Looking for a coastal city with urban energy and suburban comfort? Head to Stamford! Located along the Long Island Sound, Stamford, Connecticut blends city amenities, waterfront beauty, and convenient access to New York City. Whether you're enjoying a stroll along the harbor, dining downtown, or exploring local parks and museums, Stamford offers a dynamic and family-friendly escape in Fairfield County.
Stamford, CT Highlights:
- For Nature Lovers: Explore Cove Island Park – A scenic park with walking trails, a beach, bird sanctuary, and stunning coastal views.
- For Art Fans: Visit the Stamford Museum & Nature Center – A mix of art, history, a working farm, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
- For Foodies: Dine and sip in Harbor Point – Trendy restaurants, bars, and waterfront patios in a revitalized marina district.
- For Families: Enjoy Mill River Park – Carousel rides, splash pad, playgrounds, and events in a scenic downtown green space.
- For Culture: See a show at The Palace Theatre – A historic venue hosting Broadway tours, concerts, comedy, and local performances.
Best Time to Visit Stamford, CT
The best time to visit Stamford is in spring (April–June) and fall (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and perfect for walking, outdoor dining, and exploring parks. Summer brings beach weather and festivals, while winter offers indoor attractions and holiday markets.
How to Get to Stamford, CT
- By Train: Stamford Station is a major Metro-North and Amtrak stop, with frequent service to NYC, Boston, and beyond.
- By Car: Located off I-95 and the Merritt Parkway, Stamford is about 45 minutes northeast of New York City.
- By Plane: Westchester County Airport (HPN) is 25 minutes away; LaGuardia (LGA) and JFK are about 1 hour away depending on traffic.
Where to Stay in Stamford, CT
- Recommended for Families: Residence Inn by Marriott Stamford Downtown – Spacious suites with kitchenettes near Mill River Park and restaurants.
- For Couples: The Lloyd Stamford, Tapestry Collection – Stylish boutique hotel downtown with modern design and thoughtful amenities.
- For Business or Budget: Hampton Inn & Suites Stamford – Comfortable and well-located with river views and easy highway access.
Best Things to Do in Stamford, CT
⮕ Stamford Museum & Nature Center
Explore farm animals and walk wooded trails on a fun family trip.
© Stamford Museum & Nature Center
The Stamford Museum & Nature Center is a museum that focuses on art, history, nature, and agriculture. Set on 118 acres of beautiful landscapes about half a mile north of the Merritt Parkway that were originally a private estate, the museum is situated alongside a 10-acre working farm, an interactive nature center, a large planetarium and four-story observatory with a research telescope, and 80 acres of outdoor trails. The museum features seasonal family-oriented exhibits, interactive displays and year-round childhood educational programming, along with summer camps, and volunteer opportunities. Outside the museum is a large playground designed for children that provides them with the opportunity to experience animals' perspective on nature.
39 Scofieldtown Rd, Stamford, CT 06903, Phone: 203-322-1646
⮕ Cove Island Park
Go for a beach walk and enjoy scenic sights on a summer weekend.
© alex9500/stock.adobe.com
Located on Long Island Sound, Cove Island Park
is an 83-acre park, beach and recreation area that features a wealth of recreational facilities and outdoor activities. The park features two sandy beaches, a children's play area, a one-mile loop walking/running trail, and rollerblade/cycling path, and expansive lawn areas for picnicking and kite-flying. The park is also home to a small salt marsh and intertidal mudflats that attract a wide variety of diverse birdlife and provides excellent bird-watching. A state-of-the-art nature center with interesting exhibits is also found at the park, and the Terry Conners Ice Rink can be found near the park's entrance, which is open during the winter and offers skating lessons for children.
363 Weed Ave, Stamford, CT 06902
⮕ Curtain Call, Inc
See live performances and enjoy local talent on an affordable evening outing.
