Griswold Inn

Griswold Inn

Essex, CT

Located in the enchanting seaport village of Essex, The Griswold Inn is a Connecticut landmark in continuous operation since 1776. The Inn is the recipient of Connecticut's highest award for hospitality and features acclaimed dining in art-filled rooms, an award-winning taproom with live entertainment nightly, and a stunning wine bar. The property is comprised of seven historic buildings, offering a range of charming accommodations at various price points. The Connecticut River is a mere 50 yards from the Inn's front door! There is much to explore within the immediate area as well as a myriad of activities within easy reach. There's NO place like The 'Gris'.

  • Air Conditioning
  • Beach
  • Family Friendly
  • Fireplaces
  • Historical Features
  • Live Entertainment
  • Meeting Facilities
  • Restaurant
  • Romantic
  • Spa
  • Wireless Internet Access
  • Antique Shopping
  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Canoeing/Kayaking
  • Cooking School Program
  • Cross Country Skiing
  • Cultural Activities
  • Educational Programs
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
  • Sailing
  • Shopping
  • Tennis
 
HISTORIC DINING
Named ONE OF AMERICA'S FIVE BEST RESTAURANTS OLDER THAN 100 - Esquire
In our historic dining rooms, Executive Chef Jim Gallagher prepares classic American cuisine to perfection in simple, but imaginative ways. His menu showcases fresh seafood, aged beef, and the highest quality chops and poultry. After any meal, Chef Jim’s house-made desserts are a "must."
Our historic dining rooms exude character, charm, and tradition, where one can be as comfortable in casual attire as in "black tie." We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.
"The most famous brunch in Connecticut can be found at The Griswold Inn."
- The New York Times
Every Sunday we serve our famous Hunt Breakfast, a bountiful spread laid out buffet-style. A dining convention started when the British commandeered the Inn during the War of 1812, our Hunt Breakfast remains a popular tradition today.
In December, diners enjoy a unique and festive culinary experience: our Holiday Bill of Fare includes game offerings as well as more "traditional" holiday favorites.  There's something for everyone's palate! 


















 One of the oldest continuously operated inns in the country, The Griswold Inn opened its doors for business in 1776 and has been catering to yachtsmen and overland travelers ever since. We are situated in the historic hamlet of Essex, nestled on the banks of the Connecticut River. Anyone familiar with Essex knows it as an extraordinary town and The Griswold Inn - a very special place. Although the Inn exudes the charm of days gone by, we are anything but dated.  From our sophisticated cuisine, extensive wine offerings, comfortable accommodations, and modern amenities, The Griswold Inn offers the best of times.
Number of Rooms: 33
 The Griswold Inn is defined by its uniqueness, and our guest rooms are no exception. We have 33 charming rooms, no two exactly alike. Most are furnished with antiques, period reproductions and Leonard’s Beds - yes, the same Leonard’s that has supplied a bed or two to The White House. Some of our accommodations have fireplaces, some have views of “village life” and some boast glimpses of water. All have wireless internet access and private baths. A complimentary continental breakfast is also included.
Rack, Rail & Riverboat Ride
Available for Sunday through Thursday stayovers.

Visit the enchanting village of Essex and soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the scenery and relax!

Experience the comfortable and convivial atmosphere of the 1776 landmark, The Griswold Inn, and enjoy an authentic journey back to the days of steam and Mississippi-style riverboats.

Located just one mile from the Inn, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat offers passengers a way to experience the beauty of the area by land and by sea. The 2 1/2 hour excursion begins at the Essex station where you will board the Great Republic, an elegant 1920’s Parlor Car complete with beverage service and individual, plush swivel seats from which to take in the stunning scenery. The train transports passengers to the Becky Thatcher, a riverboat which travels up the Connecticut River to enjoy some of the most spectacular vistas in the area.

The package price of $225 includes:

- An overnight stay in one of the Inn's charming Standard Rooms.
- Two round-trip tickets for an excursion aboard the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat.
- Continental breakfast for two.

As seating is limited in the Parlor Car, when making your room reservations, please specify the time at which you wish to begin your rail and riverboat adventure. Trains depart daily at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Tax not included in package price.  Room upgrades are available for an additional charge.