If you're looking for the quintessential New England town, look no further than Thompson, Connecticut. Rich in history and with no shortage of amazing places to eat and fun places for family outings, it's a great place to visit and even better place to live.
Kazantzis Real Estate Agent Keri Roy highlighted some of the many places that make Thompson special.
Quaddick State Park
Roy said Quaddick State Park is one of her favorite parks from hiking to kayaking.
Boating, picnicking, field sports, swimming, freshwater fishing, and hiking are among the activities you could enjoy here.
"It has something for everyone," Roy said.
According to the park's website, the "cool reservoir water and the sandy beach draw frequent crowds during the warm summer months."
West Thompson Dam
Roy said West Thompson Dam is also a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.
According to the U.S Army Corps of Engineers, there are 17 miles of marked trails for the public to enjoy, as well as 24 campsites.
"The natural setting surrounding West Thompson Lake is enjoyed year-round," the Corps said. "Pleasing views from the dam offer sightseers and photographers a panoramic view of the area. Visitors will discover the biodiversity of nature as they explore our recreation areas."
Fort Hill Farm
From homemade ice cream in the summer to a giant corn maze and pumpkins in the fall, Fort Hill Farms is a special place to visit all year round.
"Fort Hill Farms is your EVERY season agricultural destination. Our focus is on promoting peace and energy, and we have lots of beauty to share with you," the farm said on its website.
Some of the attractions include the Quintessential Gardens, which features beautiful perennials, monarch butterflies, and organically grown lavender. In fact, they even use the lavender in cupcakes and ice cream.
The farm also offers the Boundless Energy program for women - where exercise meets nature and meditation.
Bogey's Ice Cream
"Bogeys Ice Cream is an absolute favorite ice cream spot in the summer," Roy said.
"Bogey's Ice Cream is known for its generous portions and great atmosphere," the eatery said on its Facebook page." Bogey's is a great place to take your family and friends for a burger and ice cream- be sure to order the home-made hand-cut fries with your food!"
Situated on a driving range, you can hit a bucket of balls while waiting for your food.
It's also located so close to Thompson Speedway, you can even see some of the action when races are going on.
"We are a family-owned and operated business," the owners said "We love to serve the community and are so grateful for all of our customers!
Thompson Speedway
If you have the need for speed, Thompson Speedway is the place to go.
The speedway includes NASCAR racing on a 5/8 mile Oval, a 1.7 mile Road Course, a first-class Golf Club, Clubhouse restaurant with a banquet and catering facility, exclusive Drivers Club, and multiple driving experiences through Circuit One Events.
"It’s our goal to provide you with the finest, most complete racing, entertainment and leisure experience in New England," the speedway said.
While the racing season is currently on hold due to the pandemic, the speedway's restaurant is still open for takeout.
Anya Restaurant
For food with a modern flair, Roy said you have to try Anya.
"This is my favorite sitdown restaurant in Thompson. From burgers to sushi, it's all delicious," Roy said.
"ANYA is a modern take on the traditional steakhouse and features contemporary seasonal dishes," the restaurant said on its website, "ANYA brings approachable sophistication to your dining experience. Enjoy a relaxed yet chic ambiance for an authentic and unique restaurant dining experience."
While its dining room is closed due to COVID-19, Anya is open for takeout.
William Mason House
In addition to keeping quarantined people fed, Anya's owners are also busy renovating the William Mason House, a historic national landmark which will be a boutique hotel and wedding venue.
The painstaking process to return this property to its former glory is detailed on its Facebook page. It's expected to open in the fall of 2020.
Thompson Hill Historic District
History buffs will want to head to the Thompson Hill Historic District.
The William Mason House is just one of the more than 100 historically significant buildings located in this area of town.
Others include The Cottage House, a historic bed and breakfast, as well as the Thompson Congregational Church, the original Thompson Meeting Hall (known colloquially as "The Old Town Hall"), the Ellen Larned Museum, and several other historic houses built during the early-to-mid 19th century.
Lord Thompson Manor
Lord Thompson Manor is also a beautiful historic building that has found new life. The 40-acre estate is now a popular location for weekend wedding experiences.
"At Lord Thompson Manor, we specialize in the "Weekend Wedding" concept, where Rehearsal Dinners, Spa, Reception, After Party, Brunches, and much more all are part of your exclusive stay in a relaxed and intimate setting," the manor said on its Facebook page.
So whether you want to go kayaking or take in some history, Thompson has a little bit of everything for everyone.