Considered one of America’s best small cities, Hamden offers a wonderful fusion of urban living in a suburban atmosphere. Named after an English parliamentarian, John Hamden, this town is a picturesque one with plenty of interesting landmarks and activities to offer. From green spaces for outdoor recreation to museums, restaurants, and cafes, this place is perfect for an idyllic vacation. The variety of attractions and experiences makes it a fun place for people of all ages. Nicknamed “Land of the Sleeping Giant”, this suburb of New Haven is popular with visitors wanting to soak in its New England ambiance. Commuting by public bus or by car are the best ways to get around this charming town. Here are some of the fun things to do in Hamden, Connecticut, on your next visit.
1. Discover the wonders of Sleeping Giant State Park
Set off to unravel the hidden secrets of this sprawling park that gets its name from a mountaintop that resembles a sleeping giant. From enjoying scenic vistas atop the lookout tower to making full use of the hiking and walking trails, there’s plenty to keep you busy. You can even go camping or simply enjoy a leisurely picnic in the designated areas. Fishing enthusiasts can also try their luck here. Overall, this is a great place to watch the fall colors. Parking fees are applicable for non-residents, and permits are required for camping and fishing.
Sleeping Giant State Park
Address: 200 Mount Carmel Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
2. Catch a music show at Space Ballroom
Don’t miss Midnight North TONIGHT with The Backyard Committee and Tracy Jo & The Toads! Tickets available online at spaceballroom.com or at the door
Posted by Space Ballroom on Saturday, 20 July 2019
After a day of exploring, head out to this rustic bar to unwind with your favorite drink. Known for organizing interesting music shows in different genres, this bar also offers an outdoor patio where you can relax. Munch on some quick bites such as fried pickles - nothing fancy, but just enough to make you linger a while. Gluten-free drinks are a plus here, and the overall experience is sure to have you coming back for more. Shake a leg or just settle in to watch others have a good time as you sip your drink and enjoy the music.
Space Ballroom
Address: 295 Treadwell St, Hamden, CT 06514, United States
Website: Space Ballroom
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 18 - 30 USD
3. Explore the interesting exhibits at Eli Whitney Museum
With its range of interactive displays and exhibits, this fascinating museum promises hours of fun. Set inside a former gun factory, this museum cum workshop offers a variety of interesting activities for people of all ages. There is a model of a mill here in honor of the person after whom the museum is named. Known for its propagation of “essential experiments”, this museum was established in 1979 and you can find a lot of projects to purchase and use back home. Walk-in projects for children on the weekends include building a toy train. Hands-on learning is what this museum encourages and it is bound to be a great visit for someone who is into such activities, irrespective of age.
Eli Whitney Museum
Address: 915 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06517
Website: Eli Whitney Museum
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 3pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
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4. Have some indoor fun at Monkey Joe's
Monkey Joe’s is a good place for children to burn off some energy if you do not want to be out in the sun. Once you arrive, you’ll discover that this play center is definitely a fun place. There are very few staff members around so it is advisable to keep a watch over your kids when you are here. There are age-appropriate inflatable toys, a bounce area, and plenty of puzzles to keep the young ones occupied for quite some time. There is also a concession stand for a quick snack or a drink if you feel like it.
Monkey Joe's
Address: 35 Marne St, Hamden, CT 06514
Website: Monkey Joe’s
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 8pm; Fri: 4pm - 9pm; Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 10am - 8pm
Price: 8 - 13 USD
5. Stroll around Ireland's Great Hunger Museum
Posted by Ireland's Great Hunger Museum on Monday, 23 September 2019
Dedicated to the great famine that lasted from 1845 to 1852, Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum chronicles paintings and sculptures related to this difficult period. Part of Quinnipiac University, the works of contemporary Irish and Irish-American artists are on display here. You can find renowned artists spanning over 170 years featured in the galleries. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the museum offers guided tours that last for about one hour. While no prior reservations are required, there is a limit of 20 people per tour.
Ireland's Great Hunger Museum
Address: 3011 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Website: Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum
Opening hours: Wed, Fri - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 5 USD
6. Chill awhile at Eli's On Whitney
Settle in to savor American cuisine in a casual atmosphere at this centrally situated restaurant. Take your pick of salads, seafood, burgers, and steaks, as well as flavorful appetizers. The massive horseshoe bar is the perfect spot to unwind with a cold pint while you watch a game on one of the many TVs around. They also offer a selection of wines and martinis, making this a great place for a cozy meal with loved ones or catching up with friends.
