For fans of the popular television show Gilmore Girls, Stars Hollow is a quaint and charming town that embodies the spirit of small-town America. While Stars Hollow is a fictional town, it is loosely based on several real towns in Connecticut, including Washington, Connecticut, and New Milford, Connecticut. Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is about an hour's drive from these towns, making it a great starting point for a road trip to explore the charming towns that inspired Stars Hollow. Here are 12 tips to help you plan your trip from Yale to the Stars Hollow-inspired towns in Connecticut.
Planning Your Trip
Before you start your journey, it’s essential to plan your trip carefully. Research the best routes to take from Yale University to the towns that inspired Stars Hollow. You can use a mapping app like Google Maps or Waze to find the most efficient route. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can also be useful in planning your trip, as they provide detailed information about the terrain, roads, and points of interest along the way. Additionally, consider the time of year you plan to visit, as the fall foliage in Connecticut is a major attraction, but it can also mean more traffic and crowds.
Transportation Options
There are several transportation options available from Yale University to the Stars Hollow-inspired towns. You can rent a car and drive to the towns, which will give you the most flexibility and allow you to explore the area at your own pace. Alternatively, you can use public transportation, such as buses or trains, which can be a more affordable option. You can also consider ride-sharing services or taxis if you don’t want to drive or don’t have access to a car.
| Transportation Option | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rent a Car | $40-$60 per day | 1-2 hours |
| Public Transportation | $10-$20 per trip | 2-3 hours |
| Ride-Sharing Services | $20-$30 per trip | 1-2 hours |
| Taxis | $30-$50 per trip | 1-2 hours |
Must-See Attractions
Once you arrive in the Stars Hollow-inspired towns, there are several must-see attractions to explore. Washington, Connecticut is home to the Mayflower Inn, a luxurious inn that was the inspiration for the Independence Inn in Gilmore Girls. New Milford, Connecticut has a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and a town green that is reminiscent of Stars Hollow. You can also visit the Housatonic River, which runs through both towns and offers beautiful views and outdoor activities.
Outdoor Activities
Both Washington and New Milford offer a range of outdoor activities, including
- Hiking at Steep Rock Preserve
- Biking in the Segalla Sanctuary
- Fishing in the Housatonic River
- Renting a kayak or canoe
What is the best time of year to visit Stars Hollow-inspired towns in Connecticut?
+The best time to visit the Stars Hollow-inspired towns in Connecticut is in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and traffic. If you prefer smaller crowds, consider visiting in the spring or summer.
How do I get to the Stars Hollow-inspired towns from Yale University?
+You can rent a car and drive to the towns, use public transportation, or consider ride-sharing services or taxis. The drive from Yale University to Washington, Connecticut, is about an hour, and to New Milford, Connecticut, is about 45 minutes.
In conclusion, visiting the Stars Hollow-inspired towns in Connecticut is a great way to experience the charm and beauty of small-town America. With careful planning and research, you can have a fun and memorable trip from Yale University to these quaint towns. Remember to consider the time of year, transportation options, and must-see attractions to make the most of your trip.
