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Off Branford's rocky shore, more than a hundred pink-granite islets scatter across Long Island Sound, some just big enough for a single cottage. These are the Thimble Islands, and the little fishing village of Stony Creek is where boats set out to tour them. Branford itself is a shoreline town of about 28,000 people just east of New Haven.
Founded in the 1640s, Branford grew on shipping, oystering and quarrying. Granite from Stony Creek went into the base of the Statue of Liberty and Grand Central Terminal. The James Blackstone Memorial Library, a domed marble building from 1896, anchors the town green, and the old trolley line between Pine Orchard and Stony Creek is now a walking trail across salt marshes.
Visitors cruise the islands, sip beer at Stony Creek Brewery on the Branford River, swim at Branford Point and walk the woods around Supply Ponds. Lake Saltonstall's ridges sit on the western edge, and New Haven's pizza and museums are fifteen minutes away.
A cluster of small pink-granite islands off Stony Creek, many topped by summer cottages and wrapped in legends of the pirate Captain Kidd. Narrated sightseeing boats leave from the Stony Creek town dock in season, and kayak tours paddle between the islands. Cruises last about 45 minutes; bring cash and arrive early in summer.
A long reservoir between steep traprock ridges on Branford's western edge, owned by the Regional Water Authority. Trails follow the shore and climb the ridge for views over the water, and permits allow fishing from small boats. A recreation permit is required for hiking, so buy one online before you go.
A tiny waterfront village at the eastern end of Branford with quarry history, a town dock, a small beach, a market and old houses climbing the rocky slopes. It is the jumping-off point for Thimble Islands cruises. Parking is tight in summer, so come early, then walk the lanes and watch boats come and go from the dock.
A large craft brewery right on the Branford River, with a high-ceilinged taproom, a big deck and outdoor seating facing the water and boats. Expect hazy IPAs, lagers and seasonal releases, plus food trucks on many days. Boaters can tie up at the dock, and the deck is at its best on summer evenings.
Opened in 1896, this white marble Beaux-Arts library was built by railroad magnate Timothy Blackstone in memory of his father. Step inside the rotunda to see its dome and murals depicting the history of bookmaking. It is still Branford's working public library, so visit during opening hours and keep voices low.
The broad green at the center of town is ringed by historic churches, the town hall, shops and cafes along Main Street. Summer concerts, craft fairs and festivals are held here. Combine it with the Blackstone Library across the street and a coffee on Main Street, and allow time to wander the side streets toward the river.
Run by the Branford Historical Society, this 1720s saltbox house shows colonial life with period furnishings, a large central chimney and an herb garden, plus a barn with old farm tools. It opens on a limited schedule, mostly summer weekends, and volunteers lead the tours, so check opening days before you visit.
This easy trail follows the old trolley line between Pine Orchard and Stony Creek, crossing salt marshes on wooden footbridges with views of tidal creeks and wading birds. It is a little over a mile one way, flat and quiet. Go at high tide for water all around you, and bring insect repellent in early summer.
A town park around a chain of ponds in the middle of Branford, with several miles of shaded trails, boardwalks and bridges over wetlands. It is a calm spot for walking, birding and dog walks. Trails are easy to moderate; the main entrance off Chestnut Street has parking and a trail map at the kiosk.
A small town park at the mouth of the Branford River with a sandy beach, a fishing pier, a pavilion and views across the harbor to the islands. It is a relaxed place to swim, fish or watch sailboats. Summer parking is limited for non-residents, so check town rules or visit in the off-season for sunset walks.
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