6 Northeast Towns to Visit That Are Basically the Real Stars Hollow Mary Zakheim November 23, 2016 Travel Guide You’ve waited long enough: Gilmore Girls is coming back and you need to get yourself and the gals to Stars Hollow. Like, right now. Unfortunately, as any real fan would know, Stars Hollow is not actually a real place. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in sleepy New England whose cozy diners, quaint bed and breakfasts, and small-town vibes will make you feel as though you’re walking through the set of your favorite show — with the La-La-La song top of your playlist, obvs. So grab a cup of coffee — or, what the hell, take the whole pot — and make your way to your next uber-important pilgrimage: finding Stars Hollow. Washington, Connecticut Image via Flickr CC – Doug Kerr Ah, the town where it all started. Showrunner Amy Sherman-Palladino famously spent a night at the colonial Mayflower Grace hotel in 2000 and the idea for the show cropped up in her head, inspired by the town’s neighborly residents and laid-back lifestyle. Grab coffee at the local shop, Marty’s Cafe, peruse books at the Hickory Stick Bookshop, and wander down the lone main street where antiques and cutesy shops abound. Cold Spring, New York Image via Wikimedia Commons – AdmOxalate If you want to get in a quick hike before your wandering down memory lane, Cold Spring is the small-town fix for you. Right on the Hudson, the town is right next to a huge state park that features tons of snaking hiking paths. Once you’re out of the woods, you’re deposited right into small-town Americana at its finest: art galleries, cafes, and pubs line the main street. Check out the Foundry for their diner-style (and mouthwateringly delicious) pancakes. Bonus: Cold Spring is only an hour and a half out of New York City via train! Hudson, New York Image via Wikimedia Commons – Daniel Case The city proudly proclaims itself as “Upstate’s downtown,” mainly for its plethora of antiquaries, art galleries, and small-town restaurants. But for a growing town, it still maintains its laid-back charm. There are plenty of things to do on your trip to Hudson: take a hike in the Catskills, visit a farm, go skiing — and all are doable in just a short jaunt! Plus, Hudson has plenty of mom-and-pop bed and breakfasts and diners to give you a real Stars Hollow feel when you visit. Make sure to check out Wm. Farmer & Sons for a unique stay and Tanzy’s for a hearty breakfast (with tons of coffee!). Tivoli, New York Image via Wikimedia Commons – Daniel Case Small enough to be called a village, Tivoli was called “Brooklyn on the Hudson” in a New York Times article ten years ago. So what’s it up to now — has it gone the way of modern-day Brooklyn? Nope. Still quaint and rustic, Tivoli managed to maintain its close-knit feel (probably because it’s so tiny, there wasn’t much room to grow anyhow!). You can stay in a 3-story converted barn, eat breakfast and snag coffee in an old church, wander through the super small town, and hit up Traghaven, a tiny tavern in the village. New Canaan, Connecticut Image via Flickr CC – Doug Kerr Walking through New Canaan is sure to make you think you’re traipsing through Stars Hollow — with its antiquaries, diners, friendly locals, pastoral roads, and plenty of options for quaint accommodations. A surprise, perhaps, is the town’s dedication to fine art: a visit to the Philip Johnson Glass House is a must for any travelers through New Canaan. There are also plenty of art houses and galleries that offer classes to residents. Beyond art, stroll down the main street and feel the nostalgia as you weave in an out of candy shops, quaint cafes, and rustic diners. Bethel, Connecticut Image via Flickr CC – Doug Kerr Boasting a pleasant mix of the old and the new, Bethel’s historic downtown is meant for visitors and residents to walk and linger on the many galleries, restaurants, cafes, and antique shops that line its main street. The town is also near hiking trails and pick-your-own fruit farms, if you are inclined to take your wandering to the outdoors. A quick hour train ride up from New York City, Bethel is the perfect quaint retreat for city-slickers looking to find their own bit of Stars Hollow upstate. FAQs: Q: How can I reach Chester, Connecticut? A: Chester is conveniently located in Connecticut and can be reached by car via Route 9 or by train to the Chester Depot station. The town is easily accessible and offers parking facilities for visitors. Q: Is Washington Depot, Connecticut, similar to the Stars Hollow portrayed in “Gilmore Girls”? A: Yes, Washington Depot served as the inspiration for Stars Hollow in the popular TV series “Gilmore Girls.” While not an exact replica, Washington Depot captures the essence and charm of the fictional town, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the show. Q: What is the best time to visit Beacon, New York? A: Beacon is a year-round destination, but the spring and fall seasons offer pleasant weather and vibrant colors, making them ideal for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, Beacon hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, providing unique experiences for visitors. Q: Can I find accommodations in New Paltz, New York? A: Absolutely! New Paltz offers a range of accommodations, including charming bed and breakfasts, cozy inns, and modern hotels. Whether you prefer a historic inn or a contemporary hotel, you’ll find suitable options to enhance your stay in this delightful town.
