Welcome to Milford
A perfect combination of city, beach, and forest
Milford is a waterfront city along the Long Island Sound between Bridgeport and New Haven. Its coastal location provides a stunning backdrop to the walkable downtown area, filled with boutique shopping, upscale dining, and community activities. Milford’s motto, “A Small City with a Big Heart,” is a summation that characterizes the area perfectly.
The history of Milford dates back to 1639, when the area was initially known as Wepawaug. Once inhabited by the Paugusset Tribe, Milford was purchased by English settlers who began developing the area throughout the Revolutionary War. Later it became known for farming, oystering, and shipbuilding because of its nearby water source. With the completion of Interstate 95, Milford became accessible to more businesses and travelers, transforming it into the bustling area it is today.
Because of Milford’s lengthy history, it is home to various architectural styles. Older properties are typically in Colonial, Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, and Victorian styles, while many modern homes are renovated in Colonial, American Foursquare, or Tudor Revival designs. These properties provide residents with a visual representation of 400 years worth of history.
Residents experience all four seasons in Milford and can enjoy each in different geographical settings. Beaches in the spring and summer, mountain foliage in the fall and winter, and the downtown all year long. In addition, Milford is close to New York City and Boston by train, car, or boat, which is great for commuters or a weekend trip. These features make Milford a fantastic place to live for people of all ages.
What to Love
- The vibrant downtown area with activities
- Picturesque scenery throughout the area
- Outstanding dining options
- Deep-rooted American history
Local Lifestyle
Milford has a population of about 50,000 people and has a suburban feel. Because of the diversity in landscape, residents have a wide range of activities throughout the year, from sunbathing and hiking to shopping and dining in downtown Milford. Locals are always out and about regardless of the season, which gives this city a community vibe.
For many individuals, Milford is an escape from work life in busy cities. Although, Milford also has a lucrative job market and many new employment opportunities. Overall, the city's lifestyle perfectly balances leisure and activity for its residents.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The walkability in Milford makes it an excellent place to gather with friends and families for a shopping excursion or lunch date. The Milford Marketplace is an outdoor mall that houses popular restaurants, clothing stores, fitness centers, and spa activities. Along with the Milford Marketplace stores, there are many small businesses downtown to shop for unique clothing and gifts. Lovet is a boutique women’s clothing and accessories store. They focus on small designers with a tremendous vision to bring the most fashionable styles to life.
Around the corner is Stonebridge Restaurant, called “Bridge” by residents. Once a seafood wholesaler, this restaurant has become one of Milford's best and most scenic spots. Locals dine on fresh seafood dishes inside next to the fireplace or in the cozy pub room, or on the patio overlooking the Upper Lagoon of the Wepawaug River.
Another local favorite is the Founders House Pub & Patio, which overlooks Milford Green. They serve classic New England seafood dishes with a modern twist. A highlight of this restaurant is the front patio, where diners can people-watch or observe Milford festivals while enjoying a delicious meal.
Bridge House Restaurant is from the same owners of the Founders House Pub & Patio. Located on the other side of the city next to the Housatonic River, this gastropub boasts upscale American pub food. Residents can feel at home in its cozy dining room or sitting along the bar to share a bite to eat with loved ones.
Things to Do
Endless events happen throughout the year in Milford, from the tree lighting in winter to music festivals in the spring. Community members come in droves for the Downtown Milford's Farmers Market every Saturday from June to October. There is live music weekly and a massive variety of vendors at the market, including jewelry, home decor, beauty and wellness products, and food items.
Among the many festivals in downtown Milford, one of the most popular is the Milford Oyster Festival. Voted the “Best Food Festival in Connecticut” by National Geographic, this festival takes over Wilcox Park for a day of live entertainment, contests, children’s activities, amusement rides, and over 30,000 oysters. Milford even starts the festivities early with Oyster Eve.
For a laid-back, outdoorsy day, locals frequent the parks and beaches in Milford. Eisenhower Park has hiking trails that cover about 200 acres of land where residents and their leashed pets can enjoy some outdoor time. There is also a splash pad and tennis and pickleball courts on the premise. For some fun in the sun, a local favorite is Woodmont Beach, where you can sunbathe, dip in the water, or admire the view.
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