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Southbury’s History, Community, Local Attractions and Top Dining Spots

Discover the History and Community of Southbury, Connecticut

Located in the hills of western Connecticut, Southbury is a town in New Haven County that blends colonial history, natural landscapes, great restaurants, and modern suburban living. Known for its New England roots, Southbury is a place where the past meets the present, offering residents and visitors a rich heritage and an active senior community.

An Overview of Southbury’s Past

Southbury’s history dates back to the early 17th century when English settlers arrived in what was then part of Woodbury.

In 1787, Southbury was officially incorporated as a town, making it a distinct community with strong farming traditions.

Unlike many other Connecticut towns, Southbury has never been centered around a single industry, which has helped it keep its unique identity.

Southbury was established from land bought from the Potatuck Native Americans which were a branch of the Paugussett tribe. 

Initially part of Woodbury, which was settled in 1673, Southbury built its first meetinghouse for the local Ecclesiastical Society in 1733. The town was officially incorporated in 1787.

One of Southbury’s most well-known historical moments happened in 1937 when the town made national news by rejecting a Nazi training camp within its borders. This decision showed the town’s strong values and remains a point of pride for its residents today.

Southbury has also been home to several notable figures, including the infamous Ed Sullivan. The famous author William Styron, who wrote Sophie’s Choice, also lived in the local area, adding to Southbury’s rich cultural history.

Southbury’s Demographics and Community

As of 2023, Southbury has been home to roughly 20,127 residents, many of whom enjoy the town for its mix of rural and suburban life. The community includes young families, retirees, and professionals who appreciate Southbury’s public schools, parks, and easy access to both New York City and Hartford from I-84.

A large part of the population is made up of active seniors, thanks to Heritage Village, one of the country’s first and largest 55+ communities. This makes Southbury a place where history and modern life come together in a unique way.

Heritage Village is more than just a residential community; it’s a hub of activity where retirees lead independent and engaged lives. With miles of walking trails, a well-equipped fitness center, and a calendar full of clubs and events, residents stay physically and socially active.

Top Spots in the Southbury Area

Southbury is full of historical sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Some popular spots include:

Southford Falls State Park

A local favorite, Southford Falls State Park in Southbury and Oxford, Connecticut, offers scenic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and a peaceful pond perfect for fishing and picnicking.

The trails lead through wooded areas and over a covered bridge, with great spots to stop and take in the rushing falls. If you’re jonesing for for a brisk hike or just a quiet nature walk, the park provides a refreshing outdoor escape.

The pond is a great spot to cast a line or enjoy lunch with a view, while the open spaces are perfect for relaxing in the fresh air.

Visitors can also climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, with simple rules—no swimming, carry out what you bring in, and respect the wildlife.

Kettletown State Park

Kettletown State Park, located along the shores of Lake Zoar in Southbury, Connecticut, is a top spot for camping, swimming, and hiking. The park’s wooded trails offer great views of the lake and are especially popular in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Campers can set up tents or bring RVs, with sites available for both. The lake provides a refreshing place to swim in the summer, and there’s a designated beach area for visitors looking to cool off.

Fishing and boating are also popular, with anglers casting for bass and perch while kayakers and canoers explore the water. Picnic areas with tables and grills make it easy to spend the whole day outdoors.

The park is open from 8 AM to sunset, with camping available by reservation. Visitors should follow park rules, including keeping pets leashed, carrying out trash, and respecting quiet hours to ensure a great experience for everyone.

The Glebe House Museum & Gertrude Jekyll Garden

The Glebe House Museum offers a rare look into colonial life during the late 18th century, showcasing the home of Reverend John Marshall, the first Episcopal priest ordained in America.

The house played a role in the formation of the Episcopal Church and has been preserved with period furnishings that reflect the daily lives of its early inhabitants.

Visitors can walk through the carefully maintained rooms and learn about the local impact of the American Revolution, as well as the struggles and traditions of the time.

The museum is open seasonally from May to mid-October, Friday through Sunday, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, with the last guided tour beginning at 3:30 pm.

