Things To Do
Catch a show at Toad's Place
A legendary live music venue in New Haven, Toad’s Place has hosted iconic artists like The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Drake. Whether you’re into rock, hip-hop, or indie music, this intimate venue is a must-visit for concert lovers. Check their lineup for a great show while you're in town!
Sip & smoke at the Owl Shop
A cozy, old-school cigar lounge and cocktail bar with vintage charm. Whether you're enjoying a fine cigar, a handcrafted drink, or the ambient jazz music, The Owl Shop offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for winding down in style.
Enjoy a performance at Woolsey Hall
A grand Beaux-Arts concert hall at Yale, Woolsey Hall is home to the Yale Symphony Orchestra and one of the largest pipe organs in the world. Built in 1901, its stunning architecture and incredible acoustics make it a breathtaking venue for concerts, lectures, and university ceremonies. Whether you’re attending a performance or just admiring the space, it’s a must-see for music and architecture lovers alike.
Roam the Yale Peabody museum
If you love dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, or natural wonders, this newly renovated museum is a must-visit. The Peabody is home to one of the largest dinosaur fossil collections in the country.
Wander around Yale art gallery
One of the country’s oldest university art museums, the Yale Art Gallery offers an incredible collection of masterpieces—from ancient artifacts to modern works. And the best part? Admission is free!
Uncover literary treasures at Beinecke library
A true hidden gem, the Beinecke Library is a book lover’s dream. Home to one of the world’s largest collections of rare books and manuscripts, its most famous treasures include an original Gutenberg Bible and the mysterious, undeciphered Voynich Manuscript. The striking glass-encased book tower and translucent marble panels make this library an architectural wonder. A must-visit for history buffs and anyone who loves the smell of old books! (Admission is free!)
Get inside the mind at the Cushing center
Tucked away beneath Yale’s medical library, The Cushing Center is home to a fascinating and eerie collection of medical history. It houses the preserved brain specimens of Dr. Harvey Cushing, a pioneer in neurosurgery, along with rare medical artifacts, old surgical tools, and historical photographs. A must-see for science enthusiasts and those with a curiosity for the strange and unusual! (Check ahead for visiting hours.)
Ride through history at the Shore Line Trolley museum
Hop aboard one of the oldest operating trolley systems in the U.S. and take a scenic ride along the shoreline! This charming museum features a collection of vintage streetcars and offers a hands-on, family-friendly experience just a short drive from New Haven. Perfect for transportation buffs or anyone looking to slow down and enjoy a little history on rails.
Taste new haven-style pizza at Sally's
Barstool Sport's One Bite Pizza Rankings gave it a 9.2! New Haven-style pizza (or "apizza") is famous, and Sally’s is one of the best places to try it! Open since 1938, this Wooster Street icon serves thin-crust, coal-fired pies with a crispy, slightly charred edge. (Pro tip: Order a plain tomato pie or the white clam pizza—New Haven classics!)
Grab a burger at Louis' Lunch
The birthplace of the American hamburger, Louis’ Lunch has been serving its iconic flame-broiled patties on white toast since 1895. This historic spot stays true to tradition—no ketchup, no frills, just a perfectly cooked burger in its purest form. A must-visit for food lovers and history buffs alike!
Induldge in Thai bites at Noa by September in Bangkok
If you've got an adventurous palate, we highly recommend practically everything on their menu.
Take in the views at East Rock park
Take a short drive or hike up to East Rock for the best panoramic views of New Haven. It’s a peaceful spot for a morning walk or a sunset photo.
Stroll through New Haven Green
Established in 1638, the New Haven Green is a 16-acre park that serves as the city's central square. Surrounded by historic buildings and churches, it's a perfect spot for a stroll and to soak in the city's rich history.
Get spooky in the crypt at center church on the Green
Step into history beneath New Haven’s iconic Green. This hidden crypt, dating back to the 1600s, contains the final resting place of early colonists, including New Haven’s founders. It’s a unique and eerie glimpse into the city’s past. (Tours are limited, so check in advance for availability!)
Meet midnight Mary—if you dare
41.299405, -72.949754 Marked by the eerie inscription “The people shall be troubled at midnight and pass away,” the grave of Midnight Mary in Evergreen Cemetery has fueled ghost stories for generations. Legend has it that Mary Hart was mistakenly buried alive in 1872, though history tells a different tale. Whether you believe the myth or not, this ominous headstone remains one of New Haven’s most chilling curiosities.
Pay respects to the Winchester legacy
41.301894, -72.946 Heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune and creator of the infamous Winchester Mystery House, Sarah Winchester is laid to rest in New Haven’s Evergreen Cemetery. Despite the legends surrounding her life, her grave is simple and unassuming—a stark contrast to the sprawling, enigmatic mansion she left behind. A fascinating stop for history buffs and those intrigued by the mysteries of the past.
Discover the Yale collection of musical instruments
A fascinating journey through music history, this collection features rare and beautifully crafted instruments dating back centuries. From delicate harpsichords to early string and wind instruments, each piece tells a story of innovation and artistry. Whether you're a musician or just love the beauty of music, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the sounds of the past. (Check ahead for tour availability and hours.)