Hartford

Travel Guide

Hartford showing an administrative building, a city and heritage architecture
Hartford which includes a city and cbd
Hartford showing heritage elements and a garden
Hartford which includes a city
Hartford showing outdoor art and a park
Visit Mark Twain’s home city of Hartford, where restored Civil War-era mansions, museums and the country’s oldest park preserve the nation’s history.

Hartford is an almost 400-year-old city that has survived the ups and downs of America’s history. Explore the rich heritage of this destination that features some of the oldest institutions in the nation and the former residence of America’s beloved author, Mark Twain.

Start the day with a calming walk through America’s oldest public park, Bushnell Park. Located in the city center, this thoroughfare is decorated with graceful pathways, monuments to American soldiers and a huge archway crowned by two turrets. Relax under trees to escape typically hot and humid summers. In winter the park is often covered under a blanket of snow.

Walk to the nearby Wadsworth Atheneum to delight in more than 50,000 works of pilgrim-era and European art in one of the nation’s oldest art museum. Tour the exclusive rooms and stages of the Bushnell Center for Performing Arts or the award-winning Hartford Stage, then come back later to see a show. Both theaters host musicals, plays and orchestras several nights a week.

Many of the city’s restaurants and hotels can be found along the busy Asylum Street. Stop for lunch then walk to the nearby Mark Twain House and Museum. Here you’ll experience the living quarters of the famous author and see exhibits themed around his life. Take in more history at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House and Library or the Butler McCook House and Garden. Both restored mansions, they feature civil war-era art and antiques and large manicured gardens perfect for a quiet stroll.

Hartford is the capital of Connecticut. At the Museum of Connecticut History see excellent exhibitions on the colonial formation of the state. Take children to the Connecticut Science Center, where there are hands-on displays and a 3-D digital theater showing educational movies.

In the evenings take the family to the XL Center, which has performances throughout the year. In winter you’ll find a public ice-skating rink and shows on ice.

Stay downtown next to the Connecticut River. Rent a bicycle and ride along the banks of the picturesque river and grab a drink at one of many bars, restaurants and clubs.

Where to stay in Hartford

Connecticut Science Center which includes a garden

Downtown Hartford

3.5/5(2 area reviews)

Unique features of Downtown Hartford include the theatres and live music. Make a stop by Hartford Stage or Dunkin' Donuts Park while you're exploring the area.

Downtown Hartford
Riverside Park showing a park

North Meadows

Unique features of North Meadows include the live music and theatres. Make a stop by Xfinity Theatre or Riverside Park while you're exploring the area.

North Meadows
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Frog Hollow

While visiting Frog Hollow, you might make a stop by sights like Pope Park and Connecticut State Library.

Frog Hollow
Mark Twain House showing signage

Asylum Hill

You'll enjoy the museums and churches in Asylum Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Harriet Beecher Stowe Center or Mark Twain House & Museum.

Asylum Hill
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Northeast

While visiting Northeast, you might make a stop by sights like Keney Park and Circus Fire Memorial.

Northeast
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Barry Square

While visiting Barry Square, you might make a stop by sights like Webster Theater and Cinestudio.

Barry Square
The Capitol Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
The Capitol Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
3 out of 5
440 Asylum St, Hartford, CT
Fully refundable
The price is €96 per night from 26 Feb to 27 Feb
€96
includes taxes & fees
26 Feb - 27 Feb
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Hartford. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
7.2/10 Good! (968 reviews)
"I wish I got the front end lady name but she was quick a super nice. The rooms were clean and warm upon arrival."

Reviewed on 11 Feb 2025

The Capitol Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
4 out of 5
315 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT
The price is €168 per night from 20 Feb to 21 Feb
€168
includes taxes & fees
20 Feb - 21 Feb
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Hartford. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the clean rooms ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,003 reviews)
"Loved the gathering areas for our group in the living room and the restaurant. The staff was so helpful and kind. They really made our stay so pleasant."

Reviewed on 12 Feb 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
The Goodwin Hotel
The Goodwin Hotel
3.5 out of 5
1 Haynes St, Hartford, CT
The price is €224 per night from 16 Feb to 17 Feb
€224
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Hartford. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
"Stay at the Goodwin every year and enjoy the downtown Hartford scene. Goodwin is right up there with any 4 Star hotel."

Reviewed on 4 Feb 2025

The Goodwin Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lux Boutique Large Private LOFT Pratt St Hartford
Lux Boutique Large Private LOFT Pratt St Hartford
Hartford
Stay at this apartment in Hartford. Enjoy housekeeping and air conditioning. Popular attractions Hartford Symphony Orchestra and Hartford Stage are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (10 reviews)
Visiting Hartford
"We came for the night and the location was perfect. In walking distance to bars and restaurants. Clean, easy, no complaints. If there is a game/event at the XL Center then you should know that on-street parking may be difficult. This isn't a problem, just something to be aware of."

Reviewed on 11 Feb 2025

Lux Boutique Large Private LOFT Pratt St Hartford
Cozy BoHo pet & family friendly near downtown & hospitals
Cozy BoHo pet & family friendly near downtown & hospitals
Hartford
Stay at this apartment in Hartford. Enjoy an in-room coffeemaker and air conditioning. Popular attractions XL Center and Webster Theater are located nearby.
8.2/10 Very Good! (7 reviews)
Beautiful oasis
"We stayed 4 nights for our family trip. The home was sparkling clean and we found all we need. I love boho styled rooms. No issues with neighbors. All kind of TV subscription available. Overall very positive experience. Thank you!"

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2024

Cozy BoHo pet & family friendly near downtown & hospitals
New Haven Village Suites
New Haven Village Suites
3 out of 5
3 Long Wharf Dr, New Haven, CT
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in New Haven. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
7.4/10 Good! (2,002 reviews)
"The room layout, amenities and cleanliness were excellent. Think about adding a continental breakfast."

Reviewed on 30 Jan 2025

New Haven Village Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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