The Best Things to Do In New Haven CT
New Haven, Connecticut is a vibrant city with an interesting cross section of fabulous things to do. Located on the northern shore of Long Island Sound, it is best known as the home of Yale University, one of the world’s most prestigious educational institutions. Founded in 1638, New Haven is one of the oldest cities in the United States, rich in history and culture. Come along as we discover the best things to do in New Haven CT.
As the first planned city in America, New Haven was designed with a unique nine-square grid plan, with the picturesque New Haven Green at its center. This central green space, a National Historic Landmark, serves as a hub for community events, concerts, and festivals, reflecting the city’s strong sense of community and tradition.
New Haven is a dynamic blend of old and new, with historic architecture and modern developments coexisting harmoniously. The city is known for its thriving arts and cultural scene, featuring a range of museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. Notable attractions include the Yale University Art Gallery, the Peabody Museum of Natural History, and the Shubert Theater, which has hosted numerous Broadway tryouts.
Culinary enthusiasts will find New Haven’s dining scene particularly exciting, as the city is famous for its diverse food offerings and is often touted as the birthplace of the modern American pizza, or “apizza.” Iconic establishments like Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana and Sally’s Apizza have made New Haven a must-visit destination for pizza lovers.
Yale University campus. New Haven, Connecticut
With its coastal location, New Haven also offers waterfront views and outdoor activities, including parks, hiking trails, and boating opportunities. Its proximity to major cities like New York and Boston makes it an accessible and appealing destination for visitors. Positioned about halfway between the two, the city is a popular stop along the Amtrack corridor.
Whether exploring its iconic architecture, historic roots, the Yale campus, indulging in its culinary delights, or engaging with its arts scene, New Haven provides a rich, multifaceted experience that reflects its unique character and heritage.
The Best Things to Do in New Haven, CT
Yale University Art Gallery
The Yale University Art Gallery, established in 1832, is one of the oldest and most renowned university art museums in the United States. Located in downtown New Haven, it offers visitors an exceptional collection that spans thousands of years and includes works from every continent. The museum houses over 200,000 objects, including ancient artifacts, European paintings, African sculptures, modern art, and much more.
Yale University Art Gallery Society Woman’s Cloth by El Anatsui
Highlights include works by masters such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Marcel Duchamp. The gallery also boasts a remarkable collection of American decorative arts and furniture, featuring pieces by early American craftsmen and designers. The museum’s architecture is notable, with buildings designed by renowned architects like Louis Kahn and Egerton Swartwout. Admission is free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy world-class art in an inspiring setting. The gallery also offers guided tours, educational programs, and special exhibitions, making it a vibrant cultural hub for both the Yale community and the public.
Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
The Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, founded in 1866, is one of the oldest natural history museums in the world and an integral part of Yale University’s educational and research mission. The museum’s collections include over 13 million objects, ranging from dinosaur fossils to rare gems and minerals, and artifacts from ancient civilizations.
One of its most famous exhibits is the Great Hall of Dinosaurs, which features the towering skeleton of a Brontosaurus and the impressive Age of Reptiles mural by Rudolph Zallinger, depicting 350 million years of evolution. The Peabody also showcases the diversity of life on earth through exhibits on mammals, birds, insects, and marine creatures, providing a comprehensive look at the planet’s natural history.
In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum hosts rotating special exhibitions and educational programs for all ages, making it a dynamic and interactive space for learning. The museum is currently undergoing renovations, with plans to reopen with expanded and updated exhibits.
East Rock Park-Get Outdoors in New Haven, Ct.
East Rock Park is a 425-acre public park offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Dominated by the prominent 365-foot high East Rock, the park is a favorite spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying panoramic views of New Haven, Long Island Sound, and the surrounding areas. The summit of East Rock can be reached by foot, bike, or car, and features a monument dedicated to soldiers and sailors of the Civil War.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. East Rock Park is interlaced with trails of varying difficulty, suitable for everyone from casual walkers to experienced hikers. In the fall, the park’s foliage transforms into a stunning display of reds, oranges, and yellows, attracting photographers and leaf-peepers. The park also includes spaces for picnicking, boating, and fishing, as well as sports fields, making it a versatile and much-loved outdoor space for locals and visitors alike.
