Saint Clements Castle

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!

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.

One of Hartford’s premier cultural events is the Caribbean and Jerk Festival. It has been held every August for the past seven years and features both the upper and lower areas of Mortensen Riverfront Plaza transformed into a Caribbean village. The whole family will enjoy the variety of music and dance performances as well as authentic Caribbean fare offered by more than 25 vendors. There is also a children's activity area, a Caribbean carnival, and salsa merengue lessons.

Show your partner how sweet you think he or she is when you plan to meet for a romantic date at the Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery and Pastry Shop. Choose from an unbelievable array of freshly baked pastries and a place that will marvelously take over your senses the minute you walk in. Once you choose your sweet treat, enhance the experience with one of the many gourmet coffees that are on the menu, too. Mozzicato DePasquale is a great place to meet during the morning or late afternoon, and it's also a nice way of showing your partner that you just couldn't make it through the day without seeing them!