Roosevelt Forest: Stratford's Natural Escape
Discover Stratford's Roosevelt Forest: A historic urban oasis with hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and tranquil natural beauty.
Roosevelt Forest, a 401-acre urban oasis in Stratford, Connecticut, offers a diverse landscape of mixed deciduous forest, wetlands, and a serene pond. Established during the Great Depression as a WPA project, it provides recreational opportunities and protects local wildlife.
A brief summary to Roosevelt Forest
- Monday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6:30 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, as some paths can be uneven.
- Visit during the spring or fall for the best views of wildflowers or fall foliage.
- Keep pets on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and respect other visitors.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-95, take exit 32 and head north on Main Street. Continue straight, staying right at the fork with River Road to remain on Main Street. Turn right onto Chapel Street, then make a slight right onto James Farm Road. Follow James Farm Road until you see a small sign for Roosevelt Forest on the left. Turn slightly left onto Peters Lane and follow it to the main parking lot at the end. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking lot is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Limited shoulder parking is available on Peters Lane.
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Public Transport
The Greater Bridgeport Transit Authority (GBTA) provides bus service to the area. From the Stratford train station, take the B route bus towards Bridgeport. Get off at the intersection of Main Street and James Farm Road. From there, walk north on James Farm Road for approximately 1.5 miles, then turn left onto Peters Lane and follow it to the forest entrance. A single bus fare is $1.75. This option involves a significant walk.
Discover more about Roosevelt Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eells-Stow House
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The Mary & Eliza Freeman Center for History and Community
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Bridgeport Downtown South Historic District
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Former Site Of Little Liberia
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Marina Park Historic District
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US Navy Monument
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Soldiers Monument
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Stratford Point Lighthouse
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BR Harbor Study
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Bradley Point Park
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Savin Rock
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WIlliam Campbell Monument
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Fairfield Museum & History Center
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The Boulevard Flea Market
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Unmissable attractions to see
Miniature Lighthouse
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Boothe Memorial Park
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National Helicopter Museum Inc
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Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo
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Housatonic Overlook
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Silver Sands State Park
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Indian Ledge Park
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Legends of Fear
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Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point
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Riverfront Park
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Old Mine Park
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Osborne Homestead Museum
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BJ Brown Memorial Park
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Connecticut Air & Space Center
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Downtown Cabaret Theatre
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Essential places to dine
LongHorn Steakhouse
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Famous 50's Diner
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Mac N' Out Macaroni & Cheese
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Stonebridge Restaurant
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White's Diner
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American Steakhouse
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Massimo Pizzeria Ristorante
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Ceviche Palace
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Bereket Turkish Restaurant
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Galaxy Diner-Restaurant
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Merritt Canteen
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Rosely Restaurant
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Creole Fusion Cuisine
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O'Manel Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center
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Bohemian High LLC
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Canvas Patch
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Regines Inc
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Lobby Giftshop
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NaturalAnnie Essentials Candle Making Bar & Shop
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BoxLunch
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DopeDivaD Boutique
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Romantix
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Brookway
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Liberty Rock Tavern
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J&R's Pub
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Casey's Irish Pub
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My Bar & Grille
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Archie Moore's Bar & Restaurant
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Main Street Tavern
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Windmill Tavern
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Bugatti Lounge
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Bar 140
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Anthony D's Bar & Grill
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Infinity Restaurant & Sports Bar
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Gipper's Restaurant & Ale House
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Taes Lounge
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