Westport

Westport Connecticut, like much of New England, was settled by colonists in the 17th century and was the scene of several battles during the Revolutionary War. After its incorporation as a town in 1835, Westport became a prosperous agricultural community, but after blight destroyed much of the farmlands, mills, and factories became the dominant industry. During the 20th century, artists, authors, and musicians moved to Westport to escape the commercial pressures of New York, leading to Westport becoming something of a cultural haven. When, in the 1950s, baby boomers and city workers discovered its cultural heritage, Westport became more of a commuter town, and the population proliferated.

Westport residents will tell you that their town has everything anyone could wish for. Whether you prefer the country roads, stone walls, and sparkling streams to the north or the coastal feeling and sandy beaches along Long Island Sound, Westport offers a beautiful setting to call home. An exceptional school system draws families from New York City and other parts of the country. Westport’s cultural institutions and riverfront shopping district bring visitors throughout Fairfield County.

Westport occupies 22 square miles and has a population of 27,000 people. Residents tend to be community-oriented, with many people volunteering in town government, PTA, and similar endeavors. Artistically and culturally active, Westport is home to numerous arts venues including the Westport Arts Center, Westport Country Playhouse, and the Levitt Pavilion which hosts outdoor performances nightly throughout the summer at its riverfront location.

Spectacular waterfront recreational facilities at Compo Beach and Longshore Club are perhaps the crown jewels of Westport. Longshore Club boasts an 18-hole golf course, three swimming pools, nine tennis courts, a sailing school, and an ice-skating rink in winter. In all seasons, residents enjoy walking along Compo Beach, skating in the skate park, bicycling, kayaking, and sailing. Additional parks and beaches are scattered throughout the town. Year-round programs are offered for children and adults, as well as a summer camp.

 

Westport Community

• Westport Country Playhouse
• Westport Community Theatre
• Levitt Pavilion
• MOCA Westport
• Westport Museum for History and Culture

Westport Schools

• Westport Public Schools
• Greens Farms Academy

Westport Resources and Recreation

• Town of Westport
• Parks and Recreation
• Westport Public Library
• Sherwood Island
• Wakeman Town Farm
• Earth Place
• Westport Astronomical Society
• Westport YMCA