New haven has some good local spots like Stella blues and college street for music venues, also cafe 9 for a more niche crowd tbh. New haven is crowded with coffee shops that are filled with people doing their own thing but friendly enough to have good interactions. My favorites are Koffee, Fussy, Deja Brew**, be sure to avoid o we priced shops like blue state and any large chains and the crowds are pretty friendly. New haven (Yale) has some free art exhibits that are fun, also be on the lookout for art shows.

Also getting a local job will help you exposed to the locals and the New haven life style.

My favorite pizza place is modern btw, def worth checking out.