Eli's On Whitney
Address: 2392 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Website: Eli’s On Whitney
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 1am; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 2am
7. Saunter around serene Brooksvale Park
Posted by Brooksvale Park on Saturday, 12 May 2018
This sprawling public park with a farm theme has everything from animals to organic vegetable gardens. There is even a sugar shack where maple syrup is made! Get up close with the bees at the apiary or try petting the sheep and rabbits. There are walking trails for you to try out, and it is likely that you will also come upon the ponies grazing on the green grass in their enclosures. As it is just a short drive from Sleeping Giant Park, you can combine these two visits.
Brooksvale Park
Address: 524 Brooksvale Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Website: Brooksvale Park
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
8. Go footloose at Liquid Lava Lounge
Relax and groove to the music at this lounge with a dance floor. There are private seating sections for large groups or celebrations. The security is quite tight and the DJs are known for their trendy music. The place has an upscale attire dress code, which makes it all the more classy and stylish. Dress up and bring your friends for a fun evening.
Liquid Lava Lounge
Address: 1537 Dixwell Ave, Hamden, Connecticut
Website: Liquid Lava Lounge
9. Get some exercise at Bassett Park
Posted by Stefanie Cervoni Leng on Friday, 7 June 2019
This sprawling green space at the heart of town has four baseball fields varying in size, where children can practice to their heart’s content. There is also a basketball court and a tennis court for lovers of these sports. The little ones are sure to have a great time on the playground with all the fun equipment. You can make a day of it and have a picnic on the tables provided. There is also a dog park for your canine friends.
Bassett Park
Address: 640 Ridge Rd, Hamden, CT 06517
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
10. Tee off at Sleeping Giant Golf Course
Posted by Sleeping Giant Golf Course on Monday, 9 May 2016
This nine-hole public golf course is a delight, offering a flat surface that makes for an easy walk. It is usually in great shape and is a good place for beginners to try their hand at golfing. It is a popular place in Hamden and can get quite crowded on certain days. There is also a restaurant near here where you can fuel up before setting off to your next destination.
Sleeping Giant Golf Course
Address: 3931 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518, United States
Website: Sleeping Giant Golf Course
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 6am - 7pm; Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 6pm
Price: 17 - 37 USD
11. Spend a day exploring West Rock Nature Center
This sprawling park lets you enjoy nature in all its serenity without having to travel too far. You can walk, hike, jog, or simply sit down and watch the world go by. Apart from the numerous trails, there is a picnic area and a picnic shelter. There is also a visitor center for your convenience, as well as a nature house that you can visit.
West Rock Nature Center
Address: 1080 Wintergreen Ave, Hamden, CT 06514
Website: West Rock Nature Center
12. Shop till you drop at the Hamden Mart
COMMENT below on what you believe “Zzaam” means!
Posted by ZZAAM Hamden on Sunday, 26 November 2017
With plenty of parking and a variety of stores at this mall, it is quite easy to lose track of time at Hamden Mart. Located right on the main road, you will also find quite a few good places to eat here, such as pizza spots and a Chinese buffet. You can find good deals here from several brand name stores, especially on footwear and apparel.
Hamden Mart
Address: 2340 Dixwell Ave & Skiff St, Hamden, CT 06514
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
13. Explore part of the Farmington Canal Greenway
Extending for about 81 miles (130 km), this trail connects the states of Connecticut and Massachusetts. The trail is located atop a former rail bed running along the Farmington Canal that served the region in the early to the mid-19th century. Now, it is a favorite haunt of cyclists, joggers, skaters, and bikers who come here for exercise and some fresh air. The verdant space offers a cool getaway from the urban sprawl and features a paved trail. There is also plenty of parking available. The trail can be accessed from various points in different directions. The vistas you see along the way will vary with the seasons – from the greenery of spring to the many colors of the autumn foliage and a white blanket of snow in winter.
Farmington Canal Greenway
Address: Hamden, CT 06511
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Watch a live performance at Clarice L Buckman Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Rehearsals are underway for "The Servant of Two Masters." Pratfalls and wisecracks abound as the perpetually hungry...
