There are many ways to enjoy all the Connecticut Coast has to offer during summertime, from outdoor dining and recreation to indulging in the area's arts and culture. Whether visiting or re-acquainting yourself with the area, here are our recommendations for where to: fuel up and energize in the morning, visit during the afternoon, and unwind with food and drinks in the evening.
From museums and theaters to French cafes and upscale restaurants, here is a city-by-city overview of some of Fairfield County's finest attractions.
Greenwich
Coffee
To start your day in Greenwich with a kick, visit Raphael's Bakery, which locals love for its warm croissants and fresh coffee served with a French accent and a smile. The only employees are Raphael, his four sons, his wife, and his mother-in-law.
Culture
Art lovers and novices alike will appreciate the Bruce Museum, which features art and natural history exhibits of various types. The museum is also building a new extension that will showcase both contemporary artwork and architectural design.
Cocktails
Enjoy fine French dining and cocktails at L'escale, the Delmar Hotel's main restaurant. Great for people- and yacht-watching, the restaurant's menu features unique craft cocktails, such as the zesty and refreshing Notorious—made with Tanteo jalapeno tequila, Chartreuse, pineapple juice, and chili.
Stamford
Coffee
For great coffee, cortados, and mouthwatering churros, visit Lorca Coffee Bar. The Spanish-owned business was named after the acclaimed poet of the same name.
Culture
The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is fun and educational for children and people all ages, especially nature lovers. Along with gardens and contemporary art exhibitions, the museum features an array of programming throughout the summer and is also has a Sunday Farm Market.
Cocktails
Located near the Stamford Marina, we recommend The Wheel for its upbeat energy and live music acts. You can gaze at the water while sipping a Blueberry Lemonade, made with blueberry vodka, lemonade, club soda, and lime.
Darien
Coffee
NEAT Coffee is a quaint café known for its quality coffee. You can also visit Flour Water Salt Bread next door for their New York-style cinnamon coffee cake.
Culture
Located right of I-95 is the Charles Michael Gallery. The gallery showcases a wide selection of vintage posters, ranging from war and propaganda posters to antique advertisements.
Cocktails
For a lively bistro atmosphere with an extensive list of cocktails, look no further than Ten Twenty Post. Try The Carleton, made with old forester bourbon, amaro, and orange liqueur.
Rowayton
Coffee
The Rowayton Market is a great space to grab a cup of coffee. Enjoy your beverage on the market deck, which offers tranquil water views.
Culture
One of Rowayton's must-visit attractions is the Rowayton Arts Center. Also located on the water, the gallery has rotating exhibitions year-round.
Cocktails
A popular spot in the area for oysters and a dirty martini is The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood. The restaurant's oysters are caught and brought in each day from the Long Island Sound.
Norwalk
Coffee
One of Norwalk's most hip and eclectic spots for coffee is the Art Space Café, located in the Art Space Museum. Try the What Bill's Having: a lattè made with matcha, pistachio, cherry, and espresso.
Culture
After your coffee, explore the Art Space Museum's various galleries and exhibitions, such as "Collecting, Indexing, and Reshaping," which blends multiple mediums including sculpture and animation.
Cocktails
Calming and minimalist, the Tavern at GreyBarns is the perfect place to enjoy thoughtful conversation and artisanal cocktails. One worth trying is the Pink Flamingo, which is made with Probitas rum, fresh pineapple and lime, aperol, and bitters.
Westport
Coffee
If you're in Westport and are looking for a healthy start to your day or get energized before a workout, visit Granola Bar. Try the Turmeric and Ginger Latte for a coffee alternative that is nourishing and calming.
Culture
Arguably the central hub for Westport's arts and culture scene, the MoCa Westport showcases exhibitions related to photography, sculpture, painting, music, theatre, and more. The museum also has an exciting lineup of year-round events.
Cocktails
Known for its lively ambiance, Don Memo features creative takes on Mexican cuisine, as well as a very tasty jalapeño paloma.
Fairfield/Southport
Coffee
A top pick for lovers of the famed British coffee company, Ily's Coffee, is Gruel Brittanica.
The restaurant also features British-inspired breakfast dishes, like the Banger Plate, made with two English bangers, Heinz baked beans, and toast.
Culture
With a variety of music and theatrical programs that span genres and generations, the Fairfield Theatre Company's eclectic calendar of productions is likely to appeal to multiple taste preferences.
Cocktails
To toast to your day, visit Artisan at the Delamar Hotel. Among the upscale restaurant's standout cocktails is the L'Artisan, which is made with lemon Prosecco, gin, and a fig/rosemary emulsion.