What Is There to Do in Hartford, Connecticut?

Hartford, Connecticut is a city located in the northeast corner of the state and is known for its incredible culture, entertainment and vibrant attractions. Hartford is the capital of Connecticut and is the perfect place to explore the state, with an abundance of outdoor activities and attractions within easy reach of the city. Whether you want to go to a museum, explore some fascinating historic buildings or just go shopping and sightseeing, Hartford has something for everyone. Here are some of the highlights of what to do in Hartford, Connecticut.

1. Visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art

The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, located in downtown Hartford, is one of the oldest art museums in the U.S. It houses a large collection of art from all around the world, including works from the Renaissance, Impressionism and Post-Impressionism movements. There are five galleries in the museum, each dedicated to different movements and styles of art, including prints and photographs, sculpture, glass and porcelain, and works from the contemporary world. Special exhibitions are also held throughout the year.

2. Take a Tour of Bushnell Park

Bushnell Park is located in the center of downtown Hartford and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The park is filled with sculptures and gardens, making it a great spot to take a leisurely stroll. The park also hosts events throughout the year, such as festivals, concerts and theatrical performances. In addition, there are abundant wildlife to observe, as Bushnell Park has been designated as an Audubon “Important Bird Area’.

3. Go Shopping in Downtown Hartford

Downtown Hartford is filled with shops and boutiques offering everything from clothing and jewelry to home goods and souvenirs. The city also has an array of malls and department stores, making it the perfect place to find whatever you may be looking for. In addition to stores, there are also dozens of cafes and restaurants to choose from for a great meal or snack.

4. Explore The Mark Twain House & Museum

The Mark Twain House & Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most beloved authors. From the library where he wrote some of his most famous works to the parlor where he hosted some of his most famous guests, this incredible museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the home of Mark Twain. The museum also contains a gift shop with many Mark Twain souvenirs and books as well as a replica of his study and library.

5. Take a Tour of The Capewell Horse Nail Co.

The Capewell Horse Nail Co. is located in Hartford’s South Meadows and was once a major manufacturer of horseshoes during the early 20th century. The factory is now preserved as a museum and offers daily guided tours that provide an opportunity to explore the grounds, learning about the history of horseshoe manufacturing as well as its place in local history.

6. Attend an Event at The Connecticut Convention Center

The Connecticut Convention Center is located on the banks of the Connecticut River in downtown Hartford and hosts numerous events throughout the year. From trade shows to music festivals, this expansive venue provides plenty of opportunity for an incredible experience. Other events the center hosts include seminars, conferences and classes throughout the year.

7. Explore Elizabeth Park

Elizabeth Park is located just outside downtown Hartford and is one of America’s oldest public parks. Stretching over 102 acres, this park contains over 500 varieties of roses, a small pond for fishing, a network of trails for hiking and biking, and a beautiful rose garden overlooking downtown Hartford. In addition to all this, Elizabeth Park also has plenty of picnic spots for families to enjoy quality time together while taking in their natural surroundings in one of America’s oldest parks

8. Marvel at The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts

The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts is an iconic landmark in downtown Hartford and one of the region’s top attractions. This world-class venue showcases an array of events throughout the year, ranging from Broadway musicals to comedy shows and live music performances. In addition to these events, there are galleries to view art as well as several restaurants offering incredible cuisine before or after a show.

9. Visit The Ancient Burying Ground

The Ancient Burying Ground is one of Hartford’s oldest parks, founded in 1640 when Hartford was established as a settlement. This cemetery is now home to hundreds of headstones from early settlers and those dating back even further into Native American history. The grounds are open 24 hours every day and provide a tranquil atmosphere for quiet reflection or exploring the history of early Connecticut settlers.

10. Go on a River Cruise

Hartford is located on the banks of the Connecticut River, making it a great place to go on a sightseeing boat tour or river cruise. A variety of companies offer boat tours that take visitors up and down the river, showcasing some of its most stunning sites while providing plenty of opportunities to learn more about Hartford’s rich history along the way. From sightseeing cruises to dinner cruises and even educational tours on specific themes such as local flora and fauna or Native American customs, there is something for everyone out on the river! Hartford is full of things to do, no matter what you’re interested in! From museums to shopping to historical sites and scenic river cruises, this vibrant city has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for an educational experience exploring the city’s rich history or simply want to enjoy some leisurely sightseeing or shopping, there’s plenty of attractions in Hartford to keep you entertained!