Simsbury Inn: Your Connecticut Getaway Awaits!
Simsbury Inn: My Connecticut Getaway (And The Rollercoaster That Came Along!)
Okay, picture this: you're craving a weekend escape. Not just any escape, but the kind that whispers "pamper yourself" and maybe even throws in a dash of "New England charm." That's what drew me to the Simsbury Inn. This review? Well, consider it a candid diary entry of my experience – the good, the slightly less good, and the downright hilarious bits. Buckle up, buttercups, because it's gonna be a ride.
Metadata & SEO Stuff (Before My Brain Explodes!):
- Keywords: Simsbury Inn, Connecticut, getaway, hotel review, spa, wheelchair accessible, fine dining, New England, romantic, family-friendly, fitness center, pool, accessibility, WiFi, dining, amenities, reviews, experiences.
- Meta Description: A brutally honest review of the Simsbury Inn in Connecticut! From the luxurious spa to the accessible features, find out if it's the perfect escape, or if it leaves something to be desired. Includes anecdotes, opinions, and everything in between.
- Focus: Honest, detailed, and personal review focusing on the experience.
First Impressions & Curb Appeal (Or: I'm Officially a Tourist!)
Pulling up, the Simsbury Inn looks the part. Nestled amidst lush greenery (Connecticut, baby!), it's got that classic New England vibe – think stately, a little formal, but hopefully warm and welcoming. The exterior feels polished, which, I'm guessing, means a lot of upkeep! (Exterior corridor – CHECK!) I'm always a sucker for a decent-looking building. My first thought: "Okay, potential for Instagram gold right here…" but as you enter, the real adventure begins.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (Wheelchair accessible, right?!)
This is crucial, and a place where the Inn gets points for some things, and loses some too. (Facilities for disabled guests – CHECK!) I was genuinely impressed by the efforts. The lobby was easily navigable, and the elevator was a godsend, especially with luggage. (Elevator – CHECK!) The main restaurants seemed accessible, though I didn't scrutinize every nook and cranny. (Wheelchair accessible – PARTIALLY CHECK!)
However, the devil's in the details. I noticed some tricky thresholds in a few areas, and the pool area… well, let's just say it wasn't quite as seamless as I'd hoped. Getting around the pool area with a wheelchair was a bit of a challenge. (Accessibility - NEEDS IMPROVEMENT!) The website promised accessibility, which it delivered on to a certain extent, but could definitely see improvement, and I hope they take this feedback to heart.
The Room: Sanctuary or Just A Room? (And that Wi-Fi…)
My room was, overall, comfortable. (Non-smoking rooms – CHECK!) Thankfully, since I'm a non-smoker – phew! The bed was plush, and the blackout curtains were a lifesaver. (Blackout curtains – CHECK!) I slept like a log. (Extra long bed – CHECK!) The bathroom was spacious – I appreciated the extra space, and the toiletries were decent. (Toiletries – CHECK!)
But let's talk about the Internet Access! (Internet access – CHECK!) They boast Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!( Free Wi-Fi [free] – CHECK!) And while I was happy to see it, the actual quality of the Wi-Fi was a little… spotty, to be honest. (Internet access – wireless – CHECK!) I'm not going to lie, it occasionally resembled dial-up, and it definitely impacted my ability to do some work I needed to do. (Internet access – LAN – CHECK!) At one point, I wanted to scream, but also laughed. (Laptop workspace – CHECK!) Seriously, a good internet connection is a necessity these days!
(Air conditioning – CHECK!) (Alarm clock – CHECK!) (Bathrobes – CHECK!) (Coffee/tea maker – CHECK!) (Complimentary tea – CHECK!) (Daily housekeeping – CHECK!) (Desk – CHECK!) (Hair dryer – CHECK!) (In-room safe box – CHECK!) (Ironing facilities – CHECK!) (Linens – CHECK!) (Mini bar – CHECK!) (Non-smoking – CHECK!) (Refrigerator – CHECK!) (Satellite/cable channels – CHECK!) (Seating area – CHECK!) (Shower – CHECK!) (Smoke detector – CHECK!) (Slippers – CHECK!) (Soundproofing – CHECK!) (Telephone – CHECK!) (Towels – CHECK!) (Wake-up service – CHECK!) (Window that opens – CHECK!)
