Football fans everywhere are indebted to Yale coach Walter Camp for his 1879 codifying of American football as we know and love it today. Yale's Bulldogs play against other Ivy League teams from September through November, and, in alternate years, the renowned Harvard-Yale game attracts audiences and fans from afar. This is a big sporting event in New Haven and if you have the chance to catch a game, it is well worth it. Tailgate parties start the festivities prior to the match, so grab a picnic lunch and party in the parking lot before the big event. Games are played at Yale Bowl.
Bleachers Sports Bar & Restaurant, just a short drive from ESPN headquarters at Bristol is a relaxed laid-back local bar and pub where patrons can settle in with friends to catch up on the latest games, play a round of pool or darts or enjoy a lively night of trivia. With over 22 beers on draft, as well as 15 TV's across the bar, it is especially popular with NFL fans who stop by to watch the game on NFL Sunday Ticket and Direct TV. Weekly band performances keep bar patrons entertained when there isn't a big game on. The menu is classic American pub fare, with chicken wings, nachos, salads, burgers meatballs and wraps so you don't go hungry.
Take a break from your hectic city life and spend some time amidst nature as you visit the Long Wharf Nature Preserve. This nature preserve is home to variety of flora and fauna that are native to Connecticut. Witness the native cactus, Opuntia Humifusa or just enjoy the sight of colorful flowers, for this is a great spot for a day outing with your loved ones. The marsh land also sees the beautiful egrets regularly and makes a scenic spot for photography as well.
The number one adventure park in Southern New England, Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park is the perfect way to spend quality time with your friends and family. With climbing, cliff jumping, zip lining, diving, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, there's so much to do here. Rental and sports shacks at the premises let hire sporting equipment at nominal prices. You can eat scrumptious hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, grilled chicken, fires and more at the Brownstone Park's food stand and grilling station. You could also opt for the delicious made-to-order brick oven pizza here. The park is also known to provide outdoor adventure training programs that are open to all. The Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park could also be your next birthday destination as the park offers some great deals on private parties.
The New Haven Town Green is one of New England's oldest, completed in 1638. Portions of the Green were used as a cemetery until the 1820s when the headstones were moved to the new Grove Street Cemetery. The 16-acre public park is a popular site for concerts and picnics, and an overall excellent gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The Green is also the location of an Amistad memorial. Along the Green there are three churches built in the 1810s: Center Church, United Church and Trinity Church.
Being the foremost state park of Connecticut, Sherwood Island State Park is a special spot in more ways than one. Blending the thrill of the outdoors with the tranquility of a sequestered location, the park is an inviting destination for all. Families can head to the picnic grove, while curious naturalists make their way to the nature center. Take a dip in Long Island Sound or stand atop the observation platform for a view of the marshes; the Sherwood Island State Park is just the right place for spending a day amidst nature’s charming gifts.