5 Things to Do in Hartford, CT

There are Plenty of Safe Activities to Do in Hartford

Being in one of the oldest cities in the United States means there are plenty of sights to check out if you’re looking for a fun experience in Connecticut. Hartford has a rich history and plenty to offer when it comes to sightseeing.

If you’re looking into places to check out and activities to do in Hartford, CT in 2021, then here’s a short guide for you.

The Birthplace of an American Classic

Established in 1895 and currently run by their family’s 4th generation, Louis’ Lunch is recognized by the Liberty of Congress as the Birthplace of the Hamburger Sandwich and is a must-try for any culinary pilgrim.

They reopened their doors for dine-in and takeout, constantly ensuring their customers that they have everything in place to keep them and their staff safe with updated operating hours and regular sanitizing of their store surfaces.

Visit Some of the Oldest Museums in America

American humorist and Hartford-resident Mark Twain once said “Of all the beautiful towns it has been my fortune to see, this is the chief… You do not know what beauty is if you have not been here.” The Mark Twain House and Museum is currently only doing virtual tours because of the ongoing pandemic. But there’s still plenty of heritage and culture to explore in New England’s Rising Star.

Founded in 1842, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art infuses art into the American experience and has a collection of nearly 50,000 pieces consisting of Greek and Roman antiquities, European decorative arts, and so much more. It is the oldest museum in the United States still operating.

The museum works at a limited capacity with timed entry to give them the chance to practice enhanced cleaning and contact tracing protocols. Tickets are available on their website.

Community and Coffee

Story and Soil Coffee offers a menu of espresso beverages and light food. But what makes this small multi-roaster shop in the Frog Hollow neighborhood special is their warm and welcoming atmosphere, putting a focus on the locals and the people who make the amazing city what it is and making everyone feel invited and comfortable.

Outdoor seating is available, and they are currently allowing a maximum of three customers inside the shop. Curbside pickup is provided.

Stroll Through Elizabeth Park

Landscaped at the turn of the 20th century, Elizabeth Park’s 102 acres contain open green spaces, elegant formal gardens, ponds, bridges, and distinctive greenhouses that just about anyone can enjoy. The park is on the National Register of Historic Places, which is a huge honor for their conservancy, the park, and the whole city of Hartford.

The park is open for free to the public. However, only a limited number of visitors is permitted to enter. Social distancing should be practiced at all times.

Have a Relaxing Time at Bushnell Park

One of the oldest parks in the country, Bushnell Park was conceived in 1854 and also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll find 37 acres of sculpture, trails, and areas where children can play, as well as monuments. Also, inside Horace Bushnell Memorial Hall, you’ll find a 187-by-40-foot oil painting, which is the largest hand-painted ceiling mural of its type in the United States.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, their foundation has been working hard to reschedule their annual events, and many of their attractions are closed to the public including the carousel. Although, the playground is open for access.

Whenever you find yourself in Hartford, Connecticut, be sure to have reliable transportation ready. It’s best to ensure that you have accessible transportation for everyone wanting to enjoy the trip around Hartford.

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5 Things to Do in Hartford, CT