Luxurious Amenities Await At This Historic Connecticut Hotel That Exudes Small Town Charm

Litchfield, Connecticut, is a quintessential New England charmer, although it flies under the radar as one of those destinations only East Coast seem locals know about. It definitely gives fairy-tale vibes, with a central green square, picturesque downtown, and plenty of historical buildings. One of these, the Litchfield County Courthouse, built in 1889, has been thoughtfully updated and converted into the newly opened (September 2024) and luxurious Abner Hotel.

The Abner is full of architectural touches from its days as an actual courthouse, from the jury stalls as reception desks to the original jail cell block turned cozy seating area with a fireplace. Sit on old judge benches repurposed for banquette seating in the courthouse's former courtroom, now the elegant on-site restaurant dubbed The Courtroom. Designed by Chef Michael Alfeld, the menu features local favorites, such as cottage pie, alongside European-American fusion flavors like Cajun chicken and steak frites. 

During late spring, summer, and early fall, head up to the roof for sweeping views over Litchfield and enjoy Verdict:, the rooftop bar. Have a glass of wine, sample domestic beer (including several from Connecticut breweries), or try a bespoke cocktail, such as the Litchfield Ice Box Martini, made with toasted pinenut-infused Litchfield vodka. Overall, the menus and design reflect Abner's aim to mix history with luxurious modernity in every aspect of the hotel.

Details matter at the Abner, and each room reflects this. Featuring 20 beautiful, individualized guest rooms, from the one-person Snug (once a judge's chambers) to the Family Suite. Many have fireplaces, exposed brick, claw-foot tubs, generous showers, and quaint sitting areas, all with views of historic Litchfield and the countryside. The old windows, soaring ceilings, colors, and furnishings all reflect the ambiance of the old courthouse and 300-year-old Litchfield. The lovingly tended antiques, rich colors, and preserved architectural details make each room truly unique. The hotel is also outfitted with the newest modern amenities, from Bluetooth radios in the rooms to property-wide complimentary high-speed Internet.

With the restaurant, the roof-top bar, daily homemade breakfast, charming sitting areas, and, of course, your own cozy room, you can spend your entire stay in Litchfield within the walls of the Abner. If you can tear yourself away, though, the many charms of Litchfield are right outside the door. Across the street from the hotel is Litchfield's historic Town Green, established in 1719. There are also several boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops within walking distance. 

Litchfield delights in every season. It's certainly one of the most charming places to stay in New England during the autumn, as it's surrounded by deciduous trees that flame with color in September and October. It's also ideal as a festive spot for a classic Christmas, as the town goes all out. Litchfield's proximity to various winter activities, including skiing at Mohawk Mountain, the state's oldest ski resort, also provides fresh country air and a side of adventure. Whenever you visit, you'll find seasonal festivals, small-town friendliness, local specialties, and scenic views.