WESTPORT

ALL ABOUT WESTPORT

Westport is a classic New England suburb nestled along the shores of the Long Island Sound. Often referred to as the Gold Coast of Connecticut, Westport is a thriving epicenter of commerce, education, fine dining, recreation, art, and community.

The town was officially incorporated in 1835. At that time, agriculture was at the center of the economy. Starting in the early 1900s, artists and musicians moved into the area, creating a large artistic community that has left their mark on the culture of the town. Our town's roots are still evident today in the few remaining farms and in the various artistic events held throughout the year. 

Today, over 25,000 people consider Westport their home. Our community offers something for the outdoorsman as well as the artist, families and empty nesters, the foodie, and the cyclist. It is located 45 miles northeast of New York City and is easily accessible by Metro North Railroad, Interstate 95, and the Merritt Parkway.

Award-Winning Public Schools

"The Mission of the Westport Public Schools is to prepare all students to reach their full potential as lifelong learners and socially responsible contributors to our global community." 

Westport Public Schools are consistently ranked as one of the top districts in the state. Our students engage in a rigorous academic program that is supplemented with instruction in the arts and physical education. Students are offered bus transportation to and from school. 

Staples High School, the single high school serving our town, is one of the top 10 public high schools in Connecticut. The curriculum includes 25 AP classes, music, theater, and media programs, as well as over 100 co-curricular activities. Over 95% of our graduating seniors go on to college. The school also boasts 35 varsity athletic teams. 

AROUND TOWN

Westport Weston Family YMCA

For over 90 years, the local YMCA has been a local part of our town. The new state-of-the-art complex is comprised of swimming pools, a large exercise facility, various gyms, and even provides childcare.

Longshore Club Park

This former members-only club was purchased by the town and now operates as a public club. Recreational activities include an 18-hole golf course, tennis and paddle courts, three swimming pools, a sailing school, and an ice skating rink in the winter. The privately owned hotel on the grounds feature a waterfront restaurant and elegant event space. Longshore and all of its amenities are a true gem. 

Winslow Dog Park

Even the furriest member of your family will feel at home in Westport. The park provides an off-leash play area, as well as trails for dogs of all sizes. You won't be able to drive by without your dog begging to get out for a run with his friends. 

Beaches

Compo Beach, Burying Hill Beach, and Mill Pond round out Westport's local beaches that can't be missed. Compo Beach, the largest of the three, offers a 29-acre park, including the sandy beach, a large playscape, Joey's by The Shore restaurant, a marina, volleyball and basketball courts, pickleball, and a skatepark. 

Levitt Pavilion

This outdoor performance space comes alive in the summer. It hosts 50 nights of free outdoor entertainment, including rock and classical concerts, kid's entertainment, and the occasional circus performance. 

Westport Country Playhouse

The playhouse is a nonprofit professional theater company. Many productions are produced and performed here each year. National tours also perform here throughout the year. The goal of the organization is to provide a "theater worth talking about." Be sure to check out a show and see what it inspires in you. 

Dining

From chic restaurants featuring nationally recognized chefs to a casual burger joint floating on the river, there is no shortage of great food in town. With an upbeat and "city-like" nightlife, Westport is home to many exciting restaurants offering innovative American and international cuisines. 

Main Street and Bedford Square

Westport has long been known for its great shopping. The town's bustling Main Street and newly built Bedford Square offer an array of both high-end specialty stores and boutiques, combined with trendy nationally branded stores. The Downtown Merchants Association enhances the area with yearly events such as the Sidewalk Sale and Fine Arts Festival. 

Don't Forget to Visit

Earthplace • Wakeman Town Farm • Sherwood Island State Park • The Westport Historical Society • Polo at the Hunt Club • The Farmers Market • Aspetuck Land Preserve • The Westport Arts Center • Saugatuck Shopping and Dining District

Notable Residents, Past and Present

Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward • Martha Stewart • Michael Bolton • Justin Paul • Gene Tierney • Sandy Dennis • Mike Greenberg • Bette Davis • Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue • Christopher Lloyd • Melissa Joan Hart