Spa, Sauna & Swimming Pool: Relaxation Station…Maybe?
Ah, the spa! (Spa – CHECK!) (Spa/sauna – CHECK!) I was there for the experience. The promise of a body scrub, a body wrap and perhaps just maybe a massage was the main draw. (Body scrub – CHECK!) (Body wrap – CHECK!) (Massage – CHECK!) I did the full shebang, and it was pure bliss. The masseuse was amazing (she deserves a medal!), and I came close to falling asleep. The sauna and the swimming pool were also tempting temptations. (Sauna – CHECK!) (Swimming pool – CHECK!)
Having the pool was great! (Swimming pool [outdoor] – CHECK!) It was beautiful… from a distance. (Pool with view – CHECK!) I didn't actually swim because the weather wasn't great, but I could see it being perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The steamroom was also inviting. (Steamroom – CHECK!) But let's be real: Sometimes, even a luxurious spa can turn into a waiting room for a massage, just like it did for me!
Dining & Drinking: Food, Glorious Food (And the Occasional Hiccup)…
This is where things got a little… interesting. The Inn has several dining options. (Restaurants – CHECK!) (Bar – CHECK!) (Restaurants – CHECK!) The main restaurant, Tapestry, was elegant, with (International cuisine in restaurant – CHECK!) which was a treat. I had a delicious meal, although the service was a little…slow. (A la carte in restaurant – CHECK!) Breakfast, which was a buffet, was pretty good with variety. (Breakfast [buffet] – CHECK!) (Buffet in restaurant – CHECK!)
I was surprised to find there was no obvious place for a quick bite. (Snack bar - CHECK!)
There was also a poolside bar. (Poolside bar – CHECK!) I didn't use it, but it looked tempting. (Coffee shop - CHECK!) (Coffee/tea in restaurant - CHECK!)
Cleanliness & Safety: COVID-19 Times (Mostly Reassuring)
In these strange times, safety is paramount. (CCTV in common areas – CHECK!) The Simsbury Inn clearly took precautions, with (Sanitized kitchen and tableware items – CHECK!) (Staff trained in safety protocol – CHECK!) and (Hand sanitizer – CHECK!) everywhere. (Anti-viral cleaning products – CHECK!) They also offered (Rooms sanitized between stays – CHECK!) I opted not to opt-out of room sanitization. (Room sanitization opt-out available – CHECK!) I was relieved to see their focus on safety.
Things To Do (Beyond Just Lounging…Maybe)
Okay, so it's not exactly Vegas. But Simsbury and the surrounding area offers a decent amount to do if you don’t want to be stuck in the Inn all day. Sadly, the Inn itself didn’t really offer much for kids, but I did take my kids to a local park, which was a hit. (Family/child friendly – CHECK!) (Kids facilities – CHECK!)
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things (That Can Make a Big Difference)
Simsbury Inn delivered on many fronts. (Concierge – CHECK!) (Daily housekeeping – CHECK!) (Elevator – CHECK!) (Laundry service – CHECK!) (Luggage storage – CHECK!) (Safety deposit boxes – CHECK!) (Smoking area – CHECK!) (Terrace – CHECK!) The staff was very helpful! The daily housekeeping was also amazing. (Doorman – CHECK!) (Front desk [24-hour] – CHECK!)
My Emotional Verdict:
Okay, here's the honest truth: The Simsbury Inn is a nice place. Is it a "wow" experience? Not entirely. It's more of a "solid, dependable, slightly overpriced" kind of place. The spa and the overall ambiance are the real draws, and they do a pretty good job of creating a relaxing environment.
The Good: The spa was heavenly. The staff, generally speaking, was lovely. The location is convenient. The safety protocols felt reassuring.
