There are many ways to enjoy all the Connecticut Coast has to offer during summertime, from outdoor dining and recreation to indulging in the area's arts and culture. Whether visiting or re-acquainting yourself with the area, BHS Connecticut Agent and area expert Laura Hines Bickmeyer provided her recommendations for where to: fuel up and energize in the morning, visit during the afternoon, and unwind with food and drinks in the evening.

From museums and theaters to French cafes and upscale restaurants, here is a city-by-city overview of some of Fairfield County's finest attractions.

Greenwich

Coffee

To start your day in Greenwich with a kick, visit Raphael's Bakery, which Bickmeyer loves for its warm croissants and fresh coffee served with a French accent and a smile. "Raphael, his four sons, his wife, and his mother-in-law are the only employees," she said.

Culture

Art lovers and novices alike will appreciate the Bruce Museum, which features art and natural history exhibits of various types. The museum is also building a new extension that willl showcase both contemporary artwork and architectural design.

Cocktails

Enjoy fine French dining and cocktails at L'escale, the Delmar Hotel's main restaurant. Great for people- and yacht-watching, according to Bickmeyer, the restaurant's menu features unique craft cocktails, such as the zesty and refreshing Notorious—made with Tanteo jalapeno tequila, Chartreuse, pineapple juice, and chili.

Stamford

Coffee

For great coffee, cortados, and mouthwatering churros, visit Lorca Coffee Bar. The Spanish-owned business was named after the acclaimed poet of the same name.

Culture

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is fun and educational for children and people all ages, especially nature lovers. Along with gardens and contemporary art exhibitions, the museum features an array of programming throughout the summer and is also has a Sunday Farm Market.

Cocktails

Located near the Stamford Marina, Bickmeyer recommends The Wheel for its "great energy and live music." You can gaze at the water while sipping a Blueberry Lemonade, made with blueberry vodka, lemonade, club soda, and lime.

Darien

Coffee

Bickmeyer describes NEAT Coffee as "a sweet little place, on a square, dedicated to good coffee [and espresso]." She also recommends you visit Flour Water Salt Bread next door for their New York-style cinnamon coffee cake.

Culture

Located right of I-95 is the Charles Michael Gallery. The gallery showcases a wide selection of vintage posters, ranging from war and propaganda posters to antique advertisements.

Cocktails

For a lively bistro atmosphere with an extensive list of cocktails, look no further than Ten Twenty Post. "It's like a suburban Balthazar," noted Bickmeyer. Try The Carleton, made with old forester bourbon, amaro, and orange liqueur.

Rowayton

Coffee

"Grab a coffee at the Rowayton Market and enjoy it on their deck, which overlooks the scenic Five Mile River," — Laura Hines Bickmeyer

Culture

One of Rowayton's must-visit attractions is the Rowayton Arts Center. Also located on the water, the gallery has rotating exhibitions year-round.

Cocktails

Bickmeyer's favorite spot in the area for oysters and a dirty martini is The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood. The restaurant's oysters are caught and brought in each day from the Long Island Sound.

Norwalk

Coffee

One of Norwalk's most hip and eclectic spots for coffee is the Art Space Café, located in the Art Space Museum. Bickmeyer recommends the What Bill's Having, a lattè made with matcha, pistachio, cherry, and espresso.

Culture

After your coffee, explore the Art Space Museum's various galleries and exhibitions, such as "Collecting, Indexing, and Reshaping," which blends multiple mediums including sculpture and animation.

Cocktails

Described by Bickmeyer as calming and minimalist, the Tavern at GreyBarns is the perfect place to enjoy thoughtful conversation and artisanal cocktails. One worth trying is the Pink Flamingo, which is made with Probitas rum, fresh pineapple and lime, aperol, and bitters.

Westport

Coffee

If you're in Westport and are looking for a healthy start to your day or get energized before a workout, Bickmeyer suggests Granola Bar. Try the Turmeric and Ginger Latte for a coffee alternative that is nourishing and calming.

Culture

Arguably the central hub for Westport's arts and culture scene, the MoCa Westport showcases exhibitions related to photography, sculpture, painting, music, theatre, and more. The museum also has an exciting lineup of year-round events.

Cocktails