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Hartford
Literary heritage and beautiful flowers thrive in New England
Visit the New England spot where two of America’s most famous authors penned their masterpieces. And while you’re there, enjoy great music, art, theater and an enviable locale that combines creativity with outdoor fun.
Turn a Leaf or Two
Hartford is a state capital that enjoys a literary twist. Author Mark Twain’s historical home offers guided tours, including a peek at the billiard room where historians say Twain wrote “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.” Nearby is a modern-day tour experience at The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, named after the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”
In addition to being the home of two American literary giants, Hartford is also considered a great destination for art, music and theater enthusiasts. It’s also the place for a futuristic look at science, thanks to the Connecticut Science Center, a whirlwind of interactive exhibits featuring a host of experiments visitors can try on the spot.
Take Time to Smell the Roses
Literally. Hartford’s Elizabeth Park encompasses 102 acres that are widely appreciated for 15,000 incomparable rose bushes. The gardens, lawns, pathways, pond and recreation areas have earned it the moniker, “Flower of New England Parks.” The park frequently hosts special events that include live music, garden tours and the annual Rose Show.
For a single dollar, you can ride back in time. Hartford’s Bushnell Park is home to a carousel dating back to 1914. Replete with 48 meticulously crafted horses; the carousel is the showpiece of this public space, which also offers its visitors rides in a pair of romantic carriages, serenaded by music from a Wurlitzer band organ.
A Brew and Bach
A 23-barrel brewery—along with the sights and sounds of antique steam whistles—is what you’ll find in downtown Hartford at the City Steam Brewery. Housed in a circa 1877 building, it is the former home of Connecticut’s largest department store. Today, original cast-iron railings and millwork salvaged from the store give patrons a hint of its glorious past. Nearby are the Hartford Stage, Wadsworth Atheneum and the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, offering art exhibits, theater, concerts and more.
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star…
Stargazers can look to the skies through one of the largest public telescopes in the United States at the Copernican Observatory & Planetarium in suburban Hartford. Located on the grounds of Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, the observatory and planetarium hold monthly star events free to the public.
For a swinging time during the day, visit the Go Ape Treetop Adventure at A.W. Stanley Park in New Britain. This outdoor adventure course features zip lining, Tarzan-like swings and obstacles in the trees. A portion of the ticket price goes to parks and programs in local communities.
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Hartford Has It
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