Chester, CT is one of America's most charming river towns

You couldn't ask for a better location for a history museum then Chester's old 1860s-era mill. It overlooks a waterfall and embodies the perfect quaint vibe that makes the rest of the town so special. The first floor features a special exhibit that rotates annually, while the second floor houses their in-depth exhibit on Chester's 300-year history. It houses the town's oldest artifacts: two 285-year-old millstones from a historic grist mill that operated between 1740 and 1810.

There are a few galleries in Chester, unusual for such a small town, but few have the atmosphere of Maple and Main. It's located in an 18th-century ship's chandlery, and it rotates its exhibitions of all original art every two months. Opening receptions, lessons and classes, and more mean there's usually something happening and engaging the community here. Plus, you can see tons of art inspired by Chester!

When it comes to dining, you have tons of different options. One local favorite is the River Tavern. They serve creative and fresh food in a colorful and comfy environment. They have a bar with craft cocktails, and their lunch and dinner menus rotate seasonally to feature local ingredients. Handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and a killer burger plate are highlights here. They also occasionally host an event called "Dinner at the Farm", where they take over a local farm to host a multi-course feast prepared on the back of their vintage cook truck–a 1955 Ford F-600- from ingredients harvested that day.

For a more casual lunch or breakfast, head to Simon's Marketplace. Fresh salads, soups, wraps, bread, sandwiches, sides, hot dishes, breakfasts, and more make up a menu of delicious grub that rotates daily. It's also got gifts and special little things for sale inside as well, so even if you just stop by for a coffee or iced tea and just browse, you're sure to be charmed by this little local favorite.

Just outside Chester, you'll find a cozy B&B, the Riverwind Inn Bed and Breakfast. Located in a restored 19th-century building, it features great accommodations like private bathrooms, period antique furnishings, and a killer country-style breakfast each morning. At night, wind down with some tea in front of the 12-foot-long Rumford fireplace, which just so happens to be made of stone from the original foundation.

Make a point to take a ride on the historic Chester-Hadlyme Ferry. It's been bringing people across the Connecticut River since 1769, and it played a big role in moving supplies during the American Revolution. Originally, the boat was maneuvered across the river using long poles, but today, you'll get across on the Selden III, a 1949-era open craft. It's open seasonally, from late April until November, and fits 8 or 9 cars and about 49 passengers. And once you cross the river, you can make your way to one of the state's craziest and coolest state parks, Gillette Castle State Park. While crossing the river, the castle is in full view, in all its majesty sitting atop the cliffs!