Moving to New Haven? Here’s a list of
Our Favorite New Haven Attractions,
Hot Spots, and Restaurants
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- The Hill Neighborhood Festival: Held each year in Trowbridge Park, this festival is a day filled with family-friendly fun and festivities for all.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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.