The Guilford Green is the town's centerpiece. Originally the green was a 16-acre quadrangle of rough and inconsistent ground incorporating some small ponds. During the first two centuries it became crowded with buildings including churches, graveyards, schoolhouses and more. As well as more than four acres which were trimmed to provide locations for a couple of blacksmiths. Early in the 19th century, Yale president Timothy Dwight criticized the slovenly appearance of the green. So, the residents of Guilford decided to beautify the green, the ground was leveled and fenced, remains of ancestors were exhumed and reburied, buildings were moved, and elm trees were planted. The green became one of New England's most spectacular greens.

The green is surrounded by businesses holding the personal touch, charm and history of yesteryears. Guilford Food Center, owned and operated by Bill Rosa, is an old fashioned market with wooden floors, narrow isles and fresh produce displayed in wooden crates on the sidewalk under the awning. Richard Dudley has owned and operated Douden's Drug for more than 27 years. The checkerberry soda's made famous by Douden's Drug are known all over the world. Of course there's Page Hardware & Appliance Company, known to its residents simply as Page's, was purchased in 1939 by Harry Logan Page, Jr. Stephen Page, began working at the store when he was 10 years old. In the past 28 years the business has expanded but the character of the building has remained. The green also has an art gallery, eateries and other shops for the enjoyment and convenience of Guilford's residents as well as its visitors.