What to do in Hartford, CT

Activities, attractions and tours
Hartford featuring cbd and a city

Hartford Attractions

Plan Your Trip to Hartford

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Hartford, Connecticut, is nicknamed the Insurance Capital of the World. The city is a major tourist attraction for business travelers, vacationers, and people who are passing through on their way between New York and Boston.

There are many Hartford excursions to spots like Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, Mystic Aquarium, and Hammonassett Beach. They are all situated only a quick drive on the map from Connecticut’s capital city. The city has earned the nickname of The Heartbeat because of its vibrant cultural scene and bustling commercial industries.

The Mark Twain House

The Mark Twain House is one of the best attractions in Hartford. Visitors can tour the estate where Twain penned many of his novels. Many famous contemporary authors, actors, and historians visit the Mark Twain House and accompanying museum for lectures. Daily tours are offered and exciting cultural events happen all week long.

Elizabeth Park

A trip to Elizabeth Park is the quintessential Connecticut experience. The park spans 102 acres of manicured grounds and horticultural delights. It is one of the most serene places in the city. The famous rose garden inside Elizabeth Park is an important spot on Hartford tours. The garden boasts over 800 varieties of roses. Visitors can also enjoy historic greenhouses that line the park's walking paths. Be sure to relax beside the park's popular pond during your visit. Entry to the park is free.

Bushnell Center for Performing Arts

The art scene in Hartford is alive and well. One of the best things to do in Hartford is catch a Broadway show at the Bushnell. The center offers tours behind the stage with rare glimpses of the green room, the electricians’ room, the projection room, and a hall of autographs.

Trinity College

Trinity College is one of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Be sure to visit The Long Walk. This portion of the campus was constructed in the 19th century and features beautiful architecture. The college's chapel is modeled after a medieval chapel and it attracts admirers from all over the world. The pews inside the chapel are comprised of hand-carved wood that features stunning symbols. Parking is free on campus.

Hartford is one of the top spots in New England for business, leisure, and fun. You simply must see all that Connecticut's capital city has to offer. Let Expedia.com help you plan fun local Hartford activities.


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Popular places to visit

Explore areas of 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 Dunkin' Donuts Park or Hartford Downtown Farmers Market while you're exploring the area.

Downtown Hartford
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Barry Square

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

Barry Square
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Sheldon-Charter Oak

While visiting Sheldon-Charter Oak, you might make a stop by sights like Connecticut River and Colt Park.

Sheldon-Charter Oak
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
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 Circus Fire Memorial and Keney Park.

Northeast

Day trip destinations from Hartford