From the gorgeous inns to the idyllic state parks, East Haddam is loaded with charm. One of the most remarkable places in this small town dates all the way back to 1877. Yes, we’re talking about Goodspeed Opera House, and it definitely belongs on your bucket list. It’s impossible not to fall in love with this stunning historic building in Connecticut.

The Goodspeed Opera House sits along the glistening waters of the Connecticut River.
Carol M. Highsmith/Wikimedia Commons
On sunny days, it's not uncommon to see boats whizzing along the water and pedestrians strolling by the docks.
Local merchant William Goodspeed finished building the theater in 1877.
Arnold33/Wikimedia Commons
Despite its name, Goodspeed Opera House never produced operatic works. When it first opened, people came from all around to watch plays like Charles II.
The building wasn't always this magnificent, though.
Carol M. Highsmith/Wikimedia Commons
After William Goodspeed passed away, the theater fell into disrepair. It was used for a wide variety of different things, including a World War I militia base, general store, and storage facility.
The state of Connecticut eventually condemned the building, and a group of passionate thespians swooped in to save it. In 1959, Goodspeed Musicals was born.
Joel N. Ale/Google Images
And they got it for a deal! The state of Connecticut sold the building to Goodspeed Musicals for $1 -- but there was a catch. The organization had to raise enough money to restore and maintain the theater.

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The first performance of Oh, Lady! Lady! dazzled local audiences, and Goodspeed Musicals has been an East Haddam staple ever since.
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Of course, it's not just the productions that are enchanting.
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The theater retains its elegant and historic charm.
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Goodspeed Musicals has the power to take you to another land. And that's exactly what good theatre should do.
The theater has garnered immense praise, and it's easy to see why.
Carol M. Highsmith/Wikimedia Commons
Goodspeed Musicals has won two special Tony awards -- one for outstanding contributions to American Musicals and another for outstanding achievement by a regional theater.
This is just one more thing to love about East Haddam.
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To learn more about Goodspeed Musical's upcoming season, visit their website here.

Have you ever seen a show at Goodspeed Opera House? What’s your favorite place in East Haddam? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

For more fascinating historic destinations in Connecticut, pay a visit to these 10 incredible landmarks.

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Featured Addresses
Goodspeed Opera House, 6 Main St, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA