The Connecticut Science Center
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This Hartford, CT attraction is a perfect place to visit with family and friends, but especially science lovers.
The Connecticut Science Centers mission is to engage visitors in love and appreciation for science.
As such, the Center is home to more than 150 hands-on exhibits, a 3D theatre, and science laboratories wherein visitors can learn and experiment with science theories and more.
With focuses on physics, forensics, geology, and astronomy, the center has science-themed lessons and exhibits for every age and interest.
Some of the many exhibits you can hope to encounter when visiting the Connecticut Science Center are a dinosaur exhibit, a butterfly encounter, an engineering lab, the invention dimension, an outer space journey, and much more.
Beyond all of the awesome and immersive exhibits, the center also offers movies, a gift shop, a cafeteria, ongoing activities, and special events.
If youre looking for something enriching and educational, be sure to visit the Connecticut Science Center.
Address: 250 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103, United States
Welcome To Hartford Ct
Experience Early American History in Hartford, ConnecticutInitially a Dutch trading post, the community soon grew and attracted many famous residents including Harriet Beecher Stowe. Stowe’s former neighbor Mark Twain and the inventor of the Colt revolver, Samuel Colt all lived in the affluent Asylum Hill district. Today, the homes are open for tours.
The Best Things To Do In Hartford Ct
Does the Victorian era fascinate you?
Or did you find images of decaying industrial and commercial buildings popular a few years ago intriguing?
Then youre sure to find an abundance of things to do in Hartford, CT.
Connecticuts manufacturing industry was well-established by the Revolutionary War, and those industries continued to grow well into the 20th Century.
And all that production generated a lot of wealth for Connecticut cities like Hartford.
Hartford was a major cultural and financial center in the Victorian era. It hosted many famous American industrialists, inventors, and artists.
And today, many of those historic holdovers provide the attractions, activities, and things to do in Hartford that draw so many visitors.
Add to this a growing dining scene, and a visit to Hartford is well-worth going off the beaten path.
Ready to plan a trip to Hartford?
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Polish National Home Hartford
Polish National Home
Nothing could be more enticing than a quick Polish meal in the middle of the day.
A trip to the Polish National Home is enjoyable to do in Hartford, regardless of your nationality.
This 85-year-old Polish-American social club features a fantastic restaurant where people who know and love Polish food may indulge.
Here, youll find some fresh Golabki, filled cabbage rolls, or pierogies, dumplings packed with potato, cabbage, and cheese.
It is housed in a beautiful Art Deco edifice.
Come check it out if youre fascinated by Polish cuisine, and youll meet some extremely kind and pleasant folks.
The structure also has a ballroom, eating area, bar, and a number of offices.
You may join the club for $25 a year, which permits you to use any of the facilities.
Additionally, youll get special prices at the restaurant and take part in a variety of activities.
Sounds too good to be credible, but it sure is.
Address: 60 Charter Oak Avenue, Pulaski Plaza, Hartford, CT, United States.
Elizabeth Park Rose Garden
On Asylum Avenue, there is a city park known as Elizabeth Park.
This 102-acre site was held by Charles M. Pond, who donated it to the City of Hartford in 1894 and requested that it be given the name Elizabeth Pond Park in honor of his wife.
It is the third-largest rose garden in the United States.
The Rose Garden is undeniably one of the parks most well-known features.
Youd be absolutely correct if you call it a florists haven.
With 15,000 rose plants representing 800 different rose kinds, it is the oldest municipal rose garden in the United States.
These include floribunda, shrub, pillar roses, climbers, hybrid perpetual, and old and new forms of hybrid tea.
Although they remain in bloom all summer long, late June and early July are the best times to visit when the ramblers that cover the arches are in full bloom.
Besides, this is a terrific spot to go if youre looking for family-friendly activities in Hartford.
The park also has tennis courts, a pond, grass, and paths in addition to the rose garden.
They even offer frost skating in the winter, and you can rent skating equipment.
Address: Prospect Avenue and Asylum Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut, United States.
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Plan A Trip To Hartford
I will be missing it if I fail to point out that the sight-seeing spots in Hartford are world-class and with so much significance, these will bring you to love your stay in this city.
Start planning your trip today! You can pin this guide of things to do in Hartford CT while making your checklist based on your interest in what you will like to see during your visit.
Go to Hartford, go on that vacation!
Walker Library Of The History Of Human Imagination
Walker Library of The History of Human Imagination
This fascinating museum houses artifacts and renderings of the imaginings of great thinkers and inventors that have paved the way for future generations.
Housed within The Walker Library of The History of Human Imagination are exhibits, diagrams, artwork, and artifacts that reflect both ancient and modern discovery and creativity.
The 3,600-square-foot space invites guests to observe and appreciate the great minds and innovations that have brought our country to where it is today.
Some of the librarys exhibits include an original Russian Sputnik, original fax of the 1776 Declaration of Independence, and even a historic atlas credited with being one of the first maps to ever depict the sun.
