Now that the kids are off to college and out of the house, it’s time to embrace the freedom and fun that comes with having more time for yourself
Back-to-school hits differently when “school” means moving your child into a dorm room and watching them step into a new chapter of independence. While the month of September always seems to signal transition, empty nesters can find the sudden quiet and open schedule a bit surreal. Luckily for those living in Stamford, there is no shortage of community and adult-focused activities. From tranquil morning nature walks to sunset sails, waterfront dinners and giving back, we’ve rounded up a list of ways to stay busy, connected and curious.
Savor the Season
Spend your weekend mornings visiting one of Stamford’s farmers’ markets. The seasonal produce and freshly baked bread are two great reasons for a visit, but this weekly event also brings locals together to connect with vendors and neighbors. Veterans Memorial Park on Atlantic Street holds a market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from June through October, and it includes everything from cheeses to flowers. The Stamford Museum & Nature Center operates its market stands from June until November Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on its campus, where featured goods include maple syrup that’s made on-site and wool products. Fairgate Farm on the city’s west side is open May through October Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; it’s best known for home-grown produce. Harbor Point Square hosts vendors weekly Sundays from July through September, where products range from dairy to prepared foods.
Get Artsy
The Studio Andreas art center located in Springdale is one of Stamford’s hidden gems. It offers classes in woodworking, textiles, ceramics and drawing. Whether you’re an experienced sculptor, a person who dabbles in sketching, or curious about building furniture, there is a broad range of workshops and classes that cater to many skill levels. Options range from BYO Wheel & Wine Ceramic Workshop nights to woodworking classes on Saturday mornings. Also popular are the weekly open-figure drawing sessions. All workshops are held in a fully equipped, 2,000-square-foot studio. Visit studioandreas.com for schedule information and registrations.
Center Stage
Since 1927, the historic Palace Theatre has been an anchor of the performing arts scene in lower Fairfield County. The stage has welcomed a range of stars, from Jesse McCartney to tribute bands, and hosts classic performances such as The Nutcracker. The Palace can accommodate a captivated audience of nearly 1,600 people. Another option for live entertainment is the New York Comedy Club on Tresser Boulevard, which provides visitors with a lively Manhattan vibe, even if the commute downtown is just minutes from home. Featuring nationally acclaimed comedians alongside local talent, a night here is sure to induce belly laughs.
Brain Games
Trivia nights continue to draw engaged crowds to venues in Stamford. Pop into a neighborhood favorite for friendly competition, community connection and a place to show off random knowledge. Half Full Brewery on Pacific Street holds trivia nights on Tuesdays at 7. Fortina in Harbor Point hosts competitions every Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (This location also features live music on Tuesdays from 5 to 8 p.m.) Coalhouse Pizza on High Ridge Road hosts games every Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Get Cooking
Hudson Table on John Street boasts a kitchen where even a novice can become a culinary artist. Multiple classes are held weekly in this location, and cuisines range from dim sum to surf and turf and homemade pasta. Chefs lead classes of four to six students who learn a variety of professional techniques, starting with a knife skills demonstration. The best part? You can eat what you make.
Great Outdoors
There’s no better season than late summer to get outside. The Mianus River State Park on Merriebrook Lane has miles of trails through 100-olus acres of woods. The Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens on High Ridge Road is an outdoor sanctuary featuring walking paths and wildflower gardens. Cove Island Park has a one-mile trail where visitors can walk, run or bike while taking in water views of the Sound.
Reach For the Stars
The new astronomy center and observatory at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center on Scofieldtown Road has adult-oriented laser shows every weekend at 9 p.m. Friday nights feature music by Led Zeppelin; on Saturdays, it’s Michael Jackson. There’s also a rotating and robust schedule of adult classes that ranges from printmaking to cider pressing.