Ellington/Somers/Stafford/Union Ellington, CT

Originally a part of East Windsor, the present day town of Ellington came to existence when it split from Windsor and incorporated itself in 1786. Agriculture fueled the town's development and growth for several decades. Between the 19th and 20th century, Ellington served as the center of a community of Jewish immigrant farmers, who later constructed the Congregation Knesseth Israel synagogue, which presently serves as an active Modern Orthodox congregation. Competition between businesses, including local markets and chain grocers has transformed Ellington into a hybrid agriculture and bedroom community. Although Ellington does not house many museums, several exist nearby in neighboring towns, such as the New England Civil War Museum and Vernon Community Arts Center. The arts center promotes the area's local arts scene, showcasing a number of children's exhibits, cultural exhibitions and two annual judged shows.

A wide selection of restaurants comprises the dining scene in Ellington, from sushi bars and cafes to pizza shops and specialty bistros. Several establishments sit within the Main Street and West Road area. Chuck Wagon Restaurant specializes in providing a genuine country-dining experience. Fresh scents of the countryside complement the mouth-watering aromas of freshly made wholesome food. From omelettes and biscuits, to juicy burger and turkey dinners, Chuck Wagon Restaurant does food right from dawn till dusk. Customers love the nostalgic decor and friendly-neighborhood atmosphere of this family-owned restaurant. Bring cash when you visit, and grab an order of fresh and fluffy buttermilk pancakes for breakfast. Trattoria da Lepri focuses on supplying visitors with an authentic Italian trattoria experience, in the form of finely crafted Italian and French cuisines. Chefs strive to use local grass-fed beef, fresh fish and seasonal vegetables when creating meals. From seared scallops and seafood casserole, to beef carpaccio and house-made ricotta gnocchi, Trattoria da Lepri's expansive menu can surely satisfy even the most finely tuned taste buds. The restaurant also holds a reputation in the neighborhood for its top-quality service and delectable dishes. Try the spice pear salad, a dish comprised of arugula, spinach, gorgonzola, dried cherries, chopped pistachio, drizzled with raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Nightlife in Ellington encompasses a small collection of neighborhood bars, pool halls and pubs mostly along West Road. Residents grab a few cheap drinks and tasty pub food at Casey's Cafe. The Hidden Still serves as Ellington's premier combination restaurant and moonshine bar, offering a distinct menu of signature moonshine cocktails, fragrant-mixed drinks and all of the pub classics. The restaurant presents a casual and engaging atmosphere, complemented by rustic decor and upbeat music emitting throughout the facility. Whether you're craving a crunchy fish taco or a savory and freshly cooked dish of chicken and waffle, The Hidden Still has you covered. Try an order of barbecue wings with a side of macaroni cheese for a real treat.

Automobiles serve as the dominate form of transportation in the neighborhood, while the CTTRANSIT bus division serves as the area's primary public transportation option. A small collection of taxi businesses service Tolland County, while Uber does not yet provide coverage to the area. Public parking primarily consists of residential on-street parking (with the exception of seasonal restrictions), in addition to a small distribution of lots and metered spaces. Although not within the confines of Ellington, Interstates 84 and 91 extend within close proximity of the town, while Connecticut Routes 30, 83, 74, 140 and 286 run throughout. The town has a moderately pedestrian-friendly environment, while cyclists enjoy a light spread of designated bicycle routes along main roads.

Ellington houses a light spread of small neighborhood parks and playground, but residents often travel to neighboring town of Vernon for an immerse outdoor experience. Vernon Rails-to-Trails-Hop River State Park Trail presents an atmosphere ideal for runners, cyclists and nature enthusiasts alike, complemented by a diverse population of wildlife in a breath-taking scenic landscape. Valley Falls Park has a similar environment in addition to a picnic pavilion, swimming area/beach — all well maintained. Both parks provide cost-free access as well as free parking, and serve as a great spot for the whole family or for long walks with the dog. Attend the Ellington Annual Winterfest and Tree-Lighting Ceremony, featuring an array of family-friendly events, activities and live performances.

Ellington presents a cost of living approximately 14 percent higher than Hartford, while one-bedroom residences typically rent at an average cost of $931. Residents travel to the city center via CTTRANSIT for around $1.50. Gas prices sit at rates about 19 percent higher than the national average, but on the bright side, a pint of beer at a local pub only costs around $5.

A healthy spread of independently owned boutiques and specialty shops, along with a light influence of nationally recognized chain retailers define the shopping scene in Ellington. From family-owned jewelry stores and repair centers, to hardware shops and furniture outlets, the town presents a vibrant collection of commercial attractions. Kloter Farms more than adequately fills the position of a neighborhood furniture store, specializing in the crafting of durable outdoor structures, patio and heirloom-quality home furniture pieces. The store purchases its merchandise through skilled craftsman working from small wood shops across the North America. Locals recognize the store for its first-rate product selection, knowledgeable and amiable staff and 30-year track record as leading furniture store in Ellington. Ellington Agway stands as the top solution for home and garden needs in Ellington, with a product line that spans pet food and supplies, bagged feed and lawn and garden supplies. The third generation family owned store features a top-notch sales team comprised of devoted family members and both long-term and short-term passionate employees ready to assist customers from selection to purchase loading. Residents praise Ellington Agway for its level of unparalleled customer service and top-value product selection. Big Y World Class Market primarily accommodates Elllington's grocery needs, but residents also travel to Vernon to shop at Nature’s Grocer, a highly revered gluten-free health market. The Ellington Farmers Market supplies a collection of locally grown produce, in addition to freshly baked breads, pastries and wholesome meats and fish.