Hilary & Nicholas
Things To Do
Modern Apizza
Hilary and Nick stop here every single time they go home to CT and it is because it’s the BEST pizza you will ever eat (we promise!) Google will tell you to go to Pepe’s or Sally’s in Wooster Square, but trust us when we say, Modern is superior to them all. New Haven pizza (or apizza, as the locals say) is nationally ranked as the best pizza in the country year after year for good reason. Let us know what you think!
Thimble Island Brewing Company
Grab a drink at Thimble Island Brewery while you’re in the area! Great sours and IPAs. The food is also delicious and the perfect snack food.
Thimble Island Cruise
Hilary’s childhood was filled with short boat trips to the Thimbles where she and her sister would swim all day until their parents told them it was time to go home. All her favorite summer memories are here. Take a boat cruise and hear all about the history of the islands- it includes pirate folklore!
Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
Growing up, Hilary knew this simply as “The Wharf” as it is located at West Wharf Beach. It’s since been redone and bought by Hilton, but the classic charm is still there. Grab a drink in the bar and enjoy the view! While you’re there, head to the Surf Club for some beach time and take a drive down Middle Beach Road.
The Surf Club
This is the beach where Hilary spent everyday of her summers as a child. If you’re looking for a place to relax, this is it! For a small fee (about $25/car) you can enjoy the day on the beach and have lunch of dinner (bring you own, grill, or order from the surf shack). It’s a great place for sunsets and relaxation!
Lobster Landing
If you are looking for a loaded lobster roll, this is it! The only 3 ingredients you need are lobster, butter, and a toasted hot dog bun.
Harkness Memorial State Park
This is a beautiful state park alone the shore and also where Hilary and Nick had their engagement photos taken! Explore the mansion, gardens, and beach all in one place!
New England Brewing Co
Another great brewery in CT! Be sure to order Nick's favorite, Fuzzy Baby Ducks.
Twelve Percent Beer Project
With 20 beers on tap, there is something for everyone at Twelve Percent! They have a beautiful taproom, as well as an outdoor area. While they have some of their own beers, they are mainly a distributor for other breweries, so you can experience a few different brands all in one place!
Tree House Brewing Company - Charlton
While this is located about an hour and a half from New Haven, it is a short drive off the highway on your way to/from our wedding if you are coming from Massachusetts and Maine! Treehouse beers speak for themselves, so if you can work it into your trip, we highly recommended it!
Yale University Art Gallery
Just a 6 minute walk from the hotel, the Yale University Art Gallery is truly something to see! It is the oldest college art museum in the country. The museum is free and open to the public!
Lighthouse Point Park
Just a minute away from our venue, Lighthouse Point Park is a beautiful place to walk around. Enjoy the beach, the view of Long Island Sound, New Haven, and take a peek at the antique carousel! Hilary’s Dad worked at the park growing up and it remains a place filled with wonderful memories.