Take it Outside! 10 Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in Washington

1. Hike with Steep Rock

Washington is filled with nature trails that offer breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging hike, there’s a suitable trail for every experience level with the many trails among the Steep Rock Association’s preserves. Visit Hidden Valley Preserve to walk over the Thoreau Bridge, explore the trails along the Shepaug River at Steep Rock Preserve, or climb up to Waramaug’s Rock at Macricostas Preserve where you can catch an incredible panoramic view of Litchfield County. And if you’re up for the challenge, take part in the Steep Rock Association’s Hiker’s Challenge by walking all 47 miles of their trails!

2. Visit Hollister House Garden

Hollister House Garden is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike during the summer season. The English-style garden is full of blooming flowers, abundant plantings, and beautiful landscapes. Hollister House Garden is a place to wander, get lost, and take in the beauty of nature. The garden is open for visiting hours on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Take a look at some special events coming up:

• Evening in the Garden – August 16th
• Arranging Homegrown Flowers Workshop – August 24th
• Garden Study Weekend Symposium – September 7th

3. On the Water at Lake Waramaug

Lake Waramaug is known for its breathtaking vistas and pristine waters. As the second largest natural lake in the State of Connecticut, there is plenty of space to enjoy a day of swimming, kayaking, fishing, biking, or walking the scenic loop around the lake. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at Clarke Outdoors starting Memorial Day through Labor Day on Thursdays through Mondays. Or if you’d rather just take in the views, then plan your day to catch an amazing summer sunset over the lake!

4. Find Fresh Goods at the Farmers Market

The Washington Farmers Market is the perfect spot to enjoy a morning stroll and find fresh produce and baked goods to enjoy over the weekend! The Farmers Market hosts fabulous local vendors that offer an abundance of locally-grown fruit and vegetables, fresh breads, pasture-raised meats, gourmet cheeses, baked goods, fresh flowers, and much more. The Washington Farmers Market is held every Saturday at Judy Black Park from 9:30am – 12:30pm. There is also live music and family activities on select weekends!

5. Enjoy A Picnic with a View

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, relax, and unwind by enjoying a picnic with a view. So pack your picnic basket and indulge your senses by taking in some of the best views in Washington while savoring the taste of your favorite foods! Or try something new and pick up a takeout order from one of our amazing local eateries and restaurants. Get inspired with our guide to The Best Picnic Spots in Washington. Enjoy!

6. Tune in for Outdoor Movie Night

One of our favorite parts about summertime in Washington are outdoor movies! Plan a fun date night or bring family and friends to enjoy an outdoor movie together under the stars. Outdoor movies are hosted by Judy Black Park. All movies are free and open to the public. Bring your own chairs, blankets, and picnics! Movies roll at dusk.

This summer’s upcoming outdoor movie nights:

• “Erin Brockovich” – Outdoors at Judy Black Park – Friday, August 2nd
• “The Princess Diaries” – Drive-in at the River Walk – Saturday, August 31st
• “The Goodbye Girl” – Outdoor at Judy Black Park with a live Q&A with Actor Marsha Mason – Friday, September 6th

7. An Afternoon with Wine, Music & Art

Summer is a great time to enjoy the relaxing ambiance at local wineries and vineyards, and we are lucky to have two amazing vineyards here in Washington! Visit Spring Hill Vineyards for delicious wine tastings and to view their latest art installations, including the Bee Brook Grotto installation by renowned artist Randy Polumbo at their repurposed silo. And spend an afternoon at Hopkins Vineyard to enjoy wine flights and live music on the weekends at one of the most scenic vineyards in Connecticut with breathtaking views of Lake Waramaug!

View more vineyards in Litchfield County

8. Spend an Evening with Shakesperience

One of Washington’s beloved summer events is the annual production by Shakesperience. This exciting event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy outdoor entertainment on a summer evening with family and friends.

This year, the fourth Shakespeare in the Litchfield Hills will present “Romeo & Juliet” starting Wednesday, August 7th through Sunday, August 11th at River Walk Pavilion. The performances feature professional Equity actors. Picnicking begins at 7:00pm and the performances begin at 7:30pm. This event is free and open to the public!

9. Support a Good Cause at Strut Your Mutt

What’s better than a dog-friendly gathering for a good cause? Join us this summer for the Strut Your Mutt Social, a fun family event on Sunday, August 25th in Washington Depot to support the work of Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals. This exciting event for dog lovers will feature an agility course, puppy hook up, beauty contest, therapy dogs and more.

10. Enjoy Live Music All Around Town

Summertime simply wouldn’t be the same without the sound of music by talented local artists! So tune in for some of these upcoming live music events in Washington:

• Tune in for Bluegrass Concert by the Sherman Chamber Ensemble on Sunday, September 1st at Judy Black Park
• Washington’s beloved Music on the Green will continue on September 6th & 13th. Bring a blanket and chairs and treat yourself to some fabulous food from The Po Café while enjoying music performances on the historic Washington Green
• Judy Black Memorial Parks and Gardens will be hosting their Annual FUNraiser on Saturday, September 14th featuring a live concert by Anchor Management and a reception with delicious refreshments and hors d’oeuvres
• Rainy day? Take it inside and tune in for Washington Friends of the Music Summer Concerts at First Congregational Church. Concerts will be held on Fridays August 16th, 23rd, 30th and September 6th featuring a variety of compositions presented by superb musicians who perform solo and in leading orchestras around the world