The Griswold Inn Celebrates 250 Years Alongside the Nation

Following a successful 250th Anniversary Weekend that brought together residents, visitors, history enthusiasts, and longtime patrons, The Griswold Inn's anniversary celebration continues this Fourth of July as the historic landmark joins the Town of Essex's community-wide Independence Day festivities. This year's celebration carries special significance as both The Griswold Inn and the United States mark their 250th anniversaries in 2026.

Throughout the anniversary weekend, held June 5-7, crowds gathered to enjoy fife and drum performances, live music including sea chanteys, historic wine pairings, special menu offerings, complimentary Gris250 birthday cake, a well-attended afternoon tea and book signing with bestselling author Julie Gerstenblatt, and more. A special “Courses of History” dinner sold out in advance and featured a live performance by actors from Ivoryton Playhouse's production of 1776. Costumed waitstaff, historical reenactors portraying George & Martha Washington, as well as costumed figures depicting Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, and Betsy Ross added to the festive atmosphere.

"This anniversary weekend was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate not only the history of The Griswold Inn, but also the generations of guests, employees, musicians, historians, and community members who have been part of our story," said Joan Paul, who co-owns and operates the Inn with her husband, Doug Paul, along with his brothers Greg and Geoff Paul.

On July 4, the celebration kicks off at 5 p.m. as members of the Essex Sailing Masters of 1812 welcome patrons to The Griswold Inn, with music continuing in the tap room throughout the evening. Food and drink specials available all weekend include the $17.76-branded GRIS250 burger, the inn’s famous 1776 Gris Sausage Trio, Birthday Cake, The Griswold’s Inn’s Revolutionary Ale, Liberty Lemonade, Revolutionary Tea, and a Patriotic Spritzer with Sparkling Rosé bottled exclusively for Gris250.

A variety of activities will take place throughout Essex. Highlights include a special scavenger hunt, a house decorating contest, historical exhibits and the annual Independence Day Boat Parade from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Connecticut River Museum, and ceremonial cannon fire. In addition, the Essex Steam Train is calling all residents of the five towns along the Valley Railroad line – Essex, Deep River, Chester, Haddam, and Old Saybrook – to enjoy complimentary coach seating aboard the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat.

Founded in 1776, The Griswold Inn has welcomed travelers, sailors, local residents, and visitors for 250 years. Sharing its founding year with the United States itself, the Inn's milestone anniversary offers a unique opportunity to reflect on a quarter millennium of American and Connecticut history. Earlier this year, the Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America®, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, in recognition of its historic significance and commitment to preservation.

In celebration of its 250th anniversary, The Griswold Inn has also partnered with the Ivoryton Playhouse to offer The Spirit of 1776: Stay & Play package. Available for select performances from June 25 through July 26, the package includes two preferred-seating tickets to the Playhouse's production of 1776, an overnight stay at The Griswold Inn, continental breakfast for two, and a commemorative keepsake. Weekday packages start at $350, while Friday and Saturday stays begin at $385.

For reservations, additional information about The Spirit of 1776: Stay & Play package, or Fourth of July festivities, visit www.griswoldinn.com or call 860.767.1776.

About The Griswold Inn

A member of Historic Hotels of America, The Griswold Inn, located in the heart of the historic seaport village of Essex, Connecticut, first opened its doors for business in 1776 promising “First Class Accommodations, Fine Food and Spirits.” Two hundred and fifty years later, the Inn still lives up to that promise. It’s at the forefront of historic inns and is one of the most popular destinations in Connecticut. Easily accessible by land and sea, it caters to neighbors, yachtsman and overland travelers from around the world.

For the past 31 years, the Paul family has served as stewards of this historic landmark. During their tenure, the family has guided The Gris through defining moments in modern history, including the tourism downturn following 9/11 and the widespread closures and staffing challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Griswold Inn, 36 Main Street, Essex, Connecticut, 860.767.1776, www.griswoldinn.com