Public Locations for Painting
This is a list of public locations that are wonderful for plein air work. Some are too small for the organized LAA painting group, but are great places to go by yourself or with a friend to sketch or paint. If you know another public location that you can add to this list of favorites, please email Jocelyn at jocelyn@lymeartassociation.org and we’ll update this list on a regular basis.
Deep River
Deep River Landing
161 River Street, Deep River
This park is the end of the line for the Essex Steam Train, where passengers then embark on a river cruise. Views of a gazebo, a small island, the railroad and its passengers, the Lace Factory building, and (of course) the Connecticut River.
Essex
Riverview Cemetery
North Main Street, Essex
Park at the end. There is a small sitting area with benches. Views of North Cove (Essex) and a windmill.
Essex Boat Launch
Go north on North Main (starts at the roundabout by Talbots), turn right one block up on Bushnell Street. The entrance to the boat ramp area is just past Teal Street on the left.
Racks of stored boats, small sitting area on a platform, moored small sailboats, views of North Cove.
Town Green
12 Main Street, Essex
As you are going down Main Street, park behind the Post Office for easy access to the park. Views of the shops, gazebo, people picnicking, Middle Cove and a marina.
Old Lyme
Old Lyme Boat Launch
Rt 156 and the Lieutenant River
Old Lyme, CT
This small boat launch is just south of Ferry Road. It is great for sketching people fishing and launching kayaks and canoes. The tides and time of day greatly impact the scenes of the bridge to the east and marshes to the south and west.
Duck River Cemetery
3 Bittersweet Lane, Old Lyme
Located about a half-mile from the Old Lyme Congregational Church on the left. Bear to the right for a bridge over the Duck River.
Old Lyme Congregational Church
2 Ferry Road, Old Lyme
Classic New England church.
Elizabeth Karter Watch Rock Preserve
45 Shore Rd, Old Lyme
Short walk to the beach. Better on days with a bit of a breeze.
Ferry Landing State Park
398 Ferry Road, Old Lyme
Easy access and views of the Railroad Bridge, the river. A boardwalk runs south along the river, under the RR bridge, and has an elevated platform overlooking thatch beds and salt marshes.