Downtown Milford - Milford, CT

Milford hosts a rich culture and history and several organizations that serve to protect it. Originally an English settlement formed in 1639, the area supports a strong past from its role in the Revolutionary War to the post-World War II suburbanization that would turn it into the community it is today.

The Milford Historical Society houses three historic 18th century homes and one of the finest collections of Native American artifacts. In addition, The Milford Arts Council provides art and culture to the community through visual art, music and theater. Visit the Firehouse Arts Gallery for unique art exhibits, or see a jazz or classical music concert or a performance at Eastbound Theatre.

Every year, locals look forward to the annual Oyster Festival, a popular event that showcases both national and local musicians, live entertainment, children's activities, canoe and kayak racing and 30,000 oysters and clams.

Savor the dining options of Downtown/Harbor/Post Road South, including gourmet breakfasts, creperie cafes and innovative Spanish cuisine.

Start your day at The Corner Restaurant with a hearty and affordable breakfast. Be sure to order the restaurant's signature item, stuffed French Toast. Choose from peaches and cream, strawberry and banana or apple-cinnamon. If you really can't choose, that isn't a problem — order the Trio plate, which gives you a sample of all three varieties. In addition to classics, such as eggs Benedict and omelets, the restaurant also showcases a few unique menu options. The spiced Indian duck tortilla consists of spicy pulled duck, bacon, eggs and cheese wrapped inside a tortilla before being pan-seared.

Cafe Atlantique in the heart of Downtown Milford has been a favorite among locals for live music, delectable crepes and coffee. Sip wine or espresso on the outdoor patio, or come on the weekends for live entertainment. The menu offers both sweet and savory crepes, including favorites such as Cajun chicken, Nutella or apples with caramel.

Let Bistro Basque on River Street transport you to Spain for the evening. The restaurant features a lively ambiance with authentic Spanish cuisine, tapas and cocktails. Share tapas or cheese plates with friends, or come for a romantic date night. Menu favorites include flavorful paella or grilled jumbo sea scallops served with mashed potatoes, spinach and a light sherry sauce.

As far as nightlife goes, there are plenty of local bars and pubs for drinks with friends. Visit the Connecticut staple SBC Brewery for local craft beer and events such as Milford Oktoberfest. Sample a full food menu and a vast wine, beer and cocktail list. Be sure to try one of SBC's signature brews, such as the Southport Maple Porter with notes of roasted pumpkin and maple syrup. A pint at the brewery costs around $5.

With direct access to major highways and ample public transportation options, getting around the area is easy. Commute by car conveniently with Interstate 95, US 1 and Route 162. Alternatively, leave the car at home and rely on the area's excellent public transportation. The Metro-North Railroad station in Downtown Milford houses the New Haven line, which runs from New Haven, Connecticut, to Mount Vernon, New York. A hour-and-a-half-long trip on the line can take you from Downtown Milford to Grand Central Station in the heart of Manhattan. The station also provides 676 parking spaces for commuters.

Hop in a taxi outside of the Metro-North station, or set up service from the smartphone-based Uber ride share. Feel safe and comfortable traveling by foot or bike in the neighborhood as well. The Downtown/Harbor/Post Road South area hosts bike-shares such as Scoot and Paddle, designated lanes, trails, and the bike-friendly Gulf Street that runs through the center of the neighborhood.

With plenty of harbor activities and extensive recreational parks, this Milford neighborhood provides a variety of outdoor fun and leisure for residents. Walk the boardwalk of Silver Sands State Park that connects the park to Walnut Beach, the site of the annual Summer Concert series. Partake in your favorite water activities, including boating, swimming, crabbing and fishing, or simply soak up the sun. The 297 acres of Silver Sands State Park feature sandy beaches, marshes, dunes and wooded areas as well as the 14-acre bird sanctuary of Charles Island. Spend the day bird-watching on the island, or engage in a treasure hunt with your children for Captain Kidd's buried treasure, which was supposedly buried here in 1699.

In addition, residents can visit Wilcox Park in the heart of the neighborhood. Hike the extensive trail for stunning views of Milford harbor. The park provides picnic areas, walking paths and opportunities for fishing and boating.

The Downtown/Harbor/Post Road South neighborhood of Connecticut features a higher cost of living in comparison to the rest of the state with the one-bedroom apartment renting for $1,581.

Commuters should expect to pay $1.50 for a one-way trip on public transportation by bus and from $2.50 to $25 by train depending on how far the trip is. A one-way trip from Milford to Grand Central Station costs $25 with discounts available for children and for traveling during off-peak hours. Gas prices in the area settle in at 11 percent higher than the national average, and a pint of beer at a local pub or bar will cost you around $5.

Downtown Milford's River Street has witnessed an influx of boutiques and speciality stores and now hosts a variety of shops that provide something for every style and taste.

Shop Me Boutique for gifts, women's apparel and accessories. Browse the extensive selection of scarves, Brighton handbags, and Alex and Ani bracelets to find the next fashionable addition to your wardrobe. While strolling River Street, be sure to stop in Whispers From Lady Olga for a selection of fine lingerie and intimate apparel, bridal gifts and accessories. Shop for luxury bath products, comfortable pajamas, or a sparkly new piece of jewelry.

Besides providing a vast selection of children's and newborn apparel and toys, Duck Duck Goose strives to help protect the environment. The boutique sells ecofriendly, organic products and features only items made in the United States. Browse toys or books created by local artists and a selection of fun and fashionable apparel. Duck Duck Goose also features a selection of baby shower or customized gift baskets with earth-friendly, natural products that any new parent is sure to love.

In addition, The Downtown Milford Business Association provides a loyalty card for several of the neighborhoods boutiques, stores and restaurants. This loyalty card ensures you get the best deals by receiving special offers and discounts from the participating businesses.

Shop for groceries and everyday essentials at the ShopRite supermarket on Cherry Street. A handful of specialty and convenience food stores lie scattered around downtown, including Food Fare & Market. In addition, the Downtown Milford Farmers Market features a selection of fresh Connecticut-grown produce. Over 20 local farmers and vendors sell artisan pastries, fresh bread and pasta, and handmade goods.