Avon/Burlington - Avon, CT

Originally inhabited by the Tunxis Indians, the Farmington, Burlington and Avon area of Connecticut had settlers in the mid-1600s, making it one of the oldest communities in the United States. With fertile ground and ideal growing conditions, the area has deep agricultural roots and history. While Farmington and Avon have both become much more industry based, Burlington has maintained a strong rural feel and base. Burlington shares a border with the foot of the Berkshires, offering access to premiere outdoor activities. In Farmington, be sure to explore the Stanley Whitman House museum. As a living history center you will be able to witness what every day activities entailed in the 1700 and 1800s. Every fall the Hill-Stead Museum, located between Farmington and Avon, puts on Hay Day to explore and enjoy the beautiful New England scenery.

Truffles Bakery and Kitchen caters, delivers in addition to the restaurant. If you need a filling lunch try the Philly cheese wrap. For a hearty brunch the BLT Benedict will not disappoint, and the lobster grilled cheese makes for a special treat and takes the staple sandwich to an ultra-luxurious level.

For a casual date or fun family night, Naples Pizza has a variety of options. The eggplant fries and Caesar salad can be shared before digging into a clam pizza. Still want Italian but need to celebrate a special occasion? Cugino's Restaurant of Farmington has an intimate atmosphere and with superb service. Seafood lovers should try the scallops in particular, and purists must try the vodka sauce over pasta. All of the dishes use fresh ingredients that are authentically prepared.

In the Avon area, locals can be found watching a game or having a night cap at First & Last. First & Last has a full bar, sit-down area and an outdoor space. This Zagat favorite can host special events, a girl's night out or a romantic date night. Try the homemade tiramisu along with a nice glass of wine from the extensive list.

For Avon, Burlington and Farmington residents, driving may be the easiest mode of transportation for outdoor activities, heading to school or commuting to work. With street parking easily and readily available, running errands can be done quite quickly without wasting time searching for parking. Many residents and tourists also bike around the region in warmer months as a way to get around and enjoy the plethora of recreational activities in the area. In fact, the Farmington Valley Trails Council actively works with residents and local government to maintain and develop multi-use trails and bike lanes throughout the area. The CT Transit Express Shuttle and bus routes service the area on weekdays with some lines running on the weekend as well. For those traveling in and out of the area, Route 44, Interstate 84 and Highway 9 can all be easily accessed.

Recreation and parks have become a mainstay for Farmington Valley residents. In Avon Fisher Meadow Park has become the soccer hub for children and adults alike. The park includes a large lake where many boaters can be found during warmer months. In the winter months snow shoeing provides entertainment for outdoors enthusiasts. Also in Avon, you will find Found Lake Park. Found Lake Park provides numerous hiking trails and a scenic waterfall. Both parks are handicap accessible and allow dogs.

In Farmington, Scoville Park has tennis and basketball courts, a baseball field as well as a large open field. Adjacent to an elementary school and several parking lots, you can bring the entire family to play and get out plenty of energy. Every summer the Farmington Polo Fields host the Connecticut Wine Festival. The festival features boutique and award winning wineries from Connecticut.

With high transportation, grocery, health and housing costs, the cost of living is far above state and national averages. The CT Transit, which serves Avon, Burlington and Farmington, travels to Hartford on weekdays. Some lines also run on the weekends. A regular cash fare costs $2.70. The average one-bedroom apartment rents for $1,290 a month without utilities or additional costs. At the Wood-n-Tap in Farmington, a micro-brew will cost you $4.50 during happy hour. Gas prices come in around 3 percent above the national average.

In the heart of Avon stop by the Coffee Trade for your daily jolt of caffeine and antiques. They roast the beans on site for the freshest cup of joe while you peruse an eclectic collection of vintage finds. Down Main street you can stop by Eastern Mountain Sports for outdoor gear and athletic clothing. Head to Westfarms Shopping Center in Farmington to shop at Nordstrom, the Apple store or Sephora. The center also features luxury designers such as Tory Burch and Lord & Taylor.

Between Burlington and Farmington Highland Park Market provides premiere and gourmet grocery shopping. Specialty and hard to find items, local produce, and organic meats can all be found. For a quick lunch or take-away dinner be sure to pick up freshly sushi rolls that have been made on site. The store also features a bakery and sandwich bar. If you do want to make dinner at home, be certain to pick up the catch of the day. A number of local farmers markets operate seasonally, such as the Riverdale Farms farmers market in Avon, which operates between June and November.