17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hartford, CT

Hartford, CT may be famous for its politics and its universities, but it’s also a city with plenty of attractions. Whether you’re looking for a day of shopping or a day of relaxation, read on for our top-rated attractions and things to do in Hartford. From museums to parks to theaters, we’ve got you covered. So whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, make sure to check out these 17 top-rated attractions and Things To Do In Hartford Connecticut.

Hartford attractions

Hartford, Connecticut is a vibrant city with plenty of things to do. Many popular attractions are located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the city’s many neighborhoods. Here are some of our favorite attractions in Hartford:

The Wadsworth Atheneum: This world-renowned museum has a huge collection of art from around the world, as well as an impressive dinosaur exhibit. The building itself is beautiful, and there’s also a large garden onsite.

The Henry Ford Museum: If you’re interested in American history, this museum is definitely worth visiting. It has a large collection of cars and tractor exhibits, as well as a replica of Edison’s lab.

The Imperial War Museum: If you’re fascinated by history or military affairs, this museum is definitely worth checking out. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts from all over the world, including weapons and memorabilia from both World Wars.

Historic sites in Hartford

Hartford is a historic city that has a lot to offer visitors. From the beautiful architecture and landmarks to the interesting history, there are plenty of things to do in Hartford.

Some of the most popular attractions in Hartford include Fort Harrison, The Wadsworth Atheneum, and The Bushnell Art Museum. Fort Harrison is a National Historic Landmark and was used as a military barracks from 1795 to 1817. The Wadsworth Atheneum is home to an impressive collection of art, including paintings by Renoir, Rembrandt, and Monet. The Bushnell Art Museum features works from throughout history and is one of the largest museums in Connecticut.

Hartford also has a number of restaurants and bars worth checking out. Try some local favorites like Lou’s All-American Burger Bar or Village Pourhouse for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For something more upscale, try Blake’s Place or Il Mulino Ristorante for Italian cuisine. And if bar hopping is your thing, head to Upstate Tavern or Whiskey Bent Saloon for some good times.

Outdoor activities in Hartford

Hartford is a city that loves to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. There are so many great opportunities for outdoor activities in Hartford, whether you’re a fan of hiking, biking, fishing, skiing or just spending time in nature.

Hartford has some fantastic parks that offer trails for hikers, bike paths and scenic drives. There is also plenty of open space within the city for throwing a ball or playing soccer. If you’re looking for something more challenging, try hiking Mount Tom or skiing at nearby Mystic Mountain Resort.

If you love seafood, Hartford is definitely the place to be. The riverfront offers great fishing spots and there are numerous restaurants that specialize in fresh catch. Alternatively, head to Oneida Cheese Factory for cheese samples and treats from local farms.

Hartford has something for everyone who wants to get outside and have some fun!

Museums in Hartford

Hartford, CT is home to some of the best museums in the country. From science museums to art galleries, visitors can find something to interest them at every stop on their visit. Here are some of the most highly rated attractions in Hartford and things to do surrounding them:

1. Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum that is home to a vast array of artworks from all over the world. The museum features works by famous artists like Michelangelo and Rembrandt, as well as more modern pieces. If you’re looking for a cultured destination while in Hartford, this is definitely the place to go.

2. The Connecticut Science Center: The Connecticut Science Center is another top-rated attraction in Hartford that offers visitors loads of unique exhibits relating to science and technology. From exhibits about space exploration to exhibitions about robotics and computer programming, there’s sure to be something for everyone at this museum.

3. Russ Wiles National Memorial: Located just outside of Hartford, Russ Wiles National Memorial honors the brave men and women who have served in the United States military since 9/11. This memorial features both indoor and outdoor displays that tell the story of America’s armed forces through interactive exhibits and artifacts from throughout history.

Restaurants in Hartford

Hartford is home to some great restaurants that offer delicious food and unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or something more upscale, these establishments will not disappoint.

1. The Blue Burrito: This Mexican restaurant offers fantastic food and an interesting atmosphere. The menu features everything from traditional tacos to mouth-watering chimichangas. Plus, the margaritas are legendary!

2. Ceviche 203: Don’t let the small storefront fool you; this place has some of the best ceviche in Hartford. If you’re into seafood, this is definitely the spot for you.

3. Zahav: Named one of “The Best Israeli Restaurants in America” by The New York Times, Zahav offers fantastic Mediterranean food at very reasonable prices. From hummus to shawarma, there’s something for everyone on the menu.

4. Hartford Public Market: This open-air market is a must-visit if you’re looking for fresh produce, meats, breads and more. There’s also an eclectic mix of vendors selling everything from jewelry to handmade soap!

