In the 20th Century, Danbury was put on the map as "The Hat City of the World" by the hatting industry. When Money Magazine named Danbury America's top place to live in1988, it drew more attention to the city than imagined. Continuing to thrive economically with one of the largest shopping malls in New England, and large company headquarters like Praxair, Ethan Allen Interiors, Cartus and Scholastic Library Publishing.

Danbury is a cultural melting pot and one of the fastest growing cities in Connecticut due to its low cost of living, relative to other communities within commuting distance of New York City. The city offers a diverse selection of new single- and multi-family homes, condominiums and apartment complexes, and a collection of historic homes, including elegant estates near downtown and small weekend getaways on the largest body of water in Connecticut, Candlewood Lake, a man-made in 1929.

Danbury abounds with educational opportunities, and is particularly proud of its special pre-school program. The city has several private secular and parochial schools, alternative high schools and vocational, and an elementary magnet school for international studies. Western Connecticut State University has two growing campuses in Danbury and offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Ives Concert Park is a great music venue near the University that’s easy to get to.

The Museum and Historical Society has exhibits on display and maintains the Charles Ives Birthplace Museum. The Pulitzer Prize winning composer ‘s museum display items from his youth, a desk used when he lived in New York, a c1840 piano, and the music stand he received from his wife can be seen among Victorian furnishings.

Housed in a 1903 train depot and rail yard, the Railway Museum displays vintage railway items, models, photos, and information on the history of railroading. A short train ride for children make this a great family visit.

The Military Museum of Southern New England displays military vehicles and artillery from World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Uniforms, photographs and other military artifacts are also on display.

Kenosha and Candlewood lakes offer a multitude of seasonal activities and outdoor pleasures, such as, fishing, boating, swimming and bird watching. Richter Park is the home of a superb golf course - one of the top 50 city courses in the nation. One of Connecticut’s hidden jewels, the Richter Park Golf Course encompasses over 180 acres of gentle rolling terrain situated in the heart of Fairfield County.

A stop on the Metro North rail line, the station has a small railroad museum occasionally offering rides around the rail lot to families and children.

Educational, entertainment and recreational opportunities flourish within the city.