Oxford is named after Oxford, England, which should come as no surprise since most early settlers were of English origin. During the 18th century, farmers herded livestock through the area from as far away as Litchfield. According to local history, the need for establishing Oxford as its own community arose because residents were traveling to Litchfield for Sabbath services. Since farming families were already settled in the area and needed their own community, Oxford was established as a separate parish in 1741. By 1798, it was incorporated by Connecticut's General Assembly.
Aside from agriculture, Oxford was known for its mills, including a paper mill, sawmill, and grist mill. Eventually, many of its farming residents took better-paying jobs in nearby factory towns, reshaping Oxford's demographic.
Today, Oxford is one of the fastest growing towns in Connecticut. The community boasts many historic sites and excellent schools, and it's considered the 26th wealthiest town in the state by household income. Whatever your reasons for visiting Oxford, you're sure to find plenty of activities and attractions to keep you occupied. All you need is the right hotel.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Oxford, CT?
Oxford's weather is similar to the rest of New England. The town enjoys four distinct seasons with very cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers.
While there are advantages to visiting in any season, fall is one of the best times to plan an Oxford vacation. The landscape comes alive with changing colors and outdoor activities, making it the ideal time for sightseeing. Hotel rates tend to increase during the peak fall foliage, so you might want to visit in September if you're hoping to take advantage of discounted rates.
Spring is another prime time to visit Oxford. The area enjoys pleasant weather and virtually no tourists until mid-June, giving you free rein to explore at your own pace. This is also the perfect season to explore Connecticut's arboretums, parks, and gardens.
Despite being peak tourist season, summer ushers in all of Oxford's best outdoor activities. If you're the type of traveler who enjoys boating, fishing, or hiking, you won't want to miss a Connecticut summer. Consider booking your hotel in advance, however, as accommodations close to Oxford tend to fill up faster during tourist season.
Most visitors stay away from Oxford in the winter. With hotel rates hitting rock bottom, you could score an affordable hotel with upscale amenities that would otherwise be out of your price range. Just be mindful of inclement weather and have a backup plan just in case.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Oxford, CT:
Oxford, CT: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Oxford, CT. Browse these line graphs to calculate the cheapest time to book a room in Oxford for your upcoming travels.
What About Luxury Hotels in Oxford, CT?
4 Star Average Prices: £126.53
Those wanting an upscale Connecticut vacation with all the extras can choose from the area's higher-end hotels.
Heritage Hotel Golf Spa & Conference Center BW Premier Collection is located about 7 miles from Oxford close to downhill skiing and other recreational opportunities. The exceptional hotel features two restaurants, room service, a poolside bar, a delicious breakfast buffet (for an additional fee), a full-service spa, a golf course, a health club, an outdoor pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi. There's also an on-site business center. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable programming, MP3 docking stations, pillowtop beds, premium bedding, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and designer toiletries.
Hampton Inn Waterbury is a highly rated suburban hotel near Mattatuck Museum Arts and History Center. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, limited room service, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a 24-hour business center, express check-out, free newspapers in the lobby, and event space. The guest rooms are well-appointed with work desks, safes, microwaves, cable TV, hair dryers, and both wired and wireless internet access.
Courtyard by Marriott Waterbury Downtown also offers high-end amenities less than 10 miles from Oxford. The hotel features a 24-hour business center, event space, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a complimentary area shuttle, wedding services, gift shops, and free Wi-Fi. Dining options include an on-site restaurant and bar, limited room service, and a cooked-to-order breakfast that's available each morning for an additional charge. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with satellite programming, safes, work desks, high-speed internet access, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries.
Are There Any Affordable Hotels in Oxford, CT?
3 Star Average Prices: £98.86
Although there aren't any accommodations within Oxford's town limits, the local area does offer some budget-friendly options worth considering.
