Although it is the state's second largest city, Hartford is the prominent capital of the U.S. state of Connecticut. Positioned on the banks of the Connecticut River, Hartford is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is home to the oldest public art museum, the oldest public park and the oldest continuously published newspaper.
Hartford celebrates a vibrant arts scene, with an ethnic and cultural diversity. It is the state's hub of economic and social activity, which is evident through its many attractions, and diversely historic neighbourhoods.
A melting pot of the world is reflected in the restaurants, businesses, districts and entertainment. Some say that it is "New England's Rising Star"; most likely due to it rich blend of history, culture and architectural gems. It is a city with so much to see and do that you really need to set aside at least a week for full exploration. Hiring a rental vehicle will allow you to discover the best highlights of the city with ease and without the hassles of public transport and cab fares. Here are just a few destinations and activities that you should add to your itinerary while visiting Hartford:
1. Wadsworth Athenaeum
As the nation's first public museum, the Wadsworth Athenaeum is a must-see while in Hartford. The institution features a collection of American and European paintings, sculpture and decorative arts. This museum is the first choice for culturally stimulating art, education and entertainment, making for a brilliant day out that the whole family can enjoy.
The museum is located in the heart of downtown Hartford, making it extremely easy to access in your rental car. A visit here is the perfect way to learn about Hartford's history, as the amazing breadth and depth of collections leave no piece of history undiscovered.
2. Mark Twain House and Museum
Ever wanted to see the home of the man who wrote more then 30 classic novels which made him the quintessential American author? Well you will have your chance while in Hartford as this is the original home of Mark twain. The house is an inspired and sophisticated expression of modernity and is appreciated as a landmark of modern American art in the fullest sense.
The house is positioned right near the Mark Twain Museum, where you will find the richest possible treasures of Twain's triumphs and tragedies, contemporaries and the Gilded Age. A visit here will paint a portrait of American history and contemporary life and will allow you to gain a strong appreciation of Twain's life.
3. Children's Museum
For fun, entertainment and education all packed in one, you simply cannot go past the Children's Museum in Hartford. This museum is home to entertaining and educational exhibitions that will keep the whole family amused. The institution features a planetarium and a wildlife sanctuary that is home to 30 animals, including a mountain lion, a chinchilla and a bobcat.
The Children's Museum is full of rich learning experiences in science and nature and the exhibitions will capture imaginations and allow visitors to develop a curiosity of what the natural world has to offer.
4. Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens
The world-famous rose gardens of Elizabeth Park will simply take your breath away. As the oldest municipally opened rose garden in the country, this 2.3 acres garden has thrived with other 300 different varieties of roses, amounting to over 15,000 plants. Discover the many different colours that capture the eye's attention as you wander along the landscaped pathways and breathe in the wonderful scents.
Take a look at the greenhouses in the park, which are home to the 100-year old Lord and Burnham structures. Other gardens in the park include the Annuals Garden, Herb Garden, Perennial Garden and the Rock Garden. All of these are worth at least a look and are guaranteed to take your breath away!
Hartford offers so much that the only difficulty you will have here is finding enough time to see and do it all!
Christine Barton
