As Al Gore says, "Airplane travel is nature's way of making you look like your passport photo." If you have a passport burning a hole in your pocket and you're looking for a small Connecticut town that's convenient to an international airport, Windsor Locks might be the perfect place to call home.
Windsor Locks, Connecticut is a small town located close to the border of Massachusetts
As Al Gore says, "Airplane travel is nature's way of making you look like your passport photo." If you have a passport burning a hole in your pocket and you're looking for a small Connecticut town that's convenient to an international airport, Windsor Locks might be the perfect place to call home.
Windsor Locks, Connecticut is a small town located close to the border of Massachusetts. Today its main claim to fame is being the home of Bradley International Airport (BDL), which serves the Hartford and Springfield areas. Because Connecticut is a small state, many area residents will use BDL for domestic as well as international flights. With a census-reported population of about 12,500, living in Windsor Locks will provide a sense of community. A few other notable facts about Windsor Locks include it being the home of the first Christmas tree in 1777 and of The Dexter Corporation, once the oldest company on the New York Stock Exchange, from 1767 until 2000.
If you live in Connecticut, you're probably used to paying high rates for a rental apartment. The great news about living in Windsor Locks is that your apartment search will likely turn up lower rates than you're used to! As in many small towns, there are only a few apartment complexes; one to consider is Countryside Apartments, which offers one- and two-bedroom apartments.
You'll also find privately owned apartments and townhouses for rent in Windsor Locks. Private landlords often have different criteria and regulations than complexes do, so if you choose to go this route be sure that you have all of the relevant details in writing. You'll find private homes, multi-family homes and condos for rent, so if you're looking for pet-friendly apartments or something to accommodate a large family, you'll probably find it in this small town.
There are four main neighborhoods to consider in Windsor Locks.
Furthest to the west is the neighborhood around Schoephoester Road. The WalkScore for this area is a little low, depending on exactly where you choose to live, so you'll probably need a set of wheels for easy navigation. If you're a globetrotter at heart, this is the place to be as this is where Bradley International Airport is located. New Englanders love their morning java, so you'll be glad to know that Dunkin' Donuts is situated conveniently close to the airport. After you get back to town, you can unwind with a few cold ones at Lucky's Pub or stretch your legs at Rainbow Park.
The Town Center encompasses the northern and eastern borders of town. Living along Elm Street will put you in close proximity to Windsor Locks High School, where you can enjoy their largely successful sports teams. Go Raiders! Don't forget to wear your maroon and gold! Stuff yourself silly at Pizza & Wings Time on Main Street and indulge in the Dim Sum at the Moon Star Chinese Restaurant, then burn off some of those calories at Noden-Reed or Southwest Park.
The area in the center of town is sometimes called the Mulberry Street section of Windsor Locks. Here, you'll enjoy a bit more walkability, especially if you live near the intersection of Elm Street. Pick up a grinder (that's New England-speak for sub!) at Second Poquonock Giant Grinder or get a vanilla Coke at Friendly's. The Oliver Elmsworth Homestead is also in this section of town.
Finally, the Old County Road neighborhood is located along the southern border of Windsor Locks. This is a quiet area comprised of mostly curving roads lined with houses and Southern New England greenery. You'll need to get in the car to run most errands if you choose to rent a home in this area, or you could hoof it if you wanted to; the further south you live, however, the more likely it is that you would end up with blisters!
Windsor Locks is in a great location for all kinds of activities. Interstate 91 is at your doorstep and it's a quick run down to New York City, or take it north all the way to the Canadian border!
Aviation buffs will enjoy the New England Air Museum out at Bradley Airport. This museum gets high scores for its collection of vintage aircraft.
After a great meal at your local neighborhood restaurant, head over to the Bradley Bowl for a few games. The alleys have great weekend fun with music and lighted lanes.
Windsor Locks is a cute town filled with possibilities of travel, fresh air and easy access to the Hartford and Springfield metro areas. Take a close look at this community. You're likely to find what you're looking for!