Insider Tip-it you are pressed for time, you can drive to the top.
Finding Home mural by Lauren YoungSmith New Haven, Connecticut
The New Haven Green
The New Haven Green is a historic, 16-acre park located in the heart of downtown New Haven. Established in 1638 as part of the city’s original layout, it serves as a central gathering place and a symbol of the city’s long history. The Green, a National Historic Landmark, is surrounded by iconic buildings, including three historic churches that date back to the early 19th century.
Visitors will find a lively hub for community events, including concerts, festivals, farmers’ markets, and public celebrations. In the summer, the New Haven Jazz Festival and International Festival of Arts & Ideas draw large crowds to the Green, transforming it into a vibrant stage for performances and cultural activities. Check web site for dates.
The Green is also a tranquil spot for relaxation, with ample green space, benches, and shady trees providing a peaceful retreat amid the bustling downtown area. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the city, whether they’re enjoying a leisurely stroll or attending one of the many events held throughout the year.
The Green has shifted in and out of its somewhat shady reputation over the years and I would be cautious in the area (as I would in any urban park) after dark.
Chapel St. Shopping and Eating
Along Chapel St. on one side of the green is a strip of cute boutiques and one of a kind shops. In addition Atticus Books and Café is a hangout for students with a good selection of sustenance for both mind and body. Nearby Clare’s Corner Copia is a vegetarian restaurant in the neighborhood since 1975. Their menu serves vegetarian, vegan, Kosher dairy and gluten-free dishes.
Knights of Columbus Tower designed by Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates 1969
Long Wharf Theatre
Long Wharf Theatre, founded in 1965, is a nationally recognized regional theater in New Haven that has played a significant role in American theater. Known for its commitment to producing innovative and thought-provoking work, Long Wharf has premiered numerous plays that have gone on to Broadway, Off-Broadway, and theaters around the world. The theater’s intimate space allows audiences to connect deeply with the performances, creating a unique and engaging theatrical experience.
Long Wharf Theatre is committed to nurturing new talent and supporting the development of new plays, with a particular focus on stories that reflect diverse perspectives. The theater also offers educational programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives, making it an important cultural institution in New Haven. Whether you’re a fan of classic plays, contemporary works, or new experimental productions, Long Wharf Theatre offers a varied and dynamic lineup that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
New Haven Pizza Tour
New Haven is often hailed as one of the pizza capitals of the United States, thanks to its unique style of pizza known as “apizza” (pronounced “ah-beetz”), which is characterized by its thin crust, charred edges, and distinctive flavor. A pizza tour is one of the best things to do in New Haven, especially for foodies. The city offers the chance to taste some of the best pies in the country, starting with the legendary Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, established in 1925. Pepe’s is famous for its white clam pizza, a unique local specialty.
Other notable stops include Sally’s Apizza, a family-owned spot beloved for its classic tomato pies, and Modern Apizza, known for its inventive toppings and crispy crusts. Each pizzeria has its own loyal following and trying them all is a delicious way to experience the local culture. The tour can be done on foot or by bike, making it a fun and active way to explore the city. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous eater, New Haven’s pizza scene is sure to impress.
Speaking of famous New Haven foodie establishments, Louis Lunch is said to be the birthplace of the American classic-Hamburger. Established in 1895, the Lassen family continues to serve their historic original, cooked on a grill dating back to 1898. Cheese, tomato and onion are the only “acceptable” condiments. And whatever you decide, just make sure it doesn’t involve the forbidden word: catsup!
Yale Center for British Art
The Yale Center for British Art is a treasure trove for art lovers, housing the largest collection of British art outside the United Kingdom. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and rare books from the Elizabethan period to the present. Notable artists represented in the collection include J.M.W. Turner, Thomas Gainsborough, George Stubbs, and William Blake.
