Stratford ConnecticutATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stratford, Connecticut.
1. Two Roads Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER PARADISE
Two Roads Brewing Company was founded in 2012 by four friends who dreamed of starting a craft brewery. The brewery embodies a 'road less traveled' philosophy in the beers they make and how they make them. Visitors can enjoy unique craft beers in a vibrant atmosphere that has become one of Stratford's top attractions.
2. Stratford Antique Center
VINTAGE TREASURE TROVE
Stratford Antique Center is the largest antique dealer marketplace in the area. Visitors can find art, furniture, vintage clothes, lighting, glassware, toys, rustic items, ceramics, kitchenware, and china among its vast collection. The center provides a nostalgic journey through time with its diverse array of historical items and collectibles.
3. Lordship Seawall
SCENIC COASTAL VIEWS
Lordship Seawall offers breathtaking views of Long Island Sound in a beautiful scenic overlook setting. The area features great restaurants, pristine beaches, a 5-star hotel, and open-air markets on weekends. Open to the public with plenty of amenities, this popular attraction combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities.
4. Boothe Memorial Park and Museum
HISTORIC ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Boothe Memorial Park and Museum preserves local history in a clean, open environment with many spaces to sit and enjoy the views. During May through August, the park comes alive with special events and activities for visitors of all ages. The museum showcases the unique heritage of Stratford through its exhibits and historical buildings.
5. Short Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORELINE
Short Beach is a popular recreational destination in Stratford offering sandy shores and coastal relaxation. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and various water activities during the warmer months. The beach provides a perfect setting for family outings with its accessible amenities and beautiful Long Island Sound views.
6. Roosevelt Forest
NATURAL WOODLAND ESCAPE
Roosevelt Forest offers visitors a peaceful wooded preserve perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. The forest features numerous trails and ponds, providing outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other native wildlife. This natural sanctuary serves as a refreshing retreat from urban life with its serene environment and recreational possibilities.
7. Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center
PREMIER BIRDWATCHING DESTINATION
The Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center provides a premier location for birdwatching and environmental education in Stratford. The center overlooks the Long Island Sound and features observation platforms, walking trails, and interactive exhibits about local ecosystems. Visitors can observe a variety of coastal birds in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts.
8. Connecticut Air & Space Center
AVIATION HISTORY HUB
The Connecticut Air & Space Center showcases Stratford's rich aviation history and the legacy of Sikorsky helicopters. The museum houses historic aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits detailing the region's contributions to aerospace innovation. Visitors gain insight into Connecticut's pivotal role in aviation development through interactive displays and preserved aircraft.
9. National Helicopter Museum
ROTARY WING HISTORY
The National Helicopter Museum presents the fascinating history of rotary wing aircraft and Stratford's significant contributions to helicopter development. The museum features models, photographs, and technical displays chronicling the evolution of helicopter technology. Aviation enthusiasts can explore the pioneering work of Igor Sikorsky and other innovators who shaped modern helicopter design.
10. Captain David Judson House
COLONIAL GEORGIAN ARCHITECTURE
The Captain David Judson House stands as a magnificent example of colonial Georgian architecture in historic Stratford. Built in 1750, this preserved home offers visitors a glimpse into 18th-century New England life through period furnishings and historical exhibits. The house serves as the headquarters for the Stratford Historical Society and provides educational tours about local heritage.
11. Knapp's Landing
WATERFRONT SEAFOOD DINING
Knapp's Landing offers waterfront dining with spectacular views and fresh seafood including their famous lobster rolls. The restaurant provides a perfect setting for enjoying sunset vistas over the water while savoring locally-sourced culinary creations. Patrons appreciate both the ambiance and the quality of food that has made this establishment a Stratford favorite.
12. StationHouse Wine Bar & Grill
HISTORIC UPSCALE DINING
StationHouse Wine Bar & Grill combines upscale yet casual dining in a beautifully restored historic building in Stratford. The restaurant serves quality steaks, pasta dishes, and an expertly curated wine selection that pleases discerning palates. Its unique atmosphere merges contemporary culinary excellence with preserved architectural elements that celebrate local heritage.
13. Parker Eatery & Bar
TRENDY DOWNTOWN HOTSPOT
Parker Eatery & Bar has established itself as a trendy downtown spot for brunch, small plates, and creative cocktails. The restaurant features a contemporary menu with seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations that attract food enthusiasts. Its vibrant atmosphere makes it a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors seeking a modern dining experience in Stratford.
14. Shakespeare Market & Park
LITERARY HERITAGE CELEBRATION
Shakespeare Market & Park honors Stratford's namesake bard with a vibrant Sunday market and seasonal events. Visitors can stroll through vendor stalls offering local crafts, foods, and artisanal goods in a community-focused atmosphere. The park hosts literary-themed activities and performances that connect the town's identity to its Shakespearean roots.
15. Academy Hill
HISTORIC DISTRICT CHARM
Academy Hill showcases Stratford's historic district with its collection of well-preserved buildings and architectural significance. Visitors can admire various structural styles while walking through this charming area that reflects the town's development through different periods. The district provides a glimpse into Stratford's past through its historic homes and buildings that have been maintained for generations.