© eugenesergeev/stock.adobe.com
Curtain Call, Inc
is a longest-running community producing theatre company that presents a calendar of full-scale productions each year in two venues, namely the traditional 184-seat Kweskin Theatre and the 100-seat cabaret-style Dressing Room Theatre, a three-quarter thrust stage venue. Curtain Call, Inc was established to provide entertainment for the community and encourage an environment for learning. The theatre company offers a range of educational programs including Young Actors Workshops, Writing Workshops and Young Writers Workshop, Acting for Kids, Improv for Kids, Comedy for Teens, Acting Workshop, Shakespeare Theatre, and Dance & Movement.
1349 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT 06905, Phone: 203-329-8207
⮕ The Ferguson Library
Visit community programs and discover books and stuff on a quiet trip.
© The Ferguson Library
The Ferguson Library is a community library in Stamford that gathering space for the community to enjoy a wide range of literature, as well as provides many books, magazines, multi-media, and reference materials. The Ferguson Municipal Public Library offers a variety of children's programs, including Baby Time, Toddler Time, Family Story Time, Summer Reading Club, and Book Discussions and Preschool Story Time. Teen programs at the library include Teen Reads, Book Discussion, Booklists, Volunteering, Summer Reading Club and various special events and vacation week programs throughout the year.
1 Public Library Plaza, Stamford, CT 06901, Phone: 203-964-1000
⮕ First Presbyterian Church of Stamford
Admire stained glass and explore modern architecture on a quick visit.
© First Presbyterian Church of Stamford, Connecticut
The First Presbyterian Church of Stamford is a famous church designed by architect Wallace K. Harrison that is renowned for its unusual shape. Nicknamed Fish Church, the architectural landmark is an outstanding example of modernist architecture and features a 260-foot-tall Maguire Memorial Tower which is home to a 56-bell carillon that was initially of 36 bells called the Nestle Carillon. The unusual shape of the church has been likened to that of a fish - a symbol used in early Christianity – and is apparent both in the profile and in the floor plan of the structure. Enormous stained-glass windows in the sanctuary containing more than 20,000 pieces of faceted glass enhance the shape of the church and depict the story of the Crucifixion and the Resurrection. The Chancel is dominated by a 32-foot-high cross faced with wood.
1101 Bedford St, Stamford, CT 06905, Phone: 203-324-9522
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ The Palace Theatre
Catch a show and enjoy romantic vibes during a couples night out.
© The Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre is a theater company with two venues, namely the beautifully restored Palace Theatre on Atlantic Street and the Rich Forum, both of which host a variety of performances including plays, music concerts, and dance recitals. The Palace Theatre on Atlantic Street is a historic theater with 1500+ seats that was originally a vaudeville house designed by Thomas W. Lamb and opened in 1927. After falling into disrepair, the theater was lovingly restored and renovated in 1983 to become the Palace Theatre with an enlarged stage, new dressing rooms, new technical-support facilities, and improved services. Today, the theater presents a diverse variety of art exhibitions, concerts, and live theatre.
61 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT 06901, Phone: 203-325-4466
⮕ Half Full Brewery
Sip local brews and relax in a fun weekend setting.
© Half Full Brewery
Half Full Brewery is a locally-owned and operated microbrewery and tasting room that produces a range of craft brews, including Bright Ale, Pursuit IPA, Toasted Amber, and a delicious new Onward APA. A hip, modern tasting room offers a comfortable place for beer-lovers to gather to taste up to 12 different brews on tap, including the Core Series, CSA Project Series, Limited Release, and Tasting Room Exclusives. The brewery offers pints and flights, along with 20 oz pours for Mug Club members, along with a selection of merchandise such as hats, t-shirts, hoodies, and glassware. Local food trucks visit the brewery to serve casual fare, and during the summer months, a laid-back beer patio is open on the weekends. Half Full Brewery is only on the weekends and hosts a variety of beer-centric events throughout the year such as pub runs and rare beer nights.
43 Homestead Ave, Stamford, CT 06902, Phone: 203-658-3631
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Bartlett Arboretum
Walk garden trails and admire seasonal blooms on a peaceful spring trip.
