Franklin Check & Cash

Swing into one of Hartford's signature yearly events when you make plans to follow the Travelers Championship, held every June. This is the northeast's stop on the PGA tour and features some of the best golfers in the world as well as the Celebrity Pro-Am and a family-friendly Fan Zone. Everything tees off at TPC River Highlands, which is 6,844 yards of exceptional golf for a par 70 course located in Cromwell, just 10 miles south of Hartford. Fans and followers of the game know how challenging this course is, as it features a challenging mix of long and short holes.

Even if you've read Huckleberry Finn or Tom Sawyer several times, you still may not really know much about the man who created these timeless works of American literature. A visit to Hartford's Mark Twain House & Museum will change all that in a truly dramatic fashion. The historic home has been meticulously preserved and treats visitors to the sight of various personal items that belonged to Twain, who made his home here before and after he met with his staggering success. Among the most striking pieces at this house museum are his writing desk, eyeglasses and other personal curiosities, and various first editions of his most famous books.

When Hartford has the blues, it heads to Black-Eyed Sally's. Consistently voted best in the city not only for it's incredibly spicy ribs, barbecue and other favorites, but also for the scorching live blues music that is always on the menu, too. A steady roster of local and regional musicians participate in various solo and group performances that sometimes turn into some smokin' blues jams. If you like bland and predictable, the spicy fare at Black-Eyed Sally's most definitely isn't for you.

When the warmer weather comes to Hartford, it is definitely time to take the plunge and keep cool by planning a day of fun when you experience Farmington River Tubing. Your wet and wild adventure begins at the State Recreation area and winds down the Farmington River. You can rent your tube and get ready for a great day outdoors in the sun. But you may want to bring a big hat, sunglasses and plenty of sun block!