Where to Stay in Stonington: The Inn at Stonington of Course
Set along the stunning waterfront overlooking Fishers Island Sound, the allure of the Inn at Stonington lies not just in its 18 well-appointed rooms, but in the meticulous attention to detail owner Bill Griffin has woven into every space. Griffin, a Borough resident with deep roots in Connecticut, embarked on the journey of creating a haven that combines historic charm with modern amenities.
The History
For those who appreciate a bit of history, the Inn’s story tells a tale of resilience. Griffin purchased the property and site of the Harbor View Restaurant in 1996, a hotspot known for its French cuisine and frequented by the likes of Billy Joel, Christie Brinkley, and William Hurt. After the restaurant was destroyed by a fire in 1997, he rebuilt it as the beautiful inn it is today. Collaborating with architect Nina Cuccio-Peck, Griffin ensured the inn exuded historical charm, integrating seamlessly into Stonington Borough’s charming landscape.
The aftermath of the Harbor View Restaurant fire, 1997. Images courtesy of The R.W. Woolworth Library & Research Center.
The Experience
A stay at the Inn at Stonington is a cozy, relaxing experience. Almost every room has a fireplace and large soaking tub, offering a warm respite during chilly evenings. There are eight Sea Side rooms with breathtaking sunset views of Stonington Harbor and Fishers Island Sound, and ten Village Side rooms with views of Water Street. Room number 12 on the village side, has a striking view of Cannon Square. During the filming of the movie Hope Springs, Meryl Streep occupied number 19, a deluxe room, boasting panoramic views. With a grace that mirrored her on-screen presence, she joined fellow guests for breakfast every day. Each room is tastefully decorated and a true testament to the Inn’s commitment to providing a comfortable and memorable stay.
“The Inn hosts a lot of repeat guests who come from one- to two-hours away looking for a mini vacation,” says Stephanie Ferguson, on staff at the Inn. She adds, “And in the off-season, we offer a date night package that includes dinner at a local restaurant.”
In the morning from 8 to 10 am, there’s freshly brewed coffee and a continental breakfast in the dining room. In the evening from 6 - 7 pm, there’s a complimentary wine and cheese reception in the living room, a beautiful and welcoming space with a cozy fireplace.
If you must work or work out during your stay, the Harbor View Room is a quiet space on the third floor, equipped with a computer station. It’s also used for business meetings and retreats, accommodating up to 13 people comfortably. On the lower level, there’s a full gym with all the equipment you’ll need for a great workout, including a Peloton.
There are a growing number of events in the Borough that help fill the rooms — most notably the Lobster Trap Tree at the town docks from late November until early January and the Annual Art Walk in September. “The last two years during Lobster Trap Tree season have been the best two years we’ve had,” notes Ferguson.
The Borough’s in bloom with magnificent tulips, hydrangeas, and climbing roses from May through October, and the weather is spectacular from June through September, making it quite busy but a particularly good time to visit. There really is no bad time to visit Stonington Borough…unless of course, you can’t get a room at the Inn.
The Inn at Stonington
No. 60 Water Street
Stonington, CT 06378
Phone: (860) 535-2000
Website: InnAtStonington.com
Email: innkeeper@innatstonington.com
Photos by Sandy Alexander, Dessa Lea Productions unless otherwise noted.