Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: Hartford's Castle of Culture
Explore 5,000 years of art at the Wadsworth Atheneum, the oldest continuously operating public art museum in the U.S., located in Hartford, CT.
The Wadsworth Atheneum, a castle-like structure in downtown Hartford, is the oldest continuously operating public art museum in the United States. Founded in 1842 and opened in 1844, it houses nearly 50,000 works spanning 5,000 years of art history, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.
A brief summary to Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
- 600 Main St, Hartford, Downtown, Connecticut, 06103, US
- +1860-278-2670
- Visit website
- Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for information on current exhibitions, events, and family programs.
- Hartford residents, veterans, and active-duty military personnel receive free admission.
- Visit on the second Saturday of the month between noon and 2 pm for free admission.
- Admission is pay what you wish the last hour of the day every day the museum is open.
Getting There
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Walking
From Bushnell Park, walk east on Elm Street towards Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street, and walk north for approximately 0.2 miles. The Wadsworth Atheneum will be on your left. There is no cost associated with walking.
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Public Transport
CT Transit buses stop nearby on Main Street. Check the CT Transit website for specific routes and schedules. A single bus fare is $1.75. Exact fare is required.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hartford. A short trip from Union Station to the Wadsworth Atheneum typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located near the Wadsworth Atheneum. Preferred parking is available at the Front Street South Garage (62 Front St. Crossing) for $3 with validation from the museum. The Connecticut Convention Center Garage (100 Columbus Boulevard) offers a $5 flat rate for museum visitors with ticket validation. On-street metered parking is also available, but availability may be limited. Check the Hartford Parking Authority website for current information.
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