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Riverside Park: Hartford's Riverfront Gem

Experience Hartford's revitalized riverfront at Riverside Park: recreation, scenic trails, and community events await!

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Riverside Park, a revitalized Victorian-era park along the Connecticut River, offers a blend of recreational activities and scenic views. Once designed by the Olmsted Brothers, it features walking trails, sports fields, and a boathouse, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Riverside Park

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Riverfront Recapture website for events and activities happening in the park, including concerts, festivals, and races.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's picnic tables or open lawn areas.
  • Explore the Riverwalk, a 3.4-mile paved trail that connects Riverside Park to other riverfront attractions.
  • Consider visiting during the Head of the Riverfront regatta in October for a unique rowing competition experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Riverside Park is accessible via CTtransit bus route 38. From downtown Hartford, take the 38 bus towards Weston Street. The bus stops near the park entrance on Leibert Road. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Walking

    From the Connecticut Science Center or downtown Hartford, follow the Riverwalk north along the Connecticut River. The walk to Riverside Park is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes. The Riverwalk is paved and offers scenic views of the river.

  • Driving

    From I-91 North or South, take exit 33 for Jennings Road. Turn right onto Jennings Road, then take the next right onto Leibert Road. Turn left into Riverside Park. Parking is available in the park's parking lots. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Riverside Park

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Discover more about Riverside Park

Riverside Park, located just north of downtown Hartford, is a vibrant testament to the city's ongoing efforts to reconnect with the Connecticut River. Originally designed in 1899 by the Olmsted Brothers, renowned for their landscape architecture, the park served as a recreational space for city residents. Today, while the original design has evolved, the park remains a bustling hub of activity and natural beauty. The park offers a diverse range of attractions. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the cricket and football fields, sand volleyball court, and the adventure challenge course. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are picnic areas, walking trails, and fishing access to the Connecticut River. The Riverfront Boathouse hosts community rowing programs and provides a venue for events. The park also features public art installations and wooded trails for exploration. Riverside Park has undergone significant changes throughout its history. The construction of Interstate 91 in the mid-20th century altered the park's landscape, reducing its size. However, recent revitalization efforts have brought new life to the park, with the addition of the boathouse, improved walking paths, and ongoing development of the riverfront. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, offering a green escape within the city.

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