A Guide to Public Parks in Hartford, Connecticut

Hartford, Connecticut is a bustling city located midway between Boston, Massachusetts and New York City. The "Insurance Capital of the World", as Hartford, Ct is widely- known, is a hub of business and financial activity, especially on weekdays. When local residents and workers need a respite from the harried schedules of modern- day life, they often visit some of the wonderful public parks that are located in Hartford, Connecticut. Presented here, is a guide which briefly profiles many of the larger public parks in Hartford, Connecticut.

A) Bushnell Park..Trinity St, Hartford, Ct
The 'crown jewel' of Hartford, Connecticut's public parks system, Bushnell Park is located in the center of the city's downtown district. Divided into two large sections, which are bisected by an access road, this public park is a favorite spot for downtown office workers to enjoy their lunch. Many food- trucks and hot dog carts line one side of this park on weekdays and during special events. Over 125 varieties of trees line this large expanse of land, which, along with lush greenery, attract many species of wild birds.

The State Of Connecticut Capitol Building, with its resplendent golden dome, is located on the grounds of Bushnell Park, in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. Several historical statues and fountains, along with a working carousel, or merry- go-round, are also situated on the premises of this public park. A pavillion, or shelter area, where musical performances are often staged, is frequently utilized by local groups and organizations, who regularly hold events of all types there. A small pond and playground area are featured, as are open expanses of land suitable for many types of sports and recreational activities. A seasonal restaurant and art gallery, with sporadic hours of operation, are also located on the grounds of this public park.

B) Colt Park..Wethersfield Avenue, Hartford, Ct
This public park is named for Samuel Colt, inventor of the Colt 45 firearm, who was a long-time resident of Hartford, Connecticut. Located just south of the downtown area, this park features recreation areas designed for several types of sporting activities. Baseball, basketball,hiking, rugby, running and swimming facilities are offered, as are ice- skating facilities during the winter months.

C) Elizabeth Park..Asylum Ave, Hartford, Ct
This lovely, scenic public park, is known worldwide for its dazzling displays of rose gardens. Half of this park is located in Hartford, while the other half is situated in neighboring West Hartford, Connecticut. Over 900 varieties of roses are grown here, with 14,000 rose bushes on display during the warm- weather months. Several working greenhouses are points of interest here, as are a pond, picnic area, interesting walking paths and many recreational facilities.

Baseball fields, basketball courts, playgrounds, tennis courts and lawn- bowling areas are all located on the grounds of this public park in Hartford, Connecticut. During the winter months, Elizabeth Park is a favorite ice- skating spot for many local residents. Winding roads, which traverse the park, are open to vehicles and pedestrians alike. Also located on the grounds of this public park, is a privately- owned upscale restaurant.

D) Goodwin Park..Maple Ave, Hartford, Ct
One of Hartford, Ct's larger public parks, Goodwin Park is located in the southern end of the city, near the Wethersfield, Ct town line. Featuring a host of amenities, this park offers 27 holes of golf, plus a driving range, tennis courts, fitness trails and children's play areas. Baseball and soccer fields, basketball courts, a swimming pool and volleyball and paddle- tennis courts are widely- utilized by Hartford, Ct area residents, of all ages. Food- items are also available at this public park.

E) Hyland Park..Summit Terrace, Hartford, Ct
At this public park, located near Trinity College, lush, green fields are available for recreational pursuits such as baseball, soccer and running. Basketball courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, a pond house and spray pool are also featured here.

F) Keney Park..Tower Ave, Hartford, Ct
Located in the northern end of the city, Keney Park is a large, scenic oasis, filled with greenery, towering trees and a host of recreational facilities. An excellent, well- groomed golf course and a cricket field are very popular attractions with many local residents. Additionally, baseball and soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, swimming and picnic areas are featured here. Food- items are also available at this public park.

G) Pope Park..Park St, Hartford, Ct
Also divided into two sections separated by an access road, this public park in Hartford, Ct offers recreational and sporting facilities such as; baseball and soccer fields, basketball courts and playgrounds. An indoor recreation center, picnic areas and indoor and outdoor swimming pools are also featured here.

H) Riverside Park..1 Hartford Square West, Hartford, Ct
The North Meadows section of the city is where this public park is located, right on the banks of the Connecticut River. Spacious grounds, filled with many magnificent trees, provide an abundance of places for local residents and tourists to relax and enjoy the wonderful views afforded by this location. Large fields, suitable for sports activities, a large, gazebo- like pavillion, or shelter area, playgrounds and picnic areas are offered at this public park in Hartford, Connecticut.

All Hartford, Connecticut Public Parks are open year 'round, from dawn to dusk.