Located just 5 miles from Oxford, Naugatuck Motor Lodge is a straightforward lodging featuring 49 guest rooms and free parking. Enjoy a 24-hour front desk, late check-out, in-room accessibility options, and complimentary wireless internet access. Guest rooms are basic but feature phones with free local calls, desks, and cable TV. Rooms with mini-refrigerators, microwaves, and hot tubs are also available.
New Haven Inn is another affordable option within easy driving distance of Oxford. The property features a 24-hour front desk, a business center, free parking, designated smoking areas, and a complimentary continental breakfast served each morning. Guest rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV, shower/tub combinations, and phones with free local calls. There's also room in the parking lot for oversized vehicles, including buses, trucks, and RVs.
If you prefer an affordable lodging with impressive reviews, check out Cheshire Welcome Inn. While small, the accommodation features a 24-hour business center, guest laundry facilities, ample parking, and a smoke-free policy. Each guest room features blackout drapes, comfortable beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, irons, ironing boards, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini fridges, desks, hair dryers, and toiletries, ensuring you have everything you need to enjoy your stay.
2 Star Average Prices: £67.78
What Are the Top Hotels in Oxford, CT for Discounts?
AAA members, seniors, military families, and government employees can usually take advantage of special rates at hotels close to Oxford.
For example, state and federal workers can save an average of 15% at Comfort Inn Naugatuck. This hotel features a 24-hour business center, free newspapers, ample parking, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and concierge services. Guest rooms include flat-screen LED TVs with satellite programming, desks, hair dryers, toiletries, and free Wi-Fi.
Wyndham Southbury also offers special rates to government employees and military service members. The highly-rated hotel features a beautiful indoor pool with a skylight, a fitness center, a ballroom, free Wi-Fi, a complimentary area shuttle services, a business center, laundry services, and a lounge. Breakfast buffets and room service are available daily for an additional fee. The comfortable guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, cable programming, wired and wireless internet access, safes, work desks, complimentary toiletries, and mini fridges.
What Are the Best Value Options in Oxford, CT?
Savvy travelers looking for competitively priced accommodations with extra amenities don't have to look far from Oxford to find a good deal.
The Milestone Inn in Woodbury is a popular option that places you close to Hollow Park. Although the front desk is staffed during limited hours, the accommodation exudes boutique charm surrounded by three verdant acres. Perfect for romantic getaways, The Milestone Inn's guest rooms feature pillowtop beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with digital cable, Keurig coffee makers, Aveda bath products, mini fridges, microwaves, hair dryers, ironing facilities, and writing desks. Pet-friendly rooms are also available.
If you plan on visiting Seven Angels Theater during your stay, consider booking a room at the Quality Inn in Waterbury. This conveniently located accommodation offers easy access to nearby hiking and biking trails as well as a 24-hour front desk, free newspapers, guest laundry facilities, designated smoking areas, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable, mini fridges, desks, hair dryers, and toiletries.
Depending on when you plan your trip, you could find a great rate at Hilton Garden Inn Shelton, which features plenty of upscale amenities that make it a good value for the price. Featured amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, a lobby fireplace, a restaurant and bar, room service, a business center, a town car service, and full breakfasts (for an additional fee). Inside your guest room, enjoy a mini fridge, microwave, sofa bed, premium bedding, cable TV, hair dryer, and complimentary toiletries.
What Are the Top Attractions in Oxford, CT?
Whether you're staying near Oxford for a week or a weekend, there are a few must-see locations worth adding to your itinerary.
EverWonder Children's Museum in Newtown is a great destination for families with small children. The facility cultivates a love of learning with hands-on exhibits and imaginative programming in the fields of engineering, science, technology, math, and the arts.
Southbury's Old Town Hall Museum is a small but important facility that's a must for history lovers. Explore local history through the impressive collection offered at the Southbury Historical Society property.
As for outdoor attractions, don't miss Southford Fall State Park, Lake Zoar, or Kettletown State Park.
Oxford, Connecticut, is a special place brimming with small-town charm and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. No matter your reason for visiting, be sure to choose the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this charming destination has to offer.
FAQs about hotels in Oxford