Living in Guilford, CT
If you are thinking of moving to Guilford, CT, this community guide has lots of helpful information about the historic coastal town.
About Guilford
What's Guilford, Connecticut like?
Guilford is a quintessential New England community and one of the most desirable places to live in Connecticut due to its blend of shoreline and farmland, excellent school system and charming town Green. First settled in 1639, Guilford has the third largest collection of historical homes in New England, with dwellings from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Buyers can find beautifully maintained and restored historical homes, along with newer houses bordering the Green and luxury condominiums. Guilford boasts a variety of beach neighborhoods where buyers can find charming cottages and grand estates. Originally an agricultural community, Guilford maintains those roots with its rural neighborhoods and farms to the north.
From shoreline beaches to peaceful lakes to miles of hiking trails, there is a lot to enjoy in this charming town of about 22,000 residents. The area is well served by Interstates 91 and 95 and rail connections to New York and Boston. Great schools, a strong community, outdoor activities, arts, culture, shops and restaurants appeal to families, young adults and retirees alike.
Guilford, CT Schools & Education
The Guilford Public School System consistently ranks among the top in Connecticut. There are four neighborhood elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school, which recently moved to a newly constructed state-of-the-art facility and is known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and strong theater, visual arts and sports programs.
The Commute Getting Around
Guilford is convenient to I-95 and New Haven is just 20 minutes away. Shore Line East provides train service to New Haven and Old Saybrook, where you can make connections to New York City and Boston. A public bus transit system offers multiple stops in Guilford.
Map of Guilford, CT
Guilford, Connecticut Things to Do
Kayak in Long Island Sound, the East River and Lake Quonnipaug, or launch your boat from one of Guilford’s marinas. Enjoy scenic views of Long Island Sound and far reaching vistas from the top of Bluff Head Trail, one of the many local hiking routes that include the New England Trail.
Visit Bishop’s Orchards and pick your own fruit. Take a class at the Guilford Art Center, which hosts a large Craft Expo on the Green each summer. Walk around town and enjoy the boutique shops, antique stores, restaurants and art galleries. Be sure not to miss the annual Guilford Fair, held at the Fairgrounds each September, or Shakespeare on the Shoreline performances on the Green.
Step back in time at one of the historical museums displaying Guilford's heritage.
- Hyland House Museum (1660)
- Henry Whitfield State Museum (1639) - the oldest dwelling in Connecticut and the oldest stone house in North America
- Thomas Griswold House (1774)
- Medad Stone Tavern (1803)
- Dudley Farm (1840) - host to a weekly farmers market throughout the year
