Milford, Connecticut, located on the Long Island Sound, is a charming New England town with a rich history and plenty of things to do for visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors, love to shop and dine, or want to soak up some local culture, Milford has something to offer. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Milford, Connecticut, to help you plan your next visit.
- Take a Stroll through Downtown Milford
Downtown Milford is a vibrant and walkable district, with charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Start your day by grabbing a cup of coffee at the local coffee shop, then take a leisurely stroll through the streets to explore the unique boutiques and art galleries. The area is also home to several museums, including the Milford Historical Society, where you can learn about the town’s rich history.
- Visit Silver Sands State Park
Silver Sands State Park is a beautiful 297-acre park that sits on Long Island Sound. The park features a boardwalk, a beach, and walking trails that offer stunning views of the water. You can swim in the Sound, explore the sand dunes, or enjoy a picnic on the beach. The park is open year-round, and admission is free.
- Explore the Milford Green
The Milford Green is a central gathering place for locals and visitors. The park features a gazebo, a playground, and a war memorial. Throughout the year, the green hosts events such as concerts, craft fairs, and farmer’s markets. Take a walk around the green, grab a bite to eat from a food truck, and soak up the local atmosphere.
- Take a Cruise with Captain’s Cove Seaport
Captain’s Cove Seaport is a waterfront destination that offers dining, shopping, and entertainment. One of the highlights is taking a cruise on one of their boats, which range from paddle boats to full-sized yachts. The cruises offer scenic views of the harbor and the Long Island Sound, and some even include live music and food.
- Shop at Milford’s Farmer’s Market
Milford’s Farmer’s Market is a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce and other food items. The market is held on Saturdays from May through October and features vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and bread. You can also find handmade crafts and other unique items at the market.
- Take a Hike at the Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center
The Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center is a 155-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and educational programs. The preserve features a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, tidal creeks, and wooded uplands. The trails offer stunning views of the Long Island Sound and are open year-round.
- Visit the Milford Arts Council
The Milford Arts Council is a non-profit organization that promotes the arts in the local community. The council operates the Firehouse Gallery, which features rotating exhibits of local and regional artists. The council also hosts concerts, theater productions, and other cultural events throughout the year.
- Take a Tour of the Milford Oyster Trail
Milford is known for its delicious oysters, and the Milford Oyster Trail offers a fun and educational way to learn about the town’s oyster industry. The trail includes 15 sites throughout town that provide information about the history of oystering in Milford and showcase the town’s oyster culture.
- Attend Milford’s Annual Oyster Festival
Milford’s Annual Oyster Festival is a popular event that celebrates the town’s oyster industry. The festival features live music, food vendors, craft vendors, a classic car show, and other family-friendly activities. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to sample fresh, locally harvested oysters. The festival takes place in mid-August and draws large crowds from around the region.
- Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding on the Housatonic River
The Housatonic River runs through Milford and offers a beautiful setting for kayaking or paddleboarding. The river is calm and suitable for all skill levels, and there are several local outfitters that offer rentals and guided tours. It’s a great way to get out on the water and see the town from a different perspective.
- Visit the Milford Point Coastal Center
The Milford Point Coastal Center is a nature center that offers educational programs and exhibits about the local ecosystem. The center also features a bird blind, where visitors can observe a variety of bird species that inhabit the area. The center is open year-round and offers a great way to learn about the natural history of Milford.
- Attend a Performance at the Milford Performance Center
The Milford Performance Center is a historic theater that hosts live music, theater, and comedy performances throughout the year. The venue has been restored to its original Art Deco style and offers a unique setting for cultural events. Check the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.
- Take a Day Trip to New Haven
New Haven, home to Yale University and a vibrant arts and culture scene, is just a short drive from Milford. Spend a day exploring the city’s museums, galleries, and historic sites, or grab a pizza from one of the famous pizzerias in town.
- Enjoy a Meal at One of Milford’s Local Restaurants
Milford has a thriving restaurant scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. From seafood to Italian to Thai cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Some local favorites include Stonebridge Restaurant, Rainbow Gardens, and Bin 100 Restaurant.
In conclusion, Milford, Connecticut offers plenty of things to do for visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural events, or just want to explore the town’s unique charm, there’s something for everyone. Plan your next trip to Milford today and discover all that this New England gem has to offer.
