Welcome to Killingly, Connecticut — a peaceful town in Windham County nestled in the state’s “Quiet Corner.” Whether you’re running errands, grabbing lunch, or spending a day exploring, this local guide has you covered with the best places to eat, shop, and unwind in Killingly, CT (plus where to find your cannabis dispensary in town). From classic diners to hiking trails and even a recreational dispensary, read on for tips to make the most of your visit to Killingly.
Where to Eat in Killingly, CT
Hungry in Killingly? You’re in luck. The local dining scene offers something for everyone, from retro diner vibes to international flavors:
Zip’s Diner – A legendary stainless-steel dining car serving hearty meals since 1954. Located just off I-395 (exit 93), Zip’s is the go-to spot for all-day breakfast and classic comfort food in a friendly, throwback atmosphere.
Railside Tavern – A popular local restaurant and bar featuring a wide menu of fresh American fare. They offer daily specials, kids’ options, and a full bar – truly something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a burger and craft beer in Dayville.
Heirloom Food Company – An organic juice bar and café (in a charming house on a hill) that’s perfect for a healthy lunch. Known for farm-fresh ingredients and vegan-friendly options, Heirloom is a must-visit for smoothies, salads, and sandwiches made with love in downtown Danielson.
Emerald Buddha – Craving something different? This unique spot offers Thai hotpot and African cuisine in one menu. Located at 150 Main Street in Danielson, Emerald Buddha serves up bold flavors – from spicy Thai curries to West African specialties – making it a true hidden gem for the adventurous eater.
Pro tip: Searching for “best breakfast in Killingly” or “diner near me” will likely lead you straight to Zip’s Diner and other local favorites. And if you’re in the mood for international eats, a quick Google of “Thai food Killingly” will point you to Emerald Buddha – thank us later!
Where to Shop in Killingly
From big-name retailers to one-of-a-kind local shops, Killingly has plenty of shopping options:
Target & Stop & Shop – Your one-stop shops for everything from groceries to general merchandise. Target (at Killingly Commons) and Stop & Shop are anchor stores in town, making it easy to stock up on essentials in one trip.
Lowe’s & Harbor Freight Tools – Tackling a home improvement project? Lowe’s Home Improvement has you covered for appliances, hardware, and gardening needs, while Harbor Freight (nearby) is great for affordable tools and equipment.
Kohl’s – A department store staple at 1050 North Main Street, perfect for clothing, shoes, and home goods. Kohl’s is a major tenant of the Killingly shopping center, so you can update your wardrobe or hunt for deals just steps away from our dispensary.
Old Navy & T.J. Maxx – For fashionistas and bargain hunters, Old Navy offers trendy apparel for the family, and T.J. Maxx is ideal for scoring deals on brand-name clothing and home décor. Both are located in the local retail hubs (Killingly Commons/Plaza), making clothes shopping convenient.
Michaels & Staples – Feeling crafty or need office supplies? Michaels provides arts and crafts supplies and seasonal décor, while Staples (opened in 2019 at Killingly Commons) is there for your office essentials and printing needs.
Petco – Don’t forget your furry friends! Petco is nearby for pet food, toys, and grooming supplies (a must-visit if you’ve been Googling “pet store near me” while in Dayville).
CVS & Walgreens – For pharmacy pickups and everyday health needs, you have options. There’s a CVS Pharmacy inside Target’s plaza and a Walgreens right on North Main Street in Dayville, so you’re never far from prescriptions or toiletries.
Downtown Danielson Shops – Be sure to swing by Main Street in Danielson (the historic downtown of Killingly) for unique local businesses. You’ll find boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops that give Killingly its small-town charm – a nice contrast to the big-box stores.
All of these shopping spots are within a short drive (and many within walking distance) of Higher Collective’s Killingly store—making it easy to explore and run errands before or after your visit. In fact, the Killingly Plaza is a vibrant community hub featuring popular retailers like Kohl’s, Target, Lowe’s, Michaels, plus quick bites like McDonald’s and a Chinese restaurant. Whatever you need, chances are you’ll find it nearby – all while being just around the corner from your local cannabis dispensary.
Things to Do in Killingly, CT
Killingly might be small, but it’s full of character and activities, especially for nature lovers and those looking to relax:
Old Furnace State Park (Ross’ Cliffs) – Enjoy a short but invigorating hike at Old Furnace State Park, which rewards you with a stunning overlook view from Ross’ Cliffs. This 4-mile trail loops past serene ponds and through quiet forests. It’s a favorite local spot for a quick nature escape and panoramic photo ops over the valley.
