Shining bright as the capital of Connecticut, Hartford is a historic relic of American moments known for its Mark Twain House, old colonial architecture, and urban gardens that wake the city up in springtime. Keep up with all the fun by making sure you’ve got a lift to enjoy it, whether that means sticking close to the walls of Bradley International via the neighboring Ella Grasso Turnpike, home to a variety of popular business stays that offer shuttles, or booking a private lift sure to fit everyone, choosing between roomy chartered buses and smooth-riding sedans. Utilize the Hartford Line commuter rail to get around the north side of town as well, the closest stop being at Hartford Union Station. Downtown travelers should also keep in mind that many central hotels provide free area shuttles as well as concierge services perfect for getting in and out with a taxi.
Keep the day good by making sure you set some time aside for the breaks, whether that means taking a walk away from the Connecticut Convention Center or checking out the views from waterside parks along the Connecticut River. One of the most popular is Charter Oak Landing, home to a North entrance of the Riverwalk, which you can use to follow other inner city hotspots ranging from the diverse works at Sculpture Walk to scenic look outs at Founders Bridge. Enjoy the 18th-century surroundings of old downtown afterward, starting with a tour through Connecticut’s Old State House and ending the afternoon at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, which focuses all its Main Street energies into the masterworks of the 19th and 20th century. Grab a bite somewhere special when the night winds down, going fine dining with capital eats at ON20, or going classic Hartford with the iconic BBQ at Bear’s Smokehouse.