There is something for everyone in the New Haven area. Whether you’re a resident looking to discover new parts of the region for the first time, or a first-time visitor hoping to fit the “best of” into a day, weekend, week or longer, you can’t go wrong. It’s all waiting for you. So start exploring!
Outdoor Adventures
Hit the ground running, or cycling, on the many trails within the region. Trails can be found in every town in the region, with varying degrees of difficulty. Printable trail maps can be downloaded at scrcog.org.
Boating
If you are looking for something to float your boat, we’ve got some great options for exploring Long Island Sound and the shoreline. Two public boat tours (approximately 45 minutes) are available to view the Thimble Islands off the coast of Branford and there are several companies offering private charters. You can also take a more hands-on approach through a kayak rental.
Beaches
The shoreline offers a host of activities including swimming, sunbathing, birding, biking, jogging and fishing. Hammonasset Beach State Park (Madison), the state’s largest shoreline park, offers over 2 miles of beach and 550 grassy campsites.
All towns along the shoreline have prime beach access. Check with the town’s Parks & Recreation department for regulations and fees.
Nightlife
Sundown serves up a whole new side of Greater New Haven. New Haven’s downtown pulses with life with entertainment for all ages and tastes. College Street Music Hall has joined Toad’s Place, Café Nine and Firehouse 12 as the core of the music scene. Music aficionados also enjoy the music of classical legends at Yale University School of Music throughout the academic year. Just around the corner in Hamden is Space Ballroom offering craft beers and small music shows of various genres.
Craft brew is also the focus of the Thimble Island Brewery. With four staple products, as well as numerous seasonal and specialty products, it’s worth checking out. Another member of Branford’s brew scene worth checking out is Stony Creek Brewing with a stunning water view. Both breweries offer weekend tours.
Group Tours
New Haven’s compact downtown is the perfect stop on your New England getaway. As the fourth most walkable city in the U.S., your guests will thank you for the opportunity to stretch their legs. Not to worry if members of your group have a wide range of interests, guests can venture out to explore history, appreciate art, shop to their hearts content, or savor delicious food.
Getting there
Airlines serving New Haven, CT from Myrtle Beach International Airport
