Bridgeport

Bridgeport, Connecticut, located in southern Connecticut right on Long Island Sound was settled 1659, but wasn't officially named Bridgeport until 1800. Bridgeport's economy has depended on various industries in its history such as shipbuilding and fishing in its early years. Then in the mid 1800's it emerged as a manufacturing center. Today Bridgeport is Connecticut's largest city and is a service industries hub with a busy harbor unloading and loading goods from around the world. Bridgeport has nine major shopping centers to meet every shopper's whim. In addition, Bridgeport offers various kinds of cuisine to meet any taste requirements from nationwide chains restaurants to cozy cafes. Bridgeport was home to the first Subway sandwich shop in 1965, so it also has plenty of lunch shops to choose from. There are plenty of places in Bridgeport to enjoy the evening, such as pubs with local bands, piano bars and dance clubs. Bridgeport's nickname, "The Park City" is well-deserved because Bridgeport has 27 public parks and is home to the only zoo in Connecticut, Beardsley Zoo. Culturally speaking, Bridgeport has a lot to offer. The Black Rock Art Center hosts a variety of events, such as various world music concerts, a Blues festival, and cabaret entertainments, along with movies, art, and theater. As for higher education, Bridgeport boasts a 4 year university, University of Bridgeport, and a community college, Housatonic Community College. There is also Bullard Havens Vocational Technical School, along with 3 private higher educational institutions.