There’s plenty to do at UHart throughout Hawktober Reunion and Family Weekend, but if you feel like exploring beyond campus, check out our recommendations below!
Area Recommendations
Attractions
Connecticut Science Center
You do not have to be a scientist – or a child – to enjoy the Connecticut Science Center. They open the doors of science to every visitor in an approachable, accessible way. Learn more
Wadsworth Atheneum
America’s oldest continuously operating public art museum is in Hartford! Entry is $15 for adults and $5 for students, but if you arrive from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday – Sunday, entry is free! The Wadsworth is just over 3 miles from campus and is located at 600 Main Street in Hartford. Learn more.
Bars & Restaurants
Black Eyed Sally’s
Known for their award-winning BBQ and Cajun style, with plenty of live music offerings to keep you entertained all evening. Black Eyed Sally’s is less than three miles from campus and is located at 350 Asylum Street in Hartford. Learn more.
City Steam Brewery Café
A family-friendly dinner spot with a pool hall and brewery for added fun! Enjoy a craft beer and American eats and if you're up for some laughs, be sure to check out the comedy club Brew Ha Ha in the basement. City Steam is three miles from campus and is located at 942 Main Street in Hartford. Learn more.
Bear’s Smokehouse
Delicious Kansas City BBQ served cafeteria-style. Located four miles from campus at 25 Front Street in Hartford, Bear’s Smokehouse has mouthwatering options ranging from brisket to pulled pork to kielbasa. Don't forget to try the mac and cheese! Learn more.
Parkville Market
Dine, shop and experience the best the area has to offer from our vendors. Parkville Market is conveniently located within a mile of the I-84 Sisson Ave, Sigourney Street, and Park Road exits. Learn more
Be sure to also check out Blue Back Square, West Hartford Center, and hartford.com to see full lists of restaurants and night life—you can even sort by type of cuisine or restaurant style!
Shopping
Bishop’s Corner
From staples like Target, Whole Foods, and Homegoods to more niche offerings like The Paper Store and The Yoga Shop, Bishop’s Corner has a great variety of offerings and is only about two miles from campus. Bishop’s Corner is located at 333 N Main Street in West Hartford and has plenty of free parking.
Blue Back Square
For even more shopping options, check out Blue Back Square Road in West Hartford. Located about four miles from campus, this shopping and dining center boasts dozens of stores ranging from home goods to health and beauty to technology and gaming. Blue Back Square is located at 65 Memorial Road in West Hartford and offers paid parking in garages. Learn more.
Looking for more options? Visit hartford.com for their shopping and services recommendations!
Outdoors
Elizabeth Park
Just two miles from campus you can discover the beauty of Elizabeth Park. This park boasts beautiful gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas and is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Elizabeth Park is located at 1561 Asylum Avenue in West Hartford and is free to enter. Learn more.
Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk
Take a scenic walk along the Connecticut River and take in 16 pieces of original artwork honoring the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. Learn more.
There’s plenty more to do in the great outdoors in greater Hartford! Check out hartford.com for a more outdoor recommendations.
Hotels & Accommodations
We are proud to partner with a number of local hotels to offer you discounted rates while you visit the University of Hartford. You may view a variety of lodging options and make your reservations online. For additional informational purposes, the comprehensive list of rates displayed for each property will show other available rate types as well.
All hotel rates are based on availability, which may change from day to day due to new reservations and cancellations. This listing is offered as a convenience, and is not an endorsement by the University of Hartford. Arrangements are between guests and the individual property.