When it comes to quaint and quiet, Connecticut towns have some of the best options for people looking to experience life in a much more laid back fashion. It's not just small populations that can set a town apart from the rest. These are full of foliage, small, but well utilized main streets, and tons of friendly faces. For a state with few counties, there sure are a lot of towns! But these embody the spirit of small town living and close knit community.

1. Chester

The historic landmark of the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, the second-oldest continuously operating ferry service in Connecticut, is right here in this beautifully colorful town. And 60 Minutes anchor Morley Safer is from here!

2. Redding

Named for Reading in Berkshire, England, this town has a lot of American history and features a number of historic places. You can go here to see older homes with more unique features and details than in other towns.

3. Canton

This town on the Farmington River has a strong history as the host of one of the first axe factories in the world. The CDP of Collinsville, a small factory town within Canton, gets some hype as well. This area is way cool!

4. Essex

This town, and especially its village of Ivoryton, has won the heart of folks seeking New England charm. one of the few American towns to ever be attacked by a foreign power, it has a history for holding on to its strong community values and small town decor.

5. Litchfield

This town was the leading cultural center of Northwestern Connecticut in the early 19th century. Ethan Allen is just one of many famous people lucky enough to call this their hometown.

6. Colchester

Home to Golden Hill Paugussett Indian Nation, this town holds not only a rich Native-American history, but also happens to be one of the fastest growing towns in Connecticut. The town center is considered a historic place as well.

7. Guilford

By comparison, this coastal town is pretty big, but it harbors the same love of simple living as its much smaller counterparts. With a huge collection of homes and buildings from centuries past, this town was made for colonial history buffs.

8. Bridgewater

This town is so old school that it remained dry until 2014! But I can't blame them. Who needs alcohol when you have such ease of access to outdoors, antiques, and the Burnham Library?

9. Westbrook

This shoreline town encompasses three uninhabited islands in the Long Island Sound and unparalleled beaches. This is likely what inspired resident David Bushnell to build the first submarine ever used in combat back in 1775.

10. Weston

There's a reason so many notable people come here! This town has a lot of dedicated land for preserves and sports use, likely because of its concentration on family values and love of quiet.

11. Columbia

Formerly a part of Lebanon, this town was incorporated in May, 1804. Education in this town is stellar, with high school students having the choice to attend one of four schools.

12. Roxbury

Most often associated with Mine Hill, this mining town's abundance of granite made feats like Grand Central Terminal in New York come to life. And with three roads on the List of Connecticut State Scenic Highways, why not at least drive through it?

13. Old Lyme

This town's main street is a historic district, as well as a popular summer destination for nutmeggers and visitors alike. The seaside is so spectacular here that folks continue to return for decades. Plus the Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts is here!

14. Washington

This commuter town has strong ties to the big city and is Washington is known for its picturesque countryside, historic architecture, and active appreciation for the arts. They also have several bodies of water, including a lake, swamp, and pond.

15. Ashford

As a member of the quiet corner, you can count on a small population and a big love for the outdoors. In fact, it's home to both the largest boy scout camp in Connecticut and the Yale-Myers Forest.

If you'd had a chance to spend time in one of these splendid Connecticut towns, tell us about it!