The museum is located in a stunning building designed by architect Louis Kahn, celebrated for its modernist architecture and natural light-filled galleries. In addition to its permanent collection, the Center hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of British art and culture. Admission is free, and the museum offers a range of public programs, including lectures, tours, and workshops, making it a welcoming and educational space for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply curious, the Yale Center for British Art provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich artistic heritage of Britain.
Thimble Islands
A fun thing to do near New Haven and just a short drive away, the Thimble Islands are a group of small, rocky islands in Long Island Sound, off the coast of Branford. These picturesque islands are dotted with charming cottages, lush greenery, and an array of birdlife, making them a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and sightseeing. Visitors can take a guided boat tour to learn about the history and legends of the islands, which have been a summer retreat since the 19th century. Of the over 365 islands, only 23 are inhabited. On top of that, only six islands have power through underground cables.
Some of the islands are privately owned, while others are accessible to the public, offering opportunities for picnicking, swimming, and exploring. The Thimble Islands provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, with stunning views and the chance to see Connecticut’s coastal beauty up close. In 1988, the islands were listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely cruise or an active day on the water, the Thimble Islands offer a unique and memorable experience.
Yale Repertory Theatre
Established in 2008, the Yale Repertory Theatre, is an internationally celebrated professional theatre in residence at David Geffen School of Drama. The popular venue has produced well over 100 premieres—including two Pulitzer Prize winners and four other nominated finalists—by emerging and established playwrights. Seventeen Yale Rep productions have advanced to Broadway, garnering more than 40 Tony Award nominations and 10 Tony Awards. Yale Rep is also the recipient of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre.
Shubert Theater
The Shubert Theater, located in downtown New Haven, is a historic venue that has played a pivotal role in American theater history. Opened in 1914, the Shubert is known as “The Birthplace of the Nation’s Greatest Hits,” as it has hosted the world premieres of many iconic Broadway shows, including “Oklahoma!,” “My Fair Lady,” and “The Sound of Music.”
Today, the Shubert continues to be a vibrant performing arts venue, offering a diverse lineup of Broadway productions, concerts, comedy shows, and special events. The theater’s elegant interior, with its grand chandeliers and plush seating, provides a classic and intimate atmosphere for audiences. In addition to its regular performances, the Shubert offers educational programs and community outreach initiatives, including workshops, school matinees, and summer camps. Attending a show at the Shubert Theater is not just about enjoying great entertainment—it’s also about being part of a rich tradition of theatrical excellence.
Wooster Square
Wooster Square is a charming historic neighborhood in New Haven, known for its picturesque streets lined with 19th-century row houses, charming shops, and a beautiful park at its center. The neighborhood has a rich Italian heritage, reflected in its vibrant food scene, particularly its renowned pizzerias. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, one of the oldest and most famous pizza restaurants in the United States, is located here and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic New Haven-style pizza.
In addition to its culinary delights, Wooster Square is famous for its annual Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the blooming of the cherry trees that line the park. This event attracts visitors from all over to enjoy the beautiful blossoms, live music, and local food vendors. Wooster Square is a blend of old and new, with traditional bakeries and delis alongside trendy cafes and boutiques, making it a delightful neighborhood to explore on foot.
Just a few blocks away is the lovely Hotel Marcel (see info below), a perfect destination for travelers interested in making their carbon footprint more sustainable.
Sustainable Stay in New Haven CT.
Eco-friendly Hotel in New Haven
The front entry of Bahaus style Hotel Marcel, the first net-zero hotel in America.
For a stay with an sustainable wow factor, don’t miss the Bahaus structure Hotel Marcel, designed by brutalist architect Marcel Breuer. Aside from representing an iconic piece of New Haven architecture, the hotel is the first net-zero property in the United States. Curious? Read my full review of the greenest hotel in America.
