Imagine a magical weekend trip visiting picturesque Connecticut towns that look like they stepped right out of a Hallmark Christmas movie… because they actually did!
Connecticut has become a major location for Hallmark Christmas movies, and for good reason: the state is filled with quaint New England towns that transform into winter wonderlands during the holidays.
Movies like “One Royal Holiday,” “Christmas at Pemberly Manor,” and “Next Stop Christmas “are just a few of the many filmed in Connecticut.
Ready to experience a festive escape filled with twinkling lights, holiday cheer, and that unmistakable Hallmark Christmas movie magic?
Woodstock, CT:
A Holiday Gem in the Quiet Corner
Explore holiday filming locations in the “Quiet Corner” of Connecticut.
Woodstock, in Connecticut’s quiet corner, feels like a Hallmark Christmas movie brought to life.
Filmed and featured in “One Royal Holiday,” this charming town is full of festive cheer, twinkling lights, and cozy spots that make you feel like you’ve stepped into your own Hallmark holiday story.
If you’re building a whole holiday itinerary, these Holiday Things to Do in Connecticut fit perfectly.
Holiday Festivals & Special Events
Enjoy seasonal crafts and treats in Woodstock, CT.
Woodstock Winter Festival
Woodstock’s Winter Festival brings small-town sparkle to December, with local shops, vendors, and community groups gathering indoors at the Mansion at Bald Hill for an afternoon of family fun.
Expect crafts, games, and plenty of shopping wrapped in that classic Hallmark-town charm, all ending with a festive glow that feels straight out of a movie.
December 13th, 2025, 12 – 5 pm
Website: Town of Woodstock’s Winter Festival
Woodstock Holiday Light Displays
Pick up a map from Woodstock’s Town Hall to guide you through the area’s most dazzling light displays.
Drive around Woodstock and surrounding areas, and cast your vote for the best decorations! Maps are available starting December 1st.
The unusual and majestic Chris Mark Castle in Woodstock, CT. (Photo credit: Chris Mark Castle)
Chris Mark Castle
Take a drive past the enchanting Chris Mark Castle, featured as the castle in “One Royal Holiday.” Though it’s a private residence, catching a glimpse of this fairy-tale location is a must!
Address: 580 Brickyard Road, Woodstock, CT
Visiting the Christmas Barn in Woodstock, CT, feels like stepping inside a Christmas tree.
The Christmas Barn
No holiday visit to Woodstock is complete with a stop at the historic Christmas Barn featured in “One Royal Holiday.”
This seasonal store is even more magical in real life and has been in the same family for almost 300 years!
Address: 835 Route 169, Woodstock, CT
Website: The Christmas Barn
The holiday season is only the beginning—Connecticut has a treasure trove of magical things to do year-round. Here are some unique experiences in Connecticut you won’t want to miss!
Hallmark Holiday Dining in Woodstock, CT
Enjoy a festive brunch spread fit for royalty.
Sunday Brunch at The Mansion at Bald Hill
Sundays, 11 am-2 pm: Live like a royal from ” One Royal Holiday” and treat yourself to a festive holiday brunch featuring menu items like gingerbread pancakes and eggnog French toast.
The gorgeous, festive atmosphere really shines during the holidays. Reservations can be made by calling 860-974-3456
Address: 29 Plaine Hill Rd, Woodstock, CT
Website: Mansion at Bald Hill
Vanilla Bean Café
Another charming local restaurant that had its movie debut in “One Royal Holiday” and continues to draw in crowds is the Vanilla Bean Cafe.
Open daily at 8 am for a perfect start to your Hallmark Holiday day, or stop by on Friday and Saturday nights for live music from 7 pm to 9 pm.
Cozy up with hot cocoa and classic comfort food at this top-rated New England café.
Address: 450 Deerfield Rd, Pomfret, CT
Website: Vanilla Bean Cafe
Hallmark Holiday Stays in Woodstock
The Mansion at Bald Hill
Featured in “One Royal Holiday,” this charming inn boasts luxurious rooms, festive holiday decorations, and that cozy Hallmark movie feel.
Imagine spending your stay at the Mansion, all snuggled up, watching your favorite Hallmark Christmas movies… what a dream come true!
Address: 29 Plaine Hill Road, Woodstock, CT
Website: The Mansion at Bald Hill Accommodations
And when you’re ready to close out the year in a place that feels just as charming, you’ll want to explore our guide to New Year’s Eve with Kids.
New London, CT:
Seaside Holiday Spirit
The decorated windows will draw you in for some cozy holiday shopping.
New London is where seaside charm meets Hallmark holiday magic in Connecticut.
