DAYSCAPE: DINOSAURS, SHOPPING & DINING
Duration: 1 Day
A family-friendly adventure beginning in the Whitney-Audubon District — which is more like a neighborhood, with cozy cafes, delis, shops, and independently owned bakeries —and ending with a casual or full-service dinner at The Shops at Yale in the Chapel Historic and Broadway Districts.
You’re just in time to witness history! After more than three years of transformative renovations, the iconic Yale Peabody Museum is open and ready for you. This world-renowned museum is home to over 14 million specimens and objects, including the world’s original Brontosaurus. Newly posed with a more scientifically accurate and dynamic stance, the gargantuan Brontosaurus skeleton dominates the famed Burke Hall of Dinosaurs. It’s a towering reminder you’re inside one of the world’s oldest and largest natural history museums! Part of Yale and New Haven for more than 150 years, the newly renovated Peabody has been reinvented for the 21st century to continue offering cutting-edge research, extraordinary education, and breathtaking exhibitions.
First, fuel up before your walk among the dinosaurs! Go native with breakfast from Katalina’s Bakery, featuring homemade pop tarts, Stumptown coffee, vegan treats, and more, all made from scratch daily. Or take the international route with a stop at Crêpes Choupette, where you’ll be warmly welcomed and treated to authentic French crêpes. From sweet to savory, with toppings and fillings including fruit, Nutella, meats, cheeses, and more, there’s something for everyone.
When you’re ready for some retail therapy, just head to The Shops at Yale. Set in the heart of historic Yale and Downtown New Haven lies a one-of-a-kind collection of more than 30 boutiques together with national retailers like Urban Outfitters, J.Crew, lululemon, Warby Parker, and the Apple Store. Get your Yale merch at Campus Customs and The Yale Bookstore, and don’t miss your chance to check out unique gift shops like Uni-Home Life and dwell New Haven. Take a look at some books at Atticus Bookstore, a New Haven institution that blends a wide selection of books with a European style café; or at Book Trader Cafe, where the aroma of freshly-brewed coffee and warm breads will entice you to stay a while as the kids browse the excellent children’s book selections and preowned DVDs.
Dinner time already? You won’t need to go far to dine well in New Haven, one of the best foodie cities in America. There are more than 35 dining options at The Shops at Yale, from casual restaurants like Shake Shack and Pokemoto to full-service dining experiences at Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant and Zinc New Haven. From classic American fare to cuisine the cruises the globe, explore an inspirational array within walking distance! You’ll also have your pick of plenty of places to dine al fresco and enjoy the small-city atmosphere. Top off your fabulous day with ice cream or another all-natural treat at Connecticut’s own Arethusa Dairy Farm – you’ve earned it!
Insider tip:
Visiting on the weekend? Free parking is available behind the Payne-Whitney Gym at Yale University’s Lot 78, located at 78 Ashmun Street; and at the parking lot at 433 Temple Street, behind Hot Pot, New Haven’s newest Chinese restaurant.
