Mark Twain once said about Hartford, “You do not know what beauty is if you have not been here.” Known as “New England’s Rising Star,” the state capital of Connecticut is picturesque, friendly, and easy to explore on foot, by bike, or by car. Art museums, science centers, and music venues are around every bend, placing creativity at the heart of this historic riverfront city.
As one of the oldest metro areas in America, Hartford has a rich history that carries into modern Connecticut. Explore its rolling hills to find cultural gems, entertainment venues, vineyards, and state parks.
Here are some of the best things to do near Hartford:
Explore the life of Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, at the immaculately preserved Mark Twain House
Discover Bushnell Park, the first publicly funded park in the United States and the park that set a precedent for public parks nationwide
Grab a map and locate your favorite masterpieces at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
Become one with nature at the butterfly exhibit inside the Connecticut Science Center
Take your pick of shopping destinations, restaurants, live music, and entertainment at the Center in the Square downtown
Hartford has been home to famous painters and writers alike. Explore their lives at a museum, then take a once-in-a-lifetime photo from the top of one of the tallest buildings in the world.
Other popular attractions near Hartford:
A thrilling live musical performance at Theaterworks Hartford
Peruse the XL Center arena event center and attend a concert, convention or basketball game of your choosing
See the city from the top of the 7th-tallest building in the world on the 24th story of the Travelers Tower skyscraper downtown
Jump around to a touring act at the breezy outdoor XFINITY Theatre amphitheatre
Step inside a hurricane force wind tunnel and introduce yourself to a turtle with its own Twitter account at the Connecticut Science Center
When the sun goes down, the party is just getting started in Hartford. Quench your thirst on a pub crawl of the city’s most loved bars, or dance through the night to live music downtown.
Here are some ideas for nighttime activities near Hartford:
Score a balcony section seat in the The Bushnell Performing Arts Center
Grab a to-go growler of beer from the Hanging Hills Brewery tasting room
Enjoy delicious pub grub and theme nights on the rooftop bar of the Russian Lady
Laugh at a Sea Tea Improv comedy company show
Dance the borracha on Latin Night at Symmetry Ultra Lounge, a cool and casual nightclub downtown
Travelling with kids requires activity to keep the whole gang happy. Fun is a given during these Hartford activities that are both educational and exciting.
There are some family-friendly things to do near Hartford:
Break out your jazz hands at a Newington Children’s Theater
Shake out the wiggles on a hike along the Amistad Trial
Wave to the beluga whales at the Mystic Aquarium
Climb to new heights: zip line, hike, and cliff dive at the Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park
Pick fresh apples, blueberries, flowers, and pumpkins while soaking up the sunshine at Lapsley Orchard
If weather is putting a damper on the day or you’re looking for low-key destinations, consider staying inside! Try one of these indoor activities in Hartford on for size.
Things to do indoors in Hartford:
Admire wall-to-wall stained glass inside the Cathedral of St. Joseph
Buy tickets to Tony award-winning dramas, classics, and musicals at Hartford Stage
Tour one of Hartford’s last 18th-century homes, the Butler McCook Homestead
Wander inside the old Pump House Gallery, which features contemporary pieces by local artists
Grab a front row seat to a performance at the Bushnell Performing Arts Center
Pursue adventure around Hartford by hiking a local trail, or soak in the beautiful river sights by kayak. Whatever you choose, one of these outdoors activities in Hartford is sure to suit your fancy.
Active things to do or see in Hartford:
Stretch your muscles during outdoor yoga on Tuesday and Thursday nights on the Rose Garden lawn at Elizabeth Park
Walk along the Sculpture Walk at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza in view of the Connecticut River
Goof around on the playground or enjoy a packed lunch at Charter Oak Landing
Take a day trip to the Old Wethersfield historic district to explore its three distinct landmarks and half-mile town green perfect for picnicking
Stroll along the waterfall at Kent Falls State Park