[tropix47]

My husband and I are in the middle of making a relocation decision now that our house has sold down south. Our families are spread out between CT and NY, so I am trying to see if there are any CT towns that might fit the description of what we are looking for in no particular order (knowing that we likely won't find a place that will hit ALL of these, but maybe most??).

Progressive/Sustainable
Eco Friendly, “Go Green”, good recycling program
Health Conscious
Family-friendly
Farmers Markets
Organic/natural food store
Outdoor activities like kayaking, skiing, biking, hiking
Green space-parks, trails
Culture-library, theatre, concert space, galleries, live music, bars
Safe, low crime rate
Pedestrian friendly
Historic-brick buildings, old architecture
“Foodie” environment-fun, ethnic places to eat
Community events-fairs, parades, seasonal activities, festivals, historic events
Cute main street with shops, bookstore, ice cream, walkable, cafes, coffee shop
Good schools/sports teams
Close proximity to a lake

Thanks in advance for your feedback!

[kidyankee764]

Are you looking in only southwestern CT near NY? I ask because West Hartford fits your description, but that's located in central CT.

[tropix47]

We are open to any area of CT. I will have to check out West Hartford. Thanks for the suggestion!

[clutchrider]

Any of the towns just outside of New Haven fit that description, especially the ones just up from the shore. I would suggest poking around Branford, Guilford, Wallingford, North Haven, Milford.

This way you are right outside a great area for food (New Haven) and the farmers markets and local farms where you can pickup great veggies, eggs, etc. are right around the corner. There are a lot of small restaurants in these towns that you can get to know the owners and enjoy great meals as well.

[tropix47]

Thanks-will check out those areas as well!

[JayCT]

Knowing your price range and what you expect for it would help. If you want to be closer to New York, you might consider Fairfield. It has what you are looking for and is similar in character to West Hartford. It is pricer though. Jay

[mlassoff]

You might find Westport has a good deal of what your looking for as well. I don't think any town has 100% of what you seek, but Westport, is definitely on the progressive side, very active community, etc.

I'd recommend it.

[SailCT]

Stratford more earthy and on the rise!

[mlassoff]

Originally Posted by SailCT

Stratford more earthy and on the rise!

I hesitate to recommend Startford due to school quality.

[Stylo]

On the expensive side, but Westport meets a lot of criteria if you want to be closer to NYC. Fairfield too, and a bit less expensive, but still pricier than other parts of the state. I personally love Fairfield. One of the most well rounded towns in the state.

New Haven has by far the strongest green initiatives and the best food scene. It almost has a Brooklyn vibe these days. Many restaurants use local or sustainable ingredients. Miya's Sushi is one of the more famous examples. Milford, Branford, Guilford and Madison are great shoreline towns near New Haven that meet your criteria. I have many of the same tastes and love Milford's access to farmer's markets (3 in total), organic food (Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Robert Treat Farm, Villa Gourmet, etc), and its great walkable downtown, restaurant scene, events and parks.

West Hartford is another great suggestion. The downtown is superb and has lots of restaurants and upscale dining. Elizabeth Park is one of the most beautiful in the state.

Good luck!