NEW HAVEN COUNTY
Chamber of Commerce
900 Chapel Street
New Haven 203-787-6735
www.gnhcc.com
South Central Region Tourism
1 Constitution Plaza
Hartford 860-787-9640
www.centerofct.com
Major Highways
Interstates 91, 84, 384
Routes 15 and 8
Newcomers to New Haven County will discover a blend of modern and historic environments as well as a mix of urban and rural lifestyles. From inland forests and wetlands to the pristine shoreline, the views are breathtakingly beautiful. New Haven County’s geography and independent attitude have sheltered it from the influence of major metropolitan areas, allowing the region to cultivate its own distinctive personality and enviable sense of style.
Growing and vibrant, New Haven County offers its fortunate residents an exceptional quality of life. While preserving all the desirability of its residential communities, New Haven County has developed a healthy economic base that includes manufacturing, electronics, and service industries. Attention to the quality of life has spurred renewal programs in every sector. The influence of Yale University has fostered a reverence for excellence in every area of life, from culture to scholarship and medicine.
Services
Interstates 95, 91, and 84 along with Routes 15 and 8 provide county residents with an excellent network of major arteries. These thoroughfares offer easy access to any part of Connecticut as well as to neighboring New York State, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Regularly scheduled interstate bus services are available from New Haven, as is the Metro-North that carries passengers to New York City’s Grand Central Terminal. New Haven also serves as a connection for Amtrak’s main line as it runs between New York City’s Penn Station and Boston. In fact, Amtrak has included the city along the new Boston-Washington Acela service that reaches speeds of up to 150 miles per hour.
Throughout the county, a strong network of community, vocational, satellite, parochial and private-school facilities complement the outstanding public school districts. Many innovative programs have been designed to meet the needs of each student and extra-curricular activities combine with a strong core curriculum to maintain a balance of academic and social development. While Yale University is the most famous of the institutions of higher education, New Haven County is home to a variety of excellent colleges including the University of New Haven, Quinnipiac College, Southern Connecticut State University, and Albertus Magnus College for Women.
Greater New Haven also boasts a globally recognized healthcare system that includes three of New England’s top 50 hospitals: Yale-New Haven Hospital, the Hospital of St. Raphael, and the VA Medical Center. Yale-New Haven Hospital is recognized as a world-renowned teaching institution that consistently ranks among the nation’s “Top Ten.” In conjunction with Yale University School of Medicine and the Yale Cancer Center, the hospital is globally recognized for its commitment to teaching and clinical research.
Lifestyle
From Atlantic Ocean beaches to the deep backwoods, New Haven County is waiting to be explored and enjoyed. State parks and forests combine with the pristine shoreline of the region’s river and lake shorelines to offer every imaginable outdoor activity and adventure. Acres of parkland complement public and private golf courses, ice-skating rinks, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Yacht clubs, water sports, a myriad of marinas, and famous seafood restaurants add to the “good life” in the coastal cities. Those who enjoy cheering on professional sports teams and collegiate competition abound. New Haven’s Coliseum for athletic and cultural events attracts enthusiastic crowds from across the Northeast to its frequent attractions.
Fine museums, important historic sites, and cultural districts are plentiful, from Yale University’s dramatic Gothic architecture to the vintage streetcars at the Shore Line Trolley Museum. The visual and performing arts are well represented, with the vibrant City of New Haven and the Yale University campus leading the rich resources for music, dance, theatre, and galleries. Yale’s Drama School, film series, Repertory Theater, and concert series are some of the attractions in this prestigious collegiate environment. The renowned Peabody Museum of Natural History features such outstanding exhibits as The Great Hall of Dinosaurs, where a 67-foot brontosaurus skeleton has been praised as one of the most complete and perfect specimens in existence.
The entire county claims an impressive number of “firsts,” including the reputed home of the nation’s first hamburger at Louis’ Lunch on Crown Street. Even the region’s smaller towns manage to make a valuable contribution to the arts scene with community playhouses, art exhibitions, craft shows, colorful festivals, and outdoor summer concerts. Ice-cream connoisseurs will discover a paradise of frozen delight in New Haven County, where dairy farms and small shops offer every possible flavor.
