If you’re a New Yorker, the idea of spending the weekend in Connecticut is probably not top of mind. But, as it turns out, it should be. This waterfront town might be best known for its castle-like estates, hedge fund-owner residents and high-end, designer-lined main drag (which goes by the name “the Ave”), but there’s far more culture and charm than meets the eye. And at just 30 miles outside the city—an easy 45 minute train ride from Grand Central—it might be the easiest weekend getaway ever.
Your Next Weekend Escape: Greenwich, Connecticut
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Published Apr 27, 2018
Delamar
Stay On The Harbor
There aren’t too many hotels to choose from in Greenwich, but even if there were, the Delamar Greenwich Harbor would for sure be your best bet. It’s located right on the waterfront and is also within walking distance from the train, as well as the Ave and most trendy restaurants. During check-in you’ll be given a generous pouring of Champagne (who can argue with that?), plus you’ll be treated to complimentary wine and cheese cocktail hours on weekend nights.
Stroll The Ave For Lunch Options
Don’t miss Mediterraneo right on Greenwich Avenue, which serves Mediterranean-inflected fare with a spotlight on fresh seafood: Think lobster black truffle ravioli and crispy-skinned branzino. Right next door is Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant, known for its farm-to-table menu (the shaved Brussels sprout salad, piled on a Parmesan risotto cake, is a must) and its 300-bottle wine list.
Hit Up The Beaches
Depending on the time of year, you might want to head to the beach—after all, this is your city escape. You’re in luck, since Greenwich has quite a few. The nicest is arguably Greenwich Point Park, known to locals as “Tod’s Point.” Another top contender is Byram Beach, which is also home to the only public pool in town. If you’re someone who hates getting your feet sandy, this is where you should post up for the day.
Head To The Spread For Dinner
No matter what you do, you’re not allowed to leave Greenwich without a visit to The Spread. The menu has a little something for everyone (sausage-stuffed jalapeños, grilled Portuguese octopus, fried potato gnocchi with truffle oil), and Thursday through Saturday, it turns into a full-blown dance party at night.
Wikimedia Commons
Visit The Bruce Museum
The Bruce Museum is worth a visit even if you’re a regular at the Met or MoMA: It features a mix of art, science and natural history, with highlights including an emphasis on the Cos Cob art colony (a notable school of American Impressionists), an impressive collection of minerals and crystals, and exhibits dedicated to the area’s Native American history.
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Shop On Greenwich Avenue
A trip to Greenwich wouldn’t be complete without a visit to of the most expensive streets in the U.S. (with an average rent of $90.25 per square foot). You’ll find everything from high-end designers like Hermès, Tory Burch and Anne Fontaine to more affordable retailers like Zara, Brandy Melville and J. Crew. But mainly you’ll want to admire the historic district’s architecture, a mix of Georgian Revival and Italianate styles.
Yoga Center of Greenwich
Find Your Zen Before Heading Home
Sure, you can do yoga back in the city, but The Yoga Center of Greenwich, is worth a visit for a couple reasons. It’s located in the basement of the Shreve, Crump & Low jewelry store, which gives it this sort of speakeasy vibe, and the studio is adorned by the work of artist Marylyn Dintenfass, who’s exhibited at the Met and the Smithsonian (and happens to be yoga director Lauren Berger’s aunt). Classes focus on a 5,000-year-old form of hatha yoga and will have you fully blissed out before hopping on Metro-North.
