New Haven is best known as the home of Yale University, so naturally, the city is a hotbed of innovation, independent thinking, and education. But as residents know, this coastal Connecticut city offers so much more. Founded in 1638 by English Puritans, New Haven is described by locals as being “large enough to be interesting, yet small enough to be friendly.” For those who need the grounding presence of water but aren’t ready to trade in city life for a sleepy beach town, New Haven is your sweet spot. With two sandy shores nearby —Hammonasset Beach and Silver Sands—and picturesque lighthouse views, the Greater New Haven coastline will keep your mind active, but at ease.
Food
- Camacho Garage (36 Fountain St, New Haven): This former gas station has been transformed into New Haven’s go-to spot for Mexican street food and margaritas.
- Haven Hot Chicken (21 Whitney Ave, New Haven): According to Guy Fieri’s Food Network Show, this joint – serving delectable hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, and the lot – is the best bite in New Haven.
- ZINC (964 Chapel St, New Haven): Sleek, chic, and perfect for a romantic night out, ZINC serves farm-to-table cuisine with strong ties to the local community.
- Dope N Delicious (300 Dixwell Ave, New Haven): Local activist De’Ari Allick’s family restaurant serves more than soul food—a force for social change, with every meal supporting community programs.
- Louis Lunch (261 Crown St, New Haven): A Yale student favorite, this family-run spot has been in the business since 1895 and (according to some sources) is the birthplace of the hamburger—which they still serve on toast.
Attractions
- Yale University Art Gallery (1111 Chapel St, New Haven): America’s oldest college art museum, founded in 1832, boasts an expansive collection of contemporary, American, African, Asian, and European artworks. Entry is free.
- Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library (121 Wall St, New Haven): “Harry Potter” meets “Beauty and the Beast” in this stunning six-story Vermont marble building at Yale University. With no glass windows, it stands as one of the world’s largest libraries devoted to rare books and manuscripts.
- Yale University: Stroll through the beautiful campus, open Monday to Saturday, or take a free student-led tour to soak in the stunning architecture and historic charm.
- Elm City Party Bike: New England’s first party bike is a bar crawl meets history tour. This two-hour adventure is equal parts social, scenic, and just the right amount of exercise.
- Silver Sands State Park: A miles-long sandy beach with a wide and sturdy boardwalk for jogging and biking. And if you’re craving more, there’s also a club with heated pools, tennis courts, and a beach bar that keeps the good times rolling.
Nightlife
- Elm City Social (266 College St, New Haven): Vibrant gastropub with artisanal cocktails and food that hits the spot. The front restaurant is more about the party vibes, while the back is perfect for a quiet date night. A rooftop Tiki Bar opens during the summer months.
- Cave á Vin (975 State St, New Haven): Cozy wine bar with cheese boards and pizzas. Try a wine flight with a partner or friend and do a blind test against the extensive tasting notes.
- Toad’s Place (300 York St, New Haven): Starting in the late ’70s and into the ’80s, Toad’s Place became a magnet for famous—and soon-to-be famous—acts like Cyndi Lauper, Billy Idol, Blondie, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and most recently, Keanu Reeves’ band. This venue’s history is so iconic that a filmmaker is planning a documentary about it.
- BAR (254 Crown St, New Haven): A low-key spot where indie rock rules the night. Come for their Mashed Potato Pizza, and stay for the pool and dance club area.
- Ordinary (990 Chapel St, New Haven): With charcuterie and cheese boards, this old-school speakeasy feels like stepping into a time machine. It’s one of New Haven’s top spots for a cocktail.
Neighborhood Festivals
- Yale Student Film Festival: This annual event showcases the crème de la crème of student filmmaking. Taking place over five days in April, the categories of screenings include narrative, experimental, documentary, animation, and high school.
- International Festival of Arts & Ideas: Founded in 1996, this annual festival cemented New Haven as a major arts destination. World-class artists, thought leaders, and innovators from around the globe come together for two weeks of ambitious performances, lectures, and panel discussions.
- The Hill Neighborhood Festival: Held each year in Trowbridge Park, this festival is a day filled with family-friendly fun and festivities for all.
- Cherry Blossom Festival: Every April, Wooster Square Park bursts into bloom for the cherry blossom festival. Enjoy live music, tasty bites from food trucks, and surprises all day long.
- Meriden Daffodil Festival: Held in nearby Meriden, this festival is Conneticut’s most visually appealing celebration by far, championing the local music scene and welcoming start of spring.
People
New Haven is home to around 135,000 people. The main ethnic groups are White (27%), Black (30%), and Hispanic (31%). New Haven has the highest percentage of Italian American residents in the U.S., which explains why New Haven is so famous for its thin-crust Neapolitan pizza.
The average New Haven, CT home value is $303,916, and the cost of living is 14% higher than the national average.
Yale University is New Haven’s biggest taxpayer and employer.
Schools
New Haven School District has 37 schools with over 19,000 students. The region is home to several top colleges, including Yale University, Quinnipiac University, Albertus Magnus College, and the University of New Haven.
Around 20+ juniors and seniors from local high schools take Yale undergraduate courses each semester, with support program partnerships taking place between local schools and the university.
Best Neighborhoods
- East Rock: A cyclist’s paradise and a hub for Yale students and staff, East Rock also attracts young families and professionals.
- Downtown New Haven: The heart of Connecticut’s cultural scene, Downtown New Haven residents love the choice between high-end restaurants, curbside dining, and beer gardens, interspersed between grand 19th-century churches.
- Westville: Known for its walkability and diverse population, Westville has a range of unique cafes, beautiful parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Moving to New Haven
If you’re thinking of moving from NYC to New Haven– Whether you’re a Yale student or employee or just looking for a small city that punches above its weight (especially in the cultural scene), New Haven is where you’ll want to call home.
Metropolis Moving’s expertise lies in navigating city-to-city moves. Trust us to handle the logistics so you can focus on what matters most: your new adventure.
