Downtown Hartford Travel Guide
Hartford
Visit Downtown Hartford
Popular places to visit
Connecticut Science Center
Leave your textbooks at home and learn about science by playing, exploring and inventing your way through this interactive science center in Hartford.
Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
While seeing a play or concert in Hartford’s historic venue, look up to admire one of the largest ceiling murals in the United States.
Bushnell Park
Relax near the pond or take a ride on the antique carousel at one of America’s oldest publicly funded parks, located in the heart of Hartford.
Connecticut State Capital
After visiting Connecticut State Capital, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Hartford. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.
Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
You can browse the exhibits at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Hartford. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music.
Mark Twain House & Museum
Walk in Mark Twain’s footsteps at the author’s beloved Hartford home. The museum next door will complete your Twain education.
Things to do
Top hotels in Downtown Hartford
The Capitol Hotel
My son and I stayed here to be near the convention center which was a very convenient 6 minute drive. The hotel had a secure parking garage for just $15 per night which was great. The room had just enough space with all the amenities you need: microwave, fridge, hair dryer, iron, etc. There were ...
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
Staff was helpful and courteous.
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
The Goodwin Hotel
The location of the hotel was extremely convenient. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The room was clean and attractive. The continental breakfast was good. I was disappointed with the pillows and the mattress. There were no pillows firm enough for side sleeping. I had to use a bath ...
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Candlewood Suites Hartford Downtown by IHG
The room was clean, well equipped and comfortable. We reported a slow bathroom sink drain and an outlet next to the bed that didn't work.
Reviewed on 14 Jan 2026
Marriott Hartford Downtown
Room was clean and ready; staff were all courteous and helpful. Coffee bar, pub-bar, and breakfast restaurant all under one roof.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Residence Inn by Marriott Hartford Downtown
Size of room was perfect. Staff was very nice.
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Hartford
Clay-Arsenal
Clay-Arsenal might not have many top sights, but Dunkin' Donuts Park and Xfinity Theatre are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Sheldon-Charter Oak
While visiting Sheldon-Charter Oak, you might make a stop by sights like Connecticut River and Charter Oak Tree Memorial.
South Green
While there might not be top attractions in South Green, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts and Hartford City Hall.
Sigourney Square Historic District
Though Sigourney Square Historic District may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Harriet Beecher Stowe Center and Mark Twain House & Museum.
Asylum Hill
You'll enjoy the museums and churches in Asylum Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Harriet Beecher Stowe Center or Mark Twain House & Museum.
Frog Hollow
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Frog Hollow and surrounding area, you can visit Connecticut State Capital and Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts.
