Urban Excitement in the Heart of Connecticut

Kick off your trip with a meal at one of the area's tasty brunch spots. Pond House Cafe in West Hartford's picturesque Elizabeth Park is a local favorite - just make sure to try their outstanding Eggs Benedict. Others good spots include Union Kitchen in West Hartford, Fire by Forge in Hartford, or Bouqueria in West Hartford. And if you're more hungry for lunch, head to Savoy Pizzeria in West Hartford for some hot pizza and refreshments. 

Then hit the shops in West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square. Browse boutiques, cosmetics, furniture, bakeries, books, jewelry, fine chocolates, and more. 

Amp up your outing with a really unique stop: Smash Avenue. This spot is a safe, fun environment to vent by smashing a room full of breakable objects. Smash your way into a better mental space and have a great time doing it!

At night, head to sister restaurants Bartaco & Barcelona for amazing drinks, small plates, and awesome nightlife.

Then go bar hopping through West Hartford Center, home to many great restaurants that blossom with nightlife once the sun goes down. Try The Bunker if you're into speakeasies, The Elbow Room for pub vibes and a rooftop bar, and Sparrow for a DJ. Then stay over at nearby Delamar West Hartford.

The next day, start with a little adrenaline – and a brief detour from the city – and take a guided outdoor rock climbing tour with Ascent Climbing. The views will be worth it. 

Head to Hartford and spend the night hanging at suave speakeasy, The 196 Club. The candy shop façade of Emrey’s Specialty Sweets is just the beginning. There’s no sweeter feeling than finding the hidden bar tucked inside: The 196 Club. Kids can feel like kids in the candy store while you’re adulting right.

Then check out Connecticut’s first food hall, Parkville Market, for a sample of nearly every flavor you can imagine. 

End the night with live music at Arch Street Tavern, known for showcasing eclectic indie bands and emerging acts. Or go big and see A-list artists at Xfinity Theatre or the People's Bank Arena. Feel like more pub hopping? Find fun events from CT Bar Crawl.