Along with other interesting and original artifacts, works of art, and rare documents, these exhibits bring the human imagination to life.
This one-of-a-kind library is one of many super unique places to visit when in Connecticut.
Address: Stamford, CT 06901, United States
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Artisan Restaurant Tavern And Garden
Artisan Restaurant, Tavern and Garden is an award-winning restaurant located on the west side of Hartford.
It offers an unforgettable experience with their mind-blowing dishes. You can find the restaurant in the heart of the Blue Back Square which is at the Delamar Hotel.
Whats better than eating delicious food in a nicely decorated restaurant?
You will love the 1,500 square foot outdoor garden which is decorated with hanging globes. This, and soft music played in the background makes the garden so romantic.
The name of the Executive Chef and Partner is Frederic Kieffer and some of the dishes he prepares includes Baked Vegan Tian, Royal Shrimp, Seafood Chowder and so on
It is opened seven days a week for dinner, lunch, and breakfast.
Address: 1 Memorial Rd, West Hartford, Connecticut.
Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds
Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock
Sculpture Grounds is home to a vibrant landscape of art and artists whose work comes alive with the backdrop of natures beauty.
The displayed sculptures are the work of dedicated house artists who fabricate their pieces from Studio 80.
With over 100 sculptures displayed in gardens and courtyards, a tour of the grounds is site seeing at its best.
The sculptures encompass nearly 5 acres of land that are beautifully landscaped and tended to, making the juxtaposition of sculpted art against natural elements a sight to behold.
Tours of the grounds are self-guided, however, the park provides guiding maps in boxes scattered throughout the property.
The property is open daily year-round and best of all, a visit here is one of a few free things to do in Connecticut.
The property has a picnic area and cafe, so you can plan to make a day of your visit to Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds.
A visit here is a site seeing experience you wont want to miss.
Address: 80 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371, United States
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Dinosaurs Of Antarctica At The Connecticut Science Center
Back when the globe was a whole lot warmer a hundreds of millions of years ago, the frigid Antarctic was filled with forests and swamps and dinos of all sorts. You can check out the transformation and history behind it Saturday, with tickets on sale for 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
Tickets are on sale now at $5.95 per person!
Plan Your Trip To Hartford Connecticut
Whether youre visiting friends or family, exploring your roots, or looking for a new place to call home, there are plenty of reasons to spend time in Hartford.
With just a little bit of research and help from our local expert at Colton Vacations, you can find things for everyone!
If you have other questions about what there is to do here or if you want more suggestions, dont hesitate to ask.
Our vacation experts are always happy to provide advice on whats most fun and affordable while youre staying in Connecticut. Enjoy your vacation today!
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Places to Visit from Hartford: The state’s relatively small size makes it easy to reach the many popular tourist attractions in Connecticut, including places to visit in New Haven and all the top small towns in Connecticut. If you are doing a road trip or trying to plan a larger vacation, not far north of Hartford, there are more things to do in Massachusetts.
More Things to Do in Connecticut: With our handy guides to the best beaches in Connecticut, and suggestions for the top beach hotels, it’s easy to plan a summer vacation. As you explore the shore, you’ll find more top-rated resorts around Connecticut’s beautiful lakes.
Immersive Art Food Festivals And More Fun Things To Do In Connecticut This Weekend With Kids
Looking for the best things to do in Connecticut this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your schedule.
These days may be getting shorter, but August is holding on strong. Enjoy a weekend filled with family fun while exploring Connecticut. Discover a new way to look at art at Beyond Van Gogh in Hartford. Expand your flavor palate at the Hey Stamford Food Festival. You can even explore all your senses at the Sunflower Festival in Windsor.
Still need more things to do in Connecticut this weekend? Connecticut Drive-In Movie Theaters are perfect for outdoor summer movie nights with kids. When you’re ready to hit the beach, try Eco Exploring at Connecticut Beaches. And check out the Best Things To Do in Connecticut in August with Kids for our favorite picks all month long.
For even more of the latest and best family-friendly activities, follow us on and .
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Where To Stay In Hartford For Sightseeing
The best place to stay in Hartford is in the compact city center. The downtown area is dominated by the State Capitol grounds and Bushnell Park, and most of the attractions are within a mile or two of this central reference point. The Amtrak station is to the northwest, and access to downtown is easy from either Interstate 84 or 91. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations:
Luxury Hotels:
- is a modern downtown hotel in the heart of the city, with free hot breakfast and a fitness facility. Walk to restaurants and attractions, including the adjacent Bushnell Park and Union Station.
Visit The Trumbull Kitchen
John W | Flickr
Some moments in a classy kitchen in Hartford could be one of the most fun moments in your life.
Eat out at the Trumbull Kitchen.
It doesnt matter if its wine, booze, or lunch that you want to have, theyre all on a platter of gold.
The opulent and affluent Trumbull Kitchen is a restaurant with leather-covered walls, soothing bespoke lighting, and modern, cool industrial accents.
