Things To Do
in New Haven
New Haven is a coastal city in Connecticut anchored by Yale University, whose campus looms over the downtown area. It blends historic architecture with a modern, food-forward scene and a rich maritime heritage. The city is renowned for its iconic New Haven-style pizza, celebrated by locals and visitors alike.
With world-class museums, parks, and a lively college-town energy, New Haven offers a compact but diverse urban experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the renowned Louis' Lunch, known for its original hamburger. After savoring your meal, take a stroll through the historic streets of New Haven, admiring the stunning architecture of Yale University. Visit the Yale University Art Gallery, where you can explore an impressive collection of art from ancient to modern times.
Enjoy lunch at the picturesque Wooster Square, famous for its Italian heritage and vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the New Haven Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby farmer's market, where you can sample local produce and artisan goods.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delightful dinner at one of New Haven’s acclaimed pizzerias, such as Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana. Afterward, catch a live performance at the historic Shubert Theater, known for its Broadway shows and local talent. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the New Haven Green, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Kick off your day with a hearty brunch at the popular Claire's Corner Copia, a local favorite for vegetarian dishes. Post-brunch, join a guided tour of Yale University, where you can explore its stunning campuses and hear fascinating stories about its history. Make sure to check out the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, home to an extraordinary collection of rare works.
After your morning tour, head to the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, where you can engage with exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to ancient civilizations. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby café, sampling some local favorites. Later, take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped Yale campus and its surrounding gardens.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local bistro, savoring seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients. Following dinner, attend a lecture or an exhibit opening at one of the university's cultural institutions. Wrap up your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar in the downtown area, enjoying the ambiance and local craft beers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍝Three-course dinner for two (mid-range) | $45-70 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $60-80 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class university culture and architecture
- Famous pizza scene and diverse dining
- Compact downtown with many attractions and museums
- Beautiful coastal location with parks and trails
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Traffic around campus and on I-95 can be heavy
- Some areas require caution at night
- Higher-than-average college-town costs in the city center
Places to Visit in New Haven
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic marble exterior and a slender glass tower; dramatic light inside and a striking architectural silhouette.
Gothic tower framing campus quadrangles and open lawns, perfect for wide-angle shots.
Historic stone buildings and courtyards offering classic college-town photography backdrops.
Elevated vantage points offering sweeping views of the city and coastline on clear days.
Colorful row houses and a lively neighborhood atmosphere ideal for street photography, especially at sunrise.
Harbor views, piers, and sunset lighting along Long Island Sound.
Food in New Haven
New Haven Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coal-fired, thin and chewy crust with tomato-forward sauce; legendary pies from Pepe’s, Sally’s, and Modern Apizza.
Must-Try!
Cold or warm lobster rolls available at several seafront and downtown spots along the Sound.
Classic Italian-American sandwiches, sausages and peppers, and comforting pasta dishes found in many local red-sauce joints.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in downtown New Haven featuring local produce, prepared foods, baked goods, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite and greet staff; queue in lines; keep noise reasonable in residential areas and libraries; respect campus rules and signage.
Safety
Tipping in New Haven
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink for bartenders; round up for small purchases when appropriate.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; many places also accept mobile payments. Carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon storms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of outdoor festivals.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; ideal for walking tours, campus visits, and photography with golden light.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; indoors museums and cafés make great refuges; wear layered clothing.
Mild temperatures with rainy spells; blooms across parks and campus grounds create colorful scenery.
New Haven at Night
Hiking in New Haven
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular short-to-moderate hikes with city views and well-marked paths.
Varied trails offering longer hikes and sweeping overlooks near the city.
Extensive trail networks in nearby Hamden, suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach New Haven by plane.
A small regional airport in East Haven, close to downtown; primarily domestic flights and general aviation.
Major airport about 50 miles from New Haven; offers extensive domestic and international flights with convenient highway access.
New York City-area airport within roughly 80-100 miles; accessible by rail and road for quick connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large population drawn to Yale University, including faculty, researchers, and international students.
A substantial portion of residents, with diverse communities nearby.
A growing community contributing to the city’s cultural offerings.
A vital presence in the city and on campus, with rich cultural contributions.
A diverse and increasingly prominent community within the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A prominent college and club sport in the region; Yale maintains a strong lacrosse presence.
Widely followed at the collegiate level and in local leagues; Yale Bulldogs are a focal point.
Fall football traditions at both university and community levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Haven.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pizza places and casual eateries offer veggie pies, salads, and pasta. Inform staff of dietary needs and look for vegetable-forward options.