Upper State Street Historic District

The Upper State Street Historic District is a historic neighborhood in New Haven that contains over 90 buildings dating from the mid-1800s to mid-1900s. Most buildings stand two to three stories tall, sit close to the street, and retain their original form with preserved ground-floor shops.

The area transformed from pastureland in the mid-1600s into a commercial center after 1850 as industrialization and urban growth reshaped New Haven. The buildings then rose over roughly 100 years, showing how the neighborhood developed gradually.

The street displays a mix of different building styles that you notice as you walk through. Many ground-floor shops retain their historical storefronts, showing how the area once functioned as a commercial hub.

The best way to explore the district is to walk along State Street where you can see all the main buildings. The ground slopes gently upward as you head north and west, which is worth noting as you stroll.

The district connects to Interstate 91 through several side streets, showing how modern roadways cut through older urban areas. This connection is not obvious when walking, but it makes the neighborhood geographically interesting.

Location: Connecticut

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

GPS coordinates: 41.31472,-72.91139

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:42