Forget Florida, Retire To This East Coast Gem With Historic Towns, State Parks, And Lake Fun

Encompassing the Northwest Corner region of Connecticut is Litchfield County. Full of rolling green hills, crashing waterfalls, little farms, and dense forests, this area offers a scenic retirement alternative to the Sunshine State of Florida. Those who'd rather have oaks than palm trees, lakeside fun instead of white sandy beaches, and distinct four seasons rather than an endless summer will find it a dream come true. 

Receiving a retirement score of 72 — an above-average rating — on Retire Scorecard, this area is quiet, scenic, and moderately affordable. Although it lost points for lacking a robust healthcare system, the county is situated in a state with the third-best healthcare in the country. The benefits of the Yale New Haven Health system are only an hour's drive away! Plus, retirees seeking more intensive medical care (or even just bigger adventures!) are technically close to both Boston and New York from anywhere in Connecticut. Litchfield County is only around three hours from Boston and two-and-a-half hours from New York City. 

Although Litchfield County has walkable areas, like the town of Litchfield or Thomaston, the ruralness of the area means you'll need a car. For seniors new to the area looking to make friends, the Litchfield Community Center offers clubs, games, art groups, and resources that connect retirees to community members of all ages. For retirees who value quiet surroundings without giving up opportunities to socialize, it's an appealing combination.

Like many places in the Northeast, Litchfield County is home to some adorable, historic small towns. Overflowing with New England charm is the friendly town of Litchfield. Founded in 1715, the town has been in existence since before America was a country. It's full of historic buildings and activities, including the Tapping Reeve House and Law School. This museum offers retirees and visitors the chance to learn about one of America's first law schools via interpretive displays, hands-on activities, and role-play (which includes discussing historical issues and trying on historical outfits!). Another historical activity visitors to Litchfield can do is to visit the Litchfield History Museum. There, retirees can see everyday historical artifacts, including furniture and clothing. Litchfield's downtown is also scenic, historic, and walkable for retirees who want to take in the sights.

Incorporated in 1740, the town of Torrington is another charming historic city in Connecticut's scenic hill country. Today, visitors can explore the town's 250+ year history at the Torrington History Museum. There, they can learn about the area's indigenous peoples, the Industrial Revolution, this small town's role in the Civil War, and more. Another history-themed activity retirees can enjoy is the Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum. This early 20th-century mansion is fully furnished as it was in its heyday, with elaborate Queen Anne-style woodwork and architecture. Visitors should not miss a trip to Abolitionist John Brown's birthplace. Although the actual house is long gone, patrons can see a memorial to this historic landmark surrounded by classic New England forests. Finally, Torrington's downtown Cultural District offers retirees not only excellent views of historic buildings, but access to the city's rich arts culture.

Despite being a tiny portion of the country, Connecticut ranks among the top ten U.S. states that have the most state parks. As a result, the Nutmeg State is chock-full of parks, including those in Litchfield County. For lakeside fun in the Northwest Corner, visitors should head to the Burr Pond, a clean, New England lake with crystal-clear waters. Free for vehicles with a Connecticut license plate, retirees can enjoy trails galore, a friendly picnic at one of the available tables, a small waterfall, and swimming. Other activities include fishing, boating, biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The most well-trodden and highly-rated hiking trail here, according to AllTrails, is Burr Pond via Wolcott Trail. This 2.4-mile loop takes retirees around the lake, offering not only great waterside views but also tranquil woods to walk through. Retirees with dogs should note that they're allowed on the hiking trails but not at the beach. In the springtime, visitors can see mountain laurel trees growing here, full of light pink, umbrella-shaped flowers with fuchsia dots inside them. This is Connecticut's state flower, so retirees new to the area can not only see a beautiful plant, but can become better acquainted with their new home state. 

For those who want to enjoy even more outdoor adventures, Paugnut State Forest is located just a few minutes away from Burr Pond. Encompassing four distinct sections, this 1,702-acre wood has hiking trails to traverse, including the 2.1-mile John Muir Trail. If retirees choose to follow this meandering trail, they'll find themselves taken from Burr Pond across the state forest to another state park, Sunny Brook. This is another dog-friendly waterside park that offers picnicking spots, hiking, hunting, and fishing.