Welcome to Danbury CT, “The Gateway to New England.” Danbury is located within Fairfield County around the southern part of Candlewood Lake, which is the largest lake in Connecticut and also one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. Rated as one of the best cities to live in by Money Magazine, Danbury features great schools and an amazing location.

As one of Connecticut’s largest cities, Danbury is known to be a financial hub. The city is constantly planning and making improvements necessary to ensure proper economic growth and stability. Danbury also actively implements programs such as comprehensive revitalization efforts for the city center and inner city neighborhoods.

Danbury History

Danbury was first settled by colonists in 1685. Samuel Benedict bought the land from the Paquioque natives and the settlers chose to name their town Swampfield. By 1867, the general court decided to change the name to Danbury, after the place of origin of many of the area’s early inhabitants, Danbury, Essex, England.

Zadoc Benedict established the first hat factory in Danbury in 1780. At one point, Danbury was producing 25% of the nation’s hats, and was thus known as “The Hat City” and the “Hatting Capital of the World” during the early 20th century.

The Connecticut Legislature granted a rail charter in 1835 to the “Fairfield County Railroad,” but after 15 years no progress had been made. By 1850 the plans were scaled back and it was renamed the “Danbury and Norwalk Railroad.” The first railroad line finally opened in Danbury in 1852. In 1889, the city of Danbury was incorporated.

Danbury Parks & Recreation

Danbury has 1,326-acres of land dedicated for parks and recreation. The Danbury Parks and Recreation Department is very active and sponsors many programs each year. The department offers swimming lessons, including a swim program for children with special needs, a Summer Playground Program for elementary students, and a Safe Summer Program for middle school students. There are many other activities for children, including wrestling, basketball, field hockey, swimming, and more.

Danbury Parks & Recreation Program Schedule
Danury Recreation Calendar

Tarrywile Park

Tarrywile Park is a 722-acre historic building and land preserve. It provides community activities, recreation, environmental education, scenic views, and more, all while maintaining a sustained balance of historic preservation. There are also 21 miles of hiking trails and picnic areas. The Children’s Garden is located on the mansion grounds and is based on Maurice Sendak’s children’s book, Where the Wild Things Are. The garden serves as an area for children’s story hour and environmental activities for educational and school groups.

The Land Trust of Danbury

The Land Trust of Danbury is a private, nonprofit corporation formed to protect open space, including woodlands, fields, ponds, and vernal pools. The land trust advises private and municipal landowners of alternative land preservation methods, including possible tax benefits.

Danbury Events & Attractions

Danbury offers many events throughout the year for everyone of all ages. From museums to concerts and arts, this is sure to be something that will interest you.

Charles Ives Center
The Charles Ives Center for the Arts has been a summer performing arts venue since 1974. The Ives Concert Park is a unique outdoor amphitheater on state-owned land that includes 40 wooded acres, a pond, gardens, and hiking trails. The park can seat up to 5,000 people.

The Railway Museum
The Railway Museum is a restored 1903 railway station that is sure to interest you. Many volunteers of the Danbury Railway Museum have transformed the train yards and restored rolling stock and kept the yard in order. On the weekends, you can even take part in the Railroad Local Rides.

Stanley L. Richter Association for the Arts
The Stanley L. Richter Association for the Arts hosts many events including lawn arts festivals, lectures, ethnic performances, and classical and popular musical presentations.

The Health Net Nutmeg State Games
Danbury hosts Connecticut’s largest Olympic-style sports festival. Offered are 24 different sports for Connecticut’s amateur athletes.

The Hat City Cyclists
If you are a dedicated cyclist, this group is for you! The Hat City Cyclists is composed of cyclists of all different experience and skill levels. They participate in weekly evening bike rides, weekend rides, trips, and biking for charity.

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