This past weekend we took a quick family trip to beautiful Old Saybrook, CT- just a few short hours from home. Growing up here in Connecticut we loved our family road trips- a few hours in the car leading you to mountains, farmlands or water. So in keeping with tradition, we packed up the car with all our essentials and headed to Old Saybrook for a mini staycation.

We stayed at Saybrook Point Inn right on the water- where we ate, drank and spa'd to our hearts content. Our mini has been going through a bit of a sleep regression {this happens at sixteen-months?!} waking us up at 4:45 nearly every morning these days. And while I'm generally not too pleased with this new schedule, we used it to our advantage this trip, heading out first thing to grab a coffee and watch the sunrise together.

During more civilized hours of the day, we explored Old Saybrook and its neighboring coastal towns. The weather was the perfect combination of sunshine and seaside breeze; and the leaves were just the right shade of fall- providing the perfect backdrop for family walks and views of beautiful historic homes, all decked out for Halloween.

And before heading home, we dressed MM up in her little lamb costume and stopped by Saybrook Point Inn's Fall Festival- where we painted some pumpkins, posed with some carved ones, and tasted a few autumn treats. All in all, it was a great family trip- and I'm sure we'll be back very soon!

Old Saybrook Travel Guide:

Where to Stay:

Saybrook Point Inn is a beautiful waterside property perfectly equipped for those traveling with or without children. And it's pet-friendly too! We stayed in a suite which gave us the perfect amount of room for a crib and for MM to play and walk around. If you're traveling with another family, the Cove Cottage is a rental home on the property that would be a great family accommodation as well- with three bedrooms and a full sized kitchen. As for activities, the property has an indoor and outdoor pool, complimentary bike rentals, and a mini golf course right next door. If you can sneak away for mommy-time, their Sanno spa is the perfect way to enjoy it. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or organic Eminence facial {my favorite}.

Where to Eat:

Fresh Salt: A delicious waterfront restaurant featuring fresh seafood, juicy steak and yummy wines. Come hungry: the portions are generous, and the appetizers and desserts are a must. If you bring the kids, I always recommend a reservation on the earlier side.

Penny Lane Pub: The perfect English-style pub, boasting a menu and atmosphere that's totally kid friendly. The nachos, burger and kid's grilled cheese were super tasty. And the adult beverages hit the spot, too.

James Farmacy at the James Soda Fountain: Home of one of the oldest Ice Cream Soda Fountains still around today, this now farm-to-table eatery is the perfect place to stop for an organic juice, paleo snack or healthier take on your favorite treats.

What to See:

Connecticut River Museum: Located at the mouth of the Connecticut River in Essex, CT this beautiful museum houses art, books, artifacts, and manuscripts to help tell the stories of the Connecticut River and its people.

Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut: The Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut is an interactive space for children to learn and play, ages 9 months to 9 years old.

Mini Golf: Located right next door to Saybrook Point Inn, this seaside mini golf course is perfect for outdoor activity for adults and kiddos alike.

Essex Steam Train & River Boat: This seasonal attraction offers various family themed events and excursions throughout the Connecticut River Valley, allowing you to enjoy quintessential New England vistas as a family.

Downtown Old Saybrook and Essex: Walk and explore the charming atmosphere of these historic New England towns- enjoy their small shops, delicious restaurants, and historic homes. If you're staying at Saybrook Point Inn, take advantage of the free bike rentals to pedal around and enjoy the palpable character of these coastal towns.