Getting to Guilford is easy by car via Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, and Connecticut Route 77. You can also take the Connecticut Transit S bus from New Haven or catch the Shore Line East train from Branford, East Haven, New Haven, and New London.
Guilford was first settled by European settlers in 1639, when the puritans purchased land from local Native Americans, located halfway between Saybrook and New Haven. The town was organized around common ground called a green, a defining feature which remains untouched to this day. Just down the street from the Guilford Green, you can visit the oldest stone house in New England, The Henry Whitfield State Museum, which was built in 1639.
If you love historic house museums, especially of the Colonial style, then Guilford is the destination for you. There are no less than five historic home museums in Guilford, including Dudley Farm and the Hyland House. Hyland House which was built in 1713 and is one of the best preserved "saltbox" style houses from the period. You can also visit the home of one of the city's first settlers at the Comfort Starr House, also renowned as one of the earliest wooden-framed homes in the state.
Guilford's storied past continues to the Revolutionary War period, when locals fought off a British raiding party. In later years, the city became a hotspot for Victorians seeking a summer cottage escape. Today, many people come for that very reason, seeking a seaside town with historic charm, great dining, and a variety of relaxing recreational activities, from hiking to fishing, swimming, and shopping.
Bishop's Orchards is one of the area's most popular modern-day destinations, in all seasons. Beyond the locally made wine, families come from near and far to pick the perfect pumpkin, apples, or raspberries and enjoy locally made treats like apple cider and pumpkin pie. Bishop's is also known to be the destination for the freshest produce, meat, and dairy products around.
It's not often that you find a town that appeals to history buffs, beach bums, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Guilford combines all these attractions and more, making this city one of the top crowd-pleasing New England destinations for couples and families.
When should you visit Guilford, CT?
Guilford is an enchanting destination year-round. Summers are beautiful and hot, but just right for beach or lake days or lounging on the Guilford Green, and catching a free outdoor Shakespeare production. Spring may be rainy or cool at times, but that offers the perfect opportunity to explore the town's many historic museums, boutiques, bookstores, galleries, and cafes.
Experience the perfect New England fall in Guilford, with mountainous views behind, a riot of colorful autumn leaves all around the historic homes, and the picturesque seaside beyond. Winter in Guilford is ideal for ice skating and ice fishing at Mill Pond or cuddling up around the fire for a romantic weekend indoors.
The city also hosts fun seasonal events that are worth a weekend getaway or short trip. In October, check out the Spooktacular and trunk-or-treat on the Guilford Green, where kids can enjoy fun in the bounce house, get a balloon animal, fill their sack with candy, and indulge in an ice cream sundae. The town also puts on window painting and scarecrow design contests to encourage a family-friendly, yet seasonally spooky, fun atmosphere.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Guilford, CT:
Guilford, CT: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. rate trends by star rating class in Guilford, CT. Browse these line graphs to evaluate the cheapest months to book a room in Guilford for upcoming travels.
Are there luxury hotels around Guilford, CT?
4 Star Average Prices: $189.22
Check into the luxurious Omni New Haven hotel at Yale if you are looking for New England style and plush, luxurious accommodations. You'll be central to everything in New Haven, including Yale University, and only about 11 miles from Guilford.
The pet-friendly property can host up to 306 different parties at once, each tastefully outfitted in opulent, contemporary style. The Omni boasts over 22,000 square feet of elegant event space in a single property, making the Omni New Haven the ideal location for conventions and large gatherings. In-room desks, complimentary wireless internet service, and a hotel business center enable you to do business away from home comfortably and efficiently at all times.
If you need to get to Guilford but don't have a car, the Omni's limo and town car service can get you there in style. Stick around the Omni at day's end for a drink and dinner at John Davenport's restaurant and bar on-site or indulge in 24-hour room service at your leisure.
What are the affordable hotels near Guilford, Connecticut?
