17 Best Places and Things To Do in New Haven, Connecticut

New Haven, Connecticut is a vibrant city that offers plenty of activities for locals and tourists alike. From world-class museums to delicious food, there is something for everyone in this historic city. Here are some of the best places and things to do in New Haven:

1. East Rock Park

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Located just east of downtown, East Rock Park offers a beautiful escape from the city. With over 400 acres of natural beauty, visitors can hike, bike, or picnic while enjoying stunning views of New Haven and Long Island Sound.

2. New Haven Green

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The New Haven Green is a large public park in the heart of downtown New Haven. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, or attend one of the many events that take place throughout the year, such as the New Haven Jazz Festival and the International Festival of Arts & Ideas.

3. Wooster Square Park

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Wooster Square is a charming, historic neighborhood in New Haven that is famous for its Italian heritage and delicious food. Visitors can stroll through the streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and sample some of the best Italian food in the city.

4. Yale Center for British Art

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The Yale Center for British Art is a museum that houses the largest collection of British art outside of the United Kingdom. The museum’s collection spans from the Elizabethan era to the present day, with works by famous British artists such as J.M.W. Turner, Francis Bacon, and Thomas Gainsborough.

5. Edgerton Park

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Edgerton Park is a beautiful park located in the Westville neighborhood of New Haven. The park features a formal rose garden, a pond, and miles of walking trails. Visitors can also enjoy free concerts and events in the park during the summer months.

6. New Haven Museum

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The New Haven Museum is a small museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the city. Exhibits cover topics such as New Haven’s early days as a colonial settlement, the city’s industrial past, and its role in the Civil War.

7. West Rock Ridge State Park

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West Rock Ridge State Park is a large park located just west of New Haven. The park offers miles of hiking trails, including a challenging climb to the summit of West Rock, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

8. Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center

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The Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center is a newly opened museum and shrine dedicated to the life and legacy of Father Michael McGivney, the founder of the Knights of Columbus. The center is located in New Haven, Connecticut, where Father McGivney lived and worked for much of his life.

9. Carousel at Lighthouse Point Park

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The carousel is housed in a beautiful wooden pavilion that was built in 1921, and it has been a beloved attraction for generations of New Haven residents and visitors.

10. Connecticut Children’s Museum

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The museum is designed to engage children in hands-on learning experiences that help them explore the world around them and develop their curiosity and creativity.

11. Trinity Episcopal Church on the Green

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located in the heart of downtown New Haven, Connecticut. The church was founded in 1752 and has been an important part of the community ever since.

12. Five Mile Point Light

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The lighthouse was first built in 1847 to guide ships through the treacherous waters of Long Island Sound, and it has been an important navigational landmark for mariners ever since.

13. Center Church

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The church was founded in 1752 and has been an important part of the community ever since. The building itself dates back to 1814 and is considered a prime example of Federal-style architecture.

14. St. Mary’s Church

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The church was founded in 1832 and has been an important part of the community ever since.

15. Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The bridge spans the Quinnipiac River and connects the cities of New Haven and East Haven.

16. Fort Hale Park

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The park was named after Nathan Hale, a Revolutionary War hero who famously declared “I regret that I have but one life to give for my country” before being hanged as a spy by the British.

17. Long Wharf Nature Preserve

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located in New Haven, Connecticut. The park is situated on a peninsula that juts out into Long Island Sound, and it offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding area.

New Haven has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, be sure to check out some of these top attractions to get a taste of what this vibrant city has to offer.