New Haven – Summer
in the City 2021

With great vaccination rates in the city alongside warmer and longer days, this summer in New Haven has some resemblance of normality. In fact, some of the events and opportunities this summer were created thanks to the need for more outdoor activities and social distancing.

Many New Haven favorites are reopening and new events are popping up. So, check out some of the top things to do in New Haven this summer.

Museums

After being closed since the beginning of the pandemic, New Haven’s museums are starting to reopen! If you’re looking for an indoor activity for a rainy day or maybe even for an uncomfortably hot day, come in and enjoy the air-controlled rooms filled with cultural marvels.

New Haven Museum, on Whitney Ave, is now open Wednesday to Saturday and showcases research and exhibits for the area’s history.

Yale’s Art Galleries on Chapel Street are now open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with some world-famous art on display including many international collections.

Temple Plaza

Throughout the summer months, you’ll find plenty of fun events occurring in the outdoor space called Temple Plaza, which is located on Temple Street between Temple Grill and Pitaziki. As well as plenty of public seating to enjoy a take out from one of your favorite downtown eateries, Temple Plaza hosts free events that are open to the public, most of which don’t require advanced booking.

This year’s events include:
– Friday night Ping Pong in the Plaza
– Last Friday of the month Picnic in the Plaza

We recommend checking these events out on Facebook to more details and any booking requirements.

Movies in the Plaza

Another outdoor space hosting events this summer in New Haven is Pitkin Plaza (145 Orange Street). Every Wednesday evening until October, you’ll find film favorites screened from 8pm or 8:30pm. This year’s screenings include Dodgeball, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Legally Blonde 1, Black Panther and so many more!

Remember to bring your own blankets, cushions or lawn chairs as well as some treats to enjoy with the movie. We’d recommend grabbing an ice cream scoop or two from Ben and Jerry’s on Temple Street or a box of Insomnia Cookies from College Street.

Bus Trips

Want to explore more than just downtown New Haven this summer? From Memorial Day to Labor Day, CT transit buses are free! Just hop on a bus (with a face mask on) and head out into other parts of the city. Be sure to check the online timetables as weekend buses often take different routes and are less frequent. Our recommended bus trips are:

243 to Westville

Head up Whalley Ave and explore Westville’s independent shops, art galleries and the Sunday CitySeed Farmer’s Market in Edgewood Park. We recommend checking out Lena’s or Bella’s for an incredible brunch before browsing the quirky shops filled with treasures including Strange Ways and Vintanthromodern.

224/229/228 to East Rock Park

Enjoy a beginner-friendly hike/cycle up East Rock to the unmissable views across New Haven and Long Island Sound. Remember to pack from plenty of water and sunscreen for those hot days. Fortunately, most of the trail is shaded by tall trees but if you plan a picnic on the benches at the top by the memorial statue, you’ll need some sun protection.

229 to Sleeping Giant State Park

For another hike that’s further from the city is Sleeping Giant. It’s a popular route that is also beginner-friendly which impressive views at the top. There is a small stone lookout tower at the top and lots of spots to enjoy a picnic! This stony path through the forest is well shaded and is often used by families, dog walkers and runners.

Whether it’s culture, nature or adventure that you’re after this summer, New Haven has plenty to offer alongside the well-known world-class cuisines and bars. Have a summer to remember in the city this year