The Could Be Better: The Wi-Fi was a headache. Some accessibility aspects need improvement. Dining options got a bit repetitive.
Would I go back? Maybe. If I needed a quick escape and a serious dose of pampering, I would definitely consider it, but it wouldn’t be my first choice.
**Final Score: 3.5 out of
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups! We're going to Simsbury, Connecticut, baby! Specifically, The Simsbury Inn. I’ve been promising myself a weekend away for, oh, about a year and a half? You know how it is, life… happens. Kids, work, that rogue dust bunny that haunts the corner of the living room. Anyway, SIMSBURY! Here’s the, uh, loosely defined adventure I've conjured up. Prepare for chaos.
Friday: Arrival & First Impressions (aka The "Oh My God, I Really Needed This" Phase)
- 2:00 PM - Leave the House: Okay, ideally I'd be leaving at two. Realistically? Ugh, it's more like 2:37. Why is packing always an archaeological dig? Finding matching socks is a victory, people. First stop? Coffee. LOTS of coffee. The kind you can actually taste – not the reheated, burnt-to-a-crisp office sludge I’m used to.
- 3:30 PM - Scenic Drive (Maybe): The GPS says about an hour and a half. I’m hoping to take the scenic route. That cute, windy road with all the fall foliage. But honestly, depending on traffic? Straight shot, baby. Efficiency over aesthetics sometimes. Sigh. I’m such a pragmatic sad sack.
- 5:00 PM - Check-in at The Simsbury Inn: Driving there, I'm picturing those old-world, charming inns, you know? Cozy, a roaring fireplace… Hopefully, reception isn't too crowded. And please, please, let the room be clean. I'm weird about cleanliness, but I'm also terrified of germs.
- 5:30 PM - Room Revelation: Okay, this is important. The room. I'm praying it's not some claustrophobic box with a view of the parking lot. Window, natural light, decent mattress - these are the essential ingredients to my sanity. Pray for me, people.
- 6:00 PM - Unpack (ish) and De-Stress Ritual: Okay, let's be honest, unpacking properly is an aspirational goal. More likely, it's going to be a messy pile of clothes and toiletries scattered across the bed. However, as soon as I've deemed the room "safe", I'm lighting a candle. Lavender, obviously. And probably raiding the minibar for that teeny bottle of wine they always have. Because self-care, darling. Self-care.
- 7:30 PM - Dinner at the Inn’s Restaurant (or a nearby establishment, depending on how hangry I am): The Inn’s restaurant (Millwright’s Restaurant & Tavern) is supposed to be GREAT. Okay, so the reviews say it's a delicious meal. I am SO ready for a meal where I don't have to cook or clean up afterward. If the menu is boring? Panic might ensue. I'm a foodie, okay? Don't judge. Hopefully, I'll choose something delicious. If not, and I'm REALLY feeling it? There's always the drive-thru… shudders. That would be a failure.
- 9:30 PM - Wind Down and Maybe, Just Maybe, Read a Book: I always plan to read a book on these trips. Always. And I always end up staring at the ceiling, replaying every embarrassing moment of my life. Tonight, I aim for success. Fingers crossed.
Saturday: Adventures and Indulgences (aka "I Actually Feel Like a Human Being" Day)
- 8:00 AM - Wake Up (or Try To): If the bed is as good as the reviews say, I'm going to have to drag myself out of it. Coffee first. Absolutely essential.
- 9:00 AM - Breakfast at the Inn: Hopefully, the breakfast is good. I'm a sucker for fluffy pancakes and decent coffee. The tiny orange juice cartons always make me nostalgic for childhood. Oh, the simple pleasures…
- 10:00 AM - Exploring Simsbury (The Plan vs. The Reality) : Okay, I planned to be all, "Oh, I'll visit the antique shops, browse the historical society…" The reality? I'll probably poke around, maybe buy a ridiculously overpriced knick-knack, and then get distracted by… something shiny. Squirrel! (metaphorically speaking).
