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Attractions|Shops & Boutiques

The Colebrook Store Is One Of The Oldest And Most Historic General Stores In Connecticut

The Colebrook Store, Connecticut's oldest continuously operating general store, offers a nostalgic shopping and dining experience.

Published Sep 1, 2019

Written by 

Natalie Clunan

With a run from 1812-2007, the Colebrook Store has a deep-rooted history in Connecticut as the oldest continuously operating general store in the state. After brief closures in 2007 and again in 2013, the shop is open once more for business. Whether you're picking up last-minute groceries or seeking a mid-day snack, this hidden gem is full of history, nostalgia, and plenty of tasty treats.

Located in the northern section of Litchfield County, the Colebrook Store still has the feel of a true country store even after 200 years. The products may have changed, bags of potato chips being substituted for flour sacks, but its essence remains the same.

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Google Images/Colebrook Store/Richard English - Studio360Pro

Walk through the doors and you'll be greeted by a friendly and old-timey atmosphere. Different from modern-day convenience stores, this long-standing spot entices you to slow down, browse, and admire the antique signs and decor.

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Google Images/Colebrook Store/Richard English - Studio360Pro

You'll discover a notable candy selection, deli, staple groceries, cold drinks, and more.

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Google Images/Colebrook Store/Richard English - Studio360Pro

There's always a scrumptious array of pastries and sweets in a glass case on the countertop.

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Google Images/Colebrook Store/Richard English - Studio360Pro

In addition to being a general store, this charming locale is also a tiny restaurant where you can grab a delicious breakfast or lunch seven days a week.

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Google Images/Colebrook Store/Richard English - Studio360Pro

The Colebrook Store serves breakfast all day. Choose from fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, or a full line-up of amazing breakfast sandwiches.

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Facebook/The Colebrook Store

The lunch menu adds grilled sandwiches, homemade soups, salads, and more to the offerings. The next time you're driving through the Litchfield Hills, put the Colebrook Store on your list of must-visit destinations.

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Facebook/The Colebrook Store

Visit the Colebrook Store Monday - Friday from 6 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Learn more by checking out their website or Facebook page.Address: 559 Colebrook Road, Colebrook, CT 06021

This quaint general store isn't the only long-standing spot to grab a meal in Connecticut. Check out these historic restaurants for a great meal with a side of nostalgia.

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Attractions|Shops & Boutiques

This Completely Free Bookstore in Connecticut Is a Booklover’s Dream

Explore this free bookstore in New Haven that's brimming with unique finds, from cookbooks to the classics.

Published Oct 14, 2024

Written by 

Kim Falchek

I love to read but I am very thrifty when it comes to obtaining new books. With few exceptions, I’m a "read it and pass it on" type of gal rather than an avid book collector. I can’t justify spending hundreds of dollars a year on books I will only read once. When it comes to literary works, I like to shop used. Rehoming or borrowing books saves money and keeps them out of landfills. I absolutely love a good used bookstore. And what could be better than one that is completely free? You can find such a place in New Haven, Connecticut. I am planning a trip to the area soon and can’t wait to grab some good reads at a quirky little spot called Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective.  

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 Volume Two: A Neverending Books Collective

You will be hard-pressed to find another bookstore quite like this one. Volume Two is a true hidden gem. The store is a great place to browse for books and doubles as a music venue, event area, and gathering space. Many people come to enjoy the fun, artsy atmosphere.

Step inside and you will find everything from cookbooks to the classics. The store also carries DVDs, records, and VHS tapes. You never know what you will come across when you visit. Volume Two doesn’t charge for books but does accept monetary donations from customers. They also take donations through their website. An upcoming fundraiser is in the works to help out with costs.

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Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective/Facebook

The story of Volume Two is an interesting one. The bookstore was originally called Never Ending Books and it had been a fixture in the area for decades until almost falling victim to the pandemic. A few years back, a group of loyal followers rallied to save it. They formed a collective, raised money, and reopened the store, naming it Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective. They have continued to operate it as a free bookstore.

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Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective/Facebook

The collective is open for limited hours in the evenings. After you browse for books, you can stay to watch a band, participate in open mic night, or take part in a local group meet-up. Whatever your reason for visiting, you will definitely want to return.

Have you perused the shelves at Volume Two? What books did you bring home? More information about this local treasure can be found on the Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective website and the Volume Two: A Never Ending Books Collective Facebook page. For more great books in Connecticut, visit the Traveler Restaurant in Union or take this literary road trip. And if you are looking for something to pass the time while waiting for Volume Two to open, try out this fun Self-Guided Yale Scavenger Hunt.

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Attractions|Shops & Boutiques

Get In The Spirit At The Biggest Christmas Store In Connecticut: Historical Christmas Barn

Historical Christmas Barn in Connecticut offers a festive shopping experience year-round with unique holiday gifts and decorations.

Updated Nov 13, 2023

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Glistening ornaments, fragrant candles, and twinkling displays are just the beginning. At Historical Christmas Barn, the holiday spirit shines bright all year long. If you want to feel merry this winter, step inside the biggest Christmas store in Connecticut. You're certain to find something for everyone on your list. Christmas shops in Connecticut don't get much better than this!

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Historical Christmas Barn sits inside the Lambert House, the oldest home in Wilton.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

This charming destination is surrounded by several restored antique buildings. Shopping here is like taking a step back in time!

As soon as you step inside, you'll feel your heart grow three times its size.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

The festive atmosphere would make even Ebeneezer Scrooge crack a smile. It's impossible not to love this gorgeous holiday store.

You could spend hours perusing the selection.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

Let Historical Christmas Barn be your one-stop shop for all your gift-giving needs.

Comforting candles make any home feel more cozy.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

Bring one of these Bedrock Tree Farm candles to your next gift exchange. People won't be able to stop fighting over them! These fragrant gifts are made with real pine needles, and they smell just like the holiday season.

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When snow blankets the driveway, cuddle up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

Historical Christmas Barn sells some of the most delicious hot cocoa mixes around. You won't be able to go back to the other stuff!

These Christmas decorations will make your home feel festive and inviting.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

Historical Christmas Barn sells a wide variety of non-edible gingerbread houses. These stunning structures will dazzle visitors for years to come!

Historical Christmas Barn is an exclusive Patricia Breen Designs retailer.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

These stunning decorations are made by artist Patricia Breen and her husband Eric in their studio located in Krakow, Poland. Each piece is incredibly detailed and eye-catching.

You'll fall in love with this giant Christmas store in Connecticut.

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Historical Christmas Barn/Facebook

Historical Christmas Barn sells wonderful gifts year-round, but it's especially magical during winter. This lovely shop is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday - Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

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Check out some of the amazing finds at this lovely shop:

Have you visited this delightful place that's one of the best Christmas shops in Connecticut? Check out the Historic Christmas Barn on its website and give the Historic Christmas Barn a follow on Facebook. Tell us about your experience in the comments! For more holiday fun, bring the family on the road to visit these festive Christmas towns in Connecticut.

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