The Ugly Duckling, Walk to Rosemary Choate
Wallingford, CT, US
About this property
The Ugly Duckling is a warm, welcoming Wallingford retreat, walking distance to Choate Rosemary Hall and downtown shops, restaurants & New England charm. Nearby: Gouveia Vineyards & Paradise Hills for wine tasting, Sleeping Giant State Park, and Quinnipiac River trails for hiking & scenic outdoor time. Great for work trips, family visits, school events, or a relaxing getaway — clean, practical, and full of local character.
The Ugly Duckling is a comfortable and well-equipped Wallingford home designed for easy stays and everyday convenience. The property features 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, with one bedroom and the bathroom located on the entry level and the remaining bedrooms upstairs. Please note that there is no basement space.
The renovated kitchen is a standout feature, complete with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, laundry, and granite countertops, along with a variety of appliances for added convenience. The home also includes a separate workspace with a desk, plus a dining table in addition to the eat-at kitchen island, giving guests flexible spaces for working, dining, or gathering.
Outside, guests can enjoy an enclosed yard, a firepit, and parking space, making the property practical and inviting for both short and extended stays. It’s a great fit for guests looking for a clean, functional, and welcoming home base with thoughtful amenities.
If your group is larger, please reach out before booking — we may have another nearby property available that could help accommodate your stay.
Nearby vineyards
Gouveia Vineyards — about 10 to 15 minutes — one of the closest and easiest wine stops from Wallingford.
Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery — about 10 to 15 minutes — another nearby option for tastings and a relaxed visit.
The Southern Connecticut Wine Co. — about 10 to 15 minutes — smaller, local-feeling wine stop.
Tranquillity Vineyard & Winery — about 20 to 30 minutes — a good option if you want a slightly longer but still reasonable drive.
Rosabianca Vineyards — about 25 to 35 minutes — better as a longer outing than a quick stop.
Hawk Ridge Winery — about 30 to 40 minutes — farther out, but still doable for a wine day.
Sharpe Hill Vineyard — about 45 to 60 minutes — best treated as a day trip vineyard.
Nearby nature outings
Sleeping Giant State Park — hiking, scenic views, nature — free for park access — One of the best outdoor destinations near Wallingford, with trails and overlooks.
Quinnipiac River State Park — hiking, walking, nature — free — Good for a more local outdoor walk with river views.
New England National Scenic Trail — hiking, walking, trail — free — The trail runs through Wallingford and is a strong option for hikers.
Miller Memorial Library / Wallingford center walks — walking, downtown stroll, town center — free — Useful for an easy walk around the center of town.
Beseck Lake / nearby pond areas — fishing, nature, quiet outdoor time — free — Good for low-key fishing or a calm outdoor stop.
Doolittle Park — park, walking, family time — free — Local park option for a quick stop or casual recreation.
Lufbery Park — park, walking, open space — free — Another simple, easy-access outdoor spot.
Parker Farms trails / open-space areas — walking, nature — free — Good for a neighborhood-style walk or quieter outdoor time.
Guest note
The vineyards listed above are the best nearby wine options for Wallingford, while the nature spots are better for short outdoor outings, hiking, and low-key family time. Sleeping Giant State Park and Gouveia Vineyards are the easiest standout recommendations to feature in a guest guide.
Canvas & Hearth Properties
Things to Know Before You Book — General Guest Policies
Smoking & Vaping
No smoking or vaping inside the home at any time, including on porches, decks, patios, balconies, and other covered outdoor areas.
Smoking/vaping is permitted only in designated outdoor areas away from doors, windows, and air intakes, where applicable to the property.
Evidence of indoor smoking or vaping will result in a deep-cleaning/deodorizing fee charged to the guest.
Outdoor Spaces & Cleanup
Guests are responsible for cleaning up after themselves when using yards, patios, grills, or firepits.
Dispose of trash, cigarette butts, and food waste in designated bins — please don't leave items on porches, decks, or lawns.
Fully extinguish fires and follow any posted grill or fire-pit safety guidelines.
Noise & Quiet Hours
Quiet hours generally run from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM; please check the listing for property-specific hours.
Amplified music and loud outdoor gatherings are not permitted during quiet hours, out of respect for neighbors.
Occupancy & Guests
Reservations are limited to the number of guests confirmed at booking.
Additional overnight guests or day visitors must be approved by the host in advance.
Parties & Events
Parties, large gatherings, and commercial photo or video shoots are not permitted unless approved in writing beforehand.
Unauthorized parties or events may result in forfeiture of the security deposit and immediate, nonrefundable eviction from the property.
Pets
Pet policies vary by property — please confirm on the individual listing before booking.
Unauthorized pets may result in additional cleaning fees or removal from the property.
Check-In / Check-Out
Standard check-in is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM; exact times are confirmed on each property listing.
Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability and may incur a fee.
Cleanliness & Trash
Guests are asked to leave the property reasonably tidy — dishes washed, trash bagged and placed in the correct bins.
Excessive mess or failure to follow trash/recycling instructions may result in an additional cleaning fee.
Damage & Respect for Property
Guests are responsible for any damage beyond normal wear and tear that occurs during their stay.
Please report damage or maintenance issues as soon as they're noticed so they can be addressed quickly.
Safety
Please take a moment to note emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and any posted safety instructions.
Any exterior security cameras are limited to common/entry areas and disclosed in the listing; none are located inside the home.