Downtown Essex, Connecticut

Discover shopping, dining, and accommodation in downtown Essex.

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Shop Downtown Discount Card

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

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.

Call ahead to make sure your reservation is still active and rebook if there are any price drops or changes in number of people staying with you. Another cost saving tips is to bundle the stay with airport parking and shuttle to avoid hefty fees.

Elevators are notorious for being a nuisance so ask to be roomed on the top floor and as far away as possible. Most hotels book nearby rooms last so hopefully they have availability elsewhere.

Things To Do

Essex brings the farming community under one marketplace to offer an assortment of locally grown fruit and vegetables. Traditionally, markets are restricted to anything grown so you can expect to see natural whole foods that are sure to please those working on their plant-based diets!

Essex is the place to plan your wedding. You'll be spending a lot of time downtown as there are so many wonderful shops to find invitations, photographers, bakers, caterers and jewelers. Planning your wedding will be a breeze with so much support from local merchants to make a perfect and memorable day.

Essex keeps your pets fed, groomed, clothed and entertained with a wide assortment of ts.s available online and in-store. Does your dog need a bit of training? Check with us for great referrals to dog walkers, trainers and veterinarians who can work with your pets.

Why Do You Love Downtown?

Bob Puthoff

I'm sending some clients there this Summer and want to get them a discount card to shop. Thanks!

Dawnmarie Hatfield

We love supporting local businesses wherever we visit.

Stephanie Seavers

Close to work but also love all the small business owners, friendliness and just how supporting our local area makes me feel!

Terri Simon

I love to dine at the Inn and to shop at specialty shops.

Patricia Majewski

So quaint and fun!

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