Preston(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Preston, the top choice for families is The Preston Inn & Spa, a boutique hotel blending New England charm with modern comfort. Located steps from Preston Green park and local eateries, it offers spacious rooms with fireplaces and private baths. The property features kid-friendly amenities like a toy corner, seasonal activities, and family cooking classes. Its central location makes exploring town easy, making it an ideal base for experiencing quiet, authentic Connecticut countryside life.

Downtown Preston is the most walkable and charming district. It boasts historic buildings, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes such as Preston Coffee Co. and Greenfield Books. Within a 5-minute stroll, you’ll find Preston Town Hall and the Old Meeting House, offering a glimpse into 18th-century New England community life. Stay at a centrally located bed & breakfast like The Old Mill House B&B to enjoy full immersion in the town’s slow-paced, picturesque rhythm.

To experience true New England culture in Preston, visit the annual Preston Harvest Festival in summer—featuring craft markets, live folk music, and local farm stalls. Explore the Preston Historical Society Museum for insights into colonial-era life. Stroll along Cobblestone Lane, admire century-old homes, and visit the stone church to feel the deep-rooted heritage. These experiences offer a genuine connection to the region’s enduring rural traditions and community spirit.

Couples should consider The Willow Cottage at Preston, a beautifully restored Victorian-era home turned boutique inn. Each room features a private patio and starlit skylight overlooking gardens and a creek. The hotel offers candlelit dinner packages and couples’ spa treatments. Start your day with a walk along Preston Riverwalk, then enjoy wine tasting at Hillside Vineyard. This intimate, serene escape delivers a perfect blend of romance and tranquility away from urban bustle.

The Preston Forest Reserve offers scenic trails and birdwatching spots, ideal for nature lovers. Stay at Pine Hollow Lodge, an eco-friendly cabin retreat with stargazing suites equipped with telescopes. Enjoy guided forest hikes, lakeside fishing, and evening campfires. This immersive experience blends wilderness exploration with peaceful, rustic accommodation, perfectly capturing the essence of Connecticut’s rural landscape.

Must-visit dining spots include The Hearthstone Kitchen, serving farm-to-table American fare with highlights like smoked venison burgers and pumpkin soup. Another standout is Barnard’s Farm Table, where seasonal menus feature ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms. For a quintessential afternoon tea, head to Preston Tea Room, offering traditional English tea with homemade scones and local honey. These venues showcase the heart of New England’s culinary heritage.

Preston Covered Bridge, built in 1852, is a favorite for photographers—its wooden arch spanning the Preston River creates stunning reflections in morning mist. The Old Stone Church with its Gothic spires and weathered façade also offers dramatic compositions. Visit during golden hour or twilight for soft lighting and empty backgrounds. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens to capture the timeless beauty of New England’s pastoral landscapes.

Winter in Preston brings snow-covered scenery and festive cheer. Stay at Snowfall Inn & Cabins, which offers dog sledding, snowshoeing, and hot cocoa tastings. The town lights up each December for the Preston Winter Light Parade, featuring handmade lanterns and children’s processions. Skate at the Preston Ice Rink, or relax by a fireplace with a book on regional history. These cozy, magical moments define the town’s enchanting winter season.

The Preston Nature Center hosts engaging programs like "Junior Ecologist Workshops," where children collect specimens, observe insects, and learn about local ecosystems. Interactive trail signs and family-friendly hiking paths make it ideal for young explorers. At Riverfront Discovery Trail, kids use microscopes to study aquatic life. These hands-on experiences combine fun and learning, helping children develop a lasting appreciation for Connecticut’s biodiversity.

Yes, Preston is highly accessible for drivers. Major routes like Route 66 and State Highway 4 connect it to Hartford and New Haven within 45 minutes. Town roads are quiet and narrow, ideal for relaxed driving. Most hotels and attractions lie along main streets, with ample parking. Use GPS to avoid peak hours, and respect speed limits (typically 35mph). This makes Preston a perfect destination for those seeking scenic drives through rolling New England hills.