All About Stratford, Connecticut

Located in Fairfield County, Connecticut, Stratford has a long and rich history that dates back to the earliest years of the United States. Stratford covers an area of land slightly less than 20 square miles, some of which is water. With five islands making up part of Stratford, the city boasts a unique geography that appeals to both residents and tourists. Beaches, marshes, forests, and industry make Stratford an ideal place to live and visit.

History of Stratford

Puritan leader the Rev. Adam Blakeman was the founder of Stratford in 1639. A group of families left England to find religious freedom, and they arrived in Connecticut as part of the Great Puritan Migration. Stratford’s initial name was Cupheag, which means “place of shelter” in the Paugussett language. In 1643, the townspeople chose to change the name to Stratford in honor of Stratford-upon-Avon, England, William Shakespeare’s birthplace. Over the years, areas have broken off from Stratford to become separate municipalities. These towns include Shelton, Monroe, Nichols, Long Hill, Trumbull, and Bridgeport.

• Stratford’s History 1637-79
• History of Stratford

Where is Stratford, CT?

Stratford is located on Long Island Sound and bordered on the east by the Housatonic River. Stratford is also conveniently located near New York City, and it’s situated along Interstate 95, providing easy access to other major metropolitan areas. Connecticut’s Gold Coast, of which Stratford is a part, is an upscale waterfront region that features affluent neighborhoods with beautiful lakefront properties. Stratford is the easternmost town in the region.

• Living in Stratford, Connecticut
• About Stratford, Connecticut

Stratford, CT Weather

Stratford offers residents and tourists ideal weather for outdoor activities, especially between June and September. Summers tend to be warm and humid, while winters can be cold and wet. Stratford, CT, weather generally reaches its hottest around the third week of July, when average high temperatures are 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity affects the overall comfort level in addition to the temperature. Stratford, CT, tends to be very muggy during the summer months, with less humid conditions moving into the area during the winter.

• Weather in Stratford, Connecticut
• Climate in Stratford, Connecticut

Attractions and Things to Do in Stratford, CT

Finding things to do in Stratford, CT, promises to be an easy pursuit. Many natural attractions in the area, such as the Roosevelt Forest and the Lordship Seawall, offer breathtaking beauty and opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Boothe Memorial Park and Museum has expansive grounds to explore as well as an old homestead that has been turned into a museum. The Great Salt Marsh borders Lewis Gut and is located adjacent to the Great Meadow Unit. These areas are part of the McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. Visiting the Sterling House, National Helicopter Museum, and Shakespeare Festival Theater are also popular tourist activities. Stratford is also the home of a number of seasonal festivals and events, including the Stratford Main Street Festival in May and the annual Bonfire on the Beach in September.

• 16 Best Things to Do in Stratford, Connecticut
• Town of Stratford
• Stratford Great Meadows Area
• National Helicopter Museum
• Boothe Memorial Park
• Sterling House

Where to Eat Stratford, CT

Good food is plentiful here, so those looking for a delicious meal will find many options for food in Stratford, CT. Those looking for something upscale might enjoy one of the best restaurants in Stratford, CT, on the water, such as the Riverview Bistro Restaurant or Knapp’s Landing Restaurant. For visitors looking for a fun bar, Stratford, CT, rises to the task. The Ole Dog Tavern has a full menu of both beverages and food. The Whiskey Barrel is another fun choice for a night on the town in Stratford.

• The Sitting Duck Tavern
• Biagio’s Osteria

Where to Stay Stratford, CT

Hotels in Stratford, CT, vary in style and price points, so there’s something for everyone. Large chain hotels such as Homewood Suites are located in the area, and visitors can also explore additional options for hotels near Stratford, CT, including a Best Western, Holiday Inn, Hilton Garden, Hampton Inn, and Residence Inn.

• Hotels in or Near Stratford

Dental Care Services in Stratford, CT

Another great thing about Stratford is the availability of high-quality dental care. Lighthouse Dental Care is a leading dentist office in Stratford, CT. With a strong family history in the area, Dr. Mark Samuels is proud to serve his community as a local, affordable dentist. Stratford, CT, patients have been seeking dental care from Samuels dentists for more than 50 years: Dr. Mark Samuels has more than three decades of experience, and before that, his father, Norman, practiced dentistry in the town. Today, this Stratford dental practice offers a wide variety of services, including general dentistry such as dental exams, cleanings, sealants, extractions, and gum treatments. Patients can also visit this Stratford dental office for specialized services that include dental implants, braces, dentures, and sleep apnea treatment. Anyone needing a dentist in Stratford, Connecticut can book an appointment online or contact the clinic by phone. Locals know that they can trust Lighthouse Dental Care, a leader in Stratford dental care. Our dentistry practice is conveniently located just off the Merritt Parkway: Call today to schedule a checkup!