Shelby's House-A Canine Camp

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.

Exploration and discovery is what your whole family will be experiencing when you take them for a visit to the Connecticut Science Center. This incredible facility is a nine-story museum located on the Connecticut River and welcomes a constant stream of visitors. Through exciting exhibits and attractions, you'll learn about the art of animation, check out a movie in the 3-D theater, get inside a tornado to see how it is formed and much more. The museum welcomes groups and school organizations and also is an ideal place to host your child's birthday party. Call or check the website for more details.

Make your way to the checkered flag–the one that signals you've arrived for a good time at Checkered Flag Raceway. Located in Berlin just a few minutes from Hartford, this is undoubtedly the best outdoor go-kart racetrack in all of New England. This challenging but fun ¼ mile track will find you revving up the engine in your kart as you put the pedal to the metal. Plus, there is an excellent arcade with all the latest video games as well as a snack bar. It's high-speed fun and recreation for the whole family!

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!