Discover the Natural Beauty of East Rock Park
Explore East Rock Park, a stunning urban park in New Haven, CT, featuring breathtaking views, hiking trails, and recreational activities for all ages.
Nestled in New Haven, Connecticut, East Rock Park is a sprawling urban oasis that beckons nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 400 acres, the park is renowned for its striking geological features, including the iconic East Rock itself, which rises majestically to provide some of the most panoramic views of the city and Long Island Sound. Visitors can access the summit via several well-maintained hiking trails that meander through lush forests and open meadows, making it a wonderful destination for both casual walkers and avid hikers. The park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities, making it an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a day outdoors. The picturesque surroundings are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more rigorous hike, with trails suited for all skill levels. Additionally, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. East Rock Park is not just a haven for outdoor activities; it also boasts historical significance, with remnants of old fortifications from the Civil War era and a charming covered bridge that connects the park to nearby attractions. Whether you're looking to engage in outdoor sports, have a family picnic, or simply soak in the beauty of nature, East Rock Park promises an enriching experience that showcases the best of Connecticut's natural landscape.
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking the trails to the summit.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
- Don't miss the view from the summit; it’s especially beautiful during sunset.
- Check the park's website for seasonal events and guided nature walks.
A brief summary to East Rock Park
- 41 Cold Spring St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06511, US
- +1203-946-6086
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7 am-9 pm
- Friday 7 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7 am-10:30 pm
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from anywhere in Central Connecticut, head towards New Haven. Use I-91 S or I-95 S depending on your starting location. Once in New Haven, take exit 3 for State St toward East Rock Park. Continue on State St, then turn left onto Cold Spring St. East Rock Park will be on your right at 41 Cold Spring St, New Haven, CT 06511. Parking is available at the park entrance.
-
Public Transportation
To reach East Rock Park via public transportation, first take a bus or train to New Haven. If you are taking a train, use Amtrak or Metro-North to New Haven Union Station. From the station, you can take CT Transit bus number 228 towards East Rock Park. Get off at the Cold Spring St stop, which is a short walk to the park entrance at 41 Cold Spring St. Check the CT Transit schedule for the latest fares and bus timings.
-
Walking from Public Transport
If you arrive in New Haven by bus or train, and prefer to walk, East Rock Park is approximately 1.5 miles from New Haven Union Station. Head northeast on Union Ave, then turn left onto State St. Continue until you reach Cold Spring St, then turn left and walk until you see the park entrance. The walk will take around 30 minutes. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Attractions Nearby to East Rock Park
-
New Haven Overlook Vista
-
Goose Dam
-
Edgerton Park
-
Marsh Botanical Garden
-
Yale Peabody Museum
-
New Haven Museum
-
Escape New Haven
-
Ely Center of Contemporary Art
-
Yale Collection of Musical Instruments
-
Grove St Cemetery
-
Connecticut Children's Museum
-
Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library
-
The Mead Visitor Center
-
Lost In New Haven
-
Wooster Square Park
Landmarks nearby to East Rock Park
-
Soldiers and Sailors Monument
-
Appledore
-
Pardee Rose Gardens
-
Eli Whitney Museum & Workshop
-
Leitner Family Observatory and Planetarium
-
New Haven Preservation Trust
-
Upper State Street Historic District
-
Orange Street Historic District
-
Winchester Repeating Arms Company Historic District
-
Il Bastone (Anderson Mansion)
-
Henry R. Luce Hall
-
James Dwight Dana House
-
William Lanson Statue
-
St. Mary's Church
-
Grave of Josiah Willard Gibbs