Ghost Towns in Connecticut

8 documented ghost towns

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History

Explore the ghost towns of Connecticut.

All Ghost Towns

Bara-Hack

Windham County • Est. 1780

Bara-Hack (Welsh for 'breaking of bread') was a Welsh settlement that was abandoned in the late 1800s. It is famous for paranormal reports - visitors ...

Bara

Litchfield County • Est. 1730s

Connecticut's iron industry created small furnace villages throughout the northwest hills. When the iron played out or larger furnaces made them obsol...

Dudleytown

Litchfield County • Est. 1747

Dudleytown was a small farming community that was abandoned when soil became exhausted. It has become legendary for 'curse' stories and paranormal cla...

Dudleytown

Litchfield County • Est. 1740s

Dudleytown is Connecticut's most famous ghost town—known for legends of a 'curse' on the Dudley family. In reality, it was simply a farming village th...

Gay City

Hartford County • Est. 1796

Gay City was founded by a religious sect led by Elijah Andrus and John Gay. The community built a woolen mill on the Blackledge River. The town declin...

Heublein Tower

Hartford County • Est. 1914

Heublein Tower was built in 1914 by Gilbert Heublein, a liquor magnate. The 165-foot Bavarian-style tower sits atop Talcott Mountain. After changing h...

Hopeville

New London County • Est. 1700s

Hopeville was a small mill village that was partially flooded when the dam was raised to create Hopeville Pond. Stone foundations and roads are visibl...

Johnsonville

Middlesex County • Est. 1802

Johnsonville is a complete 19th-century mill village that has been bought and sold repeatedly. Raymond Schmitt, creator of Piels beer ads and a soap o...

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ghost towns are in Connecticut?

We have documented 8 ghost towns in Connecticut. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.

Are ghost towns in Connecticut safe to visit?

Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.

What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?

Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.

Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?

No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.

What's the best time to visit ghost towns in Connecticut?

Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.