Congrats! You’ve been accepted to one of the most prestigious universities in the United States! Now it’s time to start thinking about settling in. The best way to get acquainted with your new normal is to get out there! Follow these easy suggestions to find things to do near Yale and you’ll be well on your way to making new friends, exploring new places, and living your best student life.
So, you were accepted into Yale University…
Well done! But, if you want to make the next four years at Yale the best time of your life, I advise you to experience everything that the campus has to offer. From joining social clubs to going to college parties, taking part in sports, and making new friends there are countless opportunities for academic exploration that Yale University can provide.
Since you are starting the new chapter of your life read on to explore the Connecticut culture and find out about things to do near Yale!
Life At Yale
Founded in 1701 as the Collegiate School, Yale University is the third-oldest higher education institute in the United States. It is one of the most prestigious colleges globally, and being a private Ivy League college, it has a lot to offer to its students.
The culture at Yale University New Haven expands beyond an institution of higher learning. Yale thinks of itself as a community where people from diverse backgrounds can exist together, live, work, and play, connected by their similarities and united under the institution’s banner.
The students of Yale have a wide array of interests and vocations that range from arts and culture, sports and recreation, and so on. Every student will find something to do when they are on campus.
The Yale campus is located in New Haven, Connecticut, and the college celebrates its hometown for all it offers. You just have to get out there and get acquainted with your new home.
Things to Do Near Yale University
Explore the Local Arts and Culture
There is no shortage of things to do near Yale, no dearth of things you can do on and off-campus. If you like live music, there are several popular outdoor events where you can get your groove on, including Music On The Green and the International Festival of Art and Ideas.
Every year, Connecticut comes together to celebrate the legacy of Jazz Week, a five-day series of live musical performances where artists like Ray Charles perform. The Connecticut Hall and the College Street Music Hall are also known for hosting incredible music events.
Connecticut is also home to one of the world’s largest collections of rare books at the Yale Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library. If you are on a day trip to Elm City, this is a must-visit! Besides, many other attractions include the Knights of Columbus Museum, The New Haven Museum, and the Yale Peabody Museum.
Art lovers can always go to the Yale University Art Gallery or the Yale Center for British Art. And, if you are a fan of the theatre, make sure you catch a show at the legendary Shubert Theatre and the Long Wharf Theatre.
If you’re looking for things to do near Yale for the art enthusiast in you, then you’re in the right place.
Make Time for Tourism in Connecticut
There are a lot of things to do near Yale but even more to do in Connecticut. If you like hiking, you will find many hiking trails. There are amazing corn mazes, pet-friendly getaways, local pubs to explore, and so on. This fall season, you can also enjoy the Fall Fest at Westbrook!
On your extended weekends off, you can gather your group of friends and take a road trip to explore the sights of Connecticut. Not to mention, there’s plenty to do in the neighboring states.
Pro-tip: hit up the visitor’s bureau websites for the destinations you are interested in for travel guides and planning tools. And be sure to get familiar with the weather in Connecticut before you venture off.
Check Out Local Events and Clubs
Apart from Sports and Arts, there are a plethora of events at Yale University! From water-based painting to pottery classes, you will definitely find something to do on your weekends! They have something for everyone.
Yale University also boasts of an active and engaged community of students involved in many clubs and societies. The Yale College Council not only advocates for policy changes within the campus, but they also host many Freshers’ events to welcome incoming batches.
As a student of Yale, you can join any student club or society you find interest in! Yale is passionate about encouraging its student’s interests!
Explore the Athletics and Recreation that Yale Has to Offer
Did you know that New Haven is one of the United States’ most sporting destinations? It sure shouldn’t come off as a surprise if you have heard about the unforgettable Yale Bowl Stadium. At the Yale Bowl, thousands of fans and students come to cheer for the matches.
Every year, New Haven welcomes world-class athletes and hosts events like the New Haven Grand Prix, the New Haven Road Race, and the Closer to Free Ride.
All of Yale’s athletic teams boast of excellence in competitions. The Yale Golf Course is among the Top 100 golf courses in the States.
In fact, Yale University offers football scholarships to the most gifted players. The scholarship winners are recruited to the acclaimed Yale Bulldogs, where they are groomed to be the best footballers in the college circle.
One of Yale’s most awaited sports events is the epic Ivy League showdown, also known as “The Game”. There’s no deep-seated college rivalry than Yale’s infamous beef with Harvard, and the teams fight it out every year at the Yale stadium!
If you are a college student you can access websites at Connecticut online gambling for football to find predictions for the Yale Bulldogs and other NCAAF teams.
Enjoy Local Restaurants and Shopping
If you love food and shopping, Yale University has got you covered! Yale loves to brag about its culinary heritage with award-winning chefs and local eateries like Union League Cafe and Claire’s Corner Copia! When it’s time to treat yourself, these are the places you should go to!
When you think of Connecticut, the home of Yale University, retail therapy is one of the things that should come to mind! New Haven is the number one shopping destination for Yale Students. In addition to big brands such as Apple, Lululemon, etc., there are many solo clothing designers that you can check out.
And, if you prefer a homegrown approach to grocery and food, you can always head to the Nica’s Market or Elm City Market!
As we said, there is no shortage of things to do near Yale. Plan to follow the tips above. You’re going to have the time of your life there.