Posted by Quinnipiac University on Monday, October 5, 2015
Clarice L Buckman Center is situated within the campus of Quinnipiac University. This performing arts center hosts a variety of programs throughout the year. It is also a popular venue for intellectual seminars and discussions, apart from hosting live shows related to art and culture.
Clarice L Buckman Center
Address: Quinnipiac University, 275 Mt Carmel Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Price: Free
15. Smell the flowers at Pardee Rose Gardens
#77782 "About Face" Rose
Posted by Jillibeephotography on Thursday, 8 October 2015
Established in 1922, this beautiful garden is filled with colorful blooms from spring to mid-fall and is a favorite spot for weddings and photoshoots. Get a glimpse of the finest roses in the state as you wander around manicured lawns. Daffodils, forsythia, and tulips in different colors can also be seen as you enter the garden and at other spots across the green space. Stop by the greenhouse with its collection of saplings and exotic varieties of flowering shrubs. Do not miss the chance to take a photograph by the tiered rose arbor that looks like a wedding cake, even if it’s not your big day!
Pardee Rose Gardens
Address:180 Park Rd, Hamden, CT 06517
Website: Pardee Rose Gardens
Price: Free
16. Watch a game at People's United Center
Posted by Kevin Fletcher on Saturday, 12 October 2019
This huge sports arena is a great place to catch a basketball or ice hockey game when in Hamden. Divided into two sections, one for each sport, it is also home to Quinnipiac University sports teams. Formerly called TD Bank Sports Arena, the two sections have a seating capacity of over 3,000 each. Situated on the varsity’s York Hill Campus, the center cost over $50 million and was opened in 2007.
People's United Center
Address: 305 Sherman Avenue, Hamden, CT 06518
Website: People’s United Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 4:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 3 - 25 USD
17. Down a pint at Counter Weight Brewing Co.
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
A cool place for beer connoisseurs and for those who simply want to hang out with friends and family over the weekend, Counter Weight Brewing Co. offers a friendly, welcoming ambiance. Take your pick of pilsners and ales with hard cider. Wine is also available for those who are not beer fans. While no food is available inside except for pretzels and chips, they usually have a food truck stationed outside. You can also bring your own food, which might be a better option given the limited variety on offer at the food truck. They have an outdoor seating area which is a great spot when the weather is good.
Counter Weight Brewing Co.
Address: 23 Raccio Park Rd, Hamden, CT 06514
Website: Counter Weight Brewing Co.
Opening hours: Wed: 7pm - 10pm; Thu: 3pm - 8pm; Fri: 3pm - 9pm; Sat: 12pm - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
18. Enjoy some pampering beauty treatments at Esthetique on Whitney
Come see us for our completely relaxing and cleansing facial treatment for all skin types. Our facials consist of...
Posted by Esthetique on Whitney-Spa on Tuesday, 25 June 2019
This beauty salon sits on a quiet street and offers all types of beauty treatments. Sign up for a soothing massage session or cleansing facial treatments and come out feeling rejuvenated. From the moment you step into the cozy reception area to the time you step out after your care regimen, it is a cocoon of pampering. Microdermabrasion treatments, pedicures, manicures, tanning, and makeup are some of the services on offer. Scheduling an appointment in advance is a good idea as this will help you avoid long wait times.
Esthetique on Whitney
Address: 2456 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
Website: Esthetique on Whitney
Opening hours: Tue: 9am - 6pm; Wed - Thu: 9am - 7pm; Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 8:30am - 3pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
19. Check out the fresh produce at Hindinger Farm
Posted by Hindinger Farm on Saturday, 12 October 2019
This family-owned and run farm has been around since 1893 and offers a range of fresh produce every week. They also offer an assortment of fresh flowers and dairy products for you to choose from. There are goats and chickens on the farm, which usually make the little ones happy. The view on the farm and the surrounding area is a treat to the eyes. They also have some fun rides and games for kids, as well as a gift shop with interesting novelty items. At Halloween, this is the perfect spot to pick out a great pumpkin. Make sure you don’t forget to take some pictures!
Hindinger Farm
Address: 835 Dunbar Hill Rd, Hamden, CT 06514
Website: Hindinger Farm
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Unravel the secrets of Hamden
This is just a short compilation of the activities that await you in this charming town. Once you have worked your way through this list of things to do in Hamden, Connecticut, look around a bit for other interesting experiences. You will come across plenty to keep you busy!
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