If you’re a fan of the television show, Gilmore Girls, you know that Rory and Lorelai Gilmore made their home in the fictional town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut. Although the charmingly quaint New England town is not on the Connecticut state map, its inspiration can be found throughout the Litchfield Hills region. Towns like Washington, New Milford, Bantam and Litchfield inspired the creators of the show, and they continue to draw fans looking to capture a little of the Gilmore Girls magic.
Looking for more? Try this luxe Gilmore Girls experience.
Where it all began. Start your weekend at the Mayflower Inn & Spa, the inspiration for Stars Hollow’s Independence Inn—and, many say, the Gilmore Girls television show itself. This romantic resort and spa offers luxurious rooms and romantic gardens.
But first, coffee! Take Route 47 north for a late breakfast at Luke’s Diner, oops we mean Marty’s Café in Washington, before embarking on a rambling drive along Route 109 west, past a few of the places that inspired Stars Hollow locations, like The Washington Food Market (Doose’s Market) and The Hickory Stick Bookshop (Stars Hollow Books).
Follow Route 202 South to pretty New Milford, Connecticut. On New Milford’s town green you’ll see a gazebo that many say inspired the one in Stars Hollow, where so many magical Gilmore Girls moments have taken place. After a farm-to-table lunch at the organic eatery, the Green Granary, head for Route 67 East back toward Washington. Along the way, take a short detour to the Bridgewater Village Store in downtown Bridgewater for some famous Bridgewater Chocolates, local honey and maple syrup, and of course, coffee!
The next day, start with breakfast and coffee from The Smithy Market & Cafe in Washington. Continue north on Route 47 and merge onto Route 202 North. Along the way, shop for antiques at Housatonic Trading Company and the Old Carriage Shop Antique Center. And be sure to stop for ice cream at Arethusa Farm in Bantam, home of delicious ice cream that rivals Taylor’s Soda Shoppe. Then make your way to the quaint town of Litchfield for a little more shopping.
The energetic spirit and small town charm of Stars Hollow are alive and well in Connecticut. In fact, you’ll find cities and towns all across the state that give you that traditional New England feel, combined with a smart modern edge — in other words, everything we love about Gilmore Girls. See you soon!