© Nigel/stock.adobe.com
The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens is a beautifully manicured 93-acre parkland featuring gorgeous gardens and natural landscapes that are home to a diverse variety of local fauna and flora from the Southwestern New England. Open to the public every day of the year, the Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens has several collections including an herbarium with over 3500 specimens from around the world. The Arboretum also features the Conifer Garden, a collection of conifers; the Mehlquist Garden, a unique collection of azaleas and rhododendrons; the Nut Tree Collection; the Pollarded Tree Display; the Magnolia Collection; and the Theaceae collection, which features camellias, franklinias, gorgonias, and stewartias. The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens offers a range of educational programs, summer camps art classes, yoga hikes, and clinics, along with hosts several functions and events throughout the year.
151 Brookdale Rd, Stamford, CT 06903, Phone: 203-322-6971
⮕ Fort Stamford Park - Goodbody Garden
Look at historic ruins and stroll flower beds during a fall outing.
© miroslavmisiura/stock.adobe.com
The Goodbody Garden is a quiet oasis in the heart of the Fort Stamford Site, a public park and home to Fort Stamford. Nestled next to the remnants of the Revolutionary War outpost of Fort Stamford, the beautiful formal garden was initially owned by New York financier Marcus Goodbody whose imposing home with formal gardens were based on the site in the early 20th century. After falling into disrepair, the gardens were lovingly restored to their former glory by the Stamford Garden Club and the Glenbrook Garden Club and today is open to the public. The tranquil gardens feature lovely local fauna and flora, a sunken garden and shady stone-pillared pergola, and grass lawns that are perfect for picnicking.
Where to Eat in Stamford, CT
- Recommended for Families: Colony Grill – Thin-crust bar-style pizza with a spicy signature hot oil topping, loved by locals.
- For Date Night: Prime – An American Kitchen & Bar – Upscale steak and seafood on the waterfront with modern flair.
- For a Casual Meal: The Wheel – Farm-to-table dining in Harbor Point with creative cocktails and seasonal dishes.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Parade Lovers: Stamford Downtown Thanksgiving Parade Spectacular (November) – A giant balloon parade the Sunday before Thanksgiving, fun for all ages.
- For Music Fans: Alive@Five Summer Concert Series (Summer) – Weekly outdoor concerts in Columbus Park featuring national and local acts.
- For Winter Fun: Mill River Park’s Winter Wonderland (December–February) – Ice skating, holiday lights, and seasonal treats in the heart of downtown.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Stamford, Connecticut:
- For Art & Culture: Bruce Museum (Greenwich) (15–20 min) – Natural history and art museum with rotating exhibits and beautiful grounds.
- For Nature: Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens (10–15 min) – A peaceful escape with walking trails, flower gardens, and educational programs.
- For Shopping & Dining: Downtown Greenwich (20 min) – High-end boutiques, cafés, and galleries in a polished setting.
- For Beaches: Greenwich Point Park (25 min) – Stunning sandy beach with water views, walking trails, and picnic areas.
- For NYC Excursions: Grand Central Terminal (50 min by train) – Easy access to all the shopping, shows, and sights of Manhattan.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Stamford, CT located?
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Stamford, CT is situated approximately 30 miles from Manhattan, making it a convenient location for both business and leisure travelers.
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What major corporations are based in Stamford?
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Stamford is home to four Fortune 500 Companies as well as numerous divisions of large corporations, making it a significant business hub.
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What are the top attractions in Stamford?
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Visitors can explore the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, which offers educational exhibits and scenic walking trails.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Stamford?
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Nature lovers can visit Cove Island Park, which features pristine beaches, wetlands, hiking trails, and a rich bird habitat.
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Where can visitors enjoy scenic hikes in Stamford?
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The lovely wooded Mianus River Park, located on the city’s outskirts, offers hiking trails and opportunities to explore nature.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers. |
Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa – A convenient downtown stay with great amenities. |
Visit the Stamford Museum & Nature Center – Enjoy trails, farm animals, and cultural exhibits. |
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather and waterfront activities. |
Hilton Stamford Hotel & Executive Meeting Center – A comfortable stay with easy access to NYC. |
Explore Cove Island Park – A scenic spot for picnics, beaches, and kayaking. |
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, fall foliage, and local festivals. |
Hotel Zero Degrees – A stylish and modern boutique hotel. |
Walk along the Mill River Park – Enjoy autumn colors in Stamford’s green oasis. |
Map:
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