Regardless of size or economic complexion, the residential communities in New Haven County are marked by a strong level of social and civic involvement, with an active organizational life that filters down to the youth. Although interests and occupations vary in this area of professionals, skilled workers, and executives, an abundance of service clubs and groups abound serve the needs and desires of everyone. Housing options vary as greatly as the topography, from modern high-rise apartments and older brownstones located in the heart of the bustling City of New Haven to small ranches and elegant mansions set in the panoramic beauty of the more rural corners. With its exceptionally scenic geography, attractive selection of housing, excellent schools, and intriguing mix of rural and intellectual environments, New Haven County is a jewel in the crown of Connecticut.
Ansonia, Seymour, Derby, Oxford
Ansonia Offices
203-736-5980
www.cityofansonia.com
Seymour Offices
203-888-2511
www.seymourct.org
Derby Offices
203-736-1450
www.derbyct.gov
Oxford Offices
203-888-2543
www.oxford-ct.gov
Chamber of Commerce
203-925-4981
www.greatervalleychamber.com
The town of Ansonia joins several other communities nestled in Lower Naugatuck Valley in claiming the distinction of “All American City.” Diverse manufacturers add to the tax base, from plastics to electronics and novelties. Once a part of Derby, proud Ansonia balances the preservation of its history with renewal and growth. The Town of Seymour is primarily a manufacturing center with a variety of industries based on copper, brass, and wire products. The craggy hillsides, low pains, and the banks of the Housatonic River encourage hiking and outdoor activity. Historic sites, the Strand Theater, a senior center, and recreational trails are part of the cityscape in Seymour, one of the nation’s first planned industrial communities. Derby sprang up around the area where the Housatonic and Naugatuck Rivers converge and has the distinction of being the state’s smallest city. Today, Derby maintains its suburban charm while it serves as a vital part of a major metropolitan area. Oxford includes a bustling regional airport and forms a bridge between the distinct worlds of the Naugatuck Valley and the Housatonic Valley. The community of Oxford works diligently to encourage and assist quality development while it preserves quiet residential neighborhoods and the charm of its New England village setting.
Branford, North Branford
Branford Offices
203-488-8394
www.branford-ct.gov
North Branford Offices
203-484-6000
www.townofnorthbranfordct.com
Branford Chamber
203-488-5500
www.branfordct.com
North Branford Chamber
203-488-5500
http://shorelinechamberct.com
One of Branford’s most noticeable assets is the picturesque shoreline on Long Island Sound. The town claims nearly 20 yacht clubs and marinas along its beaches in addition to the offshore attraction of the Thimble Islands. With its good schools and strong tax base, Branford combines the charm of a New England seacoast village with the convenience of New Haven just seven miles away. Strong civic involvement continues to make Branford an active and caring community. Gracious older homes, quaint boutiques, historic sites, lush parks, Cedar Lake, and Totocket Mountain add to the quality of life. The growing town of North Branford near Long Island Sound still preserves farmland that covers the ridges and valleys of the town. Family owned farm stands dot the roadside in season, adding to the rural atmosphere. The community has developed an extensive plan for economic expansion, enhanced by the proximity to major highways. The potential for new construction on spacious lots makes this a prime choice for residential development.
Cheshire, Prospect
Cheshire Offices
203-271-6660
www.cheshirect.org
Prospect Offices
203-758-4461
www.townofprospect.com
Chamber of Commerce
203-272-2345
www.cheshirechamber.org
The residential suburban community of Cheshire enjoys a strong tax base supported by a significant industrial and commercial community. Known as the “bedding plant capital of Connecticut,” the town has been able to retain much of its rural flavor by preserving thousands of acres of open space. Just 14 miles north of New Haven and 25 miles southwest of Hartford, Cheshire enjoys access to Interstates 84, 91, and 691. The neighboring town of Prospect provides another choice for a residential haven in a primarily rural environment. Approximately one quarter of the town’s area is owned by three water companies, which protects the countryside from development and creates an open feeling. Enhancing the recreational amenities, a chain of lakes has been created on the surrounding hills.
