Discovering New Haven: A Hidden Gem on the East Coast
If you’re looking for a unique travel experience that’s far from the usual tourist spots, there’s good news. Travel experts have highlighted a coastal city that’s gaining attention as one of the top destinations this fall. This city is not just any place—it’s New Haven, Connecticut.
New Haven may not be a traditional beach town, but it offers something special with its fiery sunsets, calm waves, and picturesque lighthouses. The city lies on the Long Island Sound, which is a sheltered body of water separate from the vast Atlantic. This makes it an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy the coast without the crowds.
As autumn approaches, the foliage in New Haven transforms the tree lines from the coast to the city hilltops. This natural beauty adds to the charm of the city, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
A Coastal Getaway with Unique Attractions
New Haven boasts a variety of attractions that make it a must-visit destination. From quaint coves and towering lighthouses to serene marshlands and sweeping sunsets, the coastal aspect of New Haven is one of its most underrated appeals. While there are few stays worthy of booking a waterfront room, the dining scene is a different story.
One of the highlights of dining in New Haven is the Shell & Bones Oyster Bar and Grill, which has prime real estate along the Sound. Another great option is Il Gabbiano, located within walking distance of the Long Wharf Park—a fantastic spot to take in the views.
A Foodie Paradise
New Haven is also known as America’s unsung foodie destination. While it might not be the first name that comes to mind, the city has a thriving pizza scene. New Haven-style pizza is characterized by thin crust baked in coal-fired ovens, resulting in a masterpiece of smoky char and bold flavor with simple ingredients.
Famed eateries such as Sally’s Apizza, Modern Apizza, and Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana are all must-visit spots. However, travel experts at Parade recommend BAR for its exceptional quality. It’s not uncommon to hear of fellow East Coasters hopping aboard a train or braving traffic just to grab a bite and head back home—because it’s that good.
A Vibrant College Town with Free Attractions
If you’re overstuffed with pizza and forced to stay the night, there are plenty of ways to walk off your gut bomb without spending a penny. New Haven is famous for its world-renowned Yale University, which offers a European-esque campus dating back to the early 1700s.
There are several free attractions to enjoy one of America’s prettiest college campuses, especially during fall. Some of the free museums include:
- Yale Peabody Museum
- Yale Center for British Art
- Yale University Art Gallery
These museums offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, making them perfect for visitors interested in art and science.
Best Ways to Get Here
New Haven is easy to reach, depending on where you’re coming from. You can hop aboard a train from New York City for as little as $11 and be here in about 90 minutes. This goes for numerous Northeast cities at varying fares, as the city is directly linked to Washington DC, Boston, and Philadelphia too.
While Connecticut is often considered a pass-through state, you might be surprised to know that you can fly directly into New Haven (HVN) via America’s newest budget airlines Avelo and Breeze, or Hartford (BDL) just an hour or so away with more domestic options.
About the Author
Sam Sears, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego, has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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