landscape of coastal Connecticut. Also explore the Cooper & Smith Gallery and Essex Historical Society for deeper looks into the arts and history of Essex and beyond.

Dining Delights

Our location makes it easy to savor a range of dining options, from historic taverns to contemporary cuisine.

Indulge in a culinary journey at The Griswold Inn, an establishment with a history dating back to 1776. As one of America’s oldest continuously operating inns, “The Gris” has welcomed travelers, sea captains, and locals for nearly 250 years. Enjoy delectable New England cuisine while listening to live music in rooms where maritime legends once gathered, creating an ambiance that seamlessly blends with the town’s historic charm.

You can also delight in dishes from:

  • River Tavern  –  Farm-to-table dining in a beautifully restored 18th-century building
  • The Black Seal – Iconic seaport pub
  • Siren Kitchen & Bar – Waterfront contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local seafood
  • Scotch Plains Tavern  –  Classic pub fare in a cozy, historic setting
  • Olive Oyl’s Carry Out Cuisine  –  Gourmet takeout options
  • Noah’s at 63 Main – Waterfront fine dining in the heart of Essex Village
  • Griswold Inn – Historic waterfront American fine dining
  • Drift – Waterfront dining serving made-from-scratch seafood, smashburgers, and craft cocktails

Boutique Shopping

Is shopping more your speed?

Take leisurely strolls through Essex Village, where you’ll discover local crafts, historic shops, and artisan galleries that reflect both the town’s maritime heritage and its connection to the American Impressionist movement. Browse through shops filled with nautical treasures, visit art galleries showcasing works inspired by the Connecticut River Valley’s natural beauty, and explore boutiques housed in buildings that have served the community for generations.

As the weather warms, enjoy one of the area’s many markets, where local vendors continue the region’s agricultural traditions. Regardless of what you’re looking for, the possibilities are endless in this charming riverside community that has been welcoming visitors for over 350 years.

Experience All There Is To Love About Essex Meadows

To learn more about our community, located in Essex, CT, our amenities, services and lifestyle, contact our team today.