Exploring New Haven, Connecticut

Exploring New Haven, Connecticut
📍 New Haven, CT

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Just a quick drive away from our Coastal Connecticut, the city of New Haven has so much to offer. We all probably instantly think of Yale University, a part of the Ivy League Holy Trinity according to Blair Waldorf. While we let ourselves explore the historic campus, there’s such so much to experience. From cultural institutions to culinary delights, here’s how we made the most of our day trip to New Haven, the Elm City.

Wake-Up at the Omni New Haven

The night before our New Haven adventure, we were hosted by the fabulous Omni hotel. Situated right next to Yale’s campus and on the New Haven Green, consider this the perfect place to stay in New Haven. Apart from the service being impeccable, we were able to start our day with a great night sleep. After a hearty breakfast at their on-site restaurant, John Davenports, we were off and ready to start our day.

Grab a Latte at Poindexter Coffee

I always love visiting the local coffee shops in shops in every town or city I explore. While there’s a few to choose from in New Haven, David and I stumbled upon Poindexter Coffee, just up the road from the Omni. Apart from my delicious snickerdoodle latte, I was really struck by the impeccable interior decor. It was sprinkled with antiques, curated pieces, and lots of Yale history. The inviting and cozy atmosphere makes it no wonder that it’s a popular hangout to study after class.

Get Lost at the Yale Art Museum

Following the pulse of New Haven led us to the Yale Art Gallery. Wandering through its diverse collections, we journeyed from ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces. Van Gogh, Monet, Degas, oh my! The museum’s architecture itself is an artful blend of the historic and contemporary, offering a visual feast at every turn. The Yale Art Gallery is a sanctuary for art enthusiasts. I particularly loved the Revolutionary Gallery, featuring art from Connecticut native, John Trumbull.

Fill Up on Pizza from the Holy Trinity

Embarking on a food odyssey through New Haven, we couldn’t resist immersing ourselves in the city’s pizza culture. Locally known as the “Holy Trinity of Pizza,” these legendary establishments—Frank Pepe’s, Sally’s Apizza, and Modern Apizza—each boast a storied history and a distinct mastery of the pizza craft. While our pilgrimage led us to the Modern Apizza, known for its delectable coal-fired creations, the tales of Frank Pepe’s and Sally’s lingered in the New Haven air. Together, they form the sacred trio that solidifies New Haven’s reputation as a haven for pizza. Each slice is a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Explore the Historic Yale Campus

Stepping onto the Yale campus was like entering a living museum of academia. The gothic spires and manicured lawns create a sense of timeless elegance. We strolled through courtyards on the way home from lunch, pausing at the Harkness Tower and Sterling Memorial Library. It reminded us that New Haven’s heartbeat, from the food to the culture, stemmed from the Ivy League school that called the town home since 1701.

Have Dinner at a New Haven Icon

It’s often recommenced to end a New Haven day with dinner Union League Cafe, an icon in New Haven’s culinary scene. Nestled in a historic building, the restaurant exudes French elegance. From escargot to coq au vin, every dish is a masterpiece. Consider it a transports you to the streets of Paris. As you savor each bite, it was a testament to the city’s ability to seamlessly blend history, art, and cuisine.

As the sun set on our day in New Haven, art, academia, and the aroma of pizza lingered in the air. From the halls of Yale to the cozy corners of Poindexter Coffee, and the savory Modern Apizza, our journey was a symphony of culture and flavor. New Haven, with its historic charm, proved to be a perfect New England escape. Until our next adventure, farewell, Elm City!

Love from New Haven,
Katie

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