Uncover the Hidden Gems of New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven, CT, is home to various things to do. Its cultural legacy dates back three centuries. You can enjoy the lively arts scene, the symphony, theaters, and parks.
So whether you are looking for a relaxing day, a fun night out with the family, or a romantic weekend, there is something for everyone in this beautiful coastal city.
If you are visiting the city of New Haven, you will be pleased to know that there are many attractions in the area. These include the PEZ Visitor Center, East Rock Park, Yale University Art Gallery, and Yale Peabody Museum.
Yale University Art Gallery
The Yale University Art Gallery is among the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. This university gallery is in New Haven, Connecticut, and features a world-class collection of paintings and sculptures.
Although the Yale University Art Gallery is well-known for its African sculptures, it is also home to an extensive collection of early Italian paintings. It also has notable collections of American decorative arts. Moreover, the museum is home to many other art forms, including works by famous modern artists.
The Yale University Art Gallery’s mission is to make art accessible and encourage community dialogue. It also stimulates research and teaching and is committed to equity and diversity.
Founded in 1832, the gallery houses a world-class permanent collection of art. Besides works by renowned artists like Picasso, Manet, and Van Gogh, many represent worldwide civilizations and cultures. In addition to its main collections, the gallery often hosts special exhibitions.
New Haven Green
The New Haven Green is a 16-acre park in the city’s center. It is the oldest town green in the United States and is a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Green is a popular spot for events and concerts.
Colonist John Brockett laid out New Haven Green in 1638. Later, the Green became a site for schools and statehouses. It was also a place for training Civil War regiments.
Today, the Green is home to several historic buildings, including the Trinity Church on the Green, the first Gothic Style church in the United States. Other landmarks include the Yale University library, which features a Gutenberg Bible.
The New Haven Green is a great place to learn about the history of the community. Several monuments and markers help visitors explore the city’s past. In addition, the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in New Haven also brings in artists from around the world. This event celebrates the diverse culture of New Haven.
There are also various free and low-cost activities to enjoy on the Green. On any given day, you can find people of all ages enjoying New Haven Green. Families come to picnic, and older men play guitars.
East Rock Park
East Rock Park is a 425-acre park that offers visitors panoramic views of New Haven. It is also the site of the East Rock Monument, a white granite memorial honoring soldiers from the Civil War. Colorful lights illuminate this monument at night.
The park is home to several landmarks, including the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors Memorial and the Pardee Rose Gardens. Among other things, it hosts the Twilight Summer Concert Series.
East Rock Park is the perfect place for a picnic with a view. In addition, a short nature trail is also available for those who want to observe local wildlife.
PEZ Visitor Center
The PEZ Visitor Center in Orange, Connecticut, is not your average candy museum. Instead, this 4,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to everything related to the iconic brand.
At the PEZ Visitor Center, visitors can experience everything from trivia games to a production room and the world’s giant PEZ dispenser. For a small fee, visitors can experience everything the museum offers.
In addition to the displays, the center also features an interactive historical timeline. This displays the history of PEZ, from its beginnings in Austria to moving to the US and Canada.
For a more hands-on experience, the PEZ museum offers a self-guided tour of its factory. Visitors can watch workers putting together orders for PEZ candy. It is also home to the world’s most extensive collection of PEZ memorabilia.
Yale Peabody Museum
Yale Peabody Museum is one of the largest university museums in the world. It was founded in 1866 by philanthropist George Peabody.
The museum houses over 14 million objects. It is home to the famous Great Hall of Dinosaurs and other exhibits. The Peabody Museum has added 50 percent more gallery space as part of a comprehensive renovation.
In addition to the expansion, the renovation includes a new K-12 Education Center and courtyard space. Additionally, the museum has increased its research facilities. There are also more hands-on programs.
The renovation is expected to last three years. Once complete, the Peabody Museum will offer free admission to the public.
A significant new exhibit is “Fossil Fragments: The Riddle of Human Origins.” This exhibition features minerals from Connecticut. Many of the items are on display in the Discovery Room. Here, visitors can test their knowledge of geology and geography by studying the different materials.