About
ABOUT the Town of Guilford
Guilford is a charming coastal town surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Explore the town’s rich history with a visit to the Henry Whitfield State Museum, the oldest stone house in America, and the historic Guilford Green. Take a stroll along the scenic beaches and parks and soak in the breathtaking views of Long Island Sound. For outdoor enthusiasts, the town offers miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing and kayaking.
Indulge in the town’s local cuisine, from fresh seafood to farm-to-table dining and treat yourself to some retail therapy with a visit to one of the many unique boutiques and shops.
Ready to plan your next day trip or weekend getaway? Come and experience the ultimate New England escape at the Town of Guilford. We are happy to welcome locals and tourists alike throughout New Haven County.
ABOUT GUILFORD , A Coastal Haven of Charm and Adventure
Discover Guilford, CT – a charming coastal gem in New Haven County on the Long Island Sound. Known for its inviting and historic vibe, Guilford offers rich experiences like a visit to the Henry Whitfield State Museum, the oldest stone house in America, and the iconic Guilford Green. Enjoy scenic beaches, parks, and outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Savor fresh seafood and farm-to-table dining, and explore unique boutiques for one-of-a-kind finds. Perfect for day trips or weekend getaways, Guilford promises the ultimate New England escape for visitors and locals alike. Plan your visit today!
By Car: Guilford is conveniently located off Interstate 95. From New Haven, take I-95 North to Exit 58 (Guilford Exit). For visitors from New London or the Boston area, take I-95 South and use Exit 58 to reach downtown Guilford. Follow signs to the Guilford Green for the town’s center.
By Train: The Shore Line East commuter rail service stops at Guilford Station, connecting the town to New Haven and other key destinations along the Connecticut shoreline. From New Haven, you can also connect to Amtrak services for broader transportation options. The train station is just a short drive or walk from the downtown area.
Visitors can choose from charming bed-and-breakfasts, cozy inns, and nearby hotels located in Guilford. Notable options include locally-owned accommodations near the Guilford Green or larger hotel chains for more convenience.
Parking in downtown Guilford is readily available with several public lots near the Guilford Green and various street parking options. However, visitors should observe posted signage for time restrictions or designated spaces. Additional parking is available within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
For emergencies, dial 911 for immediate assistance.
The Goose Lane Emergency Room (part of Yale New Haven Health) is the local facility for urgent medical needs, offering quality emergency care close to downtown Guilford. Always ensure to follow up with your healthcare provider post-visit for any additional medical requirements.
Plan Coastal Day Trips in Guilford
If you want to get away to the beach for a day, a trip to Guilford, CT, is the perfect way to do so. Situated along the shores of Long Island Sound, Guilford is home to many miles of shoreline. Beachgoers can swim and picnic at several Guilford public beaches, including scenic Jacobs Beach. The Guilford marina and waterfront parks, such as Chittenden Park and Chaffinch Island Park, are great spots to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Guilford’s coastline.
Best Places to Visit in Guilford
Guilford, CT, a charming historic town with five house museums, boasts a beautiful Town Green, many shops and restaurants, scenic waterfront recreational areas, and plenty of activities for families to enjoy. Some of the best places to visit in Guilford include:
Henry Whitfield State Museum – One of the oldest attractions in Connecticut, the Henry Whitfield State Museum dates back to 1639. This stone house was built for Reverend Henry Whitfield and his family, purchased by the state of Connecticut in 1900, and turned into a museum. It is believed to be the oldest house in the state of Connecticut and the oldest stone house in all of New England. Visitors can learn about European settler colonialism in New England in the 17th century and the relationship between English Puritans and the Indigenous Peoples in the area once named Menunkatuck.
Guilford Town Green – The town center of Guilford is known as the Guilford Town Green. This large green space is surrounded by local businesses and old colonial homes. The Town Green honors veterans with memorial markers, including the Guilford Soldiers Monument in the center. Art exhibitions and concerts are held here in the summer.
Chaffinch Island Park – Few places in Guilford are more picturesque than Chaffinch Island Park. This peaceful spot offers breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and Faulkner’s Island from the mouth of the West River.
Hyland House Museum – A two-story house built in 1713, the Hyland House is a colonial-era saltbox home filled with historical artifacts that tell the story of those who lived in the house and their connection to Guilford during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Dudley Farm Museum – This living history museum was once a working farm in the 19th century. Visitors learn about farm life in Guilford in the 1800s during the tour of this home, see farm animals, and stroll through beautiful gardens and trails outside of the house.
Jacobs Beach – This public beach is the best spot to enjoy the waters of Long Island Sound in Guilford. Jacobs Beach is home to 25 acres of beach, playground, splash park, and picnic areas.
Contact us to learn more about the best places to visit in Guilford, CT.
Tourist Info
- Parking Map
- Nathanael B. Greene Community Center (32 Church Street)
- Town Hall (31 Park Street)
- Around the Green, and adjacent streets (Broad, State, Whitfield, etc.)
- Water Street parking lot (between 15 & 23 Water Street)
- Museums/Trails/Recreation (each has their own parking areas)
- Nathanael B. Greene Community Center (32 Church Street)
- Town Hall (31 Park Street)
- Guilford Free Library (67 Park Street)
- The Marketplace at Guilford Food Center (77 Whitfield Street) Free Wi-Fi and charging station available
Contact Tracy Tomaselli: 203-671-9351 or tomasellitracy@sbcglobal.net
Car: Use exits 57, 58, or 59 on I-95 North or South.
Rail: The Shore Line East train stops at Guilford station with service to Branford, East Haven, New Haven and New London.
Bus: The Connecticut Transit S bus travels between Guilford and New Haven several times each day.
Air: Tweed New Haven Airport is 20 minutes from Guilford.
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