DANBURY

Danbury sits in western Connecticut's hills, historically known as the Hat City for its 19th-century hat manufacturing dominance. Composer Charles Ives was born here in 1874 and drew early inspiration from bands playing on the town square.

You can catch outdoor shows at Ives Concert Park during summer festival season, see touring acts inside the 1920s-era The Palace Danbury downtown, or find emerging and local performers at Heirloom Arts Theatre. The CityCenter Green hosts free seasonal concerts and open-air events.

Downtown Danbury runs along Main Street with a walkable mix of independent restaurants and cultural programming. The Danbury Railway Museum and Instrument Garden Park sit blocks from the performance venues, so you can fill a full evening without moving the car.

Tip: Ives Concert Park runs ticketed festivals (Brews and BBQ, Irish Festival) alongside its regular concert series, so check the calendar before assuming free admission.

Neighborhoods: Downtown • Mill Plain • Germantown