Burlington

About Burlington

Tucked into the foothills of the Berkshires and hugging the banks of the Farmington River, Burlington is the kind of Connecticut town that feels like a deep breath of fresh air. Rural, scenic, and genuinely community-minded — its motto, "A Town Where Community Counts," isn't just a tagline. Just 20 miles west of Hartford, it offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle without sacrificing connection to the wider region.

What to Know

• The historic Brown Tavern is one of Burlington's most recognizable landmarks, a glimpse into the town's colonial-era past.
• Burlington is home to the charming hamlet of Lake Garda, a quiet lakeside community that adds to the town's varied, picturesque landscape.
• Outdoor enthusiasts love access to the Nassahegon State Forest, which offers hiking, hunting, and woodland exploration right in town.
• Burlington is served by the Region 10 school district, shared with neighboring Harwinton — a well-regarded system that's a draw for families.
• Sitting at an elevation of 817 feet, Burlington enjoys gorgeous views and a noticeably cooler, crisper climate than the Connecticut River Valley below.

History

Burlington was incorporated in 1806, carved out from portions of the surrounding towns as the region's population grew. The area's early identity was shaped by agriculture and small industry, with the Farmington River valley providing both resources and connectivity. The Brown Tavern stands as a tangible reminder of the town's 19th-century roots, when travelers and locals alike gathered along these rural Hartford County roads.

Community & Living

Burlington attracts residents who want the best of both worlds — a serene, rural setting with genuine neighborly spirit, all within easy reach of Hartford's amenities. The town has a strong tradition of civic engagement, with its selectman-town meeting form of government keeping community voices front and center. If you love open land, tight-knit neighborhoods, and a slower pace done right, Burlington delivers.