Meriden, also known as the "Silver City" in tribute to the successful silver and pewter industry of the 1700s, has an extensive history of industrial success, including a growing cluster of biotech and science companies in its flourishing industrial and corporate parks.

The influence of Meriden's solid New England past is apparent in the many social, health, education and cultural services in town. Municipal and community organizations, charitable institutions, an active senior center and the YMCA provide assorted services for the good and growth of all residents.

Meriden's growing state-of-the-art hospital, Midstate Medical Center, serves numerous communities in central Connecticut. The Westfield Shopping Center, with over 1 million square feet of renovated retail space is located in Meriden, as well as several smaller shopping centers, which includes a refurbished downtown.

Hubbard Park, New England's largest municipal park, is in Meriden, and is 1,800 acres. The National Register of Historic Places includes the park. Hubbard Park is well liked among Connecticut Residents for its holiday lights and daffodils. A famed architect, Frederick Law Olmstead designed the park.

Meriden has a number of private schools and 12 public schools, including the H.C. Wilcox Technical High School and Thomas Edison Middle School, an interdistrict magnet school that concentrates on math, science and technology.

The parks and recreation department offers amenities and facilities certain to meet the sporting and leisure necessities of all residents.