Eagle Landing State Park: A Connecticut River Retreat
Discover scenic beauty and abundant wildlife at this tranquil Connecticut River park, perfect for birdwatching, picnics, and river excursions.
Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam, CT, offers a scenic 16-acre escape along the Connecticut River. Enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and river excursions with views of the Goodspeed Opera House and the East Haddam Swing Bridge.
A brief summary to Eagle Landing State Park
- 14 Little Meadow Rd, Haddam, Connecticut, 06438, US
- +1860-424-3000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during January or February for the best chance to see bald eagles.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and scenic viewing.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, taking advantage of the park's picnic tables and open grassy areas.
- Check for seasonal events or cruises departing from the park's waterfront.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the park's trails.
Getting There
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Driving
From the west, take Route 9 to Exit 7 (Route 82 East). Follow Route 82 for 3.2 miles to the park entrance, located on the right after the railroad tracks and before the swing bridge. From the east, cross the Connecticut River on Route 82 over the swing bridge. The park entrance will be on the left before the train tracks. Parking is available at the park. There are no parking or entrance fees for vehicles registered in Connecticut.
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Public Transport
To reach Eagle Landing State Park via public transportation from Gillette Castle State Park, take a taxi or rideshare to the nearest CT Transit bus stop on CT-82. Catch a CT Transit bus towards Haddam, checking the schedule in advance due to limited service. From the bus stop at CT-154 and Little Meadow Rd in Haddam, walk south on CT-154, then turn right onto Little Meadow Rd to reach the park; this is approximately a 20-minute walk. Bus fares vary; check the CT Transit website for current rates.
Discover more about Eagle Landing State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
East Haddam Historical Society
2.8 km
Explore East Haddam's rich history at the East Haddam Historical Society, where heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Hadlyme Ferry Historic District
4.6 km
Explore the charm of the Hadlyme Ferry Historic District, the second oldest ferry in Connecticut, nestled in scenic landscapes along the Connecticut River.
Thankful Arnold House
5.5 km
Discover the rich history of the Thankful Arnold House in Haddam, Connecticut, a charming non-profit attraction offering insights into early American life.
Deep River Historical Society
8.1 km
Explore the rich history of Deep River, Connecticut at the Deep River Historical Society, where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Pratt House Museum - Essex Historical Society
12.2 km
Explore the Pratt House Museum in Essex, CT, and uncover the fascinating stories of local history and heritage in a charming historical setting.
Millers Pond State Park
14.2 km
Explore Millers Pond State Park in Durham, CT - a serene escape for nature lovers offering hiking, fishing, and picturesque landscapes.
The Chatham Historical Society
14.6 km
Explore the Chatham Historical Society in East Hampton, CT, where local history comes alive through fascinating exhibits and engaging programs.
Saint Clements Castle & Marina
14.7 km
Explore the elegance of Saint Clements Castle & Marina, a historic venue blending luxury, beauty, and nature in Portland, Connecticut.
Florence Griswold Museum
18.0 km
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Ferry Landing State Park
18.3 km
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Middlesex County Historical Society
19.5 km
Discover the captivating stories and rich heritage of Middlesex County at the historical society, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
General William Hart House
19.6 km
Explore Old Saybrook's colonial past at the General William Hart House, a captivating local history museum with stunning grounds and engaging exhibits.
Clinton Village Historic District
19.7 km
Explore the charming Clinton Village Historic District, a hidden gem in Connecticut filled with rich history, antique shops, and scenic architecture.
Edward Augustus Russell House
20.0 km
Discover the Edward Augustus Russell House in Middletown, CT - a stunning historical landmark showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
Connecticut Steam Brownstone Memorial
20.1 km
Discover the rich history of Portland, Connecticut, at the Connecticut Steam Brownstone Memorial, a stunning homage to 19th-century quarrying and steam technology.
Unmissable attractions to see
East Haddam Swing Bridge
0.2 km
Experience the historic East Haddam Swing Bridge, a scenic marvel offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into early 20th-century engineering.
Brainard Homestead State Park
1.9 km
Discover a tranquil escape at Brainard Homestead State Park in East Haddam, CT, offering open space, bird watching, and a peaceful connection with nature.
Chapman Pond Preserve
2.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Chapman Pond Preserve, a nature lover's haven in East Haddam, Connecticut, offering scenic trails and stunning wildlife views.
Friends Of Gillette Castle
3.6 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Gillette Castle, a unique blend of history and natural beauty perched over the scenic Connecticut River.
