Lord Edwards Grooming Room

Lovers of the outdoors and nature can be any age, so introduce your kids to some of the world's most interesting natural wonders when you bring them to the Commerford Zoo. This is a fun, friendly and highly educational place to bring the whole family. In addition to rides, games and more, there's also a great opportunity to interact with the many exotic animals that make their home here. The petting zoo experience is highlighted by other kid-friendly fare like face painting, kiddie and animal rides and a fun souvenir shop.

Taking the plunge into the aquatic world is something that never ceases to amaze. The startling array of creatures are both wondrous and too numerous to mention. Get closer to that world when you spend some time at the Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration. There is much to marvel at when you make your way through the exhibit gallery, but perhaps the biggest highlight is the stunning reef that features 30,000 corals, sharks, and stingrays. Of course, be prepared to be captivated by the many colorful species of fish. You can get a more in-depth look at the various underwater life forms when you visit the Institute for Exploration. There's also a daily dolphin show, an outdoor Beluga exhibit and many other attractions.

Meet your friends tonight at Arch Street Tavern for an experience that can only be termed as classically modern. The nightlife venue's dark atmosphere and vintage layout are offset by the friendly faces and excellent service. Whether you order a sandwich, a burger or an appetizer off of the menu or just prefer to enjoy one of the many beers or specialty drinks from the bar, once you and your friends get together at Arch Street Tavern, you'll quickly become a part of the bar's legion of devoted patrons.

The first thing that will strike you about the Old State House is its impressive architecture and colonial design. That regal air remains when you step inside, and a wealth of historical information awaits you when you take one of the popular tours of the building. This is where the Amistad Trials took place, and the building itself holds a bit of an unsettling history as it is situated on the site of the country's first witch hanging. Learn more about that and many other interesting and pivotal events from your tour guide as well as from the many exhibits and multimedia presentations that dramatically convey some of Hartford's most significant historical events.