- 12:00 PM - Lunch Situation: It's decision time: Picnic lunch? Cute little cafe? If the weather is good, a picnic in a park sounds dreamy. Though I might just eat a sandwich in the car, depending on how I'm feeling.
- 1:00 PM - The "Spa Treatment" (Prayers Answered): Okay, THIS. This is the reason I booked the trip. I've booked a massage. A LONG massage. Possibly followed by a facial. I deserve it. My shoulders are permanently knotted from stress. I'm hoping I don't snore. Or drool. Or both.
- 3:00 PM - Post-Spa Bliss and Leisurely Stroll (if I can still walk): If I'm not comatose, I'll try to take a little walk. Fresh air! Nature! Maybe I'll actually enjoy it. Or maybe I'll just find a comfy bench and stare at the sky. Either sounds good to me.
- 6:00 PM - Pre-Dinner Drinks and Fancying Myself Sophisticated: Time to get dressed up, order a cocktail, and find myself a cozy spot. I'm picturing myself smiling, relaxing, and feeling at peace.
- 7:30 PM - Dinner, Round Two (aka the "Maybe I'll Actually Order Appetizers" Moment): One rule must be followed: order the appetizer. I am so ready for this.
- 9:30 PM - Stargazing (If the Sky Cooperates) or Binge-Watching Trashy TV (Realistic Option): Okay, I'm a romantic at heart. But real talk: if the sky is cloudy, I'm fully prepared to curl up in bed and watch Real Housewives or something similar, with zero guilt. Comfort is paramount people.
Sunday: Farewell (and the Dreaded Return Home…and my emotional reaction).
- 8:00 AM - Slow Wake-Up (Attempt Number Two): Hopefully I will not have to wake up with a start, or, a rush.
- 9:00 AM - Farewell Breakfast: One last dose of pancakes and coffee. Soak it all in. I want to remember this.
- 10:00 AM - Check Out (The Goodbyes are always Hard): Time to say goodbye. This is the hardest part.
- 10:30 AM - One Last Walk Around (or Straight to the Car): Okay, maybe I’ll squeeze in just one more walk around the grounds. One last deep breath of fresh air.
- 11:00 AM - The Long Drive Home (aka the "Back to Reality" Blues): This is where it gets rough. Traffic. The realization that laundry awaits. The world's problems haven't magically disappeared. I'll definitely be stopping for coffee. Like, a REALLY strong coffee.
- 1:00 PM - Back Home: Empty house. Dirty dishes. The dust bunnies. Ugh. But, hey, at least I have the memories, and that tiny bottle of wine. Now to plan the next trip!
OMG, Is the Simsbury Inn REALLY as fancy as it looks online?! I mean, seriously?
Okay, so, the website? Yeah, it’s polished. Photoshopped maybe? Look, the Simsbury Inn *is* fancy. There's a certain… *stately* air about the place. But let me tell you a story. I went there for my anniversary last year, thinking I'd be all swan-like and graceful. Picture this: me, in a dress I hadn't worn in ages (a risky move, I know). Got out of the car, tripped on the cobblestones (they're prettier than they are practical, people!), and nearly face-planted right in front of the valet. Mortifying. So, yes, it's fancy. But even fancy places have cobblestones that can betray you. And the point is, I laughed about it later, and so did the bellhop! So, yes, it's fancy. But it's a good kinda fancy, one that won't judge you for being human (mostly).
What's the deal with the rooms? Are they actually comfy? And do they have those, like, ridiculously fluffy towels?
Okay, room-wise? Yes. Comfy. Seriously comfy. Think cloud-like beds, and you’re pretty much there. The towels? OH. MY. GOD. Those towels are the reason I almost missed breakfast one morning. Seriously. So fluffy. So absorbent. I spent an embarrassing amount of time just… *rubbing* them on my face. I swear, I considered stealing one. (Don’t judge me!) The only teensy con? Some of the rooms, and this is just me being picky, are a *little* dated in decor.. But hey, that's what makes it charming in a way, right? Like a well-worn, luxurious glove. The kind your grandpa would have. Anyway, yes. Comfy. Towels: legendary. Prepare for face-rubbing euphoria.
