Bushnell Park: Hartford's Green Heart
Discover Hartford's historic green space: Bushnell Park, the oldest publicly funded park in the U.S., offering history, nature, and recreation.
Bushnell Park, established in 1854, is the oldest publicly funded park in the United States. Conceived by Reverend Horace Bushnell, the 37-acre park offers a green oasis in downtown Hartford, featuring historic monuments, a carousel, walking paths, and the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch.
A brief summary to Bushnell Park
- Bushnell Park, Hartford, Downtown, CT, 06103, US
- +1860-232-6710
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Check the Bushnell Park Conservancy website for upcoming events, including concerts, festivals, and tours.
- Take a ride on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel, featuring hand-carved wooden horses (open seasonally).
- Explore the park's monuments, including the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, and statues of notable figures.
- Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or relax by the pond, taking in the scenery.
- Utilize the park's convenient access to public transportation, including the Hartford Line and CTFastrak.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Connecticut State Capitol, walk east along Capitol Avenue towards Bushnell Park. Cross Trinity Street and enter the park. The main pathways are well-marked and lead to key attractions like the Carousel and Memorial Arch. No cost.
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Public Transport
From Hartford Union Station, take the CT Transit bus line 38 towards the park. The bus departs every 10 minutes and arrives at Pearl St @ Ann Uccello St, a short walk from the park's northern edge. Alternatively, almost all Hartford-bound CT Transit local bus lines terminate within a five-minute walk of Bushnell Park. A single bus fare costs $1.75.
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Driving
From I-84, take exit 48 for Asylum Street. Follow Asylum Street towards the park. Metered parking is available along the perimeter of the park. Parking is free on weekends and weekdays after 6pm; otherwise, payment is required at the kiosks Monday-Friday from 8am-6pm. Several parking garages are also located nearby. Expect to pay around $10-15 for 2 hours in a garage.
Discover more about Bushnell Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Webster Memorial Building
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The Founders Monument
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Ancient Burial Ground
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Center Church
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Calder Stegosaurus
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Connecticut State Capitol
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Connecticut's State Historian
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Connecticut History Day
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Charter Oak Tree Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bushnell Park Carousel
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Bushnell Park Conservancy
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Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Arch
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Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
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Corning Fountain
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Connecticut Capitol Information & Tours
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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