Hotels in Essex

Discover Essex: Where River Serenity Meets Coastal Charm

Nestled along the picturesque Connecticut River, Essex, Connecticut, is a charming seaport village that captures the heart of New England. Known for its stunning marina and vibrant arts scene, this quaint town offers idyllic getaways for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Stroll through the historic streets, visit the Essex Library, or embark on a scenic river cruise to soak in the breathtaking landscapes. With its rich maritime heritage and welcoming atmosphere, Essex is the perfect romantic retreat or family holiday destination, inviting travelers to experience the serene beauty and cultural charm of this hidden gem. For the best hotel rates in Essex and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Essex

Some of the best places to stay in Essex are Lake Pocotopaug and Coventry Lake. Lake Pocotopaug and Coventry Lake are both fantastic destinations for travelers seeking outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Lake Pocotopaug offers serene waters for boating and fishing, while Coventry Lake is perfect for swimming and picnics. For accommodations, visitors can find a range of options from cozy inns to charming hotels, providing a comfortable stay. For first-time visitors, Lake Pocotopaug is particularly appealing due to its vibrant community and accessible activities. Enjoy your visit to these picturesque locations! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Essex:

1. Lake PocotopaugOpens in a new window: Lake Pocotopaug is a beautiful outdoor destination ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The area is known for its recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and sailing, making it perfect for family trips or romantic getaways. Nearby attractions include Wesleyan University, Mohegan Sun Casino, and the XL Center for sports events. For accommodations, consider Mohegan SunOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star resort that offers a casino theme, business amenities, and family-friendly services, or Marriott Hartford DowntownOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel known for its spa services and business facilities. Another option is Copper Beech InnOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and various outdoor activities.
2. Coventry LakeOpens in a new window: Coventry Lake is a charming outdoor location perfect for those seeking adventure and romance. With attractions like the University of Connecticut and Harry A. Gampel Pavilion, visitors can engage in cultural and sporting events. For accommodations, Abbey's Lantern Hill InnOpens in a new window is a delightful 4.0-star bed and breakfast that specializes in adventure sports and romantic packages, while DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford - Bradley AirportOpens in a new window is a great choice for business travelers with its comprehensive business services. Additionally, MGM SpringfieldOpens in a new window offers a unique experience with its casino theme and pet-friendly policies, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

Things to do in Essex for first time

Essex offers a delightful three-day escape for travelers, featuring stunning rivers, serene parks, and scenic marinas. Enjoy outdoor activities like boating, wildlife watching, and hiking through lush forests, while the vibrant local culture and live entertainment complete an unforgettable experience in this charming destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Essex:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Gillette Castle State Park, where you can explore the unique castle designed by actor William Gillette, surrounded by stunning views of the Connecticut River. After enjoying the scenic trails and beautiful architecture, head to Selden Neck State Park, accessible by a short ferry ride. This park offers a serene environment perfect for hiking and birdwatching. Conclude your day at Chester Creek Marina, where you can relax by the water, perhaps enjoying a picnic or watching the boats come in as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Your day begins at Dinosaur State Park, where you can marvel at the impressive dinosaur tracks and explore the interactive exhibits. Next, take a short drive to Ferry Landing State Park, a lovely spot to enjoy riverside views and unwind in nature. Wrap up your day at the Florence Griswold Museum, where art and history come together in a beautiful setting, showcasing American Impressionism and the charming historic home of the Lyme Art Colony.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Harvey's Beach, a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming in the warm waters of Long Island Sound. Afterward, visit the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, where you can appreciate local art and possibly catch a live performance. Finally, head to Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut's largest shoreline park, where you can stroll along the expansive beach, enjoy nature trails, and take in the scenic coastal views before concluding your exciting trip.

5 tips to find a great Essex hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Essex on a budget is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are at their lowest. For a great value for money experience, consider staying for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the key attractions, which include the marina and the scenic river. This budget-friendly trip will allow you to explore the beauty of Essex while keeping costs down.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals in Essex, Hotels.com offers a great way to find competitive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To explore these options, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find significant discounts on accommodations. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and special promotions that may arise. With good availability and a variety of hotel options, you're more likely to snag a great deal for your Essex getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Essex.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, allowing you to balance cost with the convenience of reaching the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Essex and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Essex

Essex experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 31.3°F (-0.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.8°F (23.2°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Essex are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.