Embark on a flavorful journey through Connecticut’s burgeoning craft beer scene with a weekend getaway designed for hop enthusiasts. Discover hidden gems, taste unique brews, and experience the charm of New England’s countryside as you follow the Connecticut Beer Trail. For this weekend journey on the Connecticut Beer Trail, we’re heading east. Starting with Fox Farm, we’ll head south to Stonington and then up to Windham Country for stops in Killingly and Putnam. 

Planning Your Trip

Before hitting the road, it’s wise to plan your itinerary. Connecticut boasts numerous breweries, so selecting a route and making reservations, especially for weekend tours or tastings, can enhance your experience.

Here are some factors to consider:

• Location: All of these are in the eastern part of the state. You won’t be crossing the Connecticut River.
• Breweries: These four offer a wide range of beers to experience.
• Accommodations: If you’re looking to head out for a weekend, it’s recommended to book lodging in advance, especially in peak season. 
• Transportation: Each destination requires driving. If you’re making a weekend out of it, try one stop, then two the next day, and one the last, so driving is not an issue. Or even better, designate a non-drinking driver. 

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Must-Visit Breweries

Connecticut’s beer scene is diverse, offering something for every palate, even though we’re staying east of the Connecticut River. The state has many excellent breweries, though. Check out the list of them here. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect for our weekend on the Connecticut Beer Trail:

Brewery 1: Fox Farm Brewing 

Since my first visit in June of 2017, whenever I’m back in Connecticut, I make it a point to visit Fox Farm Brewery in Salem. Not only is their beer top-notch, but the barn the brewery is housed in, along with the surrounding area, is also welcoming. For IPA lovers, try libations such as Verdant, Burst, and Alta. Taste the freshness in these unfiltered beauties; they are certainly easy to drink. Their Ashlawn Coffee Stout and Freckled Fields Farmhouse Ale are just as tasty, although they sit at opposite ends of the palate.  

Brewery 2: Beer’d Brewing

The Beer’d Brewing Company opened its doors in November 2012 and is located in the American Velvet Mill in Stonington, with another location at the Silo in nearby Groton. It is owned by Mystic native Aaren Simoncini and his partner, Precious Putnam, who both graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York. Simoncini holds a degree in finance, and Putnam holds a degree in American Sign Language interpretation. Before opening Beer’d, Simoncini volunteered at nearby, but now defunct,  Cottrell  Brewing for two years. Beer’d started as one of the smallest commercial breweries in the state but has expanded significantly in 13 years. Try an array of their offerings, including Dogs and Boats, Hobbit Juice, and 8 Days a Week, all IPAs that can stand alongside any of the state’s finest. 

Brewery 3: Black Pond Brews

Head up north for the next two stops on Connecticut’s Beer Trail. Take Route 49 or head to Norwich and take Route 169 north to the Quiet Corner. Black Pond Brews, now located in Dayville, continues to impress with a diverse selection. Their offerings include the crisp CT Uncommon, the boldly hoppy Razorblades IPA, the uniquely spiced Machu Picchu Jalapeno Saison, and the classic Israel Putnam brown ale.

Brewery 4: Bear Hands Brewing

Bear Hands Brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a versatile spot to enjoy their craft beers. Nestled in a charming New England town, visitors can also explore Putnam’s vibrant main street, which boasts excellent restaurants, inviting pubs, and an expansive antique marketplace, making Bear Hands Brewing a perfect stop on your beer trail adventure.

While You’re There

To make the most of your weekend on Connecticut’s Beer Trail, check out these places along the way

• Salem Apple Festival: On every last Saturday in October, the Congregational Church of Salem, Connecticut, puts on its annual Salem Apple Festival. This charmer of a celebration is small-town New England at its finest and is located just down the road from Fox Farm. 

• Stonington Borough: This seaside village is full of historic homes and businesses, one close to another. Water Street, which is the main drag, is full of boutiques, galleries, and a few restaurants. Noah’s and Water Street Cafe are two eateries that have been around for years. Grab a few oysters and a drink before heading down to the end of the road to visit the Old Lighthouse Museum or to the town dock to see the lobster trap Christmas tree in season. Simply walking or driving Stonington’s streets is impressive, whether you get out or not. Beer’d’s Stonington location is just a stone’s throw away from the Borough

• Logee’s Greenhouse: Logee’s is a horticulturist’s paradise. With greenhouse upon greenhouse of local and exotic plants, you can get lost in here for hours. And it’s the one spot in the area that I’ve ever seen an orange tree for sale! Logee’s is located in Danielson, a village that is very close to Black Pond Brews’ location in Dayville. 
• Bradley Playhouse: If you’re staying in Putnam and looking for somewhere to go after your visit to Bear Hands, check out the Bradley Playhouse. This theater troupe is bound to entertain with past productions, including The Boys Next Door and The Crucible.

This weekend adventure promises a delightful blend of craft beer, fun diversions, and memorable experiences. Enjoy the journey to these stops on the eastern portion of Connecticut’s Beer Trail!