West Hartford, CT

For Nature Enthusiasts: West Hartford Reservoir

Love the great outdoors? West Hartford Reservoir is a true nature lover’s paradise. Spanning over 3,000 acres of forestland with five serene reservoirs and 30 miles of trails, this sprawling green space is perfect for hiking, biking, running, and relaxing—no matter the season.

Highlights:

• Over 30 miles of paved and gravel trails for hiking, biking, and running
• Five beautiful reservoirs surrounded by lush woodlands
• Picnic groves with wheelchair-accessible facilities
• Ideal spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter
• Peaceful, scenic setting just minutes from downtown West Hartford

Pro Tip:

Visit in the fall for peak foliage and crisp trail runs. Early mornings offer quieter trails and a better chance to spot local wildlife.

West Hartford Reservoir
West Hartford, Connecticut 06117
Phone: 860-278-7850

For Garden Lovers: Elizabeth Park

Looking for beauty, history, and a perfect picnic spot? Elizabeth Park delivers all that and more. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this world-renowned oasis spans over 100 acres of formal gardens, lush green space, and walking paths. It’s also home to the beloved Pond House Café—an ideal place to unwind with a meal.

Highlights:

• Stunning formal gardens, including one of the oldest rose gardens in the U.S.
• Walking loops, open lawns, and recreational areas
• Popular on-site dining at the scenic Pond House Café
• Events, garden tours, lectures, and seasonal workshops
• Occasional outdoor concerts in a serene park setting

Pro Tip:

Visit in late spring for peak rose garden blooms, and don’t miss brunch at the Pond House Café. Check the park calendar for free concerts and garden events.

Elizabeth Park
1561 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117
Phone: 860-231-9443

Attractions for Couples

For Theater Fans: Playhouse on Park

Love the stage? Playhouse on Park is West Hartford’s premier destination for live performances. Since opening in 2009, this intimate theater has wowed audiences with professional productions of plays, musicals, improv, and more. It’s a local treasure with national recognition—named Best Professional Theater in Connecticut by Broadway.com.

Highlights:

• Full calendar of plays, musicals, comedy nights, and improv shows
• Home to its own resident dance company
• Children’s theater, student showcases, and seasonal recitals
• Titles include The Revolutionists, Reel to Real, and Flatley Stanley
• Cozy venue with a passionate, community-driven atmosphere

Pro Tip:

Book tickets in advance—shows often sell out! Check their site for pay-what-you-can nights and other community-friendly ticket options.

Playhouse on Park
244 Park Road, West Hartford, Connecticut 06119
Phone: 860-523-5900

For Couples: Art Museum of the University of Saint Joseph

Appreciate the transformative power of art at the Art Museum of the University of Saint Joseph. Home to over 2,000 works and six stunning exhibition galleries, this vibrant campus museum is a must-visit for art lovers seeking inspiration, education, and beauty in West Hartford.

Highlights:

• More than 2,000 pieces in the permanent collection
• Six rotating exhibition galleries with regularly changing displays
• Interactive art programs and events open to the public
• Hands-on learning opportunities for university students
• One of Connecticut’s most dynamic campus art museums

Pro Tip:

Check the museum’s event calendar for talks, guided tours, and temporary exhibits. Admission is free—making this a hidden gem for culture on a budget.

Art Museum – University of Saint Joseph
1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117
Phone: 860-231-5399

For History Buffs: Noah Webster House

Step into the birthplace of American language at the Noah Webster House, the restored 18th-century childhood home of the man behind the first American dictionary. Now a museum and cultural center, this site celebrates Noah Webster’s legacy while deepening visitors’ understanding of literary and local history.

Highlights:

• Authentically preserved home with original 1700s furnishings
• Historic artifacts connected to Noah Webster and his era
• Special collections curated by the West Hartford Historical Society
• Four key exhibit areas: house, grounds, furnishings, and cultural archives
• Interactive programs, tours, and educational events year-round

Pro Tip:

Take the guided tour to get the full backstory on Webster’s life and linguistic legacy. Be sure to browse the gift shop for unique history-inspired finds.

Noah Webster House
227 South Main Street, West Hartford, Connecticut 06107
Phone: 860-521-5362

Recommended Activities for Families

For Kids: The Children’s Museum of Connecticut

Traveling with kids? Don’t miss a stop at The Children’s Museum of Connecticut in West Hartford. This dynamic museum is packed with hands-on exhibits, interactive labs, and mind-expanding experiences that spark creativity and foster lifelong learning through science, discovery, and fun.

Highlights:

• Interactive labs, workshops, and multi-sensory science exhibits
• Digital science dome and planetarium for immersive learning
• Live wildlife sanctuary featuring rescued animals
• Ideal for early learners through middle school-aged children
• STEM-focused programs that make science exciting and accessible

Pro Tip:

Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch a planetarium show. The museum shop also has fun and educational take-home kits for curious kids.

The Children’s Museum of Connecticut
180 Mohegan Dr, West Hartford, CT 06117
Phone: 860-231-2824

For sports fans: Chase Arena at Reich Family Pavilion

Love college hoops and big-time energy? Chase Arena at Reich Family Pavilion is the home court of the University of Hartford’s NCAA Division I basketball teams. Opened in 1990, this 3,507-seat venue is a top-tier facility in the America East Conference—and it’s hosted everything from sports clinics to concerts and presidential visits.

Highlights:

• Home to Hartford Hawks men’s and women’s basketball teams
• Five-time America East Champion women’s program
• 3,507-seat capacity with excellent sightlines and crowd energy
• Past events include Bob Dylan concert and a visit from President Obama
• Arena shop offers team gear and sports memorabilia

Pro Tip:

Check the game schedule online and grab tickets early—home games can fill up fast. Swing by the shop for Hartford Hawks swag to rep your visit in style.

Chase Arena at Reich Family Pavilion
80 Sunny Reach Drive, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117
Phone: 860-768-5047

For Foodies: Cora Cora Restaurant

Hungry for bold flavors and big portions? Cora Cora Restaurant in West Hartford is a celebration of Peruvian and Latin American cuisine—perfect for those with hearty appetites. Once a fast-food joint, this space is now a vibrant dining experience filled with Andean décor, rich flavors, and authentic culture.

Highlights:

• Specializes in Peruvian classics like arroz chaufa and ceviche de pescado
• Don’t miss the chupe de camarones or beef anticuchos
• Bright, colorful interior featuring Andean art and red brick accents
• Healthy, fresh ingredients prepared with bold South American flavors
• Popular with locals—come hungry and leave happy

Pro Tip:

Order family style to sample a wider range of dishes. The portions are generous, and the ceviche is a must-try for first-timers.

Cora Cora Restaurant
162 Shield Street, West Hartford, Connecticut 06110
Phone: 860-953-2672

For Italian food lovers: Treva

Craving authentic Italian with a seasonal twist? Treva Restaurant and Bar delivers a sophisticated dining experience inspired by the rich flavors of central and northern Italy. Located in the heart of West Hartford, Treva serves hand-crafted dishes made daily with the freshest local ingredients—plus Italian wines, bold cocktails, and rich espresso to top it all off.

Highlights:

• Seasonal menu inspired by Italy’s central and northern regions
• Fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared daily
• Warm, upscale atmosphere perfect for date nights or special occasions
• Full cocktail program and exceptional Italian coffee service
• Located in West Hartford Center, ideal for a night out on the town

Pro Tip:

Ask about the chef’s daily specials—they highlight the best seasonal ingredients. Finish your meal with an affogato or one of their house cocktails for the full Treva experience.

Treva Restaurant and Bar
980 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford, Connecticut 06107
Phone: 860-232-0407