Heublein Tower

Heublein Tower is an observation tower rising above Talcott Mountain with a viewing platform near its top. From this vantage point, visitors can see the Hartford skyline and the Farmington River Valley stretching across the landscape.

A food industry entrepreneur named Gilbert Heublein had this structure built in 1914 as a summer residence on the mountain. Its construction showcased technical innovations from that era.

The tower received multiple pronunciations over time, from the German HOY-blyne to the American HY-blyne, reflecting its cultural evolution in Connecticut.

Getting to the viewing platform requires climbing about 120 steps, which involves moderate physical effort on the way up. A short trail from the Route 185 parking area provides the main access to reach the base of the structure.

Inside the tower is one of the earliest residential elevators ever used in Connecticut. This detail reveals how the structure brought urban conveniences to a mountain retreat.

Location: Connecticut

Location: Simsbury

Inception: 1914

Architects: Smith & Bassette

Address: 1 Summit Drive, Simsbury, CT 06070

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00-12:00,13:00-16:00

GPS coordinates: 41.82588,-72.79850

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:28