Darien Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled along the picturesque coast of Connecticut, the town of Darien offers a charming escape from the bustling city life. With its close proximity to both New York City and Stamford, Darien provides a serene retreat for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

One of the highlights of Darien is its stunning beaches. The town boasts several beautiful waterfront areas, such as Weed Beach and Pear Tree Point Beach, where visitors can relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. These beaches are perfect for swimming, picnicking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

For nature enthusiasts, Darien offers a variety of outdoor activities. The town is home to several parks and nature preserves, including Cherry Lawn Park and Selleck's Woods, which provide ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the lush greenery. Visitors can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the nearby rivers and waterways.

Darien is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to the Darien Arts Center, which hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the talents of local artists. Additionally, Darien Playhouse offers a range of live performances, including theater productions and concerts, providing entertainment for all ages.

Food lovers will delight in Darien's culinary offerings. The town is home to a diverse array of restaurants, ranging from cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, international cuisine, or classic American fare, Darien has something to satisfy every palate.

Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Darien's charming downtown area. The town is dotted with boutique shops and specialty stores, offering unique clothing, accessories, and home goods. Visitors can spend the day perusing the shops and picking up one-of-a-kind treasures.

Alternative names: Population: 20.7 thous.Area: 23.4 mi²Elevation: 39 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°4'35"N, 73°28'17"W

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ConnecticutUnited States

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Darien Top Attractions

Darien Attractions - What to See and Explore

Darien offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Frederick J. Smith House, Darien Library, Pond-Weed House, Andrew Shaw Memorial Trust Scout Cabin. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

41°3'16"N • 73°27'21"W
Frederick J. Smith House
The Smith House is a work of modern architecture designed by Richard Meier, a well-known architect born in 1934 who led the avant-garde modern architecture movement of the 1960s.
41°4'8"N • 73°28'42"W
Darien Library
Concerts and shows • Library
Saltbox architecture • Noroton
Pond-Weed House
The Pond-Weed House is a historic house at corner of the old Boston Post Road and Hollow Tree Ridge Road in the Noroton section of Darien, Connecticut. It has also been known as The House Under the Hill and Half-Way House.

41°4'32"N • 73°28'60"W
Andrew Shaw Memorial Trust Scout Cabin
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41°6'45"N • 73°28'27"W
Stephen Tyng Mather Home
The Stephen Tyng Mather Home is a historic house and National Historic Landmark at 19 Stephen Mather Road in Darien, Connecticut. It is significant as the longtime family home Stephen Tyng Mather, an industrialist and conservationist who championed the creation of the National Park Service in 1916 and served as its first director.
41°4'43"N • 73°29'12"W
Meadowlands
Meadowlands, at 274 Middlesex Road in Darien, Connecticut, USA, also known as DCA Meadowlands or the Darien Community Association House, enjoys a long, distinguished history. The original house was owned by Mary and Frank Green, a wholesale grocer from New York City.
Church • Noroton
St. John Church
St. John Parish is a Roman Catholic church in Darien, Connecticut. It is part of the Diocese of Bridgeport.
Neighbourhood
Boston Post Road Historic District
The Boston Post Road Historic District encompasses a cross-section of residential architectural styles representative of much of the history of Darien, Connecticut.

Day trips

Darien – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Darien, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Discovery Museum and Planetarium (Bridgeport), Great Hollow Lake (Monroe), Beardsley Zoo (Bridgeport).

16 milesNE
Museum, Children's museum, Observatories and planetariums
Discovery Museum and Planetarium, Bridgeport
Nestled in the heart of Bridgeport, Connecticut, the Discovery Museum and Planetarium stands as a beacon of learning and exploration for individuals of all ages. This educational landmark offers a wealth of interactive exhibits and displays that ignite curiosity...
20 milesNE
Lake
Great Hollow Lake, Monroe
Nestled in the tranquil town of Monroe, Connecticut, Great Hollow Lake offers visitors a serene escape amidst nature's splendor. This picturesque lake is a cherished spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy outdoor activities and the peaceful surroundings.
18 milesNE
Animals from North and South America
Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport
Nestled in the heart of Bridgeport, Connecticut, Beardsley Zoo offers an enchanting wildlife experience for visitors of all ages. As the only zoo in the state, it has been a cherished destination for families, tourists, and animal lovers since its opening in 1922.
16 milesNE
Arenas and stadiums, Hockey, Sport
Webster Bank Arena, Bridgeport
Total Mortgage Arena is a 10,000-seat multi-purpose arena in downtown Bridgeport, Connecticut, United States. Managed by the Oak View Group, the arena was built alongside the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater and opened on October 10, 2001.
5.5 miNW
Museum, Art museum, History museum
Glass House, New Canaan
The Glass House, or Johnson house, is a historic house museum on Ponus Ridge Road in New Canaan, Connecticut built in 1948–49. It was designed by architect Philip Johnson as his own residence. It has been called his "signature work".