67 River Road
East Haddam, CT
If you’re driving I-95 this holiday season, plan a pit stop at Connecticut’s one and only ‘medieval’ castle…now all gussied up for Christmas! Gillette Castle State Park showcases famous Sherlock Holmes stage actor William Gillette’s eccentric castle and wooded walking trails along the banks of the Connecticut River, a must-see for families. Fun to visit all year round, the castle is decorated especially for the holidays in a Nutcracker theme every weekend in December through the 19th. Kids can experience a Nutcracker scavenger hunt throughout the castle, then view the mammoth tree and extensive toy train display.
Note: If you visit during the peak season (spring to fall), you can approach the castle via a short ferry ride!
Distance from the nearest interstate: Approximately 15 miles from I-95.
Hours: 10 am-4 pm December weekends through the 19th. (Yearly hours are 10 am-4:30 pm Memorial Day through Columbus Day.)
Ticket Prices: Parking and state park grounds are free. Guided castle tours are $6.00 per adult (over age 13) and $2.00 per child (kids under age 2 are free).
Dining options: There’s a food concession at the Visitor’s Center as well as picnic areas (seasonal).
Website: Gillette Castle State Park
Directions: From I-95, take Exit 69. Route 9N to Exit 6 or 7. For the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, use Exit 6. Follow Route 148 and park signs. (The ferry operates spring through fall.)
