A Stroll Through Hidden Gardens
A Day of Quiet Wandering, Lovely Photos, and Little Discoveries
If you're dreaming of a picture-perfect summer adventure - equal parts garden strolls and design inspiration - then the picturesque corner of the New York/Connecticut border belongs on your list. From secret garden gems to beautifully curated design shops, this area of the Northeast is a haven for anyone who loves beauty, style, and a slow, posh day out.
At the start of the month, my lovely friend planned the most thoughtful itinerary for a full day of exploring. She’s a member of The Garden Conservancy, an organization that celebrates and preserves exceptional gardens across the country. Through their Open Days program, you can purchase tickets to visit privately owned gardens that are rarely open to the public. Each one we toured felt like a hidden gem - a dream for photography lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.
Here’s a look at our itinerary, with each destination and a few personal highlights sprinkled in:
First Destination: Clove Brook Farm
851 N. Clove Rd., Millbrook, NY 12545
A stunning property owned by Christopher Spitzmiller and Anthony Bellomo. They happened to be hosting a designer tag sale while we were there - where I scored the cutest little kitchen runner for just $10 (seriously!). My friend picked up the “find of the day”: a beautiful green plant stand perfect for her ferns.
Personal Highlight: The elegant peacocks and the largest hens I’ve ever seen roaming the grounds.
Second Destination: Troutbeck
515 Leedsville Rd, Amenia, NY 12501
We discovered that a top-tier travel tip is to book a breakfast or meal at a gorgeous hotel - you get to soak up the ambiance and skip the overnight price tag. Troutbeck is full of character and charm, and made the perfect breakfast stop.
Personal Highlight: The breakfast sandwich. Absolute perfection. It definitely hit the spot!
Third Destination: Garden of Lee Link
99 White Hollow Rd, Sharon, CT 06069
This was hands-down my favorite stop of the day. The moment you step out of the car, you’re greeted by a stunning mountain view and the scent of blooming flowers. Every detail in the garden was magical. I could have wandered for hours taking photos. And the greenhouse? A dream.
Personal Highlight: Lee herself was there, warmly greeting visitors and answering questions. I overheard her chatting about a plant she’s cared for over 30 years. You can feel the love she’s poured into every inch of her garden. I left completely inspired - and craving more houseplants.
https://www.gardenconservancy.org/garden-directory/open-days/garden-of-lee-link
Fourth Destination: One Hundred Main
100 Main St, Falls Village, CT 06031
This is designer Bunny Williams’ shop, filled with curated home goods and local artisan pieces. It’s elegant, warm, and so thoughtfully put together.
Personal Highlight: The resident cat, casually strolling through the store and offering moral support to indecisive shoppers.
Fifth Destination: Michael Trapp's West Cornwall Garden
7 River Rd, Cornwall, CT 06796
Part garden, part antique store, part architectural salvage wonderland. Every corner felt like a curated discovery - layers of history, texture, and beauty.
Personal Highlight: The pool. It truly felt like a slice of Italy tucked into Connecticut.
Final Stop: Lost Fox Inn
571 Torrington Rd, Litchfield, CT 06759
We ended the day with dinner at this restored 1740s tavern, now a boutique inn. The space is warm, inviting, and rich with colonial-era charm - only with way better food.
Personal Highlight: The cozy, huge fireplace that made the whole room glow.
This day was an absolute 10/10 - beautiful scenery, lovely conversation, and total garden/design inspiration around every turn. If you're looking for a relaxing yet stylish day trip, this little slice of the NY/CT border has you covered.
With Love,
LC