The Top 5 Reasons to Visit West Hartford, Connecticut Now
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One of Connecticut's most vibrant and charming towns—West Hartford offers a mix of historical landmarks, popular downtown shopping squares, an eclectic dining scene, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. West Hartford is a foodie’s paradise, with restaurants such as Union Kitchen in West Hartford Center, offering cuisines influenced by a wide array of nationalities. This trendy town offers suburban living with big city perks.
Source: Visit CT
West Hartford's proximity to the state capital, Hartford, allows visitors to explore even more attractions, museums, and cultural sites in the area. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, shopping, or cultural experiences—West Hartford offers a well-rounded destination for visitors and residents alike. If you plan to visit, you'll find a warm and welcoming town with plenty to explore and enjoy. These are the top five reasons why West Hartford, Connecticut should be on your bucket list.
1. A Foodie’s Paradise: The Cuisine + Cocktails
Located in West Hartford Center, Union Kitchen serves New American cuisine that is ingredient driven and seasonally inspired with a focus on clean and honest flavors. They take immense pride in curating a beverage program led by general manager Vish Badami that showcases over 450 spirits, a 200+ bottle Wine Spectator award-winning wine list and a curated, regional beer selection. For your artisanal cocktail fix, We recommend trying two of their signature cocktails designed by head bartender Jack Forbes—Bloom Old Fashioned, concocted with chamomile-infused rye whiskey, homemade lemongrass scented honey and bitters, or Class Act, a floral riff on a dry martini with Brooklyn's Greenhook Gin, Forthave Spirits' 'Yellow,' Génépy, and Routin Blanc Vermouth from the Savoie.
Led by Executive Chef Tim East, the menu at Union Kitchen has been tailored to be both ingredient driven and seasonally inspired for a fresh take on West Hartford, Connecticut dining. In addition to an a la carte menu, the kitchen also offers the 43 LaSalle Tasting Menu—a seasonal selection of composed plates paired with wines. Favorite dishes include Whipped Ricotta Toast with dark cherry jam, thyme, smoked almond, and 8-year aged balsamic, Honey Lavender Duck Breast with green rice and Brussels sprouts, Penne Bolognese with classic ragù and parmigiana, as well as Duck Prosciutto made in-house with local sourdough, rhubarb amaro and tart cherry butter.
Executive Chef Tim East is a big fan of cooking with seasonal vegetables and Union Kitchen offers several plant centric options like Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio and Marinated Cucumbers.
2. Artistic Enclaves: West Hartford Art League and Local Galleries
West Hartford, Connecticut, a culturally rich community, offers various opportunities to experience and appreciate art. Blue Back Square have numerous art galleries featuring works by local and regional artists. Strolling through these galleries allows you to explore diverse artistic styles and mediums. The West Hartford Art League is a prominent institution that fosters creativity and showcases local artists in their gallery.
Source: Visit CT
As you walk around West Hartford, you'll come across various public art installations, including sculptures and murals, adding beauty and creativity to the public spaces.
Whether you're interested in traditional art forms, contemporary works, or community-driven art initiatives, West Hartford offers a diverse range of artistic experiences for residents and visitors alike. It's a town that appreciates and supports its local art community, making it a great place for art enthusiasts and creators to connect and thrive.
3. Luxury Shopping: Blue Back Square and Westfarms Mall
West Hartford, Connecticut is a fantastic destination for shopping, offering a mix of upscale boutiques, popular national retailers, specialty stores, and more. West Hartford Center is a charming downtown area with a unique mix of boutiques, such as J. McLaughlin. You can find a wide range of products, from fashion and accessories to home decor and artisanal goods. Westfarms features luxurious retailers such as Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co., including other favorites like J. Crew and Nordstrom.
Source: Westfarms
Kane Street is also home to a variety of stores and shops, including clothing boutiques, home goods stores, and specialty shops, providing another excellent shopping option in the area. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, unique gifts, specialty items, or simply enjoy window shopping, West Hartford has a shopping scene that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. The town's walkable and vibrant shopping districts make it a delightful place to indulge in some retail therapy.
Source: Visit CT
Blue Back Square is a modern shopping and entertainment district that is just a short walk from West Hartford Center. Blue Back Square features a variety of stores, such as Crate & Barrel, a movie theater, and more.
4. Botanic Bliss: Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens and Arboretum
In West Hartford, Connecticut, you can find several beautiful gardens and parks where you can enjoy the outdoors and experience the tranquility of nature. Elizabeth Park is renowned for its stunning rose garden. It is one of the oldest municipal rose gardens in the United States, boasting thousands of roses in various colors and varieties. The garden is a popular spot for romantic strolls, picnics, and enjoying the beauty of the blooming flowers. Westmoor Park is an environmental education center with well-maintained gardens and walking trails. The gardens here showcase a mix of native plants and ornamental flowers.
Source: Visit CT
While primarily known for its historical significance, the Noah Webster House also features a small colonial-style garden, representing the kind of garden that would have been common during Noah Webster's time. These gardens offer a range of experiences for visitors, from leisurely strolls and enjoying colorful blooms to educational opportunities and engaging activities for children. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape, West Hartford's gardens provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
5. Architectural Charm: Historic Homes and Elizabeth Park Pond House
The Noah Webster House is a historic home in West Hartford, Connecticut. It was the home of Noah Webster, the influential lexicographer and language reformer, who is best known for writing the first American dictionary, "An American Dictionary of the English Language," published in 1828. The house itself is a fine example of colonial architecture and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Noah Webster during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Source: Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
Visitors can explore the rooms and furnishings of the house, providing an authentic experience of the time period. The Noah Webster House is an essential cultural and historical destination in West Hartford, attracting visitors interested in linguistics, history, and early American life. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the man who played a significant role in shaping American English and education.
WHERE TO STAY IN WEST HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT
Welcome to Delamar West Hartford. You’ve arrived. You know it the moment you pull up to the valet. Built in the French contemporary chateau-esque style, you will feel transported to another era. By the time you make your stylish entrance to our expansive and art-filled distinctive lobby, a warm smile and a glass of bubbly are waiting for you. You've arrived at the only boutique hotel in West Hartford that indulges your senses and places you at the heart of our vibrant area's prestigious institutions and cultural attractions. Trendy boutique shops and eateries are a leisurely stroll away.
With no detail overlooked, Delamar West Hartford is the jewel of the Capitol Region, offering unrivaled respite. Accommodations blend contemporary design and timeless elegance with a sophisticated sensibility. With this in mind, the impeccably appointed guest rooms and suites have been designed to cater to those seeking personal touches of elevated comfort, with some boasting their own balconies or walk-out terraces. Arrange a treatment at their luxurious on-site spa to ease your body and mind with cutting-edge treatments. Book below to reserve your room at the lowest price, guaranteed.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
