The Wedding of Shea and Brad

Things To Do

Gillette Castle State Park

67 River Road, East Haddam, CT 06423

The beautiful Gillette Castle is the true Castle on the Hill. Overlooking the CT river, you can see the marina where Shea spent her teenage summers working, look for bald eagles, and enjoy stunning sunsets while learning about the history of this incredible castle. This is also where Shea and Brad met their phenomenal wedding photographer, Stacy Metallo, for the first time. Approximately 35 minutes from the hotel.

Little House Brewing Company and Simon's

16 Main Street, Chester, CT 06412

Chester, CT is Shea's hometown and one of Connecticut's cutest downtowns. Stop by Little House Brewing Company for a local brew, then peruse the shops and grab a bite at one of the town's eateries. Simon's has the BEST bread, trust us. For those looking for a local dive, The Pattaconk is where Eric Pease nearly fell out a window as a toddler and holds some of the Pease family's fondest memories. Approximately 30 minutes from the hotel.

The Griswold Inn

36 Main Street, Essex, CT 06426

Experience the charm of Connecticut's coastal town, Essex, which features the Essex Steam Train, the Connecticut River Museum, and the Griswold Inn. The Gris, originally opened in 1776, is one of the Pease family's favorite restaurants, featuring Sea Shanty night on Monday's and extensive shipping industry history. Approximately 30 minutes from the hotel.

New Haven, CT (For Pizza)

237 Wooster Street, New Haven, CT 06511

Brad feels very passionately about good food, and thinks you should, too. We recommend those travelling to CT for the first time make the journey to New Haven to try some of the city's legendary pizza. Visit the link for some of the best recommendations, and please share your reviews and thoughts with Brad. Approximately 50 minutes from the hotel.

Mystic Aquarium

55 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355

As you all know, Shea and Brad love animals. On the weekend they got engaged, they took a boat tour in Bar Harbor and gleefully ogled seals, puffins, and eagles. You can honor this love of animals by going to one of Shea’s childhood stomping grounds, the Mystic Aquarium! Approximately 23 minutes from the hotel, you can enjoy animal exhibits and encounters, historic and immersive exhibits, and endless fun!

Ferry to Long Island or Block Island

2 Ferry Street, New London, CT 06320

Guests spending some extra time in CT may enjoy a day trip to Block or Long Island, accessible from New London by ferry in as little as 40 minutes. Enjoy the salt of the air and a nautical day. Those visiting Long Island via the Cross Sound Ferry should know that Eric Pease once worked on this very ferry and can tell you many stories, including the one time he saw a literal monkey onboard. Ferry terminal is 15 minutes from the hotel.