A visit to Grace Farms + New Canaan, CT
Getting to
Grace Farms
Grace Farms has been open for the public to enjoy since October of 2015. It’s located in the town of New Canaan, Connecticut, nearly equidistant from Manhattan and New Haven, Connecticut. It is approximately 45 miles from both cities and Metro-North service is available to New Canaan with a transfer in Stamford, CT. From the New Canaan Station you would need to take a taxi or Uber, which are readily available.
Exactly what Grace Farms is and how it is open free to the public remains a bit of a mystery, but to have something so amazing in my own backyard to go for a quiet place to work, a walk around the 80-acre property, or to meet a friend for a cup of coffee at the Commons is really quite a luxury. It draws visitors from all over the world for its sheer beauty. The buildings and the property really are one with nature. Read more about SANAA Architects here. Read more about Grace Farms initiatives here.
The View from
the Sanctuary at Grace Farms in
New Canaan, Connecticut.
Components of the River Building
Sanctuary
Library
Commons
Pavilion
Court
Barn
Library
Commons
Pavilion
Court
Barn
On my visit last week I had the chance to talk with the Director of Hospitality, Frank Kwei. Given the elusive nature of Grace Farms, I had to ask him a few questions. For one, the buildings wind down through a sliver of of the property, but is it okay to veer off the path? At the Barn, is it okay to walk through the garden? His answer was yes!
Reading further on the website it says, “Grace Farms is gift of open space to the community, without membership or access fees.” There are a few common sense rules, but for the most part, Grace Farms is a place to enjoy nature and architecture as they blend together.
I would encourage anyone who is driving through Fairfield County, CT, or is looking for a day trip from the city, to plan a visit to Grace Farms. It’s truly a masterpiece and one of my favorite places to visit! The fact that it’s practically in my backyard is simply amazing!
Grace Farms is open year-round Tuesday through Saturday from 10am – 6pm and on Sunday from 12 noon to 6pm. (Closed on Monday). For more information or to plan your visit, go here and always check for closures.
You may also like this post about a place to stay in the area.
