Day plans in Hartford, CT

A whole outing, planned: the main thing to do, a stop on the way, somewhere good to eat, and a treat after — matched to the day's weather.

Sunday, August 23

Full dayFestival day Fair-weather plan

Ages 2–12 $$ ~158 mi driving (est.) 74°F, drizzle, 50% rain

On the way 12 mi · ≈26 min drive
Hungerford Nature Center & Museum
Nature center with live animal exhibits and educational programs for children.
Ages 2-12$$
The main thing 47.6 mi · ≈102 min drive
Bubble Palooza III at Two Roads Brewing11:00 AM
at Two Roads Brewery
A bubbly family celebration featuring interactive bubble stations, giant bubbles, and a massive foam pit.
Ages 2-12
Lunch 51.3 mi · ≈110 min drive
Munson's Chocolates
Connecticut-based chocolatier offering high-quality boxed chocolates and seasonal sweets.
$$
A treat after 21.9 mi · ≈47 min drive
The Sweet Tooth
Local shop offering a mix of candies, ice cream, and sweet treats.
$
For the drive
Would You Rather? Road Trip Edition
A conversation starter game using humorous or thought-provoking dilemmas tailored to travel scenarios to generate lively family debate and insight.
Ages 8+Free30 min

MorningTrail day Fair-weather plan

Ages 4–13 $$ ~45 mi driving (est.) 65°F, drizzle, 35% rain

On the way 12.9 mi · ≈28 min drive
Rotary Park Playground
Community playground offering structures for climbing and active play.
Ages 2-12Free
The main thing 8.8 mi · ≈19 min drive
Enders State Forest
Wooded forest area known for its series of waterfalls and hiking trails.
Ages 5+Free
Lunch 19.6 mi · ≈42 min drive
Hartford Baking Co.
Artisan bakery and cafe serving fresh breads, pastries, and breakfast.
$$