With festive events, cozy spots to explore, and even some famous filming locations from “Sugar Plum Twist,” this coastal town is a must-see for Hallmark movie fans and anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit along the Connecticut Coast.
Holiday Festivals & Special Events
Don’t miss your chance to see Santa this year!
New London Christmas Tree Lighting
Head to Parade Plaza for New London’s annual Christmas tree lighting. Enjoy carols, the Shoreline Ringers Bell Choir, and Santa’s grand arrival in a brightly lit Jeep.
Stick around for pictures with Santa afterward at The Golden Owl.
November 28th, 2024, 5 – 6 pm
Address: State Street & South Water Street, New London, CT
Website: Downtown New London Events
Holiday Shop by the Sea
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, browse handcrafted gifts and enjoy live performances at Port N Starboard Ocean Beach Park.
December 7th , 2025, 11 am – 4 pm
Address: 1225 Ocean Avenue, New London, CT
The Nutcracker, presented by The Eastern Connecticut Ballet
Experience the magic of your favorite “Sugar Plum Twist” movie scenes as you relish the delightful seasonal performance at the Garde Arts Center… an enchanting venue highlighted in the film!
Dec 13th and 14th, 2025
Address: 325 State Street, New London, CT
Website: New London Nutcracker Tickets
Santa Shopping Stroll
Grab a festive hat and map and explore downtown New London.
Collect stamps on your shopping map to win prizes and find holiday deals at participating businesses.
Visit all participating locations and turn in your completed map to Flavor of Life for a chance to win a fabulous gift basket from local merchants.
December 13th, 2025: 11 am – 6 pm
Website: List of Santa Stroll Locations
Hallmark Holiday Dining in New London
Grab a cup of award-winning coffee at Muddy Waters Cafe in New London, CT.
Muddy Waters Café
This quaint café is perfect for a cozy meal with views of the Thames River. Enjoy hot drinks, sandwiches, and homemade baked goods… just like the characters from “Sugar Plum Twist!“
Address: 40 Bank Street, New London, CT
Website: Muddy Waters Cafe Menu
Tony D’s
Featured on-screen as a romantic Christmas restaurant in “Sugar Plum Twist,” Tony D’s offers Italian dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in downtown New London.
Address: 92 Huntington Street, New London, CT
Website: Tony D’s Menu
Hallmark Holiday Stays in New London
Cozy up in the historic Dragon Fly Cottage this winter (Photo Credit: Airbnb)
Dragon Fly Cottage (Airbnb)
Skip the hotel in New London and stay in your own private cottage with coastal views and festive decor… perfect for a holiday escape.
This charming cottage is top-rated on Airbnb, offering 3 beautiful bedrooms that sleep up to 10 guests.
If you’re seeking a holiday stay with a twist, we’ve rounded up some of Connecticut’s Most Unique Airbnbs for an unforgettable experience.
Essex, CT:
Timeless Hallmark Movie Christmas Charm
Let the snow fall while you enjoy a seasonal train ride in Essex, CT.
Essex, CT, is a charming town brimming with riverfront beauty, serving as the perfect setting for Hallmark Christmas movies like “Christmas at Pemberly Manor,” “Next Stop Christmas,” “A Very Nutty Christmas,” and “The Noel Diary.”
Experience the holiday spirit in this historic locale… a premier New England destination year-round, particularly during the festive season.
Holiday Festivals & Special Events
A festive German atmosphere at Jealous Monk in Olde Mistick Village.
Essex Steam Train’s North Pole Express
Experience the magic of the North Pole on the Essex Steam Train!
Enjoy festive moments with Santa and Mrs. Claus, sip on hot cocoa, and sing along to classic Christmas carols for a holiday adventure to remember.
November 13th – December 23th, 2025
Essex Steam Train Holiday Princess Jubilee
Dress up in your most festive attire and join princes and princesses for an enchanting brunch.
November 15th & 22nd, 2025
Essex Holiday House Tour
Visit seven historic homes in Essex Village, each beautifully decorated for the holidays.
The tour includes complimentary admission to the Essex Historical Society’s Pratt House and the Connecticut River Museum.
December 6th, 2025, 12 – 4 pm
Ivoryton Illuminations
The entire community of historic Ivoryton takes part in this annual Holiday Extravaganza, featuring a petting zoo, an Elf scavenger hunt, and more, all culminating in Santa’s arrival and the lighting of one of the state’s largest living Christmas trees. (Santa arrives at the Playhouse at 6 pm.)
Throughout December, Ivoryton Village in Essex shines with over 400,000 holiday lights synchronized to festive music.
