Yale Repertory Theatre was founded by the Yale School of Drama in 1966 to engender a closer working relationship between faculty and students and the professional theater, and has helped launch the careers of dozens of now-famous actors. "Yale Rep" is located in the stunning former Calvary Baptist Church, which was built in 1868 and renovated to accommodate the theater in 1970. A landmark in downtown New Haven, the Yale Rep Theater stages everything: musicals, dramas, comedies and new works, both classics and fresh scripts. Yale Rep is an award-winning theater in the circle of renowned, established theaters in the greater New Haven area.
American history resides in a beautiful setting at Sagamore Hill, the home of Theodore Roosevelt for over 30 years. While he was the 26th President of the United States, this mansion was known as the "Summer White House". Now, visitors can explore the home and the beautiful surrounding area as well as participate in the small traditions of the place, such as the Sunday Afternoon Flag Folding. Entrance to the house is only permitted by guided tour, but the surrounding grounds are free to explore. Sagamore Hill is a wonderful place to learn about American history and culture or local nature and science for students of all ages. Children can participate in a Junior Park Ranger Program to earn badges and a patch.
Originally a vaudeville hall, but later gutted out, the Lyric Hall is once again a premiere entertainment venue in New Haven. Today, restored to its former glory, the theater now presents musical performances by local as well as major artists. They also present special events like film festivals.
Marsh Botanical Garden is situated within the precincts of Yale University. Its name pays tribute to Othniel Charles Marsh, who bestowed this property upon the university. Beatrix Farrand planned the landscape of the garden that houses a wide variety of plant species. Faculty, students, nature lovers, researchers and many other visitors head to this botanical gardens that has four greenhouses, perennial beds, seasonal plants and much more.
This interactive kids museum is just what its name suggests. It makes learning fun and creative through many hands on displays and programs. The Stepping Stones Museum for Children was established in 2000 by Gigi Priebe and focuses in enriching children's lives and also inspire them a desire to explore and learn. It features five galleries where your young ones will have a sensory delight and insight on the exhibits. Some of the interesting areas are the Tot Town for toddlers, Energy Lab, ColorCoaster, Build It! and the Traveling Exhibit Gallery. There is also a cafe and gift shop in this unique museum.
An easy drive from downtown New Haven, this park is a beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of life. As you meander along the curved, tree-lined roads up to the summit, you will be greeted by a spectacular view of the city, Long Island Sound and the New Haven Harbor. There is a prized bird sanctuary, picnic and playground facilities, and if you are in the mood for a brisk walk, there are 10 miles of hiking trails. Enjoy the great outdoors right in the city.