East Haven
Municipal Offices
203-468-3205
www.townofeasthavenct.org
Chamber of Commerce
203-787-6735
www.gnhcc.com
Considered a suburb of New Haven, the community of East Haven claims 3.5 miles of beachfront on Long Island Sound, all of which are designated for recreational use. Quality retail facilities, excellent schools, cultural events, a commercial marina and water-sports ensure an active and vibrant lifestyle. Local parks provide opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, ball games, tennis, and golfing. From its rural roots, East Haven has grown into an attractive residential haven and suburban business center. To the north and south are serene neighborhoods with beautiful homes that blend summer cottages along the shore with elegant Victorians, rambling ranches, split-levels, and fine colonials.
Guilford, Madison
Guilford Offices
203-453-8015
www.ci.guilford.ct.us
Madison Offices
203-245-5600
www.madisonct.org
Chamber of Commerce
203-488-5500
http://shorelinechamberct.com
Enjoying a picturesque blending of deep woods with waterfront views, Guilford stretches form Long Island Sound inland to rugged terrain in the north. Local shops and businesses are housed in the restored buildings that surround Guilford’s sprawling village green. The town green is considered to be among the loveliest in New England. The recreational amenities include Lake Quonnipaug State Park, town mooring and boating facilities, and a fine public beach. Guilford offers a variety of housing options, from historic saltbox and Federalist or colonial homes to newer construction. Once a popular summer resort, modern Madison is a charming year-round shorefront town about a 25-minute drive east of New Haven. Architectural styles are a good mixture of modern construction, vintage colonials, and restored Victorians to create a pleasing and eclectic neighborhood atmosphere. Sailing and boating are among the more popular local pastimes. However, the expansive natural beauty of Hammonassett State Park is also available for those who appreciate outdoor activities like hiking, biking, bird watching, and camping.
Hamden, Bethany
Hamden Offices
203-287-7000
www.hamden.com
Bethany Offices
203-393-2100
www.bethany-ct.com
Chamber of Commerce
203-288-6431
www.hamdenchamber.com
The nearby New Haven suburb of Hamden is separated from the metropolitan area to the south by mountains and rock formations. Principal industries in Hamden include a variety of manufacturing companies, retail trade, computer products, construction, and business services. Known as the “Land of the Sleeping Giant,” Hamden is considered one of Connecticut’s finest mid-sized cities. Lovely neighborhoods, bustling commercial districts, good schools, and a landscape rich in hills and walking trails add to the quality of life. Housing options range from finely crafted older homes to contemporary styles. Nearby Bethany provides an escape from crowds and traffic in a rural residential haven of 21 square miles. Dairy farms and other agricultural activities remain at the forefront of the local economy, and the town is dotted with reservoirs that primarily serve Naugatuck and New Haven. Residents of both communities can take advantage of the area’s considerable recreational amenities, including skating and hockey facilities, golf courses, swimming pools, sports leagues, and nearby state parkland and forests. Every imaginable outdoor adventure is available.
Meriden, Wallingford
Meriden Offices
203-630-4123
www.cityofmeriden.org
Wallingford Offices
203-294-2073
www.town.wallingford.ct.us
Meriden Chamber
203-235-7901
www.midstatechamber.com
Wallingford Chamber
203-269-9891
www.quinncham.com
Meriden is an active city that mixes densely populated urban areas with older suburban neighborhoods and new developments. The blend of architectural periods and price ranges provides a pleasing cross-section of housing options. Many residents have called the town home for generations, creating a friendly and well-rooted atmosphere. Meriden-Wallingford Hospital, the four-year vocational and technical school of Horace C. Wilcox Regional, and Middlesex Community College all add to the quality of life. Residents of both communities enjoy abundant recreational opportunities, from state parkland to swimming pools, tennis courts, sports fields, hiking and biking trails, private clubs, and golf courses. The Town of Wallingford was once nationally recognized as a premier silversmithing center. Older homes include comfortable colonials or post-war bungalows. Along the outskirts of the community in areas like Cook Hill, East Wallingford, North Farms, and Farms Country Club are developments of new construction where architectural styling graces spacious homes on generous lots. Shopping is available downtown.