Tune your radio to 101.5 FM and enjoy a drive or a stroll to experience the magical sights.
December 6th, 2025, 5 – 8 pm
Address: 103 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT
Website: Ivoryton Village Alliance
Hallmark Holiday Dining in Essex
The daily spread at Savour Cafe and Bakery (Photo Credit: Savour Cafe and Bakery)
Savour Café and Bakery
A cozy spot that appeared in Hallmark’s “A Very Nutty Christmas.” Stop by for a delicious meal surrounded by the holiday spirit and yummy treats
Address: 90 Main Street, Centerbrook, CT
Website: Savour Café and Bakery
The Griswold Inn
Delight in remarkable holiday dining this December. The historic dining room dazzles with festive lights while carolers serenade guests each evening.
You will feel like you stepped right into a Hallmark Christmas Movie
Address: 36 Main Street, Essex, CT
Website: The Griswold Inn Historic Dining
Hallmark Holiday Stays in Essex
The Griswold Inn
This charming historic inn, featured in the Hallmark Christmas movie “Christmas at Pemberly Manor,” truly radiates holiday warmth and cheer.
This destination is the ideal romantic escape, yet families also cherish the lively atmosphere, seasonal festivities, and the welcoming environment that truly makes everyone feel at home.
Address: 36 Main Street, Essex, CT
Website: The Griswold Inn Lodging
Mystic, CT:
A Magical Seaside Holiday
The Mystic Seaport is an exciting, year-round family attraction.
Mystic is a quintessential New England seaside town that becomes even more enchanting during the holidays. From lighted boat parades to historic lantern tours, Mystic is the perfect destination for that Hallmark Christmas movie magic.
It is no wonder it has been featured in so many movies! “The Holiday Fix-Up,” “12 Days of Christmas Eve,” “Where Are You Christmas?,” “Mystic Christmas,” and “A Very Nutty Christmas” were all filmed in this charming seaside location.
Holiday Festivals & Special Events
Mystic, Connecticut, lights up during the holidays.
Santa Arrives by Tugboat
Gather in anticipation at Mystic River Park to watch Santa arrive on a tugboat at 2 pm, then stick around for the tree lighting at 6 pm and the lighted boat parade at 6:15 pm, where decorated boats brighten the Mystic River.
November 29th, 2025: 2 – 7 pm
Location: Mystic River Park
Holiday Lights Spectacular (Olde Mistick Village)
Over half a million twinkling lights turn Olde Mistick Village into a breathtaking winter wonderland, all for you to enjoy free of charge.
On select holiday weekends, stroll through festive displays, shop for holiday treasures, listen to carolers, and indulge in seasonal treats.
November 28th, 2025 – End of January, 2025
Location: Olde Mistick Village
Lantern Light Village at Mystic Seaport Museum
Step back in time with lantern-lit streets, caroling, and horse-drawn carriage rides at the Mystic Seaport Museum that evoke the magic of an 1876 Christmas.
It’s no wonder it was used as a filming location for “Where Are You Christmas?” Tickets for non-members are $40 for adults and $28 for youth (ages 4-12).
December 5&6, 12&13, 18-20, 2025
Location: Mystic Seaport Museum
Hallmark Holiday Dining in Mystic
Fresh hot pizza and a cold craft beer at Mango’s Pizza in Mystic (Photo Credit: Mango’s)
Mango’s Wood-Fired Pizza
Highlighted in the Hallmark classic “Mystic Christmas,” Mango’s offers a delightful selection of pizzas and salads in Olde Mistick Village, making it a favorite among visitors.
Address: 27 Coogan Blvd Building 8, Mystic, CT (Olde Mistick Village)
Website: Mango’s Pizza Menu
Alice in the Village
Experience a whimsical holiday-themed afternoon tea in Olde Mistick Village, with festive treats and lots of cute photo ops.
Address: 27 Coogan Blvd # 26A, Mystic, CT (Olde Mistick Village)
Website: Alice in the Village
Jealous Monk
The Jealous Monk, featured in “Mystic Christmas,” warmly invites you to experience its cozy outdoor seating all year round, where you can bask in the enchanting glow of festive lights in Olde Mistick Village.
Here, you’ll find a delightful selection of delicious German comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly day in Mystic.
Address: 27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT (Olde Mistick Village)
Website: Jealous Monk Menu
Mystic’s holiday charm is unbeatable, but if you’re hungry for more, head to nearby Stonington for some of the best family dining!
Here are our favorite spots for a cozy, delicious meal in Stonington!
Hallmark Holiday Stays in Mystic
Curl up next to a crackling fire and binge Hallmark Christmas movies this season.
