Bridgeport is on the upswing from a period of economic difficulties. New venues for arts and recreation have been introduced and are showing a positive effect. If the trend continues, Bridgeport may make a full come-back as a vibrant New England metropolis.

A hot spot in town is the Arena at Harbor Yard. This sports and entertainment complex attracts crowds back to the city for AHL Sound Tigers hockey, Fairfield University NCAA basketball, and live family entertainment.

The theater-going crowd thrills to the Downtown Cabaret Theater where award-winning musicals are performed before audiences sitting at tables enjoying brown bag picnics. Other points of interest include: The Barnum Museum, Beardsley Zoo, and the Discovery Museum.

Besides spectator sports, there are a number of participatory activities in the area. At the 678-acre John A. Minetto State Park, there are facilities for fishing and hiking. Carol Marie Charters carries anglers out on a 29-foot boat for fishing expeditions. They also offer scuba diving charters. And, Wonderland of Ice offers year-round public ice skating. Lessons are also available.

Within a short distance, there are several excellent golf courses. The closest is Brooklawn Country Club. Other greens within five miles are South Pine Creek Golf Course, H. Smith Richardson Golf Course, and Smith Richardson Golf Course.

Bridgeport, the largest city in the Nutmeg State, is in the southwestern section of Connecticut on I-95.