As most of Hartford’s cultural highlights are Downtown, including the State Capitol, Bushnell Park, and the Wadsworth Atheneum, it’s the best place for keen tourists to stay. Downtown is also ideal for night owls who want to drink, dance, sing, and watch live evening entertainment, and foodies who want to sample Connecticut’s most enviable dishes.
Swap the swish Downtown hotels for quaint b&bs in East Hartford, located on the east banks of the Connecticut River. Although the city is much quieter and more residential than Hartford itself, it boasts an enviable selection of cool shops, restaurants, and bars. East Hartford also has its fair share of parks and museums.
West Hartford offers a beautiful balance between the bustle of Downtown Hartford and the relaxed atmosphere of East Hartford. While much of the city is leafy and residential, head Downtown to Blue Back Square, the commercial centre, for shopping, dining, and nightlife that’s on par with Downtown Hartford itself.
While Downtown Hartford is very walkable, it’s necessary to take a bus to travel between Hartford and neighbouring cities West and East Hartford.
