Tanmay 
Moving to Connecticut? Here’s a list of
Our Favorite Connecticut Attractions,
Hot Spots, and Restaurants
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Paul Brown Monday Night Jazz Series (Bushnell Park): Since 1967, Downtown Hartford has been swinging with free jazz concerts every Monday night throughout July and August. Block out your calendar and enjoy a mix of world-class talent and local up-and-comers.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
