New Haven, Connecticut, is a vibrant and exciting city full of diverse culinary delights, cultural attractions and outdoor activities that will keep your family busy all summer. The city is an eclectic mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, allowing it to hold its own against any other city in New England. From historic sites to trendy shops, there are plenty of the best things to do in New Haven that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're looking for romantic walks around Yale University or the famous Long Wharf pier, we have you covered with all the must-do places and experiences in this pocket size part of Hartford County.

Things To Do In New Haven, CT

Visit Yale University

Yale University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world and a must-see while you're in New Haven. Take a guided tour or, for the brave souls among us, take their self-guided tour with easily accessible maps and directions around campus.

Tour East Rock Park

This lovely park is ideal for walking, running, or a stroll. You can get an amazing view of New Haven and its surrounding areas from the top of East Rock. Plus, there are plenty of trails to explore and cultural attractions like The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, built in 1887 to commemorate the Civil War heroes from Connecticut.

Eat at the Famous Frank Pepe's Pizza

Still located in its original location, this New Haven institution is widely considered one of New England's best pizzerias. Try their famous white clam pizza or a classic like a pepperoni. Either way, it will not disappoint!

New Haven Museum

This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of New Haven and its surrounding areas. It features interactive exhibits, rotating art collections, and historical artifacts providing an engaging view of the city's past.

Visit Lighthouse Point Park

Lighthouse Point Park is a great spot for relaxing or participating in fun outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the scenery. The park also features beach access, beautiful views of Long Island Sound, and many picnic spots perfect for enjoying lunch with family and friends.

Attend a Performance at Shubert Theatre

The Shubert Theater has been one of Connecticut's premier performing arts venues since 1924, known as the New Haven Opera House. It has been restored to its former glory and is home to various performances, including musicals, plays, stand-up comedy shows, and more.

Explore East Shore Park

This park covers over 70 acres of prime waterfront real estate with beach access, an observation tower, a boat launch ramp, and miles of trails for biking and walking. Spend an afternoon exploring this beautiful natural area while taking in some stunning views of Long Island Sound.

Shubert Theater

The world-renowned Shubert Theater has been a cultural center in New Haven since its opening in 1924. Initially known as the New Haven Opera House, the theater is subsidized by the Shubert Foundation and provides theatergoers with high-quality performances from acclaimed actors and directors. From Broadway musicals to classic plays, this historic venue has something for everyone.

Yale Center for British Art

The Yale Center for British Art is an art museum located on the campus of Yale University. It features a vast collection of works from the late Middle Ages to the present from British artists. The center also houses a library and special exhibitions throughout the year.

Visit Long Wharf Pier

Long Wharf Pier is one of the longest public piers in New England and provides visitors with stunning views of downtown New Haven and Long Island Sound. Stroll down its length or grab some lunch at one of the many nearby eateries. There's also plenty of opportunity to watch or take in the city skyline.

Explore Downtown New Haven

Downtown New Haven has great shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The area also houses numerous historic sites, such as the Center Church on the Green, City Hall, and some of Yale's oldest buildings. Spend an afternoon exploring this vibrant part of town before grabbing dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

Knights of Columbus Museum

The Knights of Columbus Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the organization's legacy. The museum features artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of this Catholic fraternal order from its founding in 1882 until today. It's a great place to learn more about New Haven's unique history.

Little Italy

Little Italy is a vibrant community located in the heart of New Haven. It's known for its excellent cuisine and friendly atmosphere, with restaurants ranging from old-school Italian to modern fusion. The area also has plenty of boutiques, cafes, and markets, making it an ideal spot for a stroll or serious shopping.

Lighthouse Point Park

This park is located on the shore of Long Island Sound and offers stunning water views. It's a great spot for picnics, fishing, walking, or biking along its trails, and beach access is available at certain times of the year. The park also features an observation tower that provides panoramic views of downtown New Haven.

East Rock Park

On the east side of New Haven, East Rock Park provides breathtaking views of the metropolitan skyline. Along with several hiking, biking, and running trails, East Rock has an observation tower that offers sweeping vistas. Monuments honouring Connecticut-born Civil War warriors are also located throughout the park.

New Haven Green

The New Haven Green is an 8-acre park in the heart of downtown. It's a great place for people-watching or taking in some of the city's historic architecture. The green also serves as the center for festivals and events throughout the year, including concerts, movies and parades.

Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library

This library is located on the campus of Yale University and houses over 400,000 rare books and manuscripts. It's open to the public and offers guided tours that provide an in-depth look at its collections. The library also hosts a variety of lectures throughout the year, making it one of the city's most engaging cultural attractions.

Peabody Museum of Natural History

The Peabody Museum of Natural History is located on the Yale Campus and features anthropology, geology, and biodiversity exhibits. The museum also has an interactive Discovery Room that allows visitors to get up close with specimens from its vast collections. Be sure to check out the live animal displays during your visit.

FAQS

How expensive is New Haven?

New Haven is an affordable place to live, with the cost of living slightly lower than the national average. The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in New Haven is around $1,250 monthly.

What is New Haven's most beautiful street?

New Haven has many beautiful streets, but one of the most picturesque is Church Street. This historic street runs through downtown and features charming homes and businesses.

Is New Haven a big city?

New Haven is a small city with just over 130,000 people. It's the second-largest city in Connecticut and the sixth-largest city in New England.

Conclusion

savoring the mouth-watering eats to taking in the rich cultural heritage and stepping back in time with some of the most remarkable attractions around, New Haven has something for everyone. There is no shortage of things to do in this wonderful city. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to New Haven to experience all it offers! Whether planning a weekend getaway or just a day of fun activities, plenty of Best Things To Do In New Haven, CT, will make your trip unforgettable.