Planners in search of new U.S. incentive destinations should take a close look at Farmington Valley, a cluster of seven charming small towns just west of Hartford, Conn. Along the winding roads in the lush valley are upscale hotels, many with meeting space; historic sites with Colonial connections; the fascinating New England Air Museum, and recreation ranging from white-water rafting to skiing to antiquing.

Groups can rent the 1901Hill-Stead house and sunken garden in Farmington. It is a museum with many original furnishings plus a collection of artwork by the likes of Monet and Degas.

The luxurious, 160-room Avon Old Farms Hotel in Farmington has 6,000 square feet of meeting space and is part of the Classic Hotels of Connecticut group, which also includes the 100-room Simsbury Inn, the 34-room Simsbury 1820 House, and the 72-room Farmington Inn.