By Megan Montemarano
Live, work, play—that’s the motto at Harbor Point, a revitalized waterfront region in the South End of Stamford that’s growing by the second, and becoming the hot place to be. Office buildings of established corporations, as well as luxurious, amenity-filled apartments accompanied by highly acclaimed restaurants, parks, activities and businesses, line the streets. Between all these offerings and its beautiful coastal setting, abiding by these three words really is quite simple. So “live, work, play,” and make the most of Harbor Point! Here’s your ultimate community guide.
Calling all Foodies
Considered to be one of the Long Island Sound’s premier waterfront destinations, Harbor Point is home to a number of upscale restaurants and dining options. Here are some of the top places to grab a bite, unwind during happy hour, or sit down for a scrumptious foodie feast.
Happy Hour Havens—
Paloma—Latin cuisine, tequila-infused drinks and cool breezes off the water—the perfect setting for Happy Hour on the Harbor, Monday-Friday 4-6 PM.
World of Beer—A beer-lover’s hangout, featuring over 500 global beers, craft drafts and delicious pairings! Happy Hour runs from 4-7 PM on Monday-Friday.
Harlan Social—A mouth-watering happy hour awaits at this innovative American gastropub, which currently offers the 1.2.3. Happy Hour for a limited time only–$1 oysters, $2 tap beers and $3 cocktails.
Rooftop Relaxation—
Fortina—Surf’s up! The Pizza Surf Club, a rooftop bar offering beachy drinks, fresh pizza and great views in a laid back, casual setting, is available during the warmer months.
Sign of the Whale—The largest rooftop bar in Stamford complete with games, amazing drinks and of course, endless opportunities to drink in the view of the Long Island Sound…A great place for socializing after work.
A Quick Bite—
Corbo’s Southside Deli—Homemade sandwiches, wraps, pizza, calzones, salads and more.
Le Pain Quotidien—Breakfast, lunch, brunch and baked goods for a perfect coffee-sweet treat combo.
The Ponus Yacht Club—Calling all boaters! Dock and dine at this nautical haven on the Long Island Sound.
The Hut at Harbor Point—Your neighborhood restaurant, serving the freshest quick bites around.
The Brunch Box—The ever-popular food truck with the killer local coffee…(normally seen outside the Vault Apartments on weekend mornings.)
Casual Night Out—
Crab Shell-Clams, mussels, lobster, shrimp, crab…you name it! Popular seafood restaurant with waterfront dining, outdoor bar and live music.
Bareburger–Enjoy an organic burger made from free-range meats at this eco-minded joint, where beef, bison, wild boar, elk and more are served.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que–Southern-style BBQ and a wide variety of draft brews in a beautifully refurbished factory on Canal Street.
Asian Bistro– Love sushi? This dining destination offers top-rated Japanese dishes.
Just Opened—
Prime—Indulge your senses with the latest trends in cuisine and an overall chic atmosphere overlooking the water.
Boothbay Lobster—“Wicked fresh Maine seafood” in a casual counter-service setting.
Fitness Fanatics
Harbor Point is the place to be if you’re looking for activities to get you up and moving. In addition to serving as home to the experts at Exhale Yoga, the community also offers several free fitness opportunities, such as yoga, zumba, and cardio during the warmer weather in Commons Park or on the boardwalk. The boardwalk is also where SoundWaters offers paddleboard and kayak rentals, and keep your eye out for the occasional Fleet Feet Wednesday night pub run! Other ways to get active at Harbor Point include ice skating on the seasonal rink at Commons Park in the winter, and the area’s numerous organized charity and holiday fitness events. The annual Shamrock Stroll, a 5k race to jumpstart St. Patrick’s Day, the St. Jude Walk/Run to end Childhood Cancer, the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot 5k, and the Light the Night Walk, are just a few of the many events. Yoga Jam, an evening of yoga, music and good vibes, with all proceeds benefiting the Africa Yoga Project, is another favorite tradition worth checking out.
Fun For All
There’s always something happening at Harbor Point to keep both residents and visitors alike having fun! To begin, get in touch with your creative side, and schedule a painting class at Pinot’s Palette. Whether you consider yourself an artist or not, you won’t regret it. (Especially after a few glasses of wine!) Well into September, SoundWaters offers sunset sails that are open to the public. Hop aboard the 80-foot Schooner and bring along dinner and some wine—There’s nothing better than a picnic on the water! On a weekly basis during the summer, Harbor Point additionally hosts Movies in the Park on Wednesday night in Commons Park, a farmer’s market with fresh items from local vendors, as well as post-brunch live jazz music in the park on Sundays. And don’t forget about the newest addition to Commons Park—free board, lawn and giant games including Jenga, Connect 4, classic board games, volleyball, ping pong, corn hole and more, are available every day from 2-8 PM for both community residents and visitors.
Annual Events You Won’t Want to Miss
With its prime waterfront location, it’s no wonder that Harbor Point is the site of a number of major annual events. From summer parties to celebrations of the arts, holidays and fundraisers, here are just a few of the highlights you won’t want to miss.
HarborFest—A celebration of the harbor with carnival rides, food, vendors, boat tours, kayak races, etc.
Stamford Art Festival—Stunning art displayed amid an equally stunning backdrop at this free community event.
Annual Tree Lighting—Hot chocolate, milk, cookies and caroling…a great way to open the holiday season!
Jazz Night on the Rocks—Enjoy live music, whiskey, craft beer and boardwalk games to benefit New Neighborhoods, Inc.
Harbor Point Car Show—Vintage automobiles of all kinds, live music, and don’t forget those trophies!
Insider Tips…Did you know?
Want to know all the ins and outs of Harbor Point? Let’s start with the parking. Harbor Point grants visitors tons of free parking, further encouraging them to stay and explore the area. There are two garages, one at 2200 Atlantic Street, and the other at 100 Washington Blvd. There is also an outdoor lot on the corner of Atlantic Street and Washington Blvd. In addition, be sure to check out Harbor Point’s new parking facility, Gateway Garage, for monthly low rates and specials.
The Harbor Point Trolley offers a free shuttle service that runs from downtown Stamford to Harbor Point. Click here to learn more, and download the HP Trolley Tracker!
Harbor Point is all about bike sharing! Find out more about the community’s pilot program here.
Out on the harbor, a complimentary water taxi brings individuals across the way to Crab Shell and Prime every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the summer months.
Looking for a summer boat slip or winter storage? With its four convenient marina locations, Harbor Point may be your answer. Here are all the details on rates and availability.
Lastly, if you’re a resident or work at Harbor Point, don’t forget to use those Advantage Cards, because clearly, there’s a lot to take advantage of! See which local businesses are included! Click here to uncover all hidden offers and deals.
So go out and “live, work and play” at Harbor Point! Now that you’re an expert, the possibilities never end.