Cory B. 
Moving to Connecticut? Here’s a list of
Our Favorite Connecticut Attractions,
Hot Spots, and Restaurants
- 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.
- Symphony in the Park: Join the Hartford Symphony Orchestra every June in Bushnell Park, for a free outdoor concert. Grab a picnic set, and enjoy live orchestral music with a twist. Think 90s pop covers, silver screen classics, and Latino and Black composer hits.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coracora (162 Shield St, West Hartford): This West Hartford restaurant recently became a James Beard finalist, which is one of the culinary world’s biggest honors. Tuck into their Instagram-worthy dishes – think creatively presented ceviche and rotisserie chicken – and trust us, all your senses will thank you.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Ola Latin Kitchen (694 Brooklawn Ave, Bridgeport CT): A Latin fusion restaurant offering flavorful small plates, artistic presentation, and impeccable service.
- 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.
- 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.
