Cory B. 
Moving to Connecticut? Here’s a list of
Our Favorite Connecticut Attractions,
Hot Spots, and Restaurants
- 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.
- The Lady (191 Ann Uccello St, Hartford): This revamped tavern serves up pub grub, plus has three floors of late-night entertainment, including an arcade and dance floor.
- 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.
- 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.
- Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art (600 Main St, Hartford): The oldest public art museum in the U.S. features works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir – and manages to strike the balance between offering a myriad of masterpieces without being overwhelming.
- Zohara (991 Farmington Ave, West Hartford): If you’re into Mediterranean cuisine, Zohara should be high on your local restaurant bucket list. Standout dishes include fried halloumi and the strawberry salad.
- 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.
- 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.
- Barcelona Wine Bar (971 Farmington Ave, West Hartford): A bustling Spanish spot for tapas, sangria, and nearly 400 wines to choose from. Great place to bring picky eaters and wine aficionados.
- 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.
- 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.
