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Spring is more than just a term in New Haven

A Tank Away: New Haven, Conn.

THIS STORY APPEARED IN
Boston Articles
February 22, 2012|By Patricia Harris and David Lyon
  • The New Haven Museum traces local history.
The New Haven Museum traces local history. (David Lyon for The Boston…)

NEW HAVEN - University towns are New England’s best defense against late-winter cabin fever. Most colleges have attractions and activities open to folks without student IDs, and the campuses themselves are usually ringed with interesting shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. Moreover, they exude such a youthful, hopeful vibe that it’s impossible not to believe that spring is around the corner. New Haven certainly fills the bill.

Yale University relocated to the city in 1716, and the Old Campus sits cheek-by-jowl to New Haven Green, the historic core laid out by Puritan settlers. Over the years Yale has developed a virtual architectural park, built impressive museums, and nurtured performing artists. In a couple of days you can sample it all.

STAY

Amid university buildings, the Study at Yale (1157 Chapel St., 203-503-3900, www.studyhotels.com, rates from $199) has deep chairs, shelves of books, and a coffee bar in the lobby. Make it your grown-up dorm - very grown up. The Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale (155 Temple St., 203-772-6664, www.omninewhaven.com, rates from $159) sits across from New Haven Green. Popular with business travelers, it’s also a good base for exploring.

DINE

Heirloom (203-503-3919, brunch $6-$16, dinner entrees $15-26) in the Study at Yale serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Try the pastrami hash or Bananas Foster French toast. The chef is a proponent of local ingredients and dinner might feature ricotta gnocchi with rabbit sausage or sea scallops with caramelized spaghetti squash. For more casual fare, Prime 16 Tap House + Burgers (172 Temple St., 203-782-1616, www.prime16.com, burgers $9.95-$13.95) has a pubby feel, 20 beers on tap, and 16 burger options. Like most college towns, New Haven overflows with ethnic eateries, including Malaysian-inspired Bentara Restaurant (76 Orange St., 203-562-2511, www.bentara.com, entrees $9.95-$29.95), known for its nourishing stir-fried noodle dishes.

DURING THE DAY

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