Essex is a small village in the lower Connecticut River valley steeped in tradition and unspoiled character. Take a walk
down Main Street and ask anyone which is the best small town in America, and you will hear the heralds of Essex. Norm
Crampton has verified what our residents have known for years in his 1995 edition of 100 Best Small Towns in America.
(Previously holding the #2 position, Essex moved to the top spot in the 1995 edition.)
While Mr. Crampton used quantitative data to reach his conclusion, there are more qualitative aspects of Essex that really
define the character of the town ~ Farmer’s Market on Friday afternoons in the park, Summer Concerts in the Park, the
view of the Connecticut River and its shore, a walk down a tree-shaded lane on a hot summer's day, or a friendly "Hello"
from a passerby. As our Guests, you have the opportunity to share in these experiences, too.
There is a little bit of something for everyone in Essex and the neighboring area. Our Guest Services Staff has many
contacts, and our local knowledge is keen. You will find some well known sites in the following, as well as a few hidden
treasures that typify the charm and spirit of our area:
