Westport ConnecticutATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Westport, Connecticut.
1. Sherwood Island State Park
CONNECTICUT'S FIRST STATE PARK
Sherwood Island State Park, Connecticut's first state park, spans over 325 acres of explorable land along the Long Island Sound. The park offers numerous outdoor activities including swimming, picnicking, and nature walks through some of the state's oldest preserved areas. Visitors should note that pets are not allowed within the park perimeter.
2. Compo Beach
SCENIC COASTAL HAVEN
Compo Beach is the crown jewel of Westport's attractions, offering stunning views of the Long Island Sound. The popular beachfront is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking with family and friends. Beyond the beach itself, the area includes amenities such as a playground, basketball courts, and a skatepark, making it ideal for visitors of all ages.
3. Westport Country Playhouse
HISTORIC THEATRICAL VENUE
Westport Country Playhouse has been a cultural beacon in the community since 1931, showcasing high-quality theatrical productions. Led by artistic director Mark Lamos, this not-for-profit regional theater produces work from playwrights, actors, directors, and designers of all backgrounds. The playhouse stands as a symbol of Westport's rich theatrical history and continues to make significant contributions to American theater.
4. Earthplace
NATURE DISCOVERY CENTER
Earthplace offers visitors an opportunity to connect with nature through its educational programs and preserved natural habitats. The center focuses on environmental education, conservation, and research for all ages. Visitors can explore nature trails, visit the animal sanctuary, and participate in various hands-on learning experiences about local ecosystems.
5. The Westport Library
INNOVATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
The Westport Library, founded in 1886 and transformed in 2019, stands as one of the most active and innovative public libraries in the nation. It is devoted to enriching the intellectual and creative lives of the community through various programs, extensive collections, and modern facilities. The library serves as both a resource center and a community gathering space for residents and visitors alike.
6. Westport Farmers Market
LOCAL CULINARY ADVENTURE
The Westport Farmers Market is a vibrant celebration of local produce and artisanal crafts in the heart of town. This lively market offers fresh, locally-sourced foods and unique handmade items from area vendors. Beyond shopping, it serves as a community hub where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the atmosphere and connect with local producers.
7. Westport Museum for History & Culture
LOCAL HERITAGE CENTER
Westport Museum for History & Culture has been dedicated to preserving, presenting, and celebrating the history of Westport since its founding in 1889. The museum offers exhibits that showcase the town's rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Visitors can explore collections that tell the story of Westport's development and the people who shaped its identity over the centuries.
8. The Rolnick Observatory
ASTRONOMICAL VIEWING SITE
The Rolnick Observatory provides visitors with opportunities to explore the night sky and learn about astronomy. The facility features telescopes and equipment for observing celestial objects during special viewing nights. Amateur astronomers and curious visitors alike can gain new perspectives on space and our universe through the observatory's educational programs.
9. MoCA Westport
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
MoCA Westport showcases contemporary art exhibitions featuring works from both established and emerging artists. The museum offers a dynamic space where visitors can engage with modern artistic expressions across various media. Beyond exhibitions, MoCA Westport hosts educational programs and events that connect the community with contemporary art practices.
10. Levitt Pavilion
OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE VENUE
Levitt Pavilion is a premier outdoor performance venue that hosts a variety of concerts and cultural events in Westport. The pavilion offers free summer performances ranging from music concerts to theatrical productions under the open sky. This beloved cultural institution brings together community members and visitors to experience live entertainment in a picturesque outdoor setting.
11. Alvord Beach
SECLUDED SHORELINE RETREAT
Alvord Beach offers a more secluded alternative to Westport's main beaches, perfect for those seeking a quieter shoreline experience. The beach provides scenic views of Long Island Sound with fewer crowds than its more popular counterparts. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, swimming, and relaxation in this charming coastal setting.
12. Terrain Garden Café
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING EXPERIENCE
Terrain Garden Café combines a unique dining experience with a garden-inspired setting that celebrates seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine. The café is housed within a greenhouse-like structure surrounded by a nursery and home goods store, creating an immersive plant-filled atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table meals while surrounded by lush greenery and carefully curated retail items.
13. Main Street Shopping District
CHARMING RETAIL CORRIDOR
Main Street Shopping District serves as Westport's premier shopping destination, lined with a mix of boutique shops, national retailers, and local businesses. The charming streetscape features historic buildings alongside modern storefronts, creating a distinctive shopping environment. Visitors can browse fashion, home goods, jewelry, and specialty items while experiencing the town's commercial hub.
14. Westport Pizzeria
ICONIC LOCAL EATERY
Westport Pizzeria has been serving classic New York-style pizza to locals and visitors since 1968, establishing itself as a town institution. The pizzeria offers traditional pies made with time-tested recipes that have kept customers returning for generations. Its downtown location and consistent quality make it a go-to dining spot for those seeking an authentic taste of Westport.
15. Saugatuck River
SCENIC WATERWAY EXPERIENCE
The Saugatuck River flows through Westport, offering recreational opportunities and scenic beauty for residents and visitors. The river provides perfect conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, with several access points throughout town. Along its banks, visitors can enjoy riverside walks, wildlife viewing, and the charming Saugatuck neighborhood with its shops and restaurants.