Westport is about as charming as Connecticut towns get. Placed in Fairfield County, this affluent commuter hub (New royalty town lies simply over an hour away), offers a refreshing distinction to big-city life and plenty of fun things to do. Guests are welcomed by postcard-worthy beaches and quiet streets lined with absolutely manicured lawns and white picket fences. The serene Saugatuck River winds its approach through the heart of town, welcoming wildlife within the sort of turtles, ibis, and swans. Told you it’ picturesque! The river passes the recently restored library that lies just past Main Street, wherever you’ll find lots of ways that to remain busy. High-end shops and award-winning restaurants rub shoulders with a liberal arts center and outdoor concert stage within the town’ appetizing downtown core.
Compo Beach is Westport’ main traveler attraction and one in all the simplest beaches in Connecticut. This lush space boasts twenty nine acres of park, which has a marina, pickle ball courts, a skate park, basketball courts, beach volleyball courts, a baseball diamond, a pavilion, and a children’ playground. The beach itself incorporates a soft, sandy base fronting the Long Island Sound. Build a sandcastle, splash in the calm water, or enjoy an ice cream whereas wandering the boardwalk. Don’t miss the sunset – it’ best seen from the beach’ western section, that extends past the historic cannon.
Once home to the late actor player and his wife, Joanne Woodward (for nearly fifty years), Westport attracts a reasonably artsy bunch. There’ such a lot talent to be found among its borders that you simply won’t be disappointed in any performance you choose to see. The Westport Country plaything was established as a theater in 1931. At that time, its stage featured acts by would-be street stars. In 2005, the theater was restored into the progressive institution it’s today. Stars like Newman, Robert Redford, Liza Minnelli, Eartha Kit, James Earl Jones, and Jane Fonda have graced this storied stage that offers live performances from April to November. Trust us, they’re first rated shows you won’t wish to miss.
Westport’ museum of contemporary Art (MOCA) is fantastic. Formerly called the Westport Arts Center, this native staple touched to its new location on Newtown Turnpike in 2019. A vital part of the Westport community for nearly fifty years, this non-profit visual and liberal arts center is fabulous. In line with the town’ love of all things artsy, MOCA features the varied skills of creators, starting from beginners to seasoned pros. irrespective of that kinds of culture you favor – sculpture, painting, modern pieces, chamber music, or films – you’ll end up well and actually entertained. Since Westport is very family-oriented (it boasts 5 public elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and one high school), MOCA caters to parents and youngsters alike. Art classes, lectures, family art days, and artist talks are offered at various times throughout the year.
Get a more in-depth look at the solar system at the Westport Observatory, additionally called the Rolnick Observatory. A large telescope was placed within a dome atop an old Nike radar tower at this location in 1975. Today, the dome boasts a brand new Celestron EdgeHD telescope for optimum viewing. Sitting atop one in all the very best points in Westport, this stellar spot is pass volunteer members of the non-profit Westport Astronomical Society. The observatory boasts multiple events throughout the year – from meteor show viewings to talks with top academics to up-close glances at a full phase of the moon or star eclipse.
One of Westport’ best assets are often found by the shore. Flanked by each the Long Island Sound and Saugatuck River, this quaint city offers lots of opportunities to urge out on the water. Whether or not you’re hoping to stand up paddleboard or kayak, it’ simple to hit the waves in Westport. People who favor to explore the town by ocean will be wowed by the spectacular views found on the Saugatuck River’ shores. SUP past the library, underneath stone bridges, and round the Longshore Club towards Compo Beach and also the Long Island Sound. You may pay hours on the water while not ever obtaining bored. Don’t have gear? No worries! The Westport Paddle Club, placed at Bridgebrook Marina, rents paddleboards, also as single and double kayaks by the hour (or two). They even provide guided tours, yoga, and paddle fit classes for those searching for a more organized experience.
Longshore is one in all the foremost well-liked places to go to in Westport. Placed among walking distance of Compo Beach, this extremely active space features tennis courts, an outdoor swimming pool, a skating rink, sailing club, and golf course. For a fee, you’ll be able to rent a sailboat, book a tennis court, or play a spherical of golf at the Longshore Golf Club, all whereas relishing the impressive scenery of the Saugatuck River. Throughout summer, you’ll notice all kinds of camps on provide – as well as sailing, paddle boarding, court game, and volleyball. The tennis courts are found at Longshore Club Park, that options 9 Har-Tru courts adorned with lights, therefore you’ll be able to enjoy a game when sunset. The Pool complicated features three outdoor pools: a 20-yard coaching pool, 25-yard lap pool, and tiny wading pool.