Connecticut’s fifth-largest city, Waterbury in New Haven County is a destination once famous for watch and clock manufacture and for its booming brassware industry also. The latter point earned it the moniker ‘Brass City’ and brought about the city motto ‘quid aere perennius’, meaning ‘what is more lasting than brass?’
Waterbury has a population of over 100,000 permanent residents within which are a variety of ethnic groups, creating a rich cultural diversity which is reflected in many aspects of the city’s physical characteristics as well as in its general ambiance.
Waterbury, along with 12 other destinations, belongs to a region known as Central Naugatuck Valley Region (CNVR). Waterbury is undoubtedly one of the focal centers of the CNVR and together with its other town’s and cities, presents visitors with an impressive selection of recreational, educational and cultural facilities which include everything from museums to amusement parks.
Highlights
Timexpo Museum: visitors are presented with the history of the famous Timex company dating from the 1850s up to the present day through a variety of engaging and interactive exhibits and displays
Mattatuck Museum: the state’s only museum dedicated to exhibiting the work of regional artists. A permanent collection includes works that tell of the city’s history.
Holy Land USA: this once-popular tourist attraction is now in a state of serious disrepair and has in fact closed but it still stands as one of the city’s most significant landmarks and is an essential stop of any sightseeing tour of the city.
The Brass Mill Center and Commons: is a popular retail center featuring big name stores such as JC Penney, Macy’s and Barnes and Noble plus popular eateries such as Chili’s, and TGI Friday’s.
Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory: the number one reason why visitors come to Waterbury is to enjoy a free mini-scoop at the crowded factory.