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Elizabeth Park: A Victorian Horticultural Gem

Discover a historic Victorian park in West Hartford, CT, with the oldest public rose garden in the U.S., diverse gardens, and tranquil landscapes.

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Escape to Elizabeth Park, a 102-acre oasis in West Hartford, Connecticut, famed for its historic rose garden, diverse plant collections, and tranquil landscapes. A gift to the city in 1894, it continues to enchant visitors with its beauty and serenity.

A brief summary to Friends of Elizabeth Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring and summer months to see the roses and other flowers in full bloom.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas or under the shade of the trees.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many walking paths to explore throughout the park.
  • Check the park's schedule for seasonal events and flower shows for an enhanced visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the West End neighborhood of Hartford, Elizabeth Park is easily accessible by foot. Head towards Asylum Avenue and walk west. The park entrance is located at 1561 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06117, approximately a 20-minute walk from the center of West End.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Elizabeth Park using public transportation, take a CT Transit bus towards Hartford. Bus Route 40 runs toward West Hartford. Get off at the stop nearest to Asylum Avenue in West Hartford, from which it is a short walk (about 10 minutes) to the park entrance at 1561 Asylum Ave. A one-way bus ticket costs $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From anywhere in West Hartford or nearby Hartford, a taxi or ride-share service provides a direct route to Elizabeth Park. Taxi fares in West Hartford start at approximately $3.75, plus mileage and time charges. A 5-mile trip would cost around $12. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the ride-share app before starting your trip.

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Elizabeth Park, straddling the line between Hartford and West Hartford, Connecticut, is a testament to Victorian-era horticulture and landscape design. This 102-acre park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a serene escape with its meticulously maintained gardens, open spaces, and historic structures. The park's origins trace back to Charles M. Pond, a wealthy industrialist who bequeathed his estate to the City of Hartford in 1894, stipulating that it be named in honor of his late wife, Elizabeth. The city took possession in 1897, and engaged the Olmsted firm for the initial design. In 1904, superintendent of parks, Theodore Wirth, created the now-famous Rose Garden. The Helen S. Kaman Rose Garden, the oldest public rose garden in the United States, is the park's centerpiece. It features over 15,000 rose bushes representing around 800 varieties. The garden's iconic rose arches and diverse collection make it a fragrant and visually stunning paradise, particularly during peak bloom in June. Beyond the Rose Garden, visitors can explore a variety of other gardens, including the Perennial Garden, Herb Garden, and Medicine Garden. The park also features century-old greenhouses, walking paths, a pond, and recreational facilities such as tennis courts and bowling greens. The Garmany Visitor Center houses a gift shop, and the Pond House Cafe offers seasonal fare. Elizabeth Park is open year-round, from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. With its rich history, diverse gardens, and tranquil atmosphere, Elizabeth Park offers a delightful experience for garden enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat.

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