Things to do in the area
No matter when you visit, we encourage you to get to know the area beyond our campuses. Below are some ideas to get you going:
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Sleeping Giant State Park: You can't miss — our Mount Carmel Campus is nestled just across the street. The park offers are more than 30 miles of maintained trails and a 4-story look-out tower. It’s not just a favorite of students, alumni, parents, faculty and staff, but also one of the most visited state parks in the state.
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Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: Conveniently located just across the street from our York Hill Campus is a 58-mile paved path, stretching from New Haven to the Massachusetts border. Along the route, enjoy historic structures, canal locks and other interesting sights. There are also numerous opportunities to stop for a bite to eat, connect with other trail systems or check out livestock.
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East Rock Park: Situated near the Hamden and New Haven border, this 425-acre park is the perfect place for a hike, bike ride or kayak adventure on the Mill River — and with four different peaks, there's always something new to see.
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Miles of shopping: From unique small shops to leading brands and outlets, there are countless opportunities to spend afternoons window shopping and picking up unique and special items to showcase your personality.
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Best pizza in the world: Some of the best pizza on the planet is located just a few miles down the road in New Haven. Whether you prefer Pepe’s, Sally’s, Modern or Bar, the area has you covered.
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Farmers markets: The region offers a rich variety of locally grown produce and specially designed arts and crafts to fill your belly and give your residence hall or apartment some unique flair.
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Ice cream: From Wentworth’s and Kelly’s to Sweet Claude's and Ashley’s, there are numerous opportunities to stay cool on hot afternoons — or just catch up on homework with friends.
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Hit the slopes: There are numerous areas in the region for skiing, snow boarding and snow tubing — or just relaxing by the fire as the snow falls around you.
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Celebrate the region’s sea-going heritage: The Mystic Seaport offers a unique hands-on experience of the area’s maritime history. Learn about the region’s significance at the world-renowned museum while exploring historic ships in the harbor.
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Visit a zoo or aquarium: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo offers numerous opportunities to learn more about a variety of wild life — as well as ways of preserving habitats around the world. The Maritime Aquarium and Mystic Aquarium are nationally renowned research facilities with interactive exhibits for all ages.
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Celebrate culture under the stars: Many of the state’s town greens and open spaces offer live music and theater performances throughout the spring, summer and fall. From Shakespeare to the Beatles, there’s something for everybody.
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Pick apples, peaches, pumpkins or berries: Visit one of the numerous orchards and farms in the area. The most difficult decision may be what to pick.
