[2] The historic district represents the area of the traditional town center and excludes Branford Point.

[3]: 28  According to the historic district nomination, "relatively little remains in Branford Center that evokes its distant 17th- and early 18th century past.

"[3]: 49  The district instead includes remnants of late 19th and early 20th century industrial, commercial, and residential history.

Religious institution buildings in the district include: As defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, the boundaries of the Center extend from the Branford River north along Short Beach Road (Connecticut Route 142) to U.S. Route 1 (West Main Street), then northeast along Route 1 (becoming North Main Street) to Cedar Street, north on Cedar Street to Interstate 95, and east (northbound) on I-95 to the Branford River, which forms the entire southeastern boundary of the CDP.

The green is typical of a traditional New England town, and serves as Branford's social, commercial, and governmental nerve center.

It is home to many small stores, restaurants, and coffee houses, (including perennial favorites like Ashley's Ice Cream and Common Grounds) and hosts concerts and other events.

Notable annual events include the Branford Festival, and the used book sale held by the Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library.

A memorial to Branford's contributions during the American Civil War is to the right of the town hall.