This is a postcard-perfect place to live.Â
A family-oriented town nestled along the Connecticut Gold Coast
The family-oriented coastal town of Darien, Connecticut, is home to excellent schools, community-centered events, and dozens of diverse dining and shopping options. This small town sits just 40 miles north of New York City offering a short commute. Darien's real estate options provide living in an ideal location for savoring the small-town life while keeping big-city luxuries close at hand. This community is the quintessential charming town from independently owned shops and restaurants to annual events that celebrate the community and its residents, Darien is a postcard-perfect place to live.
In just under 13 square miles, the community boasts a variety of Darien homes for sale, pristine beaches, and dozens of parks for residents to appreciate the stunning New England seasons, especially the fall foliage. There are several yacht, tennis, and golf clubs in the neighborhood, and Stephen Mather, the founder of the U.S. National Park Service, called Darien home in 1917.
• Excellent, high-achieving public and private schools
• Supportive and encouraging community focused on town improvement and relationship-building
• A family-oriented atmosphere with dozens of family-friendly events throughout the year
• A variety of gorgeous Darien houses for sale to choose from
Residents of Darien are all about community. People are invested in their local businesses, maintaining quality public education, and putting on successful events that bring the community together. The area has the highest population of non-college towns in Connecticut, and residents are mostly young, married couples with children or retirees.
Scena Wine Bar sets the scene for a perfect night out. Featuring creative Mediterranean food created by executive chef Gustave Christman III, Scena Wine Bar delivers an extraordinary dining experience to the Darien community. With sophisticated dishes like charred octopus and wood-fire roasted chicken, this upscale restaurant shouldn’t be missed.
Another local institution is Rory’s Restaurant, known as the original pub of Darien. For more than 30 years, Rory’s has provided a warm environment where residents can relax at the end of a long workday. Chef Bryan Malcarney and his team specialize in award-winning clam chowder, nine-ounce burgers, and creative daily specials. The atmosphere is fun and laid-back, and they serve more than a dozen wines by the glass.
For unique drinks and the best seafood in town, try Ten Twenty Post. Start your meal with homemade chips sprinkled with parmesan cheese, as well as one of their signature drinks, like a New Fashioned or a Biggie’s Rum Punch. The menu has something to satisfy all tastes and preferences: huge salads, thick burgers, fried Blue Point Oysters, and a raw bar option. Thanks to these classic New England and European bistro dishes, Ten Twenty Post remains a favorite destination for locals.
For a one-stop-shopping destination, visit Darien Sports Shop, a community favorite for over 75 years. They have everything you need to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Fairfield County, presented with top-notch customer service. Founder Steve Zangrillo opened the shop with the intention of creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere where each customer is treated like an old friend. Stop into “the sports shop,” as it’s affectionately known, for quality name-brand items and friendly chats with the staff.
Browne & Co. is a three-in-one business offering residents of Darien the opportunity to shop, eat and entertain all in one space. Owner Diane Browne has operated a catering business and cafe in the rear of the shop for the last 15 years, bringing quality (and delicious) baked goods to the community with impeccable service. Menu items include fresh coffee delivered from New Canaan, a rotating soup-of-the-day menu, and freshly-baked muffins, scones, bagels, and pastries. The shop provides one-of-a-kind gifts and exclusive uncommon goods with complimentary gift wrapping.
For an afternoon of food, fun, live music, local history, and community building, residents of Darien gather for the annual Weed Beach Fest, held each year by the Parks and Recreation Department. Weed Beach encompasses over 22 acres of park space, including a swimming area, picnic area, tennis courts, a playground, hiking or running trails, a bathhouse, and a concession stand. The festival celebrates the Darien community with local food vendors, “famous” local bands, and family-friendly activities.
Looking to try something different in Darien? Try a dance class at DL Studio, the first and only hip-hop and breakdancing studio in the area. The studio is a community favorite for both kids and adults and offers classes to encourage everyone to express themselves through movement. They also provide opportunities to rent the studio for events and parties with special dance classes included.
Pear Tree Point Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Fairfield County. It’s located at the mouth of the Goodwives River and boasts eight stunning acres of green space, including a gazebo, picnic areas, concession stand, and two beaches. Pear Tree Point Beach is also home to the Darien Boat Club and provides a boat launch ramp for easy access to the water.
Darien has several high-achieving public and private schools in the area. Some include:
• Hindley Elementary School, a public school for grades K-5.
• Middlesex Middle School, a public school for grades 6-8.
• Darien High School, a public school for grades 9-12, is nationally ranked and listed as the #1 high school in Connecticut.
Contact Gen Distance and her team at GEN Next Real Estate today. There is no better choice when selling, buying or renting a home.
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