Harbor Point - Stamford, CT

Harbor Point was an economic center point for Stamford in the late 19th century. Yale & Towne Lock Works, located in the South End, at one time provided 25 percent of Stamford's population with employment, earning Stamford the nickname "Lock City." Evolution into a suburban residential community brought an influx of people to the neighborhood. Over the past 10 years, Harbor Point has worked hard to create a sustainable and exclusive area along Stamford Harbor. The Stamford Museum & Nature Center 20 minutes away from Harbor Point provides a hands-on learning experience for children and adults. Rotating exhibits focusing on American culture and nature, an observatory with weekly presentations and guided wilderness tours produce unique educational experiences available throughout the year. Le Pain Quotidien is located in a historic loft building that also includes townhomes, office space, and other businesses. Stop here to enjoy a pastry like the cheese almond Danish or the Pain Au Chcolat or make this your go-to breakfast spot (you'll want to after trying the Brioche French Toast). Paired with a cup of organic coffee or tea, you may not want to leave.

Harbor Point attracts residents from all over the Stamford area with its award-winning restaurants -- many located on the water, providing amazing views. Asian Bistro, open for lunch and dinner, features fresh sushi, traditional Japanese cuisine, and an authentic ambience. Try one of their signature rolls, such as the Volcano Roll or the Black Diamond Roll. If you prefer hibachi, try the filet mignon, Chilean sea bass, or steak and chicken. If you are looking for a terrific seafood restaurant, head to Boothbay Lobster Company. This restaurant uses sustainable, fresh seafood to make some amazing dishes -- try the lobster rolls. Or, if you prefer, get the whole steamed lobster. This restaurant also features clam chowder and a raw bar with oysters and clams.

Harbor Point provides residents with many amenities within walking distance. The peninsula neighborhood requires transportation when traveling within Stamford or the greater Connecticut area, of which there are many options. Free rides on the Harbor Point Trolley connect residents with access to supermarkets, Universities and the Metro North train station. Water taxis transport across the Stamford Harbor to commercial and residential destinations; taxi and Uber services are also available on the peninsula. For commuters, metered street parking and upscale garages near the Stamford Train Station provide daily and monthly rates, an electric vehicle charging station and covered pedestrian bridge with direct access to train platforms. Bike lanes have not been installed in Harbor Point, but cycling around the neighborhood's wide lanes, park paths and harbor coast is a pleasant experience for commuters. I-95 divides Harbor Point from other Stamford neighborhoods, running east and west to Rhode Island and New York. Parallel to I-95 is Route 1, sharing many of the same exits as the interstate but has a more direct access to local business districts without traffic.

The southernmost part of Harbor Point, Kosciuszko Park's 7 acres of walking and running paths, playgrounds, ball fields and nature trails provide days of leisure minutes away from home. Free for general use, the large spaces looking out to Stamford Harbor create the perfect background for picnics, walks along a nature trail with loved ones and the family dog or down closer to the water. Kosciuszko Park hosts annual 5k runs as well as beer and food truck festivals. A free parking lot conveniently serves visitors and all are welcome to enjoy the views Kosciuszko Park provides.

Harbor Point's revitalization gains popularity among people looking to move into Stamford. The suburban neighborhood has rent prices 37 percent higher than other Stamford area, averaging around $2,176 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Renting in the exclusive neighborhood can be costly, but free trolley rides to Stamford and other points of interest save money on errand travels. Beers served in restaurants begin at $6, mixed drinks at $10. Gas prices in Harbor Point run 17 percent higher than the national average.

Local shopping in Harbor Point connects residents with trendy fashions and the latest styles. Bulabula Fashions on Ludlow sells worldly attire, scouring the globe for fair trade natural fabrics and forming an impressive collection of reasonably priced apparel and accessories for women. On Pacific Street, Pacific Cycling & Triathlon sells and repairs bicycles and accessories, as well as offering training and cycling programs. Across I-95, 10 minutes outside Harbor Point, the Stamford Town Center's luxury retailers provide a shopping experience for most budgets. Apple, Coach, and Michael Kors boutiques provides a personal experience with knowledgeable salespeople for the perfect purchase. Every grocery need can be fulfilled at Fairway on Canal Street, the largest Fairway in North America and accessible by trolley service. For last minute dinner party items look no further than the many local mini-markets in Harbor Point, selling smaller quantities of larger chain stores. Ten minutes along I-95, Darien Farmers Market sells fresh produce at competitive prices.