Friday, November 15, 2019

Gillette Castle | Winter Wonderland: Celebrating All Things Connecticut | Holiday Events

Gillette Castle State Park is located in East Haddam, Connecticut, on the banks of the Connecticut River.  This year Gillette Castle will be open weekends only & decorated for the holiday season for their "Winter Wonderland: Celebrating All Things Connecticut."

Gillette Castle Holiday Event


William Gillette, an actor, was best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. In 1914 he built a magnificent stone castle, along with a personal railroad on his estate.  At that time, the cost was estimated to be over $1 Million.

A favorite tradition is to take our family to visit Gillette Castle during the Holiday Season.  In the past we've taken our daughters and niece when they were younger to enjoy the caroling and sleigh rides.

Gillette Castle Connecticut Holiday Christmas Decorations


One year we took the grandchildren to see the Holiday Festival of Trains.  My grandson who was 4 years old is still fascinated with trains!  Several rooms on the second floor had fully operating vintage train sets.

Gillette Castle Trains


Each room in the stone castle was decorated for the Christmas season with wreaths, garland, candles and Christmas trees. It was breathtaking to see!

Tour Guides and Museum Docents were on hand to answer any questions.

Gillette Castle Connecticut Holiday Decorations


You can still see the remains of the railroad overlooking the Connecticut River. The original train was at one time relocated to Lake Compounce.

From the patio area, we were able to look out over the Connecticut River and see the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry which is docked for the winter. The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry is one of the oldest continuously operating ferries in the United States.

After touring the castle, we enjoyed hot chocolate and hot cider next to a roaring bonfire on the grounds.

There also is a Gift Shop, Snack Shop and picnic area on the grounds.

If you're looking for a daytrip, fun things to do in Connecticut with the kids or grandchildren over the Holiday Season or traveling on a trip to New England, be sure to check out Gillette Castle State Park. Be sure to bring your camera!

If you'd like to find out how to get Free Museum Passes to other museums in Connecticut or your state, check out this post.

For More Information and Ticket Availability

Winter Wonderland
11/29/2019 Through 12/22/19
Gillette Castle State Park
67 River Road
East Haddam, CT 06423
www.gillettecastlefriends.org
Accessibility:    Handicap access - first floor only

Get into the Holiday Spirit this season with traditional Handmade Dish Cloths from Made in New England Moomettes Crochet Shop



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