A Perfect Gilmore Girls Day in Washington, Connecticut
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into Stars Hollow, Connecticut — the charming small town at the heart of Gilmore Girls — a visit to Washington Depot is a must. This picturesque New England town inspired Amy Sherman-Palladino to create Stars Hollow, and today you can spend a full day here living out your Gilmore Girls fantasies. From cozy coffee shops to book browsing and scenic walks, here’s how to plan the perfect Gilmore Girls day in Washington, CT.
Morning: Coffee First, Always ☕
Start your day like Lorelai and Rory with coffee. Washington Depot doesn’t have Luke’s Diner, but Marty’s Cafe in Washington are the next best thing. Grab a latte and a pastry to fuel your Stars Hollow-style adventure.
Mid-Morning: Browse The Hickory Stick Bookshop 📚
No Gilmore Girls day is complete without books. Head to The Hickory Stick Bookshop, one of the town’s gems, and channel your inner Rory. It’s filled with local authors, cozy reads, and New England charm — perfect for a thoughtful wander.
Lunch at GW Tavern 🍴
For a cozy, colonial-style lunch, head to GW Tavern. With its fireplaces, rustic décor, and hearty menu, you’ll feel like you’re dining at Stars Hollow’s Independence Inn. It’s a local favorite and the perfect spot to slow down mid-day.
Afternoon: Explore Steep Rock Preserve 🌿
After lunch, take a walk through Steep Rock Preserve, a nature reserve with scenic trails, river views, and a suspension bridge that feels straight out of a Rory and Jess storyline. Especially in fall, the foliage makes this hike a must.
Evening: A Touch of Gilmore Elegance ✨
End your day at the Mayflower Inn & Spa, the real-life inspiration for the Independence Inn. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can stop in for a drink or dinner to soak up the elegant, Gilmore-worthy atmosphere. It’s the perfect finale to your Stars Hollow day.
Final Thoughts: Stars Hollow in Real Life
With coffee, books, cozy taverns, and scenic walks, Washington Depot is the closest you’ll get to Stars Hollow in real life. A Gilmore Girls day in this Litchfield County gem is the perfect way to relive your favorite episodes and make memories with your own “Rory” or “Lorelai.”
☕📚 Plan your Gilmore Girls day trip to Washington, Connecticut — Oy with the poodles already, it’s time for coffee!