About Stamford, CT
Stamford is the second largest city in Connecticut with a population of over 130,000. There are more than 150 restaurants throughout the city, 40 parks and recreational areas, and 19 miles of shoreline, making Stamford a great option for private parties and corporate events alike.
From music and theater to art and entertainment, Stamford is a happening place. Browsing the shops is a highlight, with places to meander, like modern malls and quaint farmers’ markets. Cuisines from Italian to Spanish to Australian fill the many restaurants in Stamford, and events like Arts and Crafts on Bedford showcase local talent.
If you are looking for a Stamford event venue, you’ll have plenty to do while you narrow down your choices!
Party Options in Stamford
In planning a party, you'll need to think about incorporating the right elements such as decor and equipment to turn a plain space into the perfect venue. By enlisting these services, you won't have to sweat all the details by yourself.
Catering
What’s a special event without lots of food or drink? From food trucks to buffet-style arrangements to full, formal sit-down banquets, the amazing culinary minds of Stamford have you covered. Book your caterer early, especially if your party is a holiday gathering during a busy season.
Transportation
Being in a city means there can be some traffic and parking issues. When choosing a venue for your private event in Stamford, consider how your guests are going to get there; do you need to provide buses, is it near public transport, and does it have a large parking lot?
Entertainment
Whatever vibe you’re looking at for your event venue, Stamford can deliver. Whether you want a DJ or a big band or karaoke, there are so many options to suit everyone. Talent is in no shortage in this city.
Party Companies in Stamford
Bringing the experts on board is always a good idea when in party prep mode. Don’t try to handle all of the workload yourself!
David’s Soundview Catering
Food and drink can make or break a party, so if you want your event to be a success, you’ve got to hire someone who knows what they’re doing. From luxurious, Instagram-worthy grazing plates and canapes to sit-down meals, BBQs, and clambakes, David’s Soundview Catering has so many options that they’re guaranteed to have something you like.
James Daniel
A great party needs some fun entertainment. James Daniel in Stamford offers plenty of options to choose from including lighting, photo booths, video packages, bands, and even casino options to hire. Whether it’s birthday parties or corporate functions, James Daniel can accommodate events of all types. Whatever you need, they’ll make sure your party in Stamford is a memorable one.
Peter Rogers Florist
Since 1973, Peter Rogers Florist has been adding vibrant color to party venues all over Stamford. They work hard to show nature’s beauty at its best in a floral arrangement designed to suit your party theme and color choices. Same-day delivery is a bonus they are proud to offer.
Pros and Cons of Parties in Stamford
While the city has a lot going for it, there are a few pros and cons to booking a Stamford party venue.
Advantages
Outdoor options
With 19 miles of shoreline, 40 parks and recreational areas, and more hiking trails than you can count, Stamford is amazing for those who love the great outdoors. Plus, there are unique venues that allow you to enjoy these natural settings.
Entertainment
There are so many small music and arts venues dotted all across Stamford, all with different styles of music and vibes. Finding entertainment for the party will be a breeze. Many event spaces also partner with these venues to bring live performances right to your private events.
Small town feel
Despite being the second-largest city in Connecticut, Stamford still has that walkable, easy-going, small-town feel to it. You never feel like it’s too busy or crowded even in fall foliage season.
Wine and beer trails
The Connecticut Wine Trail is a route that allows you to visit 25 wineries, while craft beer is definitely having a moment in Stamford, with breweries, micropubs, and small batches popping up all around the city. Many party venues in Stamford feature private rooms where you can host tastings and gatherings centered around these local beverages.
Proximity to New York & Boston
If you’re looking for more excitement and entertainment options, or just looking for more of a big-city vibe for a weekend, both New York and Boston are only a couple of hours’ drive away. Stamford’s location also makes it ideal for guests coming from Westchester County or those wanting views of the Long Island Sound.
Disadvantages
Tax expenses
Connecticut has one of the highest tax rates in the country, which means things are naturally more expensive. Plan a budget for the party, especially if you're considering a private dining room or a unique event venue for your gathering.
Traffic
Like with any city, traffic is an issue in Stamford so make sure you give yourself extra time to get where you need to go. Maybe consider ridesharing, or staying in a place a little bit closer to the action—after all, Stamford is a pretty walkable city.
Tolls
If you’re looking to travel by car from a neighboring state rather than flying or getting the train in, be aware that Connecticut is currently starting to put tolls in place on some of its major roads.
Weather
This is the North East so the weather isn’t always amazing. Following the gorgeous fall foliage period, Connecticut often has harsh winters with a lot of snow. If you’re looking to have your party in the winter months, you might have to prepare for a blizzard.
High cost of living
Living in Stamford costs 18% more than the US average cost of living, so this can be a real issue when trying to find party supplies on a budget. Stamford is a beautiful place with loads of amenities, but that often comes with a hefty price tag.
Famous Locations in Stamford
The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens
The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens contains 93 acres of parkland, gardens, landscapes, and hiking trails, making it the perfect escape after a night out in the vibrant downtown Stamford entertainment district. Event planners who rent banquet halls nearby can encourage their guests to visit this serene spot for a relaxing nature walk or enjoy some peaceful moments on the outdoor patio.
Greenwich Point Park
Want gorgeous sweeping views of New York City while standing on a beautiful beach on the edge of Stamford? Greenwich Point Park is ideal for you. It’s a little bit outside the city, but it’s worth it for the views and the tranquil vibe. People can relax here and enjoy the beautiful views after going to one of the nearby cocktail parties.
Stamford Museum and Nature Center
The Stamford Museum & Nature Center is an art, history, nature, and agricultural sciences museum in a Tudor-style building. The 118-acre park has hiking trails, a working farm, and an observatory, and regularly hosts events all year round.
