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Community Corner

Historic Day Trips Near Fairfield County

From the moment you arrive in Fairfield County, CT, you're surrounded by living history.

Written by Denise Koek

Classic architecture, picturesque bridges, striking landmarks and somber battlegrounds are just some of the historically significant sites that you’ll find scattered throughout lovely Fairfield County, CT.  Here are a handful of fascinating places that you and your family should visit. The best part? You can get to all these destinations on one tank of gas (or less).

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224 Danbury Rd.

Wilton

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(203) 762-7257

Why Go? Since 1938, the Wilton Historical Society has provided diverse and engaging exhibitions, along with educational programs for school-kids. Until Jan. 20, they host the extremely popular Great Trains Holiday Exhibition.

Insider Tip: The museum is open year-round, so check the website for upcoming exhibits.   

Must Do: The Great Trains Holiday Exhibition is a delightful and meticulously-crafted model train presentation that features familiar and scenic landscapes.

The Fine Print: Hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and free for children ages 12 and under.

 

Keeler Tavern Museum

132 Main St.

Ridgefield, 06877

(203) 438-5485

Why Go? The beautifully maintained property dates back to the 1700’s and retains extensive documentation and records of the intriguing families who lived there—the Keelers, the Resseguies and the Gilberts. The museum also offers tours given by costumed guides.

Insider Tip: Groups of 10 or more should make advance reservations. Groups should arrive at the museum 15 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment time and should allow a total of one hour for the visit.

Must Do: On April 27, 1777, during the Revolutionary War, British General William Tryon marched his troops through Ridgefield to set up a cannon on Main Street and fired on the Keeler Tavern. Go see the cannonball, still imbedded in the corner post of the building.

The Fine Print: Open from Feb. 1 to Dec. 31; closed on federal holidays. Guided tours are available and gift shop is open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for seniors and kids under 18 and students.  The garden is open daily, dawn-dusk and admission is free. 

Second Company Governor's Horse Guard

4 Wildlife Dr.

Newtown 

(203) 426-9046

Why Go? The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard (one of the last active cavalry militia units in the United States) was established in 1808 to give the governor a place to retreat and a safe haven in times of war. Although today’s troopers primarily ride in ceremonial functions, visitors can observe the cavalry military training of the horses and riders throughout the year.

Insider Tip: If you are planning to observe a mounted drill, call (203) 426-9046 or email publicaffairs@thehorseguard.org to check times and Troop schedule. 

Must Do: Attend a drill that does include mounted activities, which is comprised of former race horses, show horses and pleasure horses, chestnut, brown or black.

The Fine Print: Winter drills begin at 10 a.m. on Sundays; phone or e-mail to arrange a tour of the facility.


Danbury Museum & Historical Society

43 Main St.

Danbury, 06810

(203) 743-5200

Why Go? The Danbury Museum has acquired and preserved a number of historically significant properties, including The John and Mary Rider House, the Dodd Hat Shop, the Little Red Schoolhouse and the birthplace of Charles Ives. 

Insider Tip: Scout troops are encouraged to schedule tours of the museum on Saturdays between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is happy to provide help in acquiring a variety of scout badges.

Must Do: Be a part of the museum's next exhibit by applying to showcase your special collection, whether it's postcards, stamps, glassware, pottery, tins or more.

The Fine Print: Guided tours are Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but appointments can be made for other days. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $1 for Danbury students, $2 for all other students and children under 5 get in free free. (Members pay $3.)

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