Hamden, located in New Haven County, is a beautiful town with a rich history and culture. The town is home to Quinnipiac University, which adds to its vibrancy and charm. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Hamden, Connecticut. Here are some of the top things to do:
- Visit Sleeping Giant State Park
One of the most popular attractions in Hamden is Sleeping Giant State Park, which is located on Mount Carmel Avenue. The park spans over 1,500 acres and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and camping. The park is named after the mountain range that resembles a sleeping giant when viewed from a distance. The trails in the park offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are perfect for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.
- Explore the Eli Whitney Museum
The Eli Whitney Museum, located on Whitney Avenue, is a museum dedicated to the history of manufacturing and innovation. The museum was founded in 1992 and offers hands-on exhibits that showcase the evolution of manufacturing technology over time. Visitors can also participate in workshops and classes that teach various manufacturing techniques, such as metalworking and woodworking.
- Enjoy the Hamden Farmers’ Market
If you are a foodie, you will love the Hamden Farmers’ Market. The market is held every Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm, between June and October. It features over 25 local vendors who sell fresh produce, baked goods, and other specialty items. The market is located on the Town Center Park, which is also home to various community events throughout the year.
- Visit the Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum
The Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum, located on Whitney Avenue, is a museum dedicated to the history of the Great Famine in Ireland. The museum features a collection of over 700 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, that illustrate the impact of the famine on the Irish people. The museum also hosts various educational programs and events throughout the year.
- Attend a Show at The Space
The Space, located on Treadwell Street, is a popular music venue that hosts a variety of local and national acts. The venue has a capacity of 200 people and features a state-of-the-art sound system. It is known for its eclectic lineup of music, ranging from indie rock to hip hop. The Space also hosts various workshops and classes for aspiring musicians.
- Experience the Hindinger Farm
The Hindinger Farm, located on Dunbar Hill Road, is a family-owned farm that has been in operation for over 100 years. The farm offers a variety of seasonal activities, including apple picking in the fall and strawberry picking in the summer. Visitors can also purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and other farm products at the farm stand.
- Explore the Eli Whitney Preserve
The Eli Whitney Preserve, located on Leeder Hill Drive, is a 688-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and bobcats. It also features a variety of natural habitats, such as wetlands and hardwood forests.
- Visit the Paul Mellon Arts Center
The Paul Mellon Arts Center, located on the campus of Choate Rosemary Hall, is a performing arts center that hosts various concerts, plays, and dance performances throughout the year. The center features a 400-seat theater, a black box theater, and an art gallery that showcases works by local and national artists.
- Play a Round of Golf at Laurel View Country Club
Laurel View Country Club, located on West Shepard Avenue, is a popular golf course that offers 18 holes of challenging play. The course is designed by renowned golf course architect Geoffrey Cornish and features a mix of wooded and open fairways, as well as water hazards and bunkers. The club also offers a driving range, practice greens, and a pro shop for golf enthusiasts.
- Go Ice Skating at Louis Astorino Ice Arena
The Louis Astorino Ice Arena, located on Mix Avenue, is an indoor ice skating rink that offers public skating, figure skating, and ice hockey. The arena is open year-round and offers a variety of programs for all ages and skill levels. It also hosts various events and tournaments throughout the year.
- Visit the Connecticut Children’s Museum
The Connecticut Children’s Museum, located on Dixwell Avenue, is a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits for children ages 2-10. The museum features exhibits that focus on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Children can explore the human body, build structures, and experiment with various scientific principles.
- Take a Tour of the Eli Whitney House
The Eli Whitney House, located on Whitney Avenue, is a historic house museum that was the home of inventor Eli Whitney. The house was built in 1816 and features original furnishings and artifacts from the 19th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the life and work of Eli Whitney.
- Attend a Game at the Quinnipiac University Sports Center
The Quinnipiac University Sports Center, located on Mount Carmel Avenue, is a state-of-the-art sports facility that hosts various college sports events, including basketball, hockey, and lacrosse. The arena has a seating capacity of over 3,000 and features modern amenities, such as a video scoreboard and a VIP lounge.
- Walk or Bike on the Farmington Canal Trail
The Farmington Canal Trail, located on Whitney Avenue, is a popular walking and biking trail that stretches over 80 miles from New Haven to Northampton, Massachusetts. The trail follows the route of the old Farmington Canal and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, as well as access to various towns and attractions along the way.
- Visit the Hamden Plaza
The Hamden Plaza, located on Dixwell Avenue, is a shopping center that features a variety of stores, restaurants, and services. The plaza is anchored by a Walmart Supercenter and also features a Target, a Stop & Shop, and a Home Depot, among others. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
In conclusion, Hamden, Connecticut is a vibrant town with a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. From outdoor activities to museums and performing arts centers, there is something for everyone in Hamden. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, be sure to check out these top things to do in Hamden, Connecticut.
