Stamford

 

Close enough for comfort to New York City, Stamford, Connecticut offers a pleasant array of diversity and entertainment in a vibrant urban atmosphere. This city is located halfway between Manhattan and New Haven, offering easy transport and plenty to do.

Originally referred to as “Rippowam” by its Native American inhabitants, Stamford didn’t get its present-day name until 1640. It quickly became a port town due to its proximity to the water and grew more heavily populated as New Yorkers moved in during the 19th century. Stamford officially became a city during this time, and real estate and business boomed in the mid-1900s.

Today, Stamford is a sprawling and vibrant city—one of the largest in Connecticut. Apartment living is popular in Downtown Stamford, which has an abundance of comfortable luxury buildings. For residents who want to maintain a touch of suburbia, areas like North Stamford offer large single-family homes with acreage, including Colonials and 18th century restored historic mansions tucked away along winding roads.

 

• Vibrant city 
• Parks for outdoor activities 
• Headquarters to many Fortune 500 companies 
• Clubs and organizations to join

As one of the largest cities in Connecticut, Stamford is urban and on-the-go—especially when you consider the number of top corporations located here! Train stations make travel a breeze, and city bus transportation is easily accessible.

Stamford is a diverse city with residents of many different ethnicities and religions. The city attracts students who attend local universities and business professionals working at one of Stamford’s many corporate headquarters.

 

A bustling city, Stamford has plenty of dining and shopping opportunities. The southern end of the city dips into the Long Island Sound, which is home to yacht and beach clubs that offer places to swim and golf.

Many shopping destinations are clustered together in Stamford’s Town Center. Along with the usual hangouts like Starbucks, Target, Dunkin Donuts, and a movie theater, various gift shops and clothing boutiques are available.

Stamford is also home to many fantastic dining options, including classy Italian trattoria Cafe Silvium and Greek tavern Kouzina. For more casual dining, residents love grabbing tacos and margaritas at BarTaco or pizza and beer at Colony Grill.

 

The city has plenty of fun things to do. To get away from hectic urban life, many Stamford residents belong to the Stamford Yacht Club, where members can sail and play tennis, or the Woodway Beach Club, which offers a beautiful and sprawling golf course.

Stamford hosts plenty of events throughout the year, ranging from a popular Thanksgiving Day parade to the Heights and Lights holiday light display. Visitors are also invited to try local restaurants during the StrEATeries program in Downtown Stamford.

For some peace and quiet, head to the Sterling Farms Golf Course, which is tucked away near the Woodway Country Club. The 83-acre sprawling green recreation area on Cove Island Park is perfect for walking, jogging, rollerblading, and fishing, and there’s even a fun play area for kids! View beautiful art at the Stamford Museum or take in a performance from the Stamford Symphony Orchestra.

 

A highly-educated city, Stamford offers many schooling options. Students can attend a variety of public schools, graduating from one of three high schools: Westhill High School, Stamford High School, or the Academy of Information Technology and Engineering. The school district sponsors a highly-competitive African American history program called Rites of Passage, which culminates in an educational trip to Gambia and Senegal.

Private educational opportunities in Stamford include:

 

• The Long Ridge School, PK-5, independent day school
• The Mead School, PK-8, progressive day school
• Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy, PK-12, Jewish day school