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Elizabeth Park: A Victorian Horticultural Gem

Discover a Victorian-era horticultural masterpiece: stroll through vibrant gardens, enjoy recreational activities, and relax in the serene beauty of Elizabeth Park.

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Elizabeth Park, straddling Hartford and West Hartford, Connecticut, is a 101-acre parkland blending Victorian landscaping with diverse gardens and recreational facilities. Home to the nation's oldest public rose garden, the park offers a tranquil retreat with historical significance and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Elizabeth Park Conservancy

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or summer for the best floral displays, especially in the Rose and Tulip Gardens.
  • Check the Elizabeth Park Conservancy's website for events like summer concerts and garden tours.
  • Enjoy a meal at the Pond House Café for scenic views and a relaxed dining experience.
  • Parking is free, but can be limited during events; consider public transportation.
  • Explore the Garmany Visitor Center for park information, history, and a gift shop.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the West End neighborhood of Hartford, Elizabeth Park is easily accessible by foot. Head west on Asylum Avenue; the park entrance is at 1561 Asylum Avenue, approximately a 20-minute walk from the center of West End.

  • Public Transport

    The Hartford City Bus system (CT Transit) provides access to Elizabeth Park. Bus routes 41, 42, or 72 will drop you close to the park. Check the CT Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. A one-way fare is approximately $1.75.

  • Car

    From I-84 West, take Exit 48 (Asylum Avenue) and drive 2 miles. Turn left into the park. From I-84 East, take Exit 44 (Prospect Avenue), turn left onto Prospect Avenue, drive 2 miles, then turn left onto Asylum Avenue. The park entrance will be on the left. There are four parking lots in the park. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Elizabeth Park Conservancy

Elizabeth Park, gracing the border of Hartford and West Hartford, Connecticut, is a testament to Victorian landscape design and horticultural excellence. Spanning 101 acres, the park features a harmonious blend of formal gardens, open green spaces, and recreational amenities, offering a serene escape for visitors of all ages. Originally a 19th-century gentleman's farm, the land was bequeathed to the City of Hartford by Charles Pond in 1894, with the stipulation that it be named in honor of his wife, Elizabeth. The park officially opened in 1897 and quickly became a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. In 1983, Elizabeth Park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park's most celebrated feature is the Helen S. Kaman Rose Garden, the oldest public rose garden in the United States, established in 1904. Today, it boasts over 15,000 rose bushes representing some 800 varieties, creating a breathtaking display of color and fragrance from late spring through fall. Other notable gardens include the Annual and Tulip Garden, the Julian and Edith Eddy Rock Garden, the Perennial Garden, the Heritage Rose Garden, the Sunrise Overlook, and the Hosta Garden. Beyond its horticultural attractions, Elizabeth Park offers a range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy tennis and basketball courts, ball fields, lawn bowling, and walking paths. The Pond House Café provides dining options with scenic views. The Garmany Visitor Center offers information about the park's history, a gift shop, and public restrooms. The Elizabeth Park Conservancy organizes various events throughout the year, including summer concerts, garden tours, and workshops.

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