Downtown Essex, Connecticut
Discover shopping, dining, and accommodation in downtown Essex.
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ShopDowntown.org Discount Card Program
The ShopDowntown.org Discount Card Program encourages local shopping by offering exclusive savings at participating downtown businesses. Shoppers can obtain a discount card by donating $20 or more to the American Cancer Society, unlocking deals of up to 15% off at local stores. The program supports small businesses, funds community health initiatives, and helps strengthen the local economy, making it a win-win for both merchants and consumers.
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Hotels
The Griswold Inn
36 Main Street
Essex, Connecticut
Hotel Tips
Avoid booking poolside for kids playing during the day and gatherings at night. Sound bounces off of the water and voices carry so ask for a room away from the pool either on the opposite side of the hotel or in higher floors.
Always announce during booking if the trip is for a special event, anniversary or reunion. Group rates can be pre-negotiated and you may qualify for a lower cost and better upgrades for your stay. If you are the one setting up the event, always work directly with the front desk manager to make sure the best service is offered to your party.
Policies vary on the availability of pet friendly rooms to it is wise to be open, honest and upfront during the booking process. You may find yourself kicked out or even paying a large deposit if you are not in a pet-friendly hotel and bring one anyway. New ADA laws are fuzzy though as service animals are not required to be documented and proprietors are legally not allowed to ask if the animal is a pet vs. a service animal.
Things To Do
Essex brings meaning to leisure time while enjoying the local yarn shop and wandering through in amazement with the different fibers and vast array of colors. Signing up for a class is easy and fun and serves as a great getaway for a few hours to enjoy the company of fellow knitters.
Essex has a great collection of barber shops to choose from if you want to take a little off the top, get a clean shave or to trim your moustache or beard. Take a moment to consider buying some styling gel, beard oil or wax and always tip well.
Essex has several options for shopping for specialty food items that are not found in regular grocery stores. Shops tailored for "foodies" offer tastings of the products as well as scheduled culinary classes to perfect your skills. Shop for infused oils, salts and spices from around the World!
Why Do You Love Downtown?
Mary Morales
DO NOT KNOW IT YET, NEW TO THE AREA
Millie
So unique!
Manuel Del Jesus RamosVasconcelos
Nice Beat
Alison Barlow
Charming, lovely downtown. Love the antique shops!
Judy Caverly
Interesting shops, good restaurants, friendly people.
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The American Cancer Society does not endorse any product or service.


