Farmington, CT

While Farmington is only about eight miles southwest of Downtown Hartford, it feels more like a wooded resort town. The Farmington River meanders through the heart of Farmington, lined with picturesque parks. Narrow roads wind along hills, through the forested countryside and past the roadside stands of local farmers. But Farmington has another side -- a thriving business side, with major companies like Cisco Systems, United Technologies Corporation, Beazley USA, and iTech Solutions located in the city.

Farmington is the oldest settlement west of the Connecticut River. English colonists arrived here in 1640, attracted by the rich soil along the river. The town and river were named in 1645. Main Street features several colonial estates dating back to the 17th century, and George Washington referred to the settlement as the "village of pretty houses." The Farmington Historic District features several major landmarks, including the Stanley-Whitman House, a house museum built around 1720 one of Farmington's oldest houses.

Moving to Farmington, you'll have ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking the 13-mile loop at Talcott Mountain, climbing Rattlesnake Mountain, or scaling the 600-foot Pinnacle Rock. Residents can also visit the Hillstead Museum, built in 1901, which contains a collection of Impressionist paintings. Other noteworthy locations include the University of Connecticut Health Center, the Metacomet Trail, and Batterson Park.