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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at New Haven chapter.

While you’re at the University of New Haven, you should know that there’s way more to the college than the campus itself. There are public buses, and even free shuttles, that will take you to Downtown New Haven where there is plenty of scenery. Whether it’s a beautiful day in the early fall or late spring, you’re hungry for something other than Sodexo (no shade), or want to see some live entertainment—don’t worry. Downtown New Haven has it all.

Insomnia Cookies

1143 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511

Nothing hits the spot more than warm baked soft cookies of various flavors or tasty cookie-ice cream sandwiches—and the best part: they deliver well into 3 ‘o’clock in the morning.

Karaoke Heroes

212 Crown St, New Haven, CT 06510

I lost my karaoke bar virginity to this place. It’s a great spot to hit on a Friday night. No cover charge, but you must be 21+ to enter. It’s one ticket for a song per drink ($3), and be ready for the place to be filled and for people singing their favorite tunes all night. There’s also private rooms, which is $8 per person per hour. I love the open area that is greatly decorated with comic strips to make it look fun and kid-like.

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana

157 Wooster St, New Haven, CT 06511

I haven’t been here yet, but I vow to this semester. This has been raved as being one of the best pizzerias in America and the best in New Haven area—period. Their signature is the White Clam Pizza.

College Street Music Hall/Toads

238 College St, New Haven, CT 06510 / 300 York St, New Haven, CT 06511

Come see an artist in your town. These venues are small and offer variety. Past performers at College Street Music Hall (CSMH) include Rae Stremmurd, Lil Yachty, Melanie Martinez, Miguel, Kacey Musgraves, Regina Spektor, Reel Big Fish, The Beach Boys, 21 Savage, Young Thug, Lil Kim, Lil Uzi Vert & Young MA, and Jadakiss.

New Haven Green

202 Temple Street New Haven, CT 06511

It’s no Central Park, but it’ll do for a nice spring day.

Artspace New Haven

50 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06510

A non-profit gallery for contemporary art “whose mission is to catalyze artistic efforts, to connect artists, audiences, and resources.”

Barcade

14 Mechanic St, New Haven, CT 06511

I can see why it’s definitely a staple in the New Haven nightlife. It’s very hipster—a bar on one side and a crew of 80/90s era arcade games to play and high quality food served on the other. It is for ages 21+.

Shubert Theatre

84 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06510

Literally a block up from the shuttle stop, the 1,600-seat theatre has had an array of play and musical productions in the past and present, including Cinderella, Motown: The Musical, The Book of Mormon, and Rent.

Mezcal

14 Mechanic St, New Haven, CT 06511

Because who doesn’t love Mexican food? This one has gotten rave reviews by food critics.

New Haven Free Public Library

133 Elm St, New Haven, CT 06510

Get cultured at this historic library with over 300,000 circulations and activities for the public.

Bow Tie Criterion Cinemas

86 Temple St, New Haven, CT 06510

It’s Friday night—there’s no better place to spend it than seeing a great movie at Bow Tie Criterion Cinemas. This theatre offers discounts on Tuesday. ($6 for college students.)

Escape New Haven

103 Whitney Ave, New Haven, CT 06510

For those unfamiliar with an Escape Room, you and your team are trapped for 60 minutes trying to solve puzzles.

Gotham

84 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06510

A favorite of local college students looking to party on the weekend. Every Saturday night is gay night, as well.

Donut Crazy

290 York Street New Haven, CT 06511

Who doesn’t love donuts? But, these are gourmet and specialty made.

Miya Sushi

68 Howe St, New Haven, CT 06511

An alternative and creative twist to sushi. Highly recommended.

Khaaliq is a transfer student at the University of New Haven in his sophomore year studying Communications (TV/Video Production and Journalism) with a minor in Black Studies hailing from the 516. In his free time, he enjoys online shopping, blogging, eating, going to concerts and keeping up wth all things celebrity gossip and Beyonce related. In the future, he aspires to have this own talk show on a hip-hop/urban radio station Wendy Williams-style while producing TV shows/films, hosting reality shows reunions and publishing his own autobiography. All while becoming Zac Efron's husband and Beyonce's number one gay friend.
Hi! My name is Caitlin Duncan. I'm from Enfield, CT, and a senior at University of New Haven. I am the Co-Founder and Campus Correspondent for Her Campus New Haven. I am also a Founding Member of Alpha Sigma Alpha's Theta Omega chapter. In my free time, I can be found singing Taylor Swift, reading, or cuddling with my dogs, Paisley and Mandy. Feel free to contact me at caitduncan@hercampus.com! HCXO!