Southport, Connecticut, is a coastal gem nestled within the town of Fairfield. Known for its rich history, stunning coastal views, and vibrant community spirit, Southport is a place where life slows down, and the charm of New England is palpable.
The town itself is a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Its streets are lined with beautifully maintained homes, many offering stunning views of the Long Island Sound. The town’s waterfront park is a favorite spot for residents, offering a beach, a playground, and a boating area.
Southport’s dining scene is renowned for its variety and quality. From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, there’s something to suit every palate.
Here are some of the top-rated restaurants in Southport:
- Gray Goose: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious American fare, Gray Goose is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Artisan Restaurant: Offering a unique blend of local and artisanal cuisine, Artisan Restaurant provides a dining experience that is both sophisticated and memorable.
- Sammy’s Southport Pizza House: A staple in the community, Sammy’s is known for its delicious, hand-tossed pizzas and welcoming atmosphere.
- Paci Restaurant: Paci offers a unique blend of Italian cuisine in a stylish, modern setting. With a menu that changes with the seasons, you’re always in for a treat at Paci.
- Blackstones Grille: Known for its steak and seafood, Blackstones Grille offers a dining experience that is both refined and relaxed.
- S&S Dugout: A classic American diner, S&S Dugout is the perfect place for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying lunch.
- Mama Chow’s: Offering a variety of Asian cuisine, Mama Chow’s is a great place to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Southport is also known for its high-quality schools. The town hosts several public schools rated good and higher by GreatSchools, making it an ideal place for families. Mill Hill School, serving grades K-5, is particularly noteworthy with a rating of 9/10 based on a variety of school quality indicators, including test scores, college readiness, and equity data.
The real estate market in Southport is dynamic and diverse. As of April 2023, the median listing home price in Southport was $1.5M, trending up 20.1% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $431. On average, homes in Southport sell after 17 days on the market. This trend for median days on market has gone down since last month, and slightly down since last year, indicating a relatively fast-paced market.
One of the biggest draws to Southport is the sense of community. This is evident in the town’s annual events, which bring residents together to celebrate and enjoy their town.
Here are the top 10 things to do in and around Southport, CT, according to TripAdvisor:
- Visit the First Presbyterian Church: Known locally as The Fish Church because of its fish-like shape, this modern architectural landmark is a must-visit. The stained glass creates a gorgeous wreath of color that surrounds the congregation, creating a striking effect even on a cloudy day.
- Explore Cove Island Park: This park offers a variety of areas that hug the shoreline. It’s great for strollers, walkers, runners, and dog walkers. It also has a few beaches, one of which drops into Holly Pond.
- Check out the Ferguson Library: Besides books, you can rent DVDs, and the Friends book store sells books for reasonable prices. The Library also hosts speakers.
- Visit Half Full Brewery: This cool spot offers a variety of beers and a comfortable environment. It’s safe, comfortable, and the beer is excellent. They also have wine if that is your thing.
- Explore Bartlett Arboretum: This place offers over ten gardens for you to discover and enjoy in nature. Seeing various and unique plant species is like experiencing a living classroom. Walking trails will take you through the picturesque gardens.
- Visit Mianus River Park: This park offers really nice trails and a gorgeous river. It’s a great place for a hike.
- Explore the Ukrainian Museum and Library: This museum is a treasure trove of Ukrainian art, manuscripts, attire, pysanka, furniture, wood carvings, and musical folk instruments. Many pieces of art are from the 12th and 13th century.
- Visit Lock City Brewing: Although small on the inside, their beers are worth a visit. Their fruited sour variety is particularly popular.
- Visit the Stamford History Center: If you’re doing any family history, this place is a must-visit. The folks here are very helpful and informative.
- Visit the Fernando Luis Alvarez Gallery: This gallery has high-end art. The paintings are wonderful as are the sculpture pieces. It’s expensive, but if you appreciate art, just browsing is well worth it.
In conclusion, Southport offers a unique blend of coastal living, community spirit, and cultural richness. Its beautiful setting, strong sense of community, and vibrant lifestyle make it a highly desirable place to live. Whether you’re drawn to the arts, love the outdoors, or simply want to enjoy a slower pace of life, Southport, Connecticut, has something to offer you. The town’s top-rated restaurants add to the charm, offering a range of dining experiences from casual pizza joints to fine dining establishments. The quality of the local schools and the rich calendar of community events further enhance the appeal of this charming seaside town. Whether you’re a foodie, anature lover, or someone seeking a close-knit community, Southport is a place that welcomes you with open arms.