Surrounding the house is the Gertrude Jekyll Garden, the only remaining American garden designed by the famed British horticulturist.

Unlike the museum, the garden is open year-round, seven days a week, from dawn to dusk, for self-guided tours.

George C Waldo State Park

George C. Waldo State Park in Southbury, Connecticut, is a secluded 150-acre retreat along Lake Lillinonah. Its rugged hiking and biking trails weave through dense woodlands, offering stunning lake views and a peaceful escape for nature lovers.

Kayakers and anglers enjoy the calm waters, while wildlife like deer and bald eagles make frequent appearances.

Named after conservationist George C. Waldo, the park remains largely undeveloped, with no formal facilities, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.

Its challenging trails lead to quiet, scenic spots perfect for reflection or photography, offering a true back-to-nature experience away from crowded parks.

Best Places to Dine in Southbury

Although Southbury is a small town, it has plenty of great restaurants. Some local favorites include:

Mercato Italian Kitchen and Bar

Mercato Italian Kitchen & Bar is situated at 690 Main Street South in Southbury, Connecticut, delivers a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine in a cozy yet stylish setting. As part of the Market Hospitality Group, the restaurant focuses on fresh, farm-to-table dishes crafted with locally sourced, organic, and sustainable ingredients.

Mercato serves both lunch and dinner, operating from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM Monday through Thursday, 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM on Sundays. The bar extends its hours, staying open until 11:00 PM on weekdays, 12:30 AM on weekends, and 10:30 PM on Sundays. For reservations, guests can call (203) 405-6698.

Rathskeller Restaurant & Bar

They serve American and German dishes in a cozy, tavern-like setting. The Rathskeller Restaurant & Bar, is conveniently located at 88 Main Street South in Southbury, Connecticut and has been a cherished local establishment known for its cozy atmosphere and diverse menu offerings.

In late 2021, longtime employees Kate McMahon and Nicole Ouellette took over ownership, bringing fresh energy and subtle renovations to brighten the space while maintaining its familiar charm. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including popular items like cherry chicken and a highly praised corned beef Reuben.

The Rathskeller operates with convenient hours: Monday through Thursday from 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM, Friday and Saturday until 9:30 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, though it closes on Sundays during July and August.

The establishment also provides options for private parties, catering services, and takeout, accommodating various dining preferences. For reservations or more information, patrons can call (203) 264-0186.

The Tavern

This is a very popular stop on the dining route in Southbury with a seasonal menu and relaxed atmosphere. The Tavern, nestled within the Heritage Hotel at 522 Heritage Road in Southbury, Connecticut, offers a cozy New England pub experience.

Formerly known as Shadrach’s, this establishment has been a community staple for decades, serving as a gathering spot for both locals and hotel guests.

The menu features an eclectic mix of pub-style dishes with a New England twist, complemented by a selection of local and seasonal beverages. Guests can enjoy live entertainment on select nights, adding to the inviting atmosphere.

The Tavern operates with kitchen hours from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM Monday through Thursday, and from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Bar hours extend later into the evening, closing at 11:00 PM on weekdays, 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 1:00 AM on Sundays, with weekend hours subject to occupancy.

Patrons can also take advantage of happy hour specials Sunday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, featuring discounted drinks and a three-course meal option. For more information or reservations, guests can contact The Tavern at (203) 264-8200.

Leo’s Restaurant

Leo’s Restaurant, is located on the corner of Main Street South and 7 Poverty Road in Southbury, Connecticut. Leo’s has been a beloved dining spot since its establishment in 1987. Renowned for its extensive menu, Leo’s offers a wide array of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, catering to diverse palates.

Leo’s takes pride in its unique homemade breads and inventive dishes, which have garnered accolades such as “Best Breakfast” by The Waterbury Observer and “Best Waffle” by Connecticut Magazine.

The menu features a variety of items, from traditional potato pancakes and blintzes to unique creations like the “Raspberry Fields.” Leo’s is also known for its “Kitchen Sink” challenge, a generous spread that includes scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, savory sausage, golden pancakes, thick-cut French toast, seasoned home fries, and a side of fresh fruit, all served with a hot cup of coffee.