Milford, Orange
Milford Offices
203-783-3200
www.ci.milford.ct.us
Orange Offices
203-891-4737
www.orange-ct.gov
Chamber of Commerce
203-878-0681
www.milfordct.com
Located just 10 miles from New Haven, the water-oriented town of Milford has an attraction for many commuters. Long Island Sound, the Oyster River, and the Housatonic River border the town on three sides; while the Wepawaug and Indian Rivers bisect the city. In the charming town center, the civic buildings surround a lake complete with a waterfall. Balancing culture and commerce, Milford is characterized as a residential, suburban community with a strong local economy and its own hospital. Most of the homes are single-family and range from beachfront cottages to rambling colonials on wooded acreage. Beaches, private clubs, marinas, hiking trails, recreational programs, and Silver Sands State Park underscore the recreational amenities. Orange is a heavily wooded bedroom community just west of New Haven that serves as a popular residential choice for commuters. The town features only single-family homes that are usually constructed on one-acre parcels with meticulously landscaped yards. An active recreation program serves all ages, and the town offers several golf courses. The area’s commercial development tends to be clustered along Post Road, and an attractive corporate park is located off Route 15.
Naugatuck, Beacon Falls
Naugatuck Offices
203-720-7000
www.naugatuck-ct.gov
Beacon Falls Offices
203-729-4340
www.beaconfalls-ct.org
Chamber of Commerce
203-925-4981
www.greatervalleychamber.com
Located on both sides of the Naugatuck River Valley, the town of Naugatuck encompasses several areas, from the highly industrialized Union City to residential enclaves in outlying neighborhoods. Most single-family homes are modest and suburban style, although more upscale modern construction is available in newer developments. Complementing the plentiful recreational facilities and programs in the city itself are vast opportunities for outdoor enjoyment at nearby Naugatuck State Forest. The area is known for its handsome public buildings as well as its attractive commercial architecture. Beacon Falls has a pastoral setting that blends with modern development. Quaint farms, meadows with deer, vistas of rolling hills, and peaceful residential neighborhoods combine in New Haven County’s smallest town and also one of its youngest. Carved out of the rugged hills of the Naugatuck River Valley, Beacon Falls is conveniently located on Route 8. Principal industries include agriculture, warehouse storage, and manufacturing enterprises. This close-knit community is proud of its unique heritage and history. One of the claims to fame is the local invention of the first friction matches in 1834 by Thomas Sanford.
New Haven, Woodbridge
New Haven Offices
203-946-8200
www.cityofnewhaven.com
Woodbridge Offices
203-389-3400
www.woodbridgect.org
Chamber of Commerce
203-787-6735
www.gnhcc.com
Acclaimed for its abundance of premier cultural attractions and the influence of Yale University, the multi-faceted City of New Haven is a college town, a commercial center, and a waterfront community. The genius and creativity surrounding one of our nation’s leading universities has encouraged the development of educational and cultural resources that are usually associated with much larger metropolitan areas. New Haven claims its own symphony orchestra, theatre, fine museums, and many historic sites. The region’s exciting intellectual atmosphere combines with the charm of New Haven’s historic “town green” and a very successful renewal program to create a unique and pleasing identity for the entire community. Housing is as diverse as the population, including brownstones, vintage mansions, and high-rise condominiums. The town of Woodbridge climbs over the gentle hills above New Haven. Although the community supports limited light industry, the character of the town is primarily residential and suburban. Many commuters have been attracted to the small-town atmosphere of Woodbridge. Recreational opportunities in the New Haven region range from beaches and water sports to hiking, biking, sports play, tennis, and golf.
