Tucked along the banks of the Connecticut River, South Glastonbury has long been known for its rich agricultural history. But these days, it’s also buzzing with a small yet dynamic business district that’s giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to stay, shop, sip and savor.
What was once a quiet, rural corner of town has blossomed into a destination filled with beloved restaurants, one-of-a-kind boutiques and a community spirit that feels authentic and distinctly local.
“South Glastonbury has really found its rhythm,” said Jessica Olander, president of the Connecticut River Valley Chamber of Commerce. “There’s a true sense of neighborhood pride here, and it shows in the way the businesses support one another and the community as a whole.”
Where Farms Meet Fashion (and Great Food)
The area still proudly honors its roots with seasonal farmstands, such as E. Draghi & Sons at 80 Main St., and the historic Old Cider Mill, a major local tourist draw in the fall.
It’s also become a vibrant hub of local eateries. From the upscale yet inviting 2Hopewell and local favorite Cotton Hollow Kitchen, to the bold flavors of Sayulita and fresh-brewed community vibes at SoG Coffee, the area has become a culinary hub.
Boutiques like Thread by Thread, which focuses on locally curated fashion, and Village Wool, a cozy haven for yarn lovers, add a creative and personal touch. Personal services and beauty salons are also making inroads in South Glastonbury, including the Lash and Glo Salon, which specializes in eyebrow shaping, eyelash services and waxings, at 875 Main St.
“What’s exciting is how these businesses feed off each other,” said Olander. “They collaborate, they cross-promote—it’s the kind of place where a coffee shop might display art from a neighboring boutique, or where restaurants come together for an event like a ‘Taste of South Glastonbury.’”
Built on History, Driven by Connection
South Glastonbury is believed to be the town’s original settlement, and its historical legacy remains central. The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury ferry, the oldest continuously operating ferry in the U.S., still runs daily, offering not just a scenic ride but a connection to the past that complements the area’s modern vibrancy.
South Glastonbury is home to a variety of local orchards and fruit farms, which give the region its bucolic flare.
The area also is home to another piece of history, Cotton Hollow Preserve, an 80-acre nature preserve featuring forested hiking trails, wildlife and a roaring brook for seasonal fishing.
One of the oldest businesses still operating in the neighborhood is the family-owned gas station and convenience store, Richards Irving Gas, a staple in the community for generations.
“It’s these legacy businesses, alongside the newcomers, that create the balance we work hard to promote,” says Jessica.
Living Where They Serve
Perhaps what makes South Glastonbury’s business scene truly special is how personal it is.
“Most of the business owners here live in South Glastonbury,” said Olander. “They’re not just investing in a storefront—they’re investing in their neighborhood.”
So, whether you’re stopping for a latte, shopping for handmade fashion, enjoying a burger at Cotton Hollow, or hopping on the ferry just because you can, South Glastonbury offers more than charm—it offers a sense of place. Exploring your own town might just lead you to your new favorite spot.
There’s a true sense of neighborhood pride here. Jessica Olander
South Glastonbury has really found its rhythm. Jessica Olander