By John Engel

Discover the Charm of Ridgefield, Connecticut

Nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in central Fairfield County, Ridgefield, Connecticut, is a colonial town that exudes charm and elegance. With a population of approximately 24,300 people, Ridgefield offers a small-town feel while providing a wealth of amenities and attractions that make it a desirable place to call home.

A Rich History

Founded in 1708 by about 30 families from Long Island Sound settlements, Ridgefield has a rich history that adds to its allure. The town has been home to notable personalities such as Benedict Arnold, who fought here, and Eugene O’Neill, who wrote here. This historical heritage is evident in the town’s handsome Main Street, which stretches more than a mile along a ridge some 750 feet above sea level and is lined with stately homes, museums, churches, and shops.

A Thriving Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Ridgefield is robust, with homes ranging from $350K to $12M. As of April 2023, the median listing home price was $2.5M, trending up 9.1% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $574, and the median home sold price was $1.5M. Homes in Ridgefield typically sell after 43 days on the market.

Top-Rated Schools

Ridgefield is home to some of the finest schools in a state known for its excellent education system. The town hosts several public schools rated good and higher by GreatSchools. The Mill Hill School, serving grades K-5, is particularly noteworthy with a rating of 9/10.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

Ridgefield is famous for its dining scene. From world-class country inns to modern bistros, the town offers a variety of culinary experiences that cater to all tastes. Ridgefield is known for its diverse and high-quality dining options such as:

  1. The Lantern: Known for its warm and charming atmosphere, The Lantern offers a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
  2. Barn Door Restaurant: This restaurant is praised for its delicious food, incredible service, and great atmosphere.
  3. The Hideaway Kitchen & Bar: A gastropub that offers a variety of dishes in a cozy setting.
  4. Bartolo: A family-friendly restaurant known for its homemade food and friendly staff.
  5. Bailey’s Backyard: This restaurant is known for its locally sourced ingredients and welcoming atmosphere.
  6. Baldanza at the Schoolhouse: Known for its wonderful luncheon and perfect menu for parties.
  7. Posa: A restaurant that offers a fantastic feast with a variety of dishes.
  8. Tablao Wine Bar -Ridgefield: Known for its Sangria and a variety of other dishes.
  9. The Horse & Hound: A lovely country pub style restaurant with a nice selection of tasty food.
  10. Luc’s Cafe & Restaurant: Known for its professional yet friendly service and perfectly prepared items.

 

Community Events

Ridgefield is a vibrant community that hosts several recurring events throughout the year. These include the Ridgefield Independent Film Festival, the Ridgefield Playhouse Summer Gala, Concerts in the Park, the Nutmeg Festival, and the Ridgefield Gone Country BBQ Festival. These events provide opportunities for residents to come together, celebrate their community, and enjoy the unique culture of Ridgefield.

  1. Ridgefield Independent Film Festival: This festival celebrates independent films from around the world that enlighten, entertain, and inspire moviegoers through compelling visual storytelling.
  2. Concerts in the Park: These concerts provide a great opportunity for residents to enjoy live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.
  3. The Nutmeg Festival: One of the oldest church fairs in Connecticut, this festival features arts and crafts, antiques, and food stalls.
  4. Ridgefield Gone Country BBQ Festival: This event features a BBQ competition, live music, and activities for kids.
  5. Ridgefield Playhouse Events: The Ridgefield Playhouse hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and comedy shows.
  6. Ridgefield Library Events: The Ridgefield Library hosts a variety of events, including author talks, book clubs, and educational workshops.
  7. Ridgefield Guild of Artists’ Juried Show: This annual event showcases the work of local artists.
  8. Ridgefield’s Annual Holiday Stroll: This festive event features horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday music performances, and ice carving demonstrations.
  9. Ridgefield’s Annual Halloween Walk: This family-friendly event includes trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch, and a costume parade.
  10. Ridgefield’s Farmers Market: Held weekly, this market features locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, and artisanal goods.

 

Conclusion

With its rich history, thriving real estate market, top-rated schools, and vibrant dining scene, Ridgefield, Connecticut, is a town that offers a high quality of life. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking a community with a strong sense of place, Ridgefield has something to offer. Come and see for yourself why so many people have chosen to call Ridgefield home.