Welcome to New Haven, a city steeped in culture and tradition. Settled in 1638, it is the first town in America laid out with a town plan. The plan, based on a grid of nine squares, reserved the central square, the Green, as a public common. To this day the Green is the center of activity. The International Festival of Arts and Ideas, city-sponsored jazz concerts and other events attract thousands of visitors each year.

Yale University has been part of city life ever since the early 1700s. Along with its interesting architecture, Yale puts a world of culture at your doorstep with outstanding art museums, libraries, music, drama and sports — all just a short walk from Temple Square. Southern Connecticut State University, the University of New Haven and Albertus Magnus College also add to New Haven’s cultural vibrancy.

Few cities of New Haven’s size can boast of not one, but three major theaters. The Shubert, Yale Repertory Theater and Long Wharf Theatre continue to captivate audiences from miles around with imaginative revivals and serious dramatic productions.

The club scene is alive and well downtown with something for everyone — jazz, blues and rock and roll. Stylish lounges and neighborhood pubs offer an endless variety of entertainment, good times and libation.

Close to 100 nearby restaurants offer just about every kind of American and ethnic fare imaginable. Hamburgers and pizza are both New Haven inventions, and if you haven’t been to Louis Lunch or Wooster Street, you’ll never know what those favorites are all about.

Two of America’s top rated hospitals are just a few blocks from Temple Square. Both Yale New Haven Hospital and the Hospital of Saint Raphael are affiliated with the Yale School of Medicine and offer state-of-the-art technology and treatment.

Criterion Cinemas has ushered in a new era in first run, large screen, art film enjoyment. Dramatic “theater of the future” amenities, high style, luxurious ambiance, comfortable seating and state-of-the-art film presentation technology, make it unique among modern theaters.

With a dazzling curved glass marquee, traditional sidewalk ticket window, dramatic lobby décor, and quality films shown without commercials, the ultra-modern Criterion is fast becoming the exciting new landmark in this culturally rich city.

• Dolby Digital sound
• Five, big-screen auditoriums
• Staggered, comfortable seating
• Wine and beer café
• Available for private parties