Shopping in Hartford

Hartford is home to some of the best shopping in the area. From high-end boutiques to unique independent stores, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top-rated attractions and things to do in Hartford:

1. Visit the Four Seasons Hotel Hartford for luxurious shopping experiences at some of the city’s most prestigious retailers. Highlights include Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, and Barneys New York.

2. The Jewellers Row district of downtown contains numerous jewelers and accessory stores, making it a great place to find unique and personalized gifts.

3. East Hartford has a wide variety of shops including vintage stores, pet shops, and furniture galleries. Head to Main Street for a bustling street scene with plenty of choice for shoppers of all ages.

4. The Windsor Trade Center is home to several major department stores including Sears, Macy’s, JCPenney, Kohl’s, and Boscov’s (the largest department store in Connecticut). There is also an impressive food court with dozens of restaurants available for lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a place to spend your vacation, Hartford, CT is definitely worth considering. Not only do they offer top-rated attractions like the Bushnell Center and The Acme Theatre Company, but there are also plenty of things to do in the city that will keep you busy all day long. From shopping at The Shops at Farmington to discovering new restaurants and cafes, Hartford has something for everyone. So if you’re thinking about spending some time in Hartford this year, be sure to check out our list of top-rated attractions and things to do!

Hartford Attractions

Hartford is a bustling city with plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy for days. From museums to parks and gardens, Hartford has something for everyone.

One of the most popular attractions in Hartford is the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile trail takes visitors through five important historical sites in the city. The Freedom Trail also includes stops at the USS Constitution Museum and the Lucy Stone house.

Some other well-known attractions in Hartford include the Bushnell Park Zoo and the Wadsworth Atheneum museum. Bushnell Park Zoo features a variety of animals from all over the world, while the Wadsworth Atheneum museum has an extensive collection of art from around the world.

Hartford also has several parks and gardens that are great places to take a walk or relax in nature. Pelham Bay Park is home to a lake, a botanical garden, and many trails for hiking and biking. Charter Oak State Park is another large park with plenty of recreational options, including a golf course, tennis courts, and a swimming pool. The Hartford Gardens are also worth checking out if you’re looking for some beautiful flowers and gardens to enjoy.

Things to Do in Hartford

There are plenty of things to do in Hartford, CT, whether you’re looking for attractions or activities to keep you busy. Here are five of the top-rated attractions and activities in Hartford:

1. The Wadsworth Atheneum: This 19th century art museum is home to some of the best collections of Western art in the country, including pieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Michelangelo. There’s also a wide variety of exhibits on display year-round, including special exhibitions focusing on different themes such as photography or music.

2. Bushnell Park: This sprawling park is perfect for a day spent exploring its many attractions, including a zoo, a playground, lakeside gardens and more. There’s also an impressive array of sporting facilities available for use, including tennis courts and a basketball court.

3. The Connecticut Science Center: This hands-on museum features displays on everything from science fiction to archaeology, making it perfect for kids of all ages. There’s also an IMAX theater available for watching documentaries or movies.

4. The Mark Twain House & Museum: This restored Victorian home is home to one of America’s most famous authors—Mark Twain—and his collection of memorabilia is well worth visiting. You can explore the rooms where he lived and wrote, or take in a tour of his private library which includes books by Shakespeare and Dickens among others.

Hartford Restaurants

Hartford is known for its historical landmarks and cultural attractions, but there’s so much more to this city than the museums and theaters. In fact, Hartford has plenty of restaurants that offer some of the best cuisine in the region. From Italian to Mexican to American classics, you’re sure to find a restaurant that suits your tastes in Hartford. Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the city:

1. Bistro Bis
This French bistro has been serving up delicious meals since 1984. Dishes include mussels cooked in white wine and garlic, roasted pork with figs and juniper berries, and grilled turbot with grilled vegetables.
2. Sarabeth’s Bakery & Café
This bakery is known for its signature apple pie, as well as croissants, danishes, éclairs, macarons, mille feuille (a type of pastry filled with cream), cake pops and more. Plus, they have a wide variety of coffee drinks, sandwiches and salads on their menu too.
3. Mastro’s Pizza & Pasta
Mastro’s offers freshly made pizza pies from both their wood-fired brick oven as well as their gas-fired oven – both with your choice of topping or specialty crust (like sausage). They also have pasta dishes such as carbonara, rigatoni all’Amatriciana and lasagna that will satisfy any appetite.
4. Cibo Wine Bar
This wine bar features

Things to do in the surrounding towns

If you’re looking for things to do in the Hartford area, there are plenty of options. Some popular attractions include the Connecticut Science Center, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, and Bushnell Park. Additionally, there are many interesting places to visit within a short drive of Hartford, such as Windsor and Bloomfield Hills. Here are some other things to check out:

-The Colt Museum is home to an impressive collection of firearms and memorabilia from throughout history.

