New Haven Green

Center of New Haven, bordered by College, Chapel, Church and Elm streets
New Haven, CT

Contributed by Project for Public Spaces

A 17th century town green, cited by numerous historical organizations as one of the most beautiful public greens in the country.

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Why It Works

While the Green certainly does not lack for soft grass and shady trees, its most extraordinary feature is the wealth of activity that transpires around its edges. To the west, on College Street, lie the outskirts of Yale University's campus. The north and east sides (Elm Street and Church Street, respectively) are home to numerous civic institutions, including the New Haven Public Library, federal and state court buildings, and City Hall. To the south one finds the enticements of Chapel Street, the main artery of New Haven's commerce and culture. The Green itself is home to three historic churches that line its north-south axis, Temple Street.

The Green also serves as the venue for many concerts and events, including the New Haven Jazz Festival and the International Festival of Arts and Ideas (both free to the public). The Green is often overflowing with visitors on these occasions, and since New Haven is not that large, it can seem like the entire city is out enjoying the spectacle.

The confluence of activity and uses gives the Green an overwhelming sense of centrality and civic significance. A routine walk through the Green often feels like a historically evocative experience. For all the changes that have been made to its surroundings, the Green still embodies the spirit of the Puritan's simple town plan.

History & Background

The original town plan of New Haven, circa 1640, was based on a grid of nine squares. In accordance with old English custom, the central square, now the Green, was designated a public common.

Contact Info:

City of New Haven Parks Department

User Comments:

02/11/03 Stephen Harris said:: The Green is the focal point in the city - not just in terms of geography, but also as the social life of the city. It is here that people congregate during the day to talk to one another, eat lunch under the beautiful shade trees, or even protest a policy or two. The Green is a magnet for all types of people engaged in all types of social interaction. It is the heartbeat of the city and a fine example of what a formal public square is all about.
The Green is enormously impressive. Approaching from any direction the first thing you notice are the rows of elm trees framing the open space within. The upper green has many large shade trees and benches on which to sit and think, or mingle with others. Public Works does a wonderful job of maintaining the Green and keeping it clean.
The Green is the best place to coordinate activities with people coming from different areas. It's easy to say "let's meet on the Green, before we go to...wherever." The green is used by all residents of the city and even by those who live out of town.
01/15/04 eric davidson said:: Went to a concert here over the summer during the Jazz Fest. Though the place is huge there was barely any room! Truly a beautiful park that along with the urban gothic architecture of Yale brings to another time. That is until you get to Starbucks and the Gap on the corner that is.
06/20/07 A Vivian said:: The old churches are still such an important presence in this place! Presumably they were part of the original vision... tell us something about them too!