3 Star Average Prices: $145.46
Affordable rates and a great location make the Red Roof Inn PLUS+ and Suites in Guilford a great hotel choice for budget travelers. This hotel appeals to guests who like to cook for themselves with in-room kitchenettes, including fridges, microwaves, and stovetops. While you dine, you can enjoy satellite programming on a 37-inch flat-screen television, or cruise the web using the complimentary wireless internet service. You can also make free local calls throughout your stay. Wake up to a complimentary continental breakfast coffee, and tea, and you'll be ready for a great day exploring Guilford.
2 Star Average Prices: $96.21
Which hotels near Guilford, CT offer the best discounts?
Senior citizens and military and government service members will find excellent hotel discounts at Comfort Inn Guilford. Located right off Interstate 95, this hotel is convenient, tidy, and comfortable. When you stay here, you'll be just minutes from Hyland House Museum, the Henry Whitfield State Museum, and Bishop's Orchard and Winery.
This Comfort Inn gets high marks for high-touch service, ensuring you enjoy a pleasant stay from the moment you check in. Each guest room features a fridge and microwave, so you can save more on meals by dining in, while a complimentary hot/cold breakfast is also served daily to save you even more. You can also log onto the wireless internet service, free of charge, and enjoy cable programming.
What Guilford hotels provide exceptional value?
A stay at the Holiday Inn Express Branford-New Haven offers plenty of value-added amenities, plus a location that's near Yale University, Bishop's Orchard, and numerous local shops and restaurants.
Each guest room is equipped with essentials like complimentary toiletries and hair dryers, as well as complimentary wireless internet access and satellite programming. Enjoy extras like free local calls, a complimentary daily newspaper, and access to the indoor pool, spa tub, and fitness center throughout your stay, as well as a free daily buffet breakfast. If you're hungry for lunch or dinner, you can dine at Holiday Inn Express Branford-New Haven's convenient on-site restaurant.
How should you spend your vacation in Guilford, CT?
You will enjoy your pick of beaches and parks in Guilford, CT, from small and intimate lakeside spots to expansive sandy beaches with all the amenities.
Head to Jacobs Beach if you're seeking picnic shelters, drinking fountains, outdoor showers, and a classic boardwalk. You'll also find a playground and volleyball court, half basketball court, and bath house. Non-Connecticut residents will need to pay a daily fee or secure a seasonal pass, but the price is worth it, considering all the amenities you'll discover here. Chittenden Park is just yards away, if you care to play (or watch) Little League softball, soccer, or bocce. The Boardwalk is also a gateway to the National New England Trail.
If you'd like a quiet beach that's perfect for picnics, grilling out, and fishing, Chaffinch Island Park is the place for you. Those who love a great stroll with a view should head to Peddlers Park, which offers access to Westwoods Land Conservation Trails.
Daniel Avenue Beach is the spot for clamming or sunbathing, though this small beach does not have lifeguard service. Lacrosse players will find two dedicated fields at Nut Plains Park, as well as walking trails and proximity to Chestnut Tree Nursery. Head to Peddlers Park to access the Westwoods Trails. This conservation area offers 39 miles of trails in total with a vast array of wildlife and ecology to experience, from salt water and fresh water marshes, to rocky outcrops, woodlands, and cave structures.
Fisherman love the stocked lake at Wharton Brook State Park, not far from Guilford in North Haven. If you'd like to get on the water, charter a fishing boat and set off into the Long Island Sound near Branford, to try for a fresh catch, surrounded by the idyllic Thimble Islands.
Guilford is also home to Cockaponset State Forest, one of the largest in the state, and a haven for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Intrepid hikers may pass through Guilford as they hike the 50-mile long Mattabesett Trail across Metacomet Ridge and Bluff Head. For shorter hikes, check out Totoket Mountain and East and West Sugarloaf.
Come to Guilford to discover America's colonial past, throw a wedding at a local winery, visit Yale nearby, or to spend time hiking or lounging at the beach. This New England city will wow you with its historic attractions and natural beauty.
FAQs about hotels in Guilford