New Preston

The crossroads village of New Preston, perched above a 40-foot waterfall on the Aspetuck River, has a little town center that's packed with antiques shops specializing in everything from 18th-century furnishings to contemporary art.

Lake Waramaug, north of New Preston on Route 45, is an area that reminds many of Austria and Switzerland. The lake is named for Chief Waramaug, one of the most revered figures in Connecticut's American Indian history. A drive around the 8-mi perimeter of the lake takes you past beautiful inns—many of which serve delicious food—and homes.