Things To Do
in New Haven

New Haven, located on the southern coast of Connecticut, is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history and cultural diversity. Home to Yale University, the city boasts a lively arts scene and a wide array of museums and galleries.

New Haven is also famous for its unique culinary offerings, particularly its pizza, often referred to as 'apizza.' With beautiful waterfront views and charming neighborhoods, New Haven is an inviting destination for visitors of all interests.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Yale and Downtown
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Yale University campus, exploring its stunning architecture and the Yale University Art Gallery.

afternoon
:

Head to the New Haven Green for lunch at a local café, then visit the Peabody Museum of Natural History to learn about the natural sciences.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a famous pizzeria, then catch a show at the Shubert Theatre to experience local performing arts.

day 2
Day 2: Parks and Culture
morning
:

Visit East Rock Park for a morning hike and stunning views of the city and Long Island Sound.

afternoon
:

After exploring the park, have lunch at a food truck or local market, then visit the Connecticut Children's Museum.

evening
:

Dine at one of the city’s renowned seafood restaurants and stroll along the waterfront to end your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍺Beer$5-8
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$20-50
🚍Public Transportation Ticket$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical offerings thanks to Yale University.
  • Diverse culinary scene with unique local dishes.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities for nature lovers.
  • Public transportation options are limited outside major routes.
  • Winter weather can be harsh and may deter outdoor activities.
  • Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas.

Places to Visit in New Haven

Visit one of these nice places.

Yale University Campus

With its stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful courtyards, Yale's campus is a picturesque backdrop for any photo.

East Rock Park

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of New Haven and the surrounding area, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.

New Haven Green

A historic park in the heart of the city, perfect for capturing vibrant community life and seasonal events.

Culinary Guide

Food in New Haven

New Haven is a food lover's paradise known for its diverse culinary scene, particularly its iconic apizza. Visitors can immerse themselves in local flavors through various eateries, food markets, and vibrant street food options.

New Haven Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Apizza

A New Haven-style pizza with a thin crust, often topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and specialty toppings.

Must-Try!

Lobster Roll

A classic New England dish, featuring fresh lobster meat served in a grilled roll.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wooster Square Farmers Market

A weekly market that offers fresh produce, local meats, and artisan goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

New Haven experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s°F (around 30°C). Winters are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the low 20s°F (-6°C) to mid-30s°F (1°C), often accompanied by snow. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

People are generally polite; saying 'thank you' and 'please' is appreciated in everyday interactions.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintaining personal space is important; avoid crowding others in public settings.

Quiet in Residential Areas

Be mindful of noise levels, particularly in residential neighborhoods and during late hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

New Haven is generally safe, but like any urban area, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night, and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and the local police are responsive to calls.

Tipping in New Haven

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Norms

A customary tip of 15-20% is expected in restaurants; for taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting parks.

Summer

Warm temperatures and vibrant community events, ideal for enjoying New Haven's beaches and outdoor festivals.

Fall

Beautiful autumn foliage makes for stunning photography opportunities; it's also a popular time for local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures with the possibility of snow; a cozy time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy seasonal events.

Nightlife Guide

New Haven at Night

The nightlife in New Haven is vibrant, offering a mix of bars, live music venues, and clubs. The downtown area is bustling with options for all tastes, from laid-back pubs featuring local brews to dance clubs with DJ performances. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively spot for night owls.

Hiking in New Haven

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sleeping Giant State Park

Located about 10 miles from New Haven, this park features hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding area and is popular for its unique Giant formation.

West Rock Ridge State Park

A short drive from New Haven, offering trails for hiking and biking with scenic overlooks of the countryside.

Airports

How to reach New Haven by plane.

Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN)

Located just 5 miles from downtown New Haven, Tweed offers domestic flights and is a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

New Haven is considered very walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. The city features pedestrian-friendly streets, sidewalks, and crosswalks, making it easy for visitors to explore. Additionally, the presence of parks and public spaces encourages walking as a means of transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Yale University Community

A diverse group of students, faculty, and staff contributing to the city's cultural and intellectual vibrancy.

Long-Term Residents

Many families and individuals have lived in New Haven for generations, providing a sense of history and community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in New Haven, with local teams and youth leagues thriving in the community.

Ice Hockey

The city has a rich ice hockey tradition, with several teams playing at various levels, from youth to collegiate.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in New Haven can be moderate, especially during rush hours when commuting to and from work. However, the city is relatively small, so most destinations can be reached within a short drive. Public transportation options include buses and shuttles, with a commuter rail service linking New Haven to other parts of Connecticut and beyond.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting New Haven.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in New Haven offer vegan options, with a growing number of cafes and eateries focusing entirely on plant-based cuisine.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several establishments provide gluten-free options, especially within the pizza and bakery scene.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in New Haven is robust, with several hospitals and specialty clinics available, including Yale New Haven Hospital. Emergency services are prompt, and many healthcare facilities accept a variety of insurance plans. Residents and visitors alike have access to comprehensive medical care, with many healthcare professionals located throughout the city.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide