Welcome to Vernon
Known for its pristine lakes and beautiful parks, Vernon, CT feels worlds apart from the bustle of its neighboring business centers. In reality, this charming small town is a growing suburban community located just 15 minutes from Hartford, CT, and less than 40 minutes from Springfield, MA.
Vernon offers a wonderful way of life to its 15,000 residents. Located along “New England’s Knowledge Corridor”, it provides not only plenty of job and business opportunities but also easy access to some of the top learning institutions in the US, including the University of Connecticut and Trinity College.
In addition to a strong economy, Vernon is home to gorgeous historic places, nature destinations, and amazing parks. With a rich agricultural tradition, the town has an enduring rustic charm while being only minutes away from sought-after urban amenities.
A Brief History of Vernon, CT
Vernon was originally part of the Town of Bolton but incorporated as a separate township in 1808. Named after George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, the town includes the former city of Rockwell, as well as the villages of Talcottville and Dobsonville.
Families from the nearby town of East Windsor were the first to settle in Vernon in 1716. During the Industrial Revolution, the area around the Hockanum and Tankerhoosen Rivers became sites for cotton spinning mills and factories. The bulk of these industries prospered in Rockwell and Talcottville, while most of Vernon remained largely agricultural.
Real Estate & Houses for Sale in Vernon, CT
The housing stock in Vernon is predominantly composed of single-family homes, but you’ll find a great collection of townhomes and condos, as well. With large lots measuring at least 0.25 acres, homes in the town provide ample privacy and generous open spaces. There’s a good number of acreage homes, with lot sizes of one acre or more.
Colonialism is the most prevalent architectural style, but the ranch is also popular. You’ll also find a few Victorian homes, as well as contemporary ones. Wood and stone exteriors are widely featured, complementing the town’s rich natural surroundings.
With the abundance of stunning lakes, ponds, and streams, there are plenty of opportunities for waterfront homes, many of which come with lake rights.
If you’re after a home with character and history, you’ll love the historic homes for sale in Vernon. Some are at least 100 years old and have been excellently preserved and updated over the years. If your preference is for newer homes, you’ll find a host of new developments featuring new construction houses in customizable floor plans.
Living in Vernon, CT
Schools
Vernon is served by Vernon Public Schools, with some areas served by Tolland School District and Ellington Public Schools. Vernon Public Schools include five elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.
Parks & Recreation Areas
Vernon’s parks are well-known for their beauty and pristine conditions. The hilly
Valley Falls Park is acknowledged as one of the best in Connecticut, providing stunning views and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and swimming.
Vernon Rails to Trails Park is another community gem. Converted from an old railroad track system, this 5-mile trail is open for hiking, cycling, and riding, as well as cross-country skiing in the winter. It traverses a historic tunnel, parks, residential areas, and other historical spots.
The Tankerhoosen River
as well as the lakes and ponds around Vernon also offer beautiful views and boundless outdoor activities. The
Tankerhoosen Valley is a popular destination for hiking, riding, and fishing. Camp Newhoca Park adjoins Middle Bolton Lake, while Indian Notch Park lines Lower Bolton Lake.
Other must-visit parks in Vernon include Henry Park, Dart Hill Park, and more. See
this page for a complete list and links to the town’s parks and recreational facilities.
History & Culture
Vernon has amazing historic sites that add to its charming small-town vibe. Rockville’s Henry Park is home to the Tower on Fox Hill, a 22-meter Romanesque Revival Tower built in 1939, on the site of previous towers that were destroyed by the elements.
Vernon has two historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The
Talcottville Historic District will take you back to the Industrial Era days of the village. The Tankerhoosen River runs through the district, and Main Street stretches to the north shore of Tankerhoosen Pond. Historic attractions here include the Mount Hope Cemetery, the Nathaniel O. Kellogg House, farmhouses, the Talcott Brothers Mill, and other homes and buildings.
The
Rockville Historic District is found in
Downtown Rockville, a designated Main Street Community of the Connecticut Main Street Center. The district comprises 842 historic buildings, making it one of the top five National Historic Districts in Connecticut. The downtown area is also a busy section of the town, filled with charming homes, storefronts, and offices.
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