Cummings Park

Imagine 79 acres of scenic landscape stretching right along the shores of Long Island Sound. This is the setting for Cummings Park—one of the most popular recreational spots in the city of Stamford, USA. This expansive waterfront park harmoniously blends manicured green lawns with sandy beaches.

The main draw for both tourists and locals is Cummings Beach. Here, you can stroll along the well-maintained boardwalk, enjoying panoramic views of the water, or simply relax on the warm sand. The park is known for its versatility: it is perfect for both quiet contemplation and active recreation.

Thanks to its developed infrastructure and large area, Cummings Park is considered a significant public space in Connecticut. It is a place where nature meets urban comfort, creating the ideal conditions for family weekends and evening walks to the sound of the surf.

To plan your visit and check specific details about facilities at Cummings Park, you can use the official contact information provided by the city administration.

Visitors to Cummings Park will find a huge variety of activities to enjoy. Those who lead an active lifestyle will appreciate the sports infrastructure: there are four baseball fields, tennis courts, as well as basketball and handball courts. A modern playground is also available for children to play safely.

If you prefer water-based activities, the park features a fishing pier, a public marina, and a boat launch. A walk along the shoreline boardwalk is a great way to relax and take memorable photos. After some active recreation, you can grab a snack at the seasonal cafe or enjoy an outdoor meal in one of the specially equipped picnic pavilions.

Interestingly, the park remains attractive even in the colder months. In winter, locals gather at the high hill, which turns into an excellent spot for sledding. This ensures the park remains a community hub all year round.

The most convenient way to reach Cummings Park, located at Shippan Ave, Stamford, CT 06902, is by private or rental car. There is spacious parking on-site, though it is worth noting that during the season, special city parking permits may be required, which can be obtained in advance.

If you prefer public transport, local bus routes run from the city center. It is recommended to check the current schedule on the city's transit portal before your trip. You can also always use taxis or popular ride-sharing services, which will get you to the coast in a matter of minutes.

For those traveling by their own boat or launch, a nice bonus is the availability of a public marina, making the park accessible even from the waters of Long Island Sound.

The history of this location began in 1906 under rather unusual circumstances. The decision to establish the park was made by Mayor Homer Cummings on Halloween night, when his vote became the tie-breaker. Because of this amusing coincidence, the public space was originally named Halloween Park.

Later, the area was renamed in honor of Homer Still Cummings—a prominent politician and city mayor who later served as the Attorney General under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Cummings was very fond of the local coastline and frequently walked here, actively advocating for the development of accessible recreational areas for all citizens.

Another historical detail is the presence of the Halloween Yacht Club on the grounds. Founded in 1926, it still retains its historic name, leasing part of the park's land and maintaining the region's maritime traditions for a century.

To fully soak in the park's atmosphere and the views of the sound, visitors typically need about 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time for a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and a bit of relaxation on the beach.

If you plan to host a full picnic or play tennis or basketball on the local courts, you can easily spend an entire day here comfortably. Many families come here so that children can play to their heart's content on the playground while the adults enjoy the sea breeze.

Cummings Park is open daily, allowing guests to plan their visit at any convenient time throughout the week. The early opening hours are ideal for morning runs in the fresh sea air.

The park's operating hours are the same on both weekdays and weekends:

• Monday — Sunday: 05:30 – 21:00

Exploring the surroundings of Cummings Park allows tourists to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this coastal region. Nearby, you will find interesting architectural sites and historic districts that will perfectly complement your walking route.

Below are some attractions located within a few kilometers of the park: