Bridgeport is Connecticut’s most populous city and is a port town brimming with potential. With new apartments, breweries, and antique shops popping up, change is in the air. As the New York Times put it, this Fairfield County city is “turning itself around” and revamping its industrial reputation. With a diverse population of around 144,000 residents, Bridgeport is also home to 1,300 acres of parks and 13 distinct neighborhoods spread across 16 square miles.
Nestled in Fairfield County, this city is part of the Greater Bridgeport area and the New York City labor market. The poverty rate is 23%, which is higher than nearby Stamford (9%) but lower than New Haven’s (25%) and Hartford’s (28%).
Bridgeport’s school system serves around 20,000 students, with 30 elementary schools, three comprehensive high schools, two alternative programs, and an interdistrict vocational aquaculture school.
History of Bridgeport
The history of Bridgeport, Connecticut, is an ever-changing journey from a farming hub in the late 17th and 18th centuries to a center of shipbuilding and whaling in the 19th century.
By 1950, it was riding high as Connecticut’s second-largest city, thanks to a boom in industrialization. The latter half of the 20th century faced a downturn with deindustrialization and a reduced population.
Bridgeport is famously associated with P.T. Barnum, the legendary circus promoter and former mayor. Born on July 5, 1810, Barnum popularized amusements such as the public museum, the musical concert, and the three-ring circus.
Best Neighborhoods
- Black Rock: This waterfront gem is where Bridgeport is at its best—think decent restaurants, local bars, and charming parks. It’s the priciest neighborhood in Bridgeport, but still more affordable than nearby suburbs.
- North End: Just 11 minutes from downtown, North End’s quiet streets and parks make it the perfect spot for families looking for a calm neighborhood without sacrificing city convenience.
- Brooklawn: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and bike-friendly streets, Brooklawn is just one bus ride away from downtown and the train station (which has a direct line to Manhattan for those city adventures).
Food and Nightlife
- Pantanal Restaurant (215 Frank St, Bridgeport CT): No-frills Brazilian BBQ, salad bar, and buffet where you pay by the pound. With seven massive screens, it’s the perfect spot to catch your favorite game.
- Ola Latin Kitchen (694 Brooklawn Ave, Bridgeport CT): A Latin fusion restaurant offering flavorful small plates, artistic presentation, and impeccable service.
- The Stress Factory Comedy Club (90 Church St, Bridgeport CT): Laugh the night away at this comedy club chain, owned by comedian Vinnie Brand. Feast on classic American grub while listening to stand-ups from famous faces and rising stars.
- Karaoke On Main (1103 Main St, Bridgeport CT): Whether you’re confident enough to game the open mic night or are attending a private party, this spot has you covered. Monitors cover the private rooms so you can really work the room.
- Ralph N Rich’s (815 Main St, Bridgeport CT): This Italian spot serves up all the classics. With its family-style Sunday lunches and warm ambiance, you’ll leave full and happy every time.
- Tautog Tavern (2926 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport CT): This New England-style pub is a cut above your typical pub grub. The Tavern was designed as a cozy spot for friends and neighbors to connect and enjoy great food together.
Attractions
- Monger’s Market (1155 Railroad Ave, Bridgeport CT): A 75,000-square-foot factory of vintage, industrial salvage, and antiques. Plan to spend a few hours—you never know what you’ll find!
- Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater (500 Broad St, Bridgeport CT): Also known as AMP, this 5,700-seat amphitheater, converted from an old baseball stadium, hosts top bands and legendary acts like Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire.
- Beardsley Park (3102 E Main St #100, Bridgeport CT): Designed by Central Park’s Frederick Law Olmsted, this 181-acre green space is home to Connecticut’s only zoo.
- Barnum Museum (820 Main St, Bridgeport, CT): Currently getting a makeover, this museum is the ultimate tribute to P.T. Barnum, packed with over 60,000 artifacts related to his life, Bridgeport, and the history of the circus.
- Downtown Cabaret Theatre (263 Golden Hill St #3, Bridgeport, CT): This cabaret-style theater lets you bring your own food and drinks, making it perfect for a relaxed and inexpensive night out. It’s the spot for family fun and a great way to introduce young ones to the magic of theater.
Neighborhood Festivals
- Soundside Music Festival: Formerly known as Sound on Sound, this Seaside Park festival adds big names like Foo Fighters, Noah Kahan, and Fleet Foxes to its impressive two-day lineup.
- The Barnum Festival: A long-standing tradition dating back to 1948, this neighborhood festival celebrates local businesses and honors world-renowned showman P.T. Barnum with parades, concerts, and family-friendly events.
History and Fun Facts
- Bridgeport is home to Frisbie Pie Company, so the city is naturally considered the birthplace of the Frisbee.
- Known as the “City of Parks,” Bridgeport has 1,300 acres of public green space.
- P.T. Barnum, the city’s former mayor, founded the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. His life inspired the hit movie The Greatest Showman, where he was played by Hugh Jackman.
Moving to Bridgeport
If you’re looking to settle in an up-and-coming city before it hits the big time, moving to Bridgeport could be a great decision. Whether you’re drawn to shoreline living, city life, or a more rural set-up, Bridgeport offers it all. And when you’re ready to make the move, let Metropolis Moving handle the heavy lifting so you can dive right into your exciting new chapter.
