ART, CULTURE & HIDDEN GEMS
With its museum masterpieces, astounding architecture, and hidden gems ranging from secluded outdoor sculpture settings to scenes of dramatic public art, those among us who are champions of all things artistic can spend hours celebrating the depth and breadth of inspiration to be found at Yale in New Haven.
Take a deep dive into the world of art at world-renowned Yale University Art Gallery, where you’ll share in the rarified air of masterpieces. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to see the Yale Center for British Art collections on loan while the Center is closed for renovations (reopening in 2025). Opt for a guided Highlights Tour or roam on your own to enjoy thousands of artworks and artifacts spanning the ages. Season permitting, step outside to experience the tranquil Margaret and Angus Wurtele Sculpture Garden, accessed from the main lobby. Weather permitting, take a trip up top to the gallery’s lovely sculpture terrace on the fourth floor. Admission to the Gallery is always free.
Celebrating architectural genius across time and the globe and exhibits of works by Yale’s own inventive students, Yale School of Architecture Gallery hosts exhibitions which are open to the public. The current exhibitions stay true to the concept of gallery founders Cesar Pelli and George Ranalli, to provide a critical space for the continuing exploration of architectural ideas and discourse in New Haven and beyond.
A stunning work of architecture, the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library is home to a vast store of print antiquities and one of the world’s largest collections of rare books, manuscripts, and related materials. Public visitors are welcome in the exhibition hall on the ground floor and mezzanine. Designed by architect Gordon Bunshaft, this unique, cube-shaped building is clad in large “windows” of translucent Vermont marble panels. As the panels diffuse sunlight, protecting the books inside, the interior is bathed in a unique, warm hue.
For a bit of creative sustenance, stop off for a leisurely cup of coffee at Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea or choose from a delicious café menu for lunch with a good book at Atticus Bookstore Cafe or Book Trader Cafe, with its serene outdoor patio. Find more lunch offerings at The Shops at Yale, where the nearby Chapel Street Historic District is vibrant with casual dining and renowned full-service restaurants. Heirloom at The Study at Yale, Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant, South Bay and Midpoint Istanbul offer an eclectic mix of offerings.
Rested and refreshed, explore the Public Art of Yale, discover the Public Art and Murals of Downtown New Haven, or uncover hidden stone carvings on campus with help from Yale Alumni Magazine’s Daily Snap. Spend some time searching out several of the Hidden in Plain Sight outdoor spaces at Yale that are open to the public, or schedule a tour of Historic Grove Street Cemetery.
For a heightened artistic experience, plan to visit New Haven’s vibrant art festivals including the International Festival of Arts & Ideas in June, or The New Haven Documentary Film Festival in October. Or make your own schedule with plans to take in a live concert, special event, or fabulous performance with New Haven Symphony Orchestra, Shubert Theatre, University Theatre / Yale School of Drama, Yale Repertory Theatre, and Yale Cabaret.
Further artistic inspiration resides in Whitney-Audubon Retail & Arts District, an area that’s rich with art exhibitions, events, performances, black box theatre, and workshops offered by New Haven Ballet, Long Wharf Theatre, Creative Arts Workshop, Neighborhood Music School, and Arts Council Greater New Haven. It’s all here, together with the highly inspirational and newly renovated Yale Peabody Museum, where admission is always free.
Build a shopping trip into your artful adventure with unique collections to discover at More Amour Boutique, idiom Boutique, Grey Matter Books and Raggs for Men & Women. Be sure to visit Hull’s Art Supply & Framing, to pick up everything needed to create your own work of art. Looking for handmade or Connecticut-made products? You’ll find them at Derek Simpson Goldsmith, MINIPNG, Neville Wisdom Fashion Design Studio and Soap-edi. Among the hidden gems on Chapel Street where you can elevate your look is Soulful Threads, offering curated vintage clothing sourced from all over the world. Or make an appointment at Shiana Hair, where salon artists are transforming hair color with Vivid color.
For an extraordinary finale to your artful day, settle in for a creative culinary experience at one of the area’s exceptional restaurants. Strega, Union League Café or Zinc New Haven are among many offering elevated dining experiences which celebrate the palate.