Top Places to Visit in Hartford

When one thinks of Hartford Connecticut, one thinks of banks, insurance companies and suburbs of New York.
While that is true, there is much, much more to see in this charming and fabulous city.
Time and space do not allow a listing of them all, but spending a day or a week here is a enjoyable experience.
- Mark Twain House and Museum - Wadsworth Athenaeum - Harriett Beecher Stowe Center - Connecticut Historical Society and Museum - Butler - McCook House - Connecticut Science Center - Connecticut State Capitol

1. Samuel Clements and his wife "Livy" moved into the Mark Twain House, September 19, 1874.
   One will reveal one of the unique and unusual houses that one can experience anywhere.
   Financial problems forced Clements to go to Europe in later life, but Hartford always remained "home.
   "
2. The Wadsworth Athenaeum opened in 1842 and contains over 50,000 works of art, spanning over 5,000 years.
   It is the oldest public art museum in the US, made up of five connected buildings.
   
3. The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, the home of the author of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," and many other notable books, Harriet Beecher Stowe, is a beautiful Victorian house.
   The house, fully restored, contains furniture and artifacts from this acclaimed author's life.
   The center contains Harriett's house, the Katherine Seymour Day house, a beautiful garden and a excellent museum shop.
   
4. The Connecticut Historical Society and Museum founded in 1825, contains exhibits, books and artifacts from Connecticut's colorful history.
   The museum is located in the Curtis Veeder house, and the living room, now fully restored, exhibits furniture and artifacts from his life.
   
5. The Butler - McCook House, built in 1782 is the oldest standing house in Hartford.
   Occupied by the Butler, McCook families for over two centuries then turned into a museum and garden when the last of the families moved in 1971.
   The house is filled with furniture and memorabilia from their lives, and the garden is a oasis in this bustling city.
   
6. The Connecticut Science Center is a children's paradise! There are so many "hands - on" exhibits and things to do that the children will need to spend the day.
   The center has a terrific café, so it is possible to enjoy all of the exhibits, have lunch and pay a visit to the gift shop before leaving.
   
7. The Connecticut State Capitol built in 1879, houses the State Senate, State House, Governor's Office and the Secretary of State's office.
   The building and grounds offer one the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful capitol buildings and a walk in the park is a beautiful, peaceful experience.
   

As always, there is not enough room in this type article to cover all of the incredible things one can see and do in this marvelous city.
An old city that is well worth the visit.