Its a fantastic setting for a romantic supper for two or a professional lunch.
In order to create distinctive, multicultural comfort cuisine that transcends ethnic boundaries, executive chef Chris Torla experiments with fresh, farm-to-table ingredients from nearby farms and food suppliers.
Both his tapas and huge dishes have great taste combinations, and the presentation is almost zen-like.
Getting to try one of these dishes can be one of the top things you could do in Hartford.
Additionally, Trumbull Kitchen offers a wide selection of wines as well as a rotating tap list of craft brews.
Go for wine tasting and sip on wine.
Order a bottle after that and take the goodness home.
Apparently, they offer one of the most tempting comforts in the city.
Address: 150 Trumbull Street, Hartford, CT, United States
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Things To Do Near The Hartford Ct Area This Weekend
- Pin
If youre looking for things to do in Hartford, CT, you wont be disappointed! The city and its surrounding towns offer lots of area attractions, both indoors and out, and which are perfect for date night or a nice family outing. While you always want to check ahead for closures and disruptions due to COVID-19, inclement weather, and other such factors, check out these 7 things to do in Hartford, CT, as early as this weekend!
Infinity Music Hall & Bistro
On Pearl Street, Infinity Music Hall & Bistro has located just steps from Hartfords Bushnell Park and Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art.
Its a perfect spot for couples looking for fun things to do in Hartford, ct that also provides a little culture.
This popular local venue offers an intimate setting with cabaret-style seating and lives music ranging from blues and jazz to rock and R& B.
Although you may hear stories about couples running into old flames here, Infinity is more often a place where new flames are sparked. Make sure you head there at least once during your visit its one of Hartford citys best places for live music.
Address: 32 Front St, Hartford, CT 06103, United States
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Things To Do In Hartford Ct During Covid
I have lived in Connecticut, on and off, since I was born.
But I didnt truly appreciate the state until the COVID-19 pandemic.
With first international travel, then even local travel, cut-off as an option in rapid succession, exploring Connecticut was the only option for months.
And even in the darkest period of the pandemic, when most points of interest were closed for safety reasons, there were still things to do throughout the state.
In the case of Hartford, we didnt make a trip up there until the state had begun to open-up again.
Without the museums, dining, and government buildings, it would have been a long drive up from downtown Greenwich just for the sake of walking around outdoors.
And to be honest, I was dragging my feet on visiting: I hadnt been since high school, and my memories of the city were not pleasant.
Hartford was, in a word, sketchy.
But we found downtown Hartford and nearby towns so delightful in the present that weve made the trek back more than a few times since!
And with a majority of the population vaccinated, Hartford and its attractions have largely returned to normal.
Just be sure to wear a mask indoors!
Make Fest At The Connecticut Science Center Hartford
If you have been trying to find the perfect weekend event for kids , this one is for you.
Bring your kids to the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford and let them learn all about how things are made and what makes things move!
Since the Connecticut Summer at the Museum is still in full swing, admission is still free for CT residents!
- Date: Saturday, August 13th, 2022
- Time: 11am 3pm
- Address: 250 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT
- Cost: Free for CT residents, with conditions. See details here.
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Talcott Mountain State Park
This 574-acre public park offers a 165-foot high mountain that provides a lovely view of the surrounding areas. There is also a mile-long trail through the park, with beautiful views to enjoy along the way. The park also has a museum on the grounds with historic architecture that everyone in the family is sure to love!
Connecticut Historical Society Museum
Paul Chibeba/ Flickr
The Colonial Revival estate that now houses the Connecticut Historical Societys holdings was formerly owned by inventor Curtis Veeder.
These collections contain more than 200,000 objects and pictures, as well as books and manuscripts that run as far back as the 1600s.
At the Connecticut Historical Society Museum, youll find more than 500 of these items on display.
They are not just on display, but in fascinating displays that are frequently interactive.
In addition to the books and valuable manuscripts youll find, the largest collection of inn and tavern signs in the nation is on display.
Truly, the Inn & Tavern Signs of Connecticut is particularly intriguing and a must-see around the museum.
Other special exhibits cover topics related to New England history and culture, such as womens suffrage and the home front.
There are even WWII propaganda posters, Victorian clothing, traditional folk artists, and costumes from Hartfords West Indian Community, to name a few.
Address: 1 Elizabeth Street, Hartford, Connecticut, United States.
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Hartford Marathon Foundation Events
If you like to run, fitting in a 5k on your trip is a great way to explore Hartford on foot. The Hartford Marathon Foundation hosts events around Connecticut each month. The Riverfront Scramble, a 5K race series held Saturday mornings throughout the summer, will take you along the Connecticut River and through the lovely Riverfront Park, and would definitely be one of the top 10 things to do in Hartford CT for runners. HMF has fun and festive seasonal races throughout the year, and the fun race shirts and medals will ensure you end your Hartford trip with a unique souvenir!
