Connecticut’s capital, historic Hartford has developed from a booming business centre to a cultural hotspot, and is an excellent choice for a lively city break. The city and the surrounding countryside offer a whole array of appealing accommodation options, including intimate B&Bs and grand city hotels fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Whilst some of the best places to stay in Hartford are right in the city centre, many of our top picks are tucked amidst striking rural surroundings, offering the ideal balance of blissful seclusion and easy access to the metropolis.

Museum-goers will find Hartford brimming with fascinating places to visit. Try the Wadsworth Atheneum, the Museum of Connecticut History, the Mark Twain House and Museum, or the Connecticut Science Centre, depending on your areas of interest. The State Capitol and the Old State House will appeal to lovers of heritage architecture, whilst the Children’s Museum is a fun place for families to explore. If you’re looking for a scenic stroll, head to Bushnell Park or the Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens. Hartford is also home to heaps of great cafés, bars and eateries, so do take the time to sip and savour some of the region’s best food and drink — and to catch some wonderful live events.

Beyond Hartford are fantastic state parks, great for hiking, rock-climbing, horse riding and wildlife-spotting. Penwood State Park, Talcott Mountain State Park and Wadsworth Falls State Park are easily accessible for visitors staying close to the city, and they make for spectacular days out. For boat trips and more cultural experiences, drive south to New Haven. Home to Yale University, this pretty spot is just 40 minutes away, and there’s stacks to see and do.

Often underrated due to its business and industry-focused past, Connecticut’s state capital has a lovely ability to charm and surprise visitors — and booking a room at one of the best places to stay in Hartford is a fabulous way to do just that!

The Best Places to Stay in Hartford

For a Stylish City Stay

• The Goodwin is a grand, red-brick property in the centre of Hartford. Perfect for a luxurious city break, the hotel features opulent rooms and suites fusing original period features with crisp, contemporary cool. The sophisticated bar and eatery are fantastic! A lavish city stay.
• Delamar West Hartford is a polished boutique pick, ideal for well-heeled travellers looking to explore the city. Highlights include the superb spa treatments, the buzzing bar and eatery, and the elegant, understated interiors. For families or romantic couples.

For Romance

• Silas W Robbins House is an exquisite, five-bedroom hideaway in Old Wethersfield, just minutes from Hartford's many attractions. Stay here for the intimate feel, the opulent period interiors of the Second French Empire mansion and the beautifully manicured grounds. A romantic journey to a bygone era.

For Families or Groups

• Simsbury 1820 House promises a classic New England escape, with 32 rooms and suites in a restored nineteenth-century home. Pick this place for its characterful interiors, family-friendly feel and appealing Farmington Valley setting. Great for active guests of all ages, and set close to two state parks.
• Green Acres B&B is an eighteenth-century farmhouse with just three rooms in a lovely rural setting. Families can connect two of the rooms, and kids will adore the swimming pool, gardens and resident chickens. Also dog-friendly. Rural bliss with friendly owner-managers and delicious breakfasts.
• The Simsbury Inn is a family-friendly resort with an indoor pool, fitness centre and generous continental breakfasts. Great for business or leisure travellers, the hotel is within easy reach of golf and tennis facilities, as well as picturesque state parks. Fun for families, and also pet-friendly.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Hartford Airport, or travel to New York or Boston, and take the train to Hartford from there.
• Connecticut is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in New Haven.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Connecticut.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.