-East Granby has a quaint downtown district with lots of shops and restaurants.

-Newington is known for its Colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.

Downtown Hartford

Downtown Hartford offers visitors a variety of attractions and things to do. There are plenty of museums and galleries to explore, as well as popular restaurants and bars. Some interesting places to visit include the Foxwoods Resort Casino, the Colt .45 Museum, and the Wadsworth Atheneum. There are also plenty of music venues and historic sites in downtown Hartford.

Windsor Hill

Windsor Hill is a beautiful and historic neighborhood in Hartford, CT. It’s home to many beautiful homes and has plenty of things to do. Some of the top-rated attractions and things to do in Windsor Hill include visiting the Roger Sherman Botanical Gardens, exploring Constitution Park, or visiting the Wadsworth Atheneum. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops located in Windsor Hill, so visitors will have plenty to enjoy while they’re in town.

The Bushnell Museum

The Bushnell Museum is a must-see in Hartford, CT. Not only does it have world-renowned collections of art and natural history, but the museum also offers a wide variety of activities and events for visitors to enjoy. The museum has something for everyone, from kids’ activities like storytelling time and spider cave tours to informative exhibits like the dinosaur exhibit and the mineral collection. In addition to its regular exhibits, the Bushnell Museum also periodically hosts special exhibitions that are sure to interest even the most dedicated museumgoer.

The Wadsworth Atheneum

The Wadsworth Atheneum is one of the most popular attractions in Hartford, CT. Opened in 1842, it is home to a great collection of art from all over the world. The museum also has an interesting collection of natural history items, as well as a number of permanent exhibitions.

There are plenty of things to do in Hartford besides visit the Wadsworth Atheneum. The city is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Old State House and Roger Sherman Hall. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore, and parks for hiking and biking nearby.

The Connecticut Statehouse

The Connecticut Statehouse is a state capitol building located in Hartford, Connecticut. The structure was designed by New York architects Walter Burley Griffin and Howard Van Doren Shaw and built from 1929 to 1931. It is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the United States, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965.

The Capitol Complex includes the State House, the Senate Chamber and the House Chamber, as well as an Executive Wing, Administrative Offices and numerous secondary buildings. The complex has been expanded several times over the years, most recently in 1995 with construction of a new west wing. In addition to its architectural significance, the Statehouse is also home to various governmental agencies including the Governor’s Office, Lieutenant Governor’s Office, Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Correction and Department of Human Services.

Visitors can enter the Statehouse at any time during business hours; tours are available during regular business hours on weekdays and Saturdays. The Capitol Complex is open year-round for tours; admission prices vary according to season.

The Colt Armory

The Colt Armory is the largest and most complete collection of firearms in the world, and it’s well worth a visit. The museum occupies an entire block of historic buildings on Main Street in Hartford, and it’s open every day except Christmas Day. Admission is free, and there’s plenty to see inside the exhibits. You can explore the galleries dedicated to firearms development from early America to the present day, or take a guided tour that will give you an insider’s look at some of the museum’s most famous pieces. If you’re interested in history but don’t have time for a full tour, you can also view historical photographs and artifacts on loan from private collections around the world.

Groton Historical Society

The Groton Historical Society is a great place to learn about Hartford’s history. The museum has exhibits on the city’s maritime history, from its settlement in the early 1600s to its role in the War of 1812. There’s also a gallery devoted to local artists and their work. Outside, you can explore the gardens or take a stroll down Main Street.

The Morris Museum of Art

The Morris Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Hartford, Connecticut. The museum has a collection of over two million objects, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints and photographs. The museum was founded in 1895 and features works from the 12th century to the present day. Highlights of the museum’s collection include pieces by Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Da Vinci and Edward Munch. The Morris Museum is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Admission is free for all visitors.

The Old State House

The Old State House is a historic building located in Hartford, Connecticut. It is the oldest state house in the United States, and is also one of the most architecturally significant state houses in the country. The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965. The Old State House is open to the public for tours from Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Sundays. The cost of a tour of the building is $7 for adults, and $4 for children ages 6-12.

Hartford Zoo

The Hartford Zoo is a world-renowned zoological garden and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Connecticut. The zoo features over 2,000 animals from all over the world, making it a nature lover’s paradise. There are plenty of activities for children to enjoy, such as feeding time with the llamas, flying foxes and lions. Adults can explore the exhibits on their own or take a guided tour. The zoo is open 365 days a year and admission is free for Hartford residents and students with identification.