Quinebaug Lake State Park – Also known as Wauregan Reservoir Scenic Reserve, this peaceful lake area is perfect for fishing, kayaking, or a waterside picnic. With calm waters surrounded by greenery, Quinebaug Lake offers a tranquil setting to paddle or cast a line and enjoy the outdoors.
Logee’s Greenhouses – Calling all plant lovers! Logee’s is a world-renowned family-run greenhouse in Killingly, famed for its exotic tropical plants and flowers. It’s one of the most popular attractions in town – wander through lush glasshouses filled with citrus trees, rare orchids, and more. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, it’s a unique, must-see experience (and you can take home a living souvenir!).
Black Pond Brews – Check out Killingly’s own craft brewery and taproom, located at 1001 Hartford Pike in Dayville. Black Pond Brews offers an ever-changing lineup of small-batch beers and a cozy taproom vibe. Grab a pint (the peanut butter coffee stout is a local hit) and some pub snacks – it’s a great place to chill with friends. (21+ only, of course!)
Danielson Farmers Market – If you’re visiting on a summer Saturday morning, stop by the farmers market in the Killingly Public Library parking lot. This vibrant market offers a wide selection of fresh, locally sourced produce and goods – from just-picked veggies and fruits to local honey, baked treats, and handmade crafts. It’s an excellent way to meet the community and support local farmers.
Skydiving at Danielson Airport – Feeling adventurous? Skydive Danielson operates out of the local municipal airport, offering tandem skydiving experiences for thrill-seekers. You can actually take to the skies and parachute over the Quiet Corner’s scenic landscape. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other – and yes, you’ll literally see all of Killingly (and beyond) from up there!
Whether you’re searching for “hiking near me” or looking to sip a local brew, Killingly has a little something for everyone. Many of these activities are just a short ride from the main shopping area and Higher Collective, so you can plan a full day of fun around town.
Banking and Essentials
Need to handle some life admin while you’re in town? Killingly has you covered with a number of banks and essential services:
bankHometown – A true community bank located at 3 Central Street in downtown Danielson. Known for its friendly service, bankHometown has deep local roots (formerly known as Danielson Federal before merging) and offers personal and business banking with a smile.
Jewett City Savings Bank – Another local favorite, with a convenient branch on Hartford Pike in Dayville. This community bank is great for personal banking, loans, and ATM needs, and it’s right in the shopping district for easy access.
KeyBank & Bank of America – If you prefer big-name banks, you’re in luck. KeyBank (203 Main Street) and Bank of America (304 Main Street) both have branches in Killingly’s downtown, so whether you need an ATM, a quick consultation, or to cash a check, you’ll find full-service banking available on Main Street.
Bonus: Not a bank, but worth noting – the Killingly Plaza area includes useful services like a UPS package drop-off, plus hair and nail salons. So if you’ve been googling “UPS near me” or need a quick trim or manicure, you can take care of those errands while you’re out and about. In short, from banks to basic services, Killingly makes it easy to get your to-dos done.
Your Local Dispensary: Higher Collective Killingly
If you’re 21+ and curious about Connecticut’s cannabis scene, don’t leave town without stopping by Higher Collective Killingly – your friendly recreational cannabis dispensary right here in Dayville. As one of the premier adult-use cannabis dispensaries in Connecticut, we offer a welcoming space to explore the state’s best products — no medical card needed. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned connoisseur, our expert budtenders are here to guide you through our menu and help you find what suits you best.
Higher Collective Killingly is open daily and conveniently located just off I-395 (1078 North Main St, next to Kohl’s in the Killingly Plaza), so it’s easy to swing by while you’re out shopping or grabbing a bite. We pride ourselves on a comfortable, inclusive atmosphere where questions are encouraged and everyone 21+ is welcome. You can even find us on Leafly to browse our menu and read reviews ahead of time. We also run ongoing promotions and special deals (holiday sales, flash discounts, etc.) – the best way to keep track is to sign up for our email and text alerts so you never miss a great deal on your favorite products.
Whether you’re looking for a quick pre-roll, some locally-grown flower, tasty edibles, or the latest vape carts, we’ve got you covered. Our staff stays up-to-date on all things Connecticut cannabis, so feel free to ask for recommendations or information on the latest strains and products. We strive to make every visit fun, informative, and convenient for you.
Final Thoughts
From shopping and banking to eating, exploring, and elevating – Killingly, CT offers a little something for everyone. Keep this guide handy and share it with a friend next time they ask, “What’s good in Killingly?” Whether you’re enjoying a meal at a local diner, hiking to a scenic overlook, or running errands at Killingly Commons, you’ll feel the warm, small-town welcome that this community is known for.
And if you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop in and say hi at Higher Collective Killingly — we’re always happy to see you and help you stay lifted. Enjoy your time in Killingly!