North Haven
Municipal Offices
203-239-5321
www.town.north-haven.ct.us
Chamber of Commerce
203-269-9891
www.quinncham.com
The well-balanced town of North Haven has prospered as a transportation hub since the New Haven-Hartford Turnpike was first laid through it in the late 1700s. In fact, North Haven followed an unusual course of early development as a community with a number of manufacturing enterprises that predate agricultural activity. Early development was slow, and it was not until the advent of suburban living after World War II that most of the town’s growth actually occurred. Today, North Haven is major industrial and residential community that supports a substantial population. Several corporate giants call North Haven home, including United Technologies and the Upjohn Company. Quality recreational amenities are abundant in local facilities as well as nearby state parks, forests, riverbanks, and lakes. The neighboring community of New Haven ensures a wealth of world-class cultural events and collegiate sports action.
Southbury, Middlebury
Southbury Offices
203-262-0657
www.southbury-ct.gov
Middlebury Offices
203-758-2557
www.middlebury-ct.org
Chamber of Commerce
203-757-0701
https://www.waterburychamber.com
The town of Southbury has managed to remain primarily rural in character because the land mass is large compared the population. Principal industries encompass agriculture and also the manufacturer of ice-cream. Once a region of patchwork farmland and lovely rolling countryside, Southbury has experienced considerable development in recent years in response to corporate growth. The town blends many attractive homes with extensive shopping facilities and upscale destinations like Heritage Village Bazaar. Students of nature and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy local recreational facilities such as Kettletown and Southford Falls State Parks, Lakes Zoar and Lillinonah, or the riverbanks of the Housatonic and Pomperaug. Middlebury claims a rural character that is largely based on a history of livestock breeding. Many residents were able to raise saddle horses as a sideline in this bedroom community surrounded by Waterbury, Southbury, and Woodbury. The town is also home to an impressive and thriving corporate sector
that includes household names like Timex and Uniroyal. For over 90 years, the family owned Quassy Amusement Park has been a popular destination along the shoreline of sparkling Lake Quassapaug.
Waterbury, Wolcott
Waterbury Offices
203-597-3444
www.waterburyct.org
Wolcott Offices
203-879-8100
www.wolcottct.org
Chamber of Commerce
203-757-0701
https://www.waterburychamber.com
The town of Waterbury was once famous for its brass industry. Claiming an ethnically and culturally diverse population, the town features outstanding architecture, colorful festivals, and a vibrant artistic community. Three institutions of higher education, a million-square-foot shopping mall, a first-class museum, an equity theater, and a highly respected symphony orchestra are just a few of the urban amenities. Claiming one of the highest concentrations of hotel rooms in the state, Waterbury is a growing conference and convention center. Good schools, lush parks, golf courses, athletic fields, a skating rink, and nearby Black Rock State Park add to the quality of life. Neighboring Wolcott is ideally located on Routes 69 and 322 just 10 minutes from Waterbury. Closely linked to the “Brass City” by geography, history, and family ties, this residential haven is nevertheless proud of its unique small-town atmosphere and traditions. The Woodtick Recreational Area with its sandy beach and prime recreational facilities is owned by the town and open for public enjoyment. Residents can also take advantage of parks, a golf course, tennis courts, sports facilities, and the beginning of the 35-mile Mattatuck Trail—one of the state’s finest.
West Haven
Municipal Offices
203-937-3500
www.cityofwesthaven.com
Chamber of Commerce
203-933-1500
www.westhavenchamber.com
Nearly completely developed, this well-established suburb of New Haven offers commuter access to major metropolitan areas. The town provides a wide selection of single-family homes and condominiums in neighborhoods that are shaded by mature greenery. Industrial development in West Haven tends to be concentrated along Elm Street and the railroad right of way of Route 95. Although a wide variety of recreational amenities are integrated into community life, the natural “water playground” of Long Island Sound lends itself to a predominance of water-sport activities. Facilities include public fishing piers and a private beach club, regional and local parks, playgrounds, athletic leagues and ballfields, tennis courts, swimming pools, hiking and biking trails, organized recreation programs, and lush golf courses.
