Welcome to Darien, CT
An affluent commuter town with modern amenities for everyday living
Darien is a lovely coastal town in Fairfield County, Connecticut. It is one of the wealthiest towns in the US, with a population of just over 24,000 people. Darien was originally part of Stamford until 1737 when it was transferred to Middlesex Parish and incorporated in 1820. In 1848, the railroad came into the town, bringing along many wealthy New Yorkers who built summer homes and ended up staying, instead commuting daily to their jobs in the city to reap the benefits of quiet, residential living.
Darien is an ideal commuter town that boasts modern amenities, including a spectacular shoreline, immaculate beaches, boat clubs, beautiful parks and walking trails, top-rated schools, and a vibrant dining and shopping scene. The town is conveniently located on the Metro North Train line, providing an easy and comfortable 50-minute commute into New York City. Darien real estate includes many offerings, from waterfront single-family homes to condominiums and apartments.
What to Love
- A private and easy-going lifestyle
- Pristine beaches and views of the Long Island Sound
- Waterfront living with a revitalized town center
- Competitive school programs
Local Lifestyle
Darien is a suburban neighborhood with coastal charm and a strong sense of community. Residents here enjoy an exuberant and relaxed lifestyle with easy access to several water sports, such as sailing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, among other activities. It is home to an active town center, unspoiled land, clear waters, and excellent schools that draw the attention of young families. Locals value Darien’s rich heritage, natural attractions, and modern resources.
On any given day, you will find residents having fun at Pear Tree Beach, one of the most idyllic beaches in Fairfield County, which features a boat club, picnic areas, a gazebo, and a beloved concession stand. Besides its beautiful beaches, Darien boasts parks, walking trails, museums, and high-end dining spots scattered throughout the town. Well-loved green spaces include Tilley Pond Park and Selleck Woods.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
This coastal town in Connecticut boasts thriving dining, shopping, and entertainment spots. There are several choices for dining in Darien, from casual food joints to decadent upscale dining. Restaurant L'Ostal is a local restaurant offering an extensive menu with entrees like aligot and puy lentils, bouillabaisse, ratatouille, cassoulet and sausage, duck, and Bayonne ham.
Papa Joe's Ristorante Italiano is a relaxed Italian restaurant serving classic dishes, including gnocchi alla sorrentina, bruschetta, and signature artisan pizza. If you desire authentic Japanese fare, visit Genji Sushi, which serves freshly made sushi cooked in traditional Japanese flavors. Enjoy a Friday night at Bodega Taco Bar, a buzzing locale serving sumptuous Mexican fare, housemade margaritas, Cerveza, agua frescas, and more.
Things to Do
Darien has several unique attractions, including lush waterfront parks, fascinating museums, sandy public beaches, and annual festivals. Take your family to Darien Nature Center to explore its attractions, including fields, ponds, and trails, and learn about the natural ecosystem there. The facility is home to various flora and fauna, an exhibit gallery, a small theater, a library, and classrooms for community programs. Afterward, spend your afternoons relaxing at Pear Tree Point Beach or head to the nearby Woodland Park Nature Preserve, also known as Woodland Park, to discover almost 65 acres of natural wonders. The park features five miles of trails, colorful wildflowers, old-growth trees, seasonal wetlands and ponds, and bluebird habitats.
Darien is home to an array of community traditions, with the most notable being the Darien Pumpkin Carnival, a popular neighborhood event featuring lawn games, art activities, face painting, pumpkin carving, and more.
Schools
Darien Public Schools serve the community of Darien. Distinguished schools nearby include:
- Tokeneke Elementary school, Grades PK, K-5
- Holmes School, Grades PK, K-5
- Greenwich Academy, Grades PK, K-12
- King School, Grades PK, K-12