Hartford is the capital of Connecticut and contains numerous historical sites to explore. The business district in Hartford has adopted "Safe and Clean Teams" which help patrol the downtown area, provide free roadside assistance and keep the area clear of debris, graffiti and broken glass. The city offers many cultural events at the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts and Charter Oak Cultural Center. Adjacent to the Connecticut River sits Riverfront Park, which welcomes walkers and picnickers, and offers leisurely excursions on the river.
Stamford lies along Connecticut's shoreline and is only 25 miles northeast of New York City. Founded in 1641, Stamford began as a farming community, but eventually plunged into the industrial age in the 1800s. Cove Island Park is one of the many city parks in the area and offers two beaches. Recreation enthusiasts can choose between picnicking, walking, roller blading, fishing or bird watching. Educational activities abound at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center. Founded in 1936, the museum features exhibits on art, history, and agricultural sciences. Sunday is devoted to interactive exploration, demonstrations and self-guided activities led by a museum staff member.
Bridgeport, Connecticut, located on Long Island Sound, is the most populous city in the state. Originally, Bridgeport was known for its whaling industry, but eventually grew to become a large industrial center. Bridgeport features many attractions for both visitors and residents. Barnum Museum provides memorabilia from the famous clown P.T. Barnum. Captain's Cove Seaport is located on the boardwalk and includes the Nantucket lightship, harbor cruises and many shops, as well as places to eat. Sports fans watch the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, members of the American Hockey League, in the winter and the Bridgeport Bluefish hit home runs in the summer.
The first settlers in New Haven were the Quinnipiack tribe. Once the Puritans arrived in 1638, they purchased the land from the Native Americans and the town was officially incorporated in 1784. Education was an important to the first settlers and the dream for a college in New Haven became a reality when Yale was granted a charter in 1701. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Yale became a premier Ivy League University, adding professional schools of medicine, law, divinity, arts, nursing, architecture and management.