The food! I’ve heard things. Good things! Tell me EVERYTHING about the restaurant.
Ohhhh, the restaurant. Now, that's where things get *really* interesting. I've eaten there a few times. First time? Overwhelmed. Seriously overwhelmed. So many choices. So many fancy-sounding things on the menu. I remember ordering something with duck confit (fancy, right?) and I didn’t even know what that *was* before! But it was delicious! The waiter, bless his heart, was super patient with my newbie questions. The staff? Impeccably dressed. And the food? Generally, stunning. The portions can be a little… *petite*, if you're used to American-sized eats. But trust me, it's quality over quantity, and you *will* savor every bite. They have a fantastic wine list, too, to complement your meal. One time? I spilled red wine on my white shirt. Disaster. And the waiter, *again* came to the rescue with club soda. All good experiences overall, but it's pricey, so be prepared to treat yourself.
What is there to DO besides eat and sleep? I’m a little ADD when I travel.
Okay, ADD travelers, I feel you. The Inn itself? It has a pool! Pretty nice, although I'm more of a sun-worshiper and a lounge chair kinda person. They have a workout room, but let's be honest, I'm on vacation! (Maybe that's why my bathing suit didn't fit). Simsbury itself is the real draw. SO much to do! Hiking trails, charming shops, antique stores – my kryptonite! And good restaurants in town too! Honestly, I had a blast just driving around exploring. The Farmington River is beautiful. You can kayak or canoe. There's an outdoor art museum nearby. Honestly, it's a great location. If you get bored there, you're doing it wrong. Take a deep breath, explore, and try to relax. Okay? Okay.
Any tips for making the most of my stay? Any little "secrets?"
Okay, secrets, you say? Here's what I've learned: First, book a spa treatment. Seriously. Even if you think you don't *need* a massage, you do. Trust me! Second, take advantage of quiet moments. Grab a coffee (or a cocktail!) and just sit on the patio, overlooking the grounds. It's pure bliss. Third, and this is HUGE: Pack comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking, both around the Inn and exploring Simsbury. And finally, don't be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations. They’re genuinely helpful and they know the area inside out. Oh, and one last thing...try the cookies they leave out at the front desk. You will not regret it.
Is it good for a romantic getaway? Or is it just… old people?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Okay, let's be real: there are definitely a few older couples there. And that’s lovely! But no, it's not just a retirement home. It's definitely romantic, but the "romantic" is not limited to the old and in love. Think warm fireplaces, comfy bedrooms, and intimate settings. You, your partner, a glass of wine… perfect! But it is still a hotel and has that vibe. So, it works for a romantic getaway, or a girls' trip, or a solo adventure. It can be romantic. It's what *you* make it! I mean, yes, possibly some couples there are "old" and in love. Maybe they're not as physically "romantic" as some. But don't knock 'em! They know more about love than I do, I bet!
The best thing about the Simsbury Inn? Give it to me straight.
Okay, the BEST thing? The overall feeling. The Simsbury Inn has a way of making you feel *snug*. Like you've wrapped yourself in a warm blanket on a cold day. It's got a certain charm. It's the kind of place where you can relax, recharge, and forget about the stresses of everyday life. And that, my friends, is priceless. Forget the fancy dinners and the fluffy towels (though, let me reiterate, those towels…!). It's the feeling of being taken care of, of being in a beautiful place, and of being able to just… *be*. That is the best thing. Go. Relax. Be.
Are there any downsides? I have to know!
Alright, alright, the ugly side of things, right? Look, nothing is perfect. Sometimes the service can be *a little* slow. Especially if the place is packed, which it sometimes is during peak season. And, let's be frank, it *is* a bit expensive. You're paying for the experience, the location, the ambiance. It's a splurge. And because you pay a lot, the expectations rise, and every little tiny thing can make you crazy. Also, the wifi. It's...fine. Not the greatest if you're a serious work-from-hotel person (and honestly, who doesInfinity Inns
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