Not interested in an expensive overseas flight? Tucked away in Central Connecticut, New Britain (affectionately known as “New Britski”) is the authentic American answer to a bustling Polish city.
Just two hours from New York City, this cultural destination has rightfully earned its reputation as the heart of the Polish diaspora in the Northeast. With its bilingual street signs, towering cathedral spires, and the aroma of smoked kielbasa wafting through the air, Broad Street–a roughly square mile area officially designated as “Little Poland”–feels like you’ve stepped directly into a neighborhood in Warsaw or Kraków.
🏰 A City Forged in Steel and Tradition
Originally a powerhouse of American manufacturing known as the “Hardware City,” New Britain became a beacon for Polish immigrants in the late 19th century. By 1930, 25% of the city’s population could claim Polish ancestry.
Today, that heritage isn’t just a memory; it’s a living, breathing community. The neighborhood underwent a massive revival in the late 1990s and early 2000s, transformed by a new wave of Polish entrepreneurs.
In 2008, the city of New Britain officially designated the area of Broad Street as Little Poland. Of the roughly 100 storefronts lining the street, nearly 70% are Polish-owned and operated.
The city has hosted everyone from former President Ronald Reagan to Polish President Andrzej Duda, making it a globally recognized hub of “Polonia” (the Polish diaspora). Today, it’s home to the largest Polish population of any town or city in Connecticut.
🥟 Why is it called “Little Poland?” The Old-World Aesthetics
The Culture
The atmosphere of Broad Street is defined by its authenticity.
It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you’ll see US Post Office branches with the word “POCZTA” over the door. Many businesses are fully bilingual, and you’ll likely hear Polish being spoken fluently by shopkeepers and locals on every corner.
The Architecture
- Sacred Heart Parish – founded in 1894, this is one of the oldest Polish-American Roman Catholic churches on the East Coast. Its stunning spires dominate the skyline, echoing the Gothic and Baroque churches found throughout Europe
- The Haller Post – a local landmark and social club for Polish veterans, acting as the cultural anchor for the neighborhood’s history
The Flavors
The “Little Poland” vibe is cemented by its world-class delis and bakeries.
- Polmart – the largest Polish-themed store on the East Coast. It’s a “Poland-palooza” where you can find imported cosmetics, beer, and groceries you can’t get anywhere else
- Roly Poly Bakery – a local legend known for its Paczki (traditional doughnuts) in seven flavors and fresh-from-the-oven rye bread that residents claim is “heaven in a loaf”
🥟 Things to Do in New Britain, Connecticut
It’s easy to spend a full day soaking up the heritage and filling your tote with European treats.
- Stroll the Little Poland Festival – if you time your visit right, this annual festival draws tens of thousands for traditional folk dancing, live music, and more pierogis than you can count
- Visit the Polish American Foundation – located in a historic mansion, this center promotes Polish cultural heritage through art galleries and interethnic exchange programs
- Go Grocery Shopping at Polmart – look for the “Poczta” sign and stock up on Bacik dill and garlic pickles and authentic Polish chocolates
- Coffee Break at Euro Cafe – stop in for Belgian-style waffles, specialty coffee, and a quiet moment to people watch on Broad Street
🖼️ An Enclave for Heritage & Foodies
New Britain isn’t just for those with Polish roots–it’s a destination for anyone who loves European history and incredible food.
Whether it’s the contemporary art at the local galleries or the historic Victorian homes surrounding the business district, the city offers a grit and charm that is uniquely New England yet undeniably European.
🏨 Where to Stay — Nearby Comforts
While New Britain is a perfect day trip, you can extend your stay at the Delamar West Hartford, just 15 minutes away, for a luxury boutique experience.
For something more historic, look for local B&Bs in the surrounding Farmington Valley that offer a cozy, quintessential Connecticut feel.
🚗 Getting There from NYC
New Britain is roughly two hours from Manhattan, making it an easy cultural escape.
- By Car: take I-95 North to I-91 North, then follow CT-9 North directly into the heart of the city
- By Train: take the Amtrak or Hartford Line from Penn Station/New Haven to the Berlin or Hartford stations, followed by a quick 10-minute rideshare into Little Poland
❤️ Why You’ll Fall in Love With New Britski
From the “Na Zdrowie!” cheers in the local pubs to the smell of fresh rye bread at Roly Poly, New Britain offers a slice of Europe without the jet lag.
It’s a place where tradition is guarded fiercely and shared warmly. Whether you’re here for the history or the hidden gem dining, you’ll find that Little Poland certainly lives up to its name.