Amid the day to day hustle and bustle of the city, escaping to a natural haven isn't as difficult as you would think thanks to Hartford's Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens. Your senses will be stirred in this beautiful natural setting that features amazing views of meadows, fields and water. And of course, the roses of the park's namesake are the main attraction. A half-acre garden of rose bushes has attracted international attention, and once you see it, it's easy to see why. There are also several greenhouses, a picnic grove and recreational areas.
Connecticut Whale (formerly the Hartford Wolf Pack) is a professional hockey team based in Hartford. The sports team plays in the American Hockey League and play their home games in the XL Center. The Whale are the top affiliate of the National Hockey League's New York Rangers.
Entertaining the kids is always a challenge. It becomes less of a chore when you take them to visit the Children's Museum. This impressive facility seamlessly melds education and entertainment to offer visitors a chance to have fun while they learn. Among the many highlights and attractions are a planetarium and a wildlife sanctuary that features over 30 animals. Star Station One is another popular exhibit, as it dramatically recreates the experience of outer space, complete with an amazing replica of the International Space Station.
The kids will love exploring the world of art that is presented at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. Multimedia pieces, paintings and various collections feature the best of European art as well as several visually challenging works that range from the modern to the impressionistic. In addition to the many exhibits and attractions throughout the various galleries, the museum features an impressive schedule of events that include poetry readings, musical performances and much more.