17 Best Places and Things To Do in Hartford, Connecticut

Hartford, Connecticut, is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. There are many interesting places to visit and things to do in this city. Here are some of the best:

1. Mark Twain House and Museum

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This is the former home of the famous American author, Mark Twain. It has been preserved as a museum and is open to the public. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the life and works of Mark Twain.

2. Connecticut Science Center

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This is a hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and educational programs for people of all ages. It’s a great place to learn about science and have fun at the same time.

3. Bushnell Park

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This is a beautiful public park that offers a variety of outdoor activities. It has a carousel, a pond, and many walking paths. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

4. Wadsworth Atheneum

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This is the oldest public art museum in the United States. It has an extensive collection of American and European art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. It’s a must-see for art lovers.

5. Elizabeth Park

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This is a beautiful public park that is known for its rose garden. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

6. Connecticut River Museum

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This is a museum that offers exhibits and programs related to the history and ecology of the Connecticut River. It’s a great place to learn about the natural and cultural history of the region.

7. Connecticut Science Center

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The exhibits are interactive and engaging, allowing visitors to experiment and learn through play. Some of the most popular exhibits include the “Force Exhibit,” which explores the principles of physics through a variety of hands-on activities, and the “Exploring Space” exhibit, which takes visitors on a journey through the solar system and beyond.

8. Harriet Beecher Stowe Center

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located in Hartford, Connecticut, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of the famous novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” The center is housed in the historic home where Stowe lived for the last 23 years of her life, and offers visitors a glimpse into her life and work.

9. Cathedral of St Joseph

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St. Joseph is a stunning Gothic Revival-style Catholic cathedral located in Hartford, Connecticut. It is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Hartford and serves as a spiritual center for Catholics throughout the region.

10. Cedar Hill Cemetery

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The cemetery spans over 270 acres and features winding roads, rolling hills, and stunning views of the Connecticut River Valley. It is home to a diverse collection of trees and plants, including towering maples, blooming cherry trees, and fragrant magnolias.

11. Mortensen Riverfront Plaza

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located in Hartford, Connecticut, that stretches along the banks of the Connecticut River. It offers a wide range of recreational activities and cultural events throughout the year and is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

12. Riverside Park

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Mortensen Riverfront Plaza is a beautiful park located in Hartford, Connecticut, that stretches along the banks of the Connecticut River. It offers a wide range of recreational activities and cultural events throughout the year and is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

13. Travelers Tower

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The tower stands at 527 feet tall and features stunning Art Deco architecture. The building’s design includes intricate carvings, beautiful marble flooring, and a stunning lobby adorned with murals and stained glass.

14. Calder Stegosaurus Sculpture

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in the heart of downtown Hartford and stands at 50 feet tall. It is made of steel and features a brightly colored red, orange, and yellow design. The sculpture is in the shape of a Stegosaurus, a prehistoric dinosaur known for its distinctive bony plates along its spine.

15. Hartford Circus Fire Memorial

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The memorial was created in 2005 and is made up of several elements, including a granite and bronze sculpture depicting a clown and several children, as well as a reflecting pool and a wall of names honoring those who died in the fire.

16. Church of The Good Shepherd

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located in Hartford, Connecticut. The church was built in the late 1800s and is known for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and rich history.

17. Charter Oak Landing

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Charter Oak Landing is a beautiful waterfront park located along the Connecticut River in Hartford, Connecticut. The park offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline, as well as a range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy.

Hartford, Connecticut, is a city with a lot to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, science, or just relaxing in a beautiful park, there’s something for everyone here.