Ridgefield, CT is a beautiful and quaint town with a classic New England feel. The magic of Ridgefield is largely driven by the intangibles like the character and charm of Main Street, downtown. From community celebrations, to historic adventures, to contemporary art, you’re sure to find the perfect activity for you and your family in Ridgefield. Located in the Berkshire Mountains and in close proximity to New York City, the town is a favorite destination for visitors. There’s always something to explore in Ridgefield. While there is an endless amount to choose from in Ridgefield, the small town beauty is reason enough to visit the area. Ridgefield is easily one of the loveliest towns in Connecticut.
The Prospector Theater is referred to as a new model of social enterprise. On the outside it is a cozy, boutique theater. At its core, however, this four screen theater is like no other theater in the country. To begin with, all first-run movies include closed captions and narrative descriptive audio. The viewing rooms are also equipped for wheelchairs. On a larger scale, this non-profit venue is “…dedicated to providing meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disabilities…” Employees, also known as Prospects, are encouraged to “sparkle, shine and turn their passions into professions”. The end goal is to equip individuals with tangible job-skills that they can use to jump start their career. In fact the employees are the real stars of the show here enthusiastic, friendly and always welcoming. Fresh snacks including baked goods and popcorn, along with beverages including beer and wine are sold on the premises. The Prospects Theater is a perfect example of how a community can work together to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities, often an overlooked pool of talent. I should come as no surprise that Ridgefield would play host to such a ground-breaking endeavor.
25 Prospect Street
Ridgefield, CT 06877
(203) 438-0136
http://www.prospectortheater.org
A cultural hub for the town of Ridgefield, the Ridgefield Playhouse is a non-profit venue that brings a variety of performing arts to the community. Events include local and national acts, Q&A sessions with top movie producers, feature and documentary film screenings, comedy shows, community events and lectures.
Originally the location for the local High School theater, the Ridgefield Playhouse opened its doors in 2000. Since that time, enthusiastic sold-out audiences have been able to take advantage of the unique variety of programming. Ridgefield Playhouse also offers a Children’s Series and Arts in Education and Outreach programs for teens. In an age of generic stadiums and multiplexes, this impeccably renovated theater fits in perfectly with the charm and character of Ridgefield.
Ridgefield Playhouse
80 East Ridge
Ridgefield, CT 06877
A visit to Keeler Tavern Museum will send you back in time. Dedicated to preserving the history of rural Connecticut, the museum takes visitors on a journey starting with the 18th century. Costumed guides lead guests on a trip through the mid-20th century. The ever-changing exhibits give visitors a glimpse into the significant events that occurred during the site’s 300 year history. The entire campus incudes the Visitor’s Center, the Carriage Barn, the Garden House and the perennial gardens. To the front of the Museum sits a classic colonial herb garden that has been restored. The plants found in this garden represent many of the household, medical and culinary herbs used in Connecticut during the 18th century. Designed and built in 1907, the two story Carriage Barn originally served as house for the chauffeur and other staff. In addition the Barn was used for guest lodging.
Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center
132 Main Street
Ridgefield, Connecticut 06877
Phone: 203.438.5485
The Garden House is a beautiful structure which boasts a reflecting pool, rose arbors and a full garden. Originally built in 1915, The Garden House was created by American architect Cass Gilbert for his wife Julia. Adjacent to the Garden House sit the perennial gardens. Originally intended to be enjoyed by guests staying in the Garden House, this sunken garden setting is circa 1910 and is described as a Charleston Garden. With arches, brick walls and a reflecting pool complete with a cherub fountain, the Gardens are acknowledged as one of 400 private gardens that are outstanding examples of horticulture and design.
One of the few independent contemporary art museums in the country, the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum was founded by Larry Aldrich in 1964. The museum is also the only museum in the state of Connecticut devoted to contemporary art. The Aldrich attracts a diverse audience and delivers thought-provoking programs and exhibitions.
The Aldrich spans 17,000 square feet and features two floors of exhibition galleries in addition to The Studio which is a dedicated space for learning. With an array of public and educational programs, the museum is committed to connecting visitors of all ages to contemporary art. The focus is on innovative learning and creative thinking. Programs include t hands-on workshops and tours with curriculum aligned educational programs for schools and professional development training for educators’ In addition the Aldrich offers unique public programming including Creative Family programs, camps, weekend workshops and programs for Culturally Curious adults and teens. .
Due to the contemporary focus of the Aldrich, exhibiting artists are accessible to the public and present in the galleries. The artists are a critical part of the programming at the museum. Throughout the fifty year history of the Aldrich, the work of over 8000 artists has been presented. In fact many of the emerging artists featured by the museum are now highly acclaimed.
Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
258 Main Street
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Tel 203.438.4519
http://aldrichart.org/
Located on twelve acres of cultivated wilderness, the Garden of Ideas is a non-profit venture, run by volunteers. It’s a farm, a botanical garden and a stroll garden. There is also a labyrinth, a boardwalk and a marsh. This is a small sanctuary located in right here in Ridgefield, Ct. As you stroll through the gardens you will find poetry and sculptures planted throughout. During warmer months there is art displayed in the gallery and free range chickens enjoying the property. This is an enchanting place for kids to explore as well. You just never know what you might find at the Garden of Ideas
If you appreciate fresh eggs, local honey and vegetables then be sure to visit their farm stand which is open spring – fall. They also offer a Community Supported Agriculture Program which consists of 15 weeks of fresh vegetables. The space is available open for private evens and farm-to-table dinners.
Garden of Ideas
653 North Salem Rd, Ridgefield, Connecticut 06877
(203)431-9914
https://gardenofideas.com/
