Town in Connecticut, United States
Photo: Ragesoss, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
West Hartford is a town in Connecticut.
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The former science center of Connecticut in West Hartford has hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and mini zoo designed for grades k-6. Founded in 1927, the museum has a mission to inspire and educate children aged twelve and under. Their saying is: “Igniting Curiosity Through Science and Nature.” The Children’s Museum is the largest in the state and one of the nation's oldest. The Children’s Museum also houses Connecticut’s largest space theater, the Gengras Planetarium. One of the most popular exhibits includes a wildlife sanctuary that supports a habitat of over seventy exotic animals from around the world. In 2007, the Children’s Museum served more than 200,000 students, families, and groups through its exhibits, programs and activities.
Noah Webster is best remembered for being the author of the Webster American Dictionary. He is also the author of another famous book, the Blue Back Speller for which the West Hartford town center is now named after. Together with the West Hartford Historical Society and the Noah Webster house, visitors can explore and discover a man’s vision and his impact on American culture. The museum also has exhibits on the town's later history, including textiles and 19th century pottery.
Has been a unique way to raise money for various charities in West Hartford has added character throughout the town. It’s hard not to notice the five-foot cows that are placed randomly in front of homes and businesses in West Hartford. Over fifty cows were created by artists statewide benefiting Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, Make- A-Wish of Connecticut and the West Hartford Library Foundation, along with dozens of other local non-profit organizations.
Has events running all year. The orchestra is made up of talented people of all ages, from all walks of life, all bound together by a common devotion to the art of music. Most WHSO events take place at the West Hartford Meeting and Conference Center located in West Hartford’s Town Hall.
This theater brings style and elegance back to the movie going experience.
A nature lover’s dream with thousands of acres of beautiful forestland with more than 30 miles of paved roads for joggers and bicyclists. There are also different levels of hiking trails. Seasonal activities include accessible picnic groves, cross-country skiing and snow shoeing.
Beautiful and large park in the west end equipped with gardens, gazebos, a restaurant and trails. The rose garden is also not to be missed.
A variety of plays throughout the year. Since its opening in 2001 it has earned the title of Best Community Theater for three consecutive years.
Demonstration farm, discovery room with snakes and lizards, gardens, nature trails, and two ponds. No dogs.
This spot has the feeling of a corner cafe with a menu of an upscale American restaurant.
A family owned neighborhood pizza restaurant and a West Harford favorite.
Features modern renditions of classic American seafood. Max’s Oyster Bar has received numerous awards such as Reader’s Choice Awards, including “Best Seafood Restaurant” in 2003 and 2005. Zagat’s Survey has also given the place an “extraordinary” rating of 26.
Set on the grounds of Elizabeth Park in West Hartford, this cafe has creative cuisine that focuses on fresh and organic ingredients for seasonal favorites—with a twist.
Popular breakfast spot.
Serves Mediterranean cuisine in a casual, comfortable setting. The menu offers a variety of Greek, Israeli, Spanish, French and Middle Eastern dishes. Tapas is consistently recognized as one of central Connecticut's best Greek restaurants and as a vegetarian-friendly dining option
An award-winning Spanish tapas restaurant.
Has the feel of a classic English pub with a pug theme.
This hotel offers a quiet and relaxing place to stay. The West Hartford Inn is within walking distance from the vibrant and trendy downtown area that includes Blue Back Square. The hotel is also in close proximity to well known historical sites such as the Noah Webster House, the Old State House and the oldest museum in the country, the Wadsworth Athneneum. For the guests' convenience there is free enclosed parking. A complimentary continental breakfast of hot beverages, juice, and pastries are also included in the stay at the West Hartford Inn.
1500 New Britain Ave
Westfarms Mall includes New England's first Nordstrom department store. Westfarms Mall also features 160 fine shops and services including JCPenny and two Macy's stores.
One of the latest shopping plazas to show up in West Hartford. Blueback offers a variety of shops, such as Barnes & Noble, Crate and Barrel, and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse. It also has a Cinépolis theater with waiter service, and Muse Paintbar, with scheduled public painting events, wine, and flatbread pizza. The plaza was named after the Blueback Speller, by Noah Webster, who was once a West Hartford Resident.
Bradley International Airport is located in nearby Windsor Locks. This airport is less than a half hour away from West Hartford.
Read in the guideUnfortunately, due to the lack of public transportation in West Hartford the easiest way to get around is with a car.
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