As one of the oldest cities in the nation, Hartford is full of history and exciting possibilities. The capitol city is home to museums, historic sites and the arts. As one of Connecticut’s larger cities, Hartford is still small enough to enjoy a mix of historic buildings and more modern delights. With a diverse mix of housing from single-family starter homes to high-rise downtown condos, Hartford is a good option for those interested in short-term rental investments.
If you’re thinking about Hartford as a potential destination for your Airbnb investment, check out some of the best things for your guests to see, do and experience in the city:
Major Events
Host to hundreds of events each and every year, Hartford is especially popular during the summer months when a large number of visitors come to city’s riverfront. Some of the larger annual events include a food truck festival, summer concerts and the Hartford’s Holiday Light Fantasia at Goodwin Park. The city also hosts jazz festivals and other events throughout the year.
Tourist Attractions
From the historic homes of literary giants to arts and science, there is plenty to entertain visitors in Hartford. The city has a rich history ready to be explored, but it also has some newer and more modern additions. From exploring the beauty of nature to strolling by National Historic Landmarks, there’s plenty for visitors to do and see in Hartford.
Museum of Connecticut History: Step back in history, as the Museum of Connecticut History tells the story of the state’s government, industry and military history. The museum features a number of exhibits and collections for visitors to enjoy.
Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: Five thousand years’ worth of artwork can be found at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. It is the nation’s oldest continuously operating museum of its kind and has been welcoming in visitors since the mid 1800s.
Mark Twain House & Museum: Fans of Mark Twain will surely enjoy a visit to the restored Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford. It’s said the author wrote The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn in the home. The National Historic Landmark also once served as a school, an apartment building and even a public library.
Connecticut Science Center: Full of interactive exhibits and displays, the Connecticut Science Center sits right alongside the Connecticut River in Downtown Hartford. First opened about a decade ago, the nine-story science center also boasts its own science theater.
Elizabeth Park Rose Garden: It was the first municipal rose garden in the country, and to this day remains one of the largest gardens of its kind. The Elizabeth Park Rose Garden is home to thousands of plants and hundreds of varieties of roses. The best time of year to visit the garden for its blooms is June or July. The park is one of the state’s most photographed places.
Dining Scene
From the more traditional to some truly innovative dishes, the dining scene in Hartford is unique. You’ll find plenty of family-owned dining spots in the city, from fine Italian cuisine to rustic breweries to downtown restaurants that cater to the city’s large number of professionals. Whether in search of an oyster bar, a cozy café or a rooftop patio with views, your guests will find it waiting in Hartford.
Professional Sports
There are no major professional sports team in Hartford, however the city is home to the Hartford Wolfpack, an affiliate of the New York Rangers in the American Hockey League. The Hartford Yard Goats are the Colorado Rockies’ Double-A minor Eastern League Affiliate. They play in the almost new Dunkin’ Donuts baseball park. The local soccer team is Hartford Athletic of the USL.
- XL Center – 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103
- Dunkin’ Donuts Park – 1214 Main Street, Hartford, CT 06123
- Dillon Stadium – 250 Huyshope Ave Hartford, CT 06106