The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere, long history and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Operating hours are Monday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. For more information or to make a reservation, patrons can call (203) 264-9190.

Locations to Burn Off Your Brunch or Early Dinner

Ballantine Park

Ballantine Park, located at 26 Ballantine Park Road in Southbury, CT, is a peaceful retreat with walking trails, easy to get to, a pond, and a playground. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, picnics, and outdoor activities in a well-maintained environment.

The park is open year-round and offers a variety of spaces for relaxation, making it perfect for individuals, families, or groups. Events are often hosted throughout the year, bringing the community together to enjoy the outdoors.

The park’s rules are designed to maintain a safe and clean space for everyone. Pets must be kept on leashes, and owners are expected to clean up after them. Open fires and camping are not permitted.

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited, and all visitors should respect quiet hours, particularly during early mornings and late evenings. Ballantine Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. Visitors are encouraged to follow posted guidelines, dispose of trash properly, and respect other park-goers for a positive experience for all.

Larkin State Park Trail

Larkin State Park Trail in Southbury, CT, offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Stretching over 10 miles, this multi-use trail is part of the former New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad right-of-way.

This winding trail goes through lush forests, open fields, and scenic valleys, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to explore the Connecticut countryside. The trail is accessible to people of all hiking skill levels and is a peaceful escape from the craziness and chronic stress of daily life.

Located in the heart of Southbury, the trail is open year-round from dawn until dusk. Visitors are encouraged to follow park rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash, and hikers are reminded to clean up after their animals.

Bicycles and horseback riders are also welcome on designated sections, but motorized vehicles are not permitted. As a reminder, all visitors should stay on the marked trail and refrain from littering to help preserve the area’s natural beauty.

Southbury Dog Park

If your dog is looking for a place to stretch their legs and make some new furry friends, Southbury Dog Park is the perfect spot! Located on 400 Main Street South, this off-leash park is a paradise for pups who love to run, jump, and chase after tennis balls without a care in the world.

The park is divided into separate areas for small and large dogs, so your pooch can enjoy a safe playtime with others of their size. With plenty of space to roam and social opportunities galore, your dog will have a tail-wagging good time every visit.

Southbury Dog Park is open daily from dawn to dusk, so you and your dog can get your play on at any time during the day. Just remember to bring your dog’s leash, because it’s needed when entering and exiting the park (we don’t want any runaway adventures).

Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior, clean up after them (poop bags are provided), and make sure to follow the few rules in place to ensure a paws-itively great experience for everyone. And, of course, don’t forget to enjoy watching your dog in full zoomie mode while you sit back and relax!

VP Asphalt Paving – Helping Southbury’s Driveways and Parking Lots Stay Operational

If you’re a homeowner in Southbury, a business in Southford, or live in the historic South Britain District, keeping your driveway and pavement in good shape is important. That’s where VP Asphalt Paving comes in. With years of experience in asphalt paving, driveway sealcoating, and driveway repairs, Vick Pagona and the team at VP Asphalt Paving are trusted experts in New Haven County.

From small crack repairs to complete driveway replacements, VP Asphalt Paving provides long-lasting asphalt solutions that meet the needs of Southbury residents. If you need a new driveway, asphalt repairs, sealcoating to protect your pavement, or pavement resurfacing to improve your home’s property value, VP Asphalt Paving is ready to help.

For top-quality paving services in the Tri-Bury area, including Southbury, Middlebury, and Woodbury, and Oxford contact VP Asphalt Paving today for expert work and great customer service. A well-paved driveway makes all the difference!

Reach out TODAY for a FREE Onsite Estimate!

Vick Pagona and team at VP Asphalt Paving would like to thank all our sponsors located in the Southbury, Woodbury and Middlebury and Oxford areas!

VP Asphalt Paving

27 Cottage Grove Ln

Waterbury, CT 06706

(203) 819-7414



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