Gillette Castle State Park
4.3 km
Experience the magic of Gillette Castle State Park, where history, architecture, and nature unite in a breathtaking setting.
Gillette Castle
4.3 km
Explore the eccentric castle of William Gillette, the famed Sherlock Holmes actor, with stunning views of the Connecticut River.
Gillette Castle Visitor Center
4.3 km
Explore the life and legacy of William Gillette at the gateway to his castle, offering historical insights and visitor amenities.
Cockaponset State Forest
4.8 km
Explore Connecticut's vast wilderness: hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures await in Cockaponset State Forest.
Haddam Meadows State Park
5.1 km
Explore scenic riverfront landscapes, enjoy boating and fishing, and discover the rich history of Haddam Meadows State Park in Connecticut.
Machimoodus State Park
5.5 km
Discover scenic trails, river views, and the history of 'Moodus Noises' at this tranquil Connecticut state park.
Sunrise State Park
6.0 km
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Haddam Island State Park
6.5 km
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Deep River Landing
7.0 km
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Devil's Hopyard State Park
10.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife at Devil's Hopyard State Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Connecticut.
Chapman Falls
10.9 km
Experience the beauty and legend of Chapman Falls, a stunning 60-foot waterfall nestled in the scenic Devil's Hopyard State Park in East Haddam, CT.
Essential places to dine
Castle Cuisine
4.3 km
Experience culinary delight at Castle Cuisine in East Haddam – where local flavors meet scenic views.
River Tavern
5.4 km
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Marker 37
5.6 km
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Pica Chica Tacos
19.9 km
Experience vibrant Mexican flavors at Pica Chica Tacos in Clinton, CT - where every bite tells a delicious story.
Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar
19.9 km
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Luce Restaurant
20.0 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Luce Restaurant in Middletown - where traditional flavors meet local charm.
McDonald's
20.1 km
Enjoy classic fast food at McDonald's in Clinton - perfect for travelers seeking quick meals at affordable prices.
Cohen's Bagel Company
20.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of New York-style bagels at Cohen's Bagel Company in Madison, Connecticut—your perfect breakfast spot!
Dunkin'
20.8 km
Discover Dunkin' in Madison – Your go-to spot for coffee, bagels, and donuts amidst Connecticut's charm.
Clam Castle
20.9 km
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Lenny & Joe's
20.9 km
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Donahue's Madison Beach Grille
20.9 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Donahue's Madison Beach Grille in picturesque Madison, CT—where every meal is a seaside celebration.
Fire at the Ridge
23.4 km
Discover Fire at the Ridge: Where Delicious American Cuisine Meets Live Music in Middlefield, CT.
The Place Restaurant
25.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at The Place Restaurant in Guilford - where coastal flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Taino Smokehouse Prime
25.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Goodspeed's Station Country Store
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Goodspeed's Station Country Store in Haddam, Connecticut—a must-visit for every traveler.
Sweet & Savory
0.5 km
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Swingbridge Fine Wine & Spirits
0.6 km
Experience the finest wines, local beers, and premium spirits at Swingbridge Fine Wine & Spirits in East Haddam, Connecticut.
River Valley Provisions
0.6 km
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Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe
2.4 km
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The Space Chester
5.3 km
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Hadlyme Country Market
6.2 km
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Pet's Choice
7.5 km
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Celebrations
7.5 km
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Higganum Village Market
9.3 km
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Gather Again
11.5 km
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Vintage Home Decor
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Old Beautiful Antiques & Art
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The RiverLane
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Connecticut River Artisans
12.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gelston House
0.3 km
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Higher Grounds at 32 Main
0.7 km
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Morina Restaurant
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Cactus Bistro, Bar, and Grill
2.4 km
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Yankee Cider Company
2.8 km
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Rustica Ristorante
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Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille
5.4 km
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The Village Bistro
5.4 km
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The Anchor
5.4 km
Experience the culinary delights of Chester, Connecticut, at The Anchor, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Brushmill by the Waterfall
5.6 km
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Tavern On The Hill
6.2 km
Discover the culinary delights and stunning views at Tavern On The Hill, a hidden gem in Moodus, Connecticut.
Landing & Main
6.9 km
Experience local flavors at Landing & Main, a charming restaurant in Deep River, Connecticut, perfect for all food enthusiasts.
Whistle Stop Cafe
7.1 km
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Calamari's Tavern
7.1 km
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Corvo Bar and Grill
7.4 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Corvo Bar and Grill in Moodus, Connecticut, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary artistry.
