Five Reasons to Visit New Haven
Summer is almost here, and thoughts of travel and vacation are always on my mind. New Haven, Connecticut is a city with that breezy New England feel. It is the perfect getaway for arts, history, and scholarly aptitude.
Here are five reasons to plan a visit to New Haven:
1. New Haven is easy to get to from either coast.
New Haven is easily accessible on the East Coast, especially from New York. You can hop a train at NYC’s Grand Central Station and be in downtown New Haven in two hours. Weekend getaway? Check. I also found an affordable flight from Los Angeles to New Haven on CheapOair.com to spend a week chowing down on lobster rolls and exploring the city.
2. There are attractions to please everyone in your group.
Attractions include dozens of tours throughout New Haven, ranging from urban cycling adventures to flavorful, culinary-themed tours. Other options include taking a tour of Yale University (http://www.yale.edu) or of the city’s beautiful historical cemeteries.
3. The city hosts the International Festival of Arts & Ideas.
June 15-29, 2013, the International Festival of Arts & Ideas will welcome more than 100,000 arts and culture enthusiasts to experience global events and performances—all from the charming New England city of New Haven. The festival programming is slated to explore the imagination, inspiration, and innovation of the arts through its theme “Dreaming New Worlds.” This year’s line-up includes an array of art, theater, dance, music, culinary, and family-friendly events, making the festival appeal to everyone. The best part is 80 percent of the festival is free and open to the public. There are also unique opportunities to participate in master classes and workshops, where participants will learn the processes and techniques that went into the festival’s performances. With a wide range of performances, lectures, activities, and exhibits, there is truly a reason to visit during the International Festival of Arts & Ideas.
4. Unique scholarly hotels surround Yale University.
To soak in the real New Haven I suggest staying at The Study at Yale. The Study is New Haven’s hottest boutique hotel, tying in the qualities of an artist with a sophisticated vibe. The Study will delight throughout your stay, from its comfort-style room service menu to the acclaimed artwork throughout the hotel.
5. New Haven is a town of culinary firsts and passion.
While wandering the tree-lined streets be sure to seek out some local food. You have to check out the famous brick-oven pizzerias—Sally’s Apizza, Frank Pepe, and Modern Apizza—because New Haven is home to the first slice of American pizza. For another culinary first try Miya’s Sushi, the first sustainable sushi restaurant in the world. My favorite is The Cask Republic, a biergarten with the most extensive beer menu in New Haven, which means it is the most refreshing summer spot.
When planning your summer trips, remember New Haven, a peaceful New England town that will have a cure for every appetite.
For additional information about the Festival of Arts & Ideas or to buy tickets, call (203) 498-3758 or (888) ART-IDEA.