The Whaler’s Inn
The Whaler’s Inn, a delightful boutique hotel in the heart of Mystic, transforms into a holiday wonderland each Christmas season.
With twinkling lights, elegant garlands, and cozy touches, every corner radiates warmth and holiday cheer. Step outside, and you’re just moments away from charming shops and cozy eateries, perfect for a magical winter stroll through downtown Mystic.
Address: 20 East Main Street, Mystic, CT
Website: The Whaler’s Inn
Harbor View Landing
Experience breathtaking, private waterfront cottages—ideal for families seeking personal space, along with spectacular views of Mystic’s holiday lights over the harbor.
The Nantucket, Block Island, and Martha’s Vineyard Cottages accommodate up to 4 guests, while the Mystic and Bluffs Houses are designed for larger families.
Address: 8 Casino Road, Mystic, CT
Website: Harbor View Landing Cottages
Wethersfield, CT:
Historic Holiday Cheer
Discover small-town charm in Wethersfield, CT, that brings history to life.
Wethersfield’s historic charm, proximity to Hartford, and festive holiday spirit make it a perfect setting for a Hallmark-worthy Christmas adventure.
From decorated colonial homes to enchanting holiday festivals, Wethersfield truly feels like a Hallmark Christmas movie brought to life—and has even starred in films like “Rediscovering Christmas“ and “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane.”
Holiday Festivals & Special Events
The historic homes of Wethersfield come to life over the holidays.
Wethersfield Historic District Holidays on Main
Each year, the Wethersfield historic district transforms into a vibrant scene filled with caroling, tree lighting, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a silent auction at the Webb Barn.
Wander through the colonial-era streets adorned with festive decorations. It is so festive that you might even count yourself as an extra in “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane.”
December 4th, 2025, 5 – 9 pm
Location: Main Street and The Webb Barn
Website: Holidays on Main Information
Homes for the Holidays Tour
Tour private homes and historic Webb Deane Stevens Museum houses decorated for the season. Tickets are $70
Complimentary hot beverages are available at the Holcombe Education Center.
December 6th, 2025, 10 am – 4 pm
Locations: 211 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT + Four Private Historic Homes
Website: Homes For The Holidays Tickets
Hurlbut-Dunham House Holiday Tours
The Wethersfield Historical Society invites you to free tours of the Hurlbut-Dunham House on the first two weekends of December.
The house is beautifully adorned for the holidays, embracing the spirit of a Victorian Christmas and making you feel like you are in a Hallmark Christmas Movie.
December 6, 7, 13, 14, 2025, 10 am – 4 pm
Address: 212 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT
Enjoy the holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, in Wethersfield, CT.
A Christmas Carol
Wethersfield Historical Society presents a unique performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at Hurlbut-Dunham House.
Time’s Fool Theatre Company’s Wesley Broulik reprises his acclaimed one-man show with a solo cello.
Proceeds benefit the Wethersfield Historical Society, with only 20 tickets sold per performance. Tickets are $50 per person.
Attendees will enjoy seasonal refreshments at 5:30 pm before the show, including prosecco or sweet cider and other holiday favorites.
December 13th and 18th, 2025, 6 pm
Address: 212 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT
Hallmark Holiday Dining in Wethersfield
Photo Credit: Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre
Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre
Featured in “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane,” this cozy spot brings New England holiday charm to life. Enjoy fresh pastries, local coffee, and handmade sandwiches in a historic setting that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Perfect for a festive, casual meal or a holiday treat!
Address: 263 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT
Website: Heirloom Market Menu
Afternoon Tea at The Charles
Indulge in finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and warm tea in an elegant setting that feels right out of a Hallmark movie—especially fitting since “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane“ was filmed nearby! Love stories not included, but the cozy charm is all here.
Address: 161 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT
Website: The Charles’ Menus
Lucky Lou’s Bar & Grill
As seen in “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane,” Lucky Lou’s offers a warm, inviting spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Its cheerful ambiance and delicious menu make it perfect for a cozy meal that feels like a holiday scene come to life.
Address: 222 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT
Website: Lucky Lou’s Menus
Hallmark Holiday Stays in Wethersfield
Photo Credit: Silas W. Robbins House
Silas W Robbins House
Fully dressed in its holiday finest, this stunning 19th-century inn, featured in “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane,” is a holiday experience like no other.
With its grand architecture, charming decor, and festive touches at every corner, it’s the perfect place to feel like you’ve stepped into your own Hallmark Christmas movie.
Address: 185 Broad Street, Wethersfield, CT
Website: Silas W Robbins House
Enjoy your Hallmark Christmas Movie adventure in Connecticut!
