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The Goodspeed Guide

Things To Do Around Goodspeed

Fly or drive in places to eat!

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Lakeside Dans

5 miles from Goodspeed

Lakeside Dans is the fun, laid back lakeside bait & tackle shop and boat/kayak rental on Upper Moodus Reservoir. Wonderful breakfasts to fuel your mornings, lunch and dinner featuring burgers, hot dogs, and BEST OF ALL-Wood Fired Pizza!!!!

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Marker 37

5 Miles from Goodspeed

Moor up out front and the launch will bring you to this sharp but casual dining deck! You will enjoy thoughtfully prepared seafood, crisp salads and a relaxed setting! 

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Lakeside Bar and Grill

11 Miles from Goodspeed

Serving fresh seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and more. With a relaxed atmosphere and a deck right on the water, this is the perfect place to land your seaplane! Just rock up on the dock like a boss and grab a bite! You will enjoy the view and relax the time away with the music! 

Our favorite places to grab a bite nearby.

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Gelston House

0.2 Miles from Goodspeed

Historic riverside restaurant and tavern. Serving a diverse American menu with everything from fresh seafood and hearty steaks to pasta, tacos, inventive handhelds and seasonal specials. They also offer brunch and outdoor seating, making it a great stop for lunch or dinner after a flight. 

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Jimmy's Legacy Grille

0.2 Miles from Goodspeed

Where great food meets small-town charm. Cozy historic spot serving steak, seafood, burgers, and crafty cocktails. 

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PATTACONK

5 Miles from Goodspeed

A classic tavern style restaurant featuring pub favorites like burgers, wings, nachos, fish & chips, sandwiches, and hearty entrees, paired with a good beer on draft or cocktail. A great spot for lunch, dinner, or a laid-back night out.

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The Brushmill By The Waterfall

6 Miles from Goodspeed

Charming new American restaurant set right beside a scenic waterfall on the Pattaconk Creek. Contemporary American cuisine like steak, seafood, salad with an excellent wine list and hand crafted cocktails.

Good places to land after a long day.

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Goodspeed Camping

At Goodspeed

Camping at Goodspeed offers a comfortable and unique way to experience the airfield and the Connecticut River. The site features four 10 x10 tent platforms that provide a level, dry place to set up your tent, making it easy to settle in after a day of flying or exploring the area. Aviators can gather around the fire pit area where they will have access to a firewood rack stocked with split wood, along with a park-style BBQ grill complete with charcoal and grilling tools for an easy riverside cookout. 

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Postcard Cabins

3 Miles from Goodspeed

Modern tiny cabins designed for a comfortable escape into nature. Each cabin features large picture windows, a cozy bed, private bathroom with a hot shower, a small kitchenette, heat and air conditioning and an outdoor fire pit with seating. Tucked into the woods that are just a short drive from the river, it's an easy place to unwind and enjoy the quiet beauty. Contact us to receive a discounted rate. 

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Gelston House

0.2 Miles from Goodspeed

Not only is the Gelston House a riverside restaurant - it also offers cozy, comfortable lodging for travelers looking to stay in the heart of East Haddam. Each guest room is thoughtfully appointed with classic New England charm, modern amenities, and views of the Connecticut River. We will connect you for preferred rates.

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Boardman House Inn

0.3 Miles from Goodspeed

A charming historic inn located in the heart of Essex. With elegantly appointed rooms, modern amenities, and warm New England hospitality, it offers a cozy home base for exploring the Connecticut River Valley. Guests can enjoy easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Keeping locals properly caffeinated.

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Higher Grounds

0.4 miles from Goodspeed

Higher Grounds is an aviator favorite! Walk up, talk aviation with each other and be sure to include Chris if hes there!!  The food lovingly prepared by Kim and all is always the freshest and always so well cooked!!! mention you flew in... 

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Two Wrasslin' Cats Accord

1.6 Miles from Goodspeed

A one-of-a kind cafe with wonderful brewed coffee, and locally baked treats. The COFFEE CAKE is worth the pedal!! The cafe shares its space with resident cats who lounge in a separate room, adding to the cafes playful and unique personality. 

Fun activities nearby!

Things to do East Haddam

Lady Kate River Cruise

.8 Miles from Goodspeed

Experience the Connecticut River aboard the Lady Kate. Departing from and returning to Eagle Landing State Park, the Lady Kate river cruise offers a relaxing and scenic experience of the Connecticut River, featuring stunning river views, spacious and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, and a variety of themed and seasonal cruises for all ages. Enjoy a memorable ride along the river, with plenty to see and experience along the way.

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The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

11 Miles from Goodspeed

From Essex Station a 12-mile, narrated round-trip into the heart of the unspoiled Connecticut River Valley. The steam locomotive pulls vintage coaches through the quintessential New England towns of Deep River and Chester on to the end of the line. You will likely hear the echoes of a past era and see the steam bellow through the valley as you are tying down on the ramp! 

Other services on our field.

42B Goodspeed Airport and Seaplane Base

Goodspeed Airport

The official Goodspeed Airport website. 

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Goodspeed Flying Service

Specializing in aircraft sales, ferry services, and advanced tailwheel instruction.

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Been Flyin

Specializing in flight training at the private, instrument, and commercial level.

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