Bridgeport is a family-friendly city set on Long Island Sound. Relax in tree-filled parks and explore lively waterfront neighbourhoods brimming with New England charm. Museums, galleries and a world-class zoo make it one of the most exciting cities in the Constitution State.
Things to do in Bridgeport
Dozens of public gardens have earned Bridgeport its “Park City” nickname. Discover more than 500 hectares of green space, including waterfront Seaside Park. The park overlooks Long Island Sound and features rolling green lawns, shady picnic areas and a sandy swimming beach. Cross the breakwater to explore Fayerweather Island, a protected wildlife reserve where you can spot local birdlife.
Spend the day in Black Rock, a family-friendly neighbourhood set on a sheltered harbour. Brightly painted wooden houses line the marina and give Black Rock a postcard-perfect feel. Browse mom-and-pop stores along bustling Fairfield Avenue and walk down to St. Mary's-by-the-Sea, a picturesque park set at the mouth of Ash Creek. You’ll find everything from ice cream parlours to fish and chip shops on the wooden boardwalk at Captain’s Cove Seaport.
Entertain the kids at the Discovery Science Centre & Planetarium at Sacred Heart University. Designed to educate and inspire, the centre is packed with science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) exhibits. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is another top family attraction, where you can meet animals from around the world, including Siberian tigers, American bison and adorable two-toed sloths.
Dine at local restaurants and try mouth-watering New England cuisine. Order local specialties like white clam pizza topped with Romano cheese, lobster rolls and extra-juicy steamed cheeseburgers. Quench your thirst at independent breweries and distilleries peppered across Bridgeport.
Getting around Bridgeport
Downtown Bridgeport is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is on Long Island Sound, a 40-minute drive from New Haven and 20 minutes by train. Bradley International Airport in Hartford is a 1.5-hour drive away. John F. Kennedy International Airport is a two-hour drive away.