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Bushnell Park: Hartford's Green Heart

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Discover history and nature in Hartford's Bushnell Park, the oldest publicly funded park in the U.S., offering year-round beauty and events.

Bushnell Park, a verdant oasis in downtown Hartford, Connecticut, stands as the oldest publicly funded park in the United States. Conceived in 1854 by Reverend Horace Bushnell, the park offers a blend of natural beauty, historical monuments, and recreational activities across its 37 acres.

A brief summary to Bushnell Park Conservancy

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch for a glimpse into Civil War history and panoramic city views. Free tours are offered on Thursdays during May and October.
  • Enjoy a ride on the historic Bushnell Park Carousel, featuring hand-carved wooden horses. It's a delightful experience for all ages.
  • Explore the park's diverse collection of trees, including species from around the world.
  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other activities happening throughout the year.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Hartford Union Station, walk north on Union Place, then turn left onto Jewell Street. Continue straight, crossing Trumbull Street. Bushnell Park will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    From various points in Hartford, several CT Transit bus lines provide service to Bushnell Park. Check the Transit app or Google Maps for the most convenient route and real-time arrival information. Many bus lines stop within a 5-minute walk of the park, including stops at Jewell St @ Trumbull St, Pearl St @ Lewis St, and Main St @ Gold St. A single local bus fare is $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in downtown Hartford, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Bushnell Park typically costs between $5 and $15, depending on the distance and demand. Drop-off is usually along Trinity Street or Jewell Street, bordering the park.

  • Driving

    When driving, use 1 Jewell Street, Hartford, CT 06103 as your GPS destination. Metered parking is available along the perimeter of the park, costing around $1.50 per hour, and is enforced Monday-Friday from 8 am to 6 pm; parking is free at all other times, including weekends. Several parking garages are also located nearby, such as Bushnell South Garage at 120 Capitol Avenue, with varying hourly rates.

Discover more about Bushnell Park Conservancy

Bushnell Park, located in the heart of downtown Hartford, Connecticut, holds the distinction of being the oldest publicly funded park in the United States. Its origins trace back to 1854 when Reverend Horace Bushnell envisioned a green space to improve the city's quality of life, especially for the working class. The park's creation marked the first time a municipal park was conceived, built, and funded by citizens through a popular vote. Initially designed by Jacob Weidenmann, a Swiss-born landscape architect recommended by Frederick Law Olmsted, the park features a naturalistic style with winding paths and diverse tree clusters. Over the years, the Olmsted Brothers firm also contributed to the park's design and development. Today, Bushnell Park welcomes over one million visitors annually. Key attractions include the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, the Corning Fountain, and a historic carousel dating back to 1914. The park also features a pond, statues of notable figures like Horace Wells and Israel Putnam, and the performance pavilion. Throughout the year, Bushnell Park hosts various events, including music festivals, concerts, and tours. Visitors can explore over 150 tree varieties, stroll along paved and unpaved walking trails, and enjoy recreational facilities. The park is conveniently located near Hartford Union Station and is easily accessible by public transportation, bike, or car.

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