Welcome to Milford, a “Small City with a Big Heart!” Strolling through downtown, you’ll feel the charm and sense of history of an English settlement dating back to 1639. Walk over the Hotchkiss Bridge, gaze at the gorge framed by the arch of the Memorial Bridge, stop for an ice cream cone, or take a tour on a rented bike or kayak. Then, treat yourself to a lobster dinner.
Seventeen miles of Long Island Sound coastline funnel into the harbor, winding its way to meet the Wepawaug River in the heart of town. The meticulously maintained town green, the second longest in New England, features memorials that salute those who have served in past conflicts dating back centuries. A memorial bridge provides a stone passageway, embodying the history of our ancestors and marking Milford as the sixth oldest town in Connecticut.
A sense of "Milford Pride," along with ample cultural, recreational, educational, and employment opportunities, makes the city a great place to visit or set down roots. Many high-quality arts and crafts shows, diverse festivals, and events make Milford a popular destination.
Water recreation abounds with access from boat launches, the Milford Lisman Landing Marina, multiple city beaches, and Silver Sands State Park. The Connecticut Audubon Coastal Center at Milford Point offers views of the estuary and Long Island Sound and their inhabitants, as well as educational programs. The Milford Arts Council, located in the heart of downtown, offers Broadway-quality theater for both children and adults.
Foodies will delight, as Milford is home to nationally recognized cuisine, from cupcakes to lobster rolls. Pop into Sweet Cupcasions or 7 Seas to taste for yourself. Don’t forget to hit one of over 20 downtown restaurants.
The Milford Historical Society, located at 34 High Street, a quick walk from the train or an easy drive from I-95, is open weekends for tours and by appointment. Special events throughout the year include a Christmas Fair and Cemetery Tours.
Milford’s landscape includes several historic homes. The Eells-Stow House is believed to be the oldest house in Milford and takes part of its name from the Eells family, who arrived in Milford in the late 17th century. The Clark-Stockade House, simply dubbed the "Stockade House," was the first house built outside the stockade fence that protected colonists from Native Americans. The Bryan-Downs House, originally built in 1785 by Captain Jehiel Bryan and his son on the Post Road, was dismantled and moved to its current location in 1977. While no noteworthy tragedies took place in the Bryan-Downs House, there have been reports of paranormal activity.
The Milford Public Library serves as Milford’s Welcome Center, open Monday-Wednesday 10 AM-8:30 PM, Thursday 10 AM-5 PM, Friday 1-5 PM, and Saturday 10 AM-5 PM.
