West Haven can trace its history to 1648, when it was known as West Farms and settled as part of the New Haven Colony. In 1822, West Haven joined with North Milford to become the city of Orange. More than a century later, West Haven reclaimed its independence and incorporated as a separate town in 1961. Thanks to these interesting turns of events, West Haven is both the youngest city in Connecticut and one of the state's oldest settlements.
As you may expect given its history, West Haven and the surrounding area are home to several attractions both old and new. Yale University in New Haven was founded in 1701, and the Pardee-Morris House dates to the mid-18th century. Fans of PEZ will love the company's 4,000-square-foot visitor center in neighboring Orange. You'll also find the It Adventure Ropes Course in New Haven, Monster Mini Golf in Orange, and an exciting lineup of other nearby family-friendly attractions.
When should you visit West Haven, CT?
If ideal weather is your priority, consider visiting West Haven between May 7 and July 15. The warmest months, of course, are during the summer. However, June and July are among the most popular months to visit the city, so you're likely to experience more crowds and higher hotel prices if you plan a summer visit. Spring is another busy season, and you'll find plenty to do during this time.
The busiest month for visitation in West Haven is April, while the least busy month is November. Be sure to book your flight and hotel well in advance if you'll be visiting during peak visitation season. Hotel prices will be higher, but you may still be able to save money by booking early. You can also save money by visiting during the off-season. The weather may not be ideal, but you can still find relatively comfortable temperatures during early fall.
Keep in mind that the area experiences a significant amount of rain and snow during the fall and winter. Temperatures will not be pleasant for warm-weather travelers, but if you don't mind the cold or don't plan to spend much time outside, the lower hotel rates could make up for the weather.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in West Haven, CT:
West Haven by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in West Haven, CT. You can use these charts to determine the most cost effective time period to book a room in West Haven for any future trips.
Are there any luxury hotels near West Haven, CT?
4 Star Average Prices: $200.78
The most luxurious hotel near West Haven is the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale in New Haven. This four-star hotel delivers a long list of amenities, including an on-site restaurant and bar, a business center, fitness facilities, concierge services, and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast and valet parking are available for a surcharge. The hotel also has conference space, wedding services, and a limo and town car service. Guests can choose between deluxe or premier rooms and suites.
Other four-star hotels in the area include the Madison Beach Hotel (in Madison) and the Delamar Southport (in Southport). Both are about 20 miles from West Haven, a distance which makes for a relatively quick drive.
The Madison Beach Hotel is a great pick if you're planning a seaside getaway. Sun loungers, beach towels, and beach umbrellas are all available for guests at the hotel's private beach. Wi-Fi is free, although breakfast and parking come at a surcharge. The hotel also features 24-hour fitness facilities, an on-site restaurant and bar, wedding services, a terrace, and a full-service spa. Several room options are available, including some with scenic views of Long Island Sound.
The Delamar Southport, meanwhile, is a suburban hotel. It offers some of the same amenities as the Madison Beach Hotel, such as an on-site restaurant and bar, a full-service spa, and wedding services. Its list of complimentary amenities is more extensive, however, and includes breakfast, an area shuttle, valet parking, train station pickup, and Wi-Fi. Child care is available for a surcharge, and pets are welcome for a per-pet, per-night fee.
What affordable hotel options in West Haven, Connecticut are the best?
3 Star Average Prices: $132.83
You won't find too many hotels within West Haven itself, but the city has two affordable options: the Super 8 by Wyndham West Haven and the Econo Lodge in West Haven.
The Super 8 is a two-star highway hotel with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking. Rooms include both refrigerators and microwaves for your convenience, as well as cable programming and shower and tub combos. The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and on-site laundry facilities are available. Guests can choose from rooms with two queen beds or one king bed.
The Econo Lodge offers the same room options. However, the rooms here include coffeemakers, cable programming, and daily housekeeping. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Wi-Fi and self-parking are also free, and the hotel has a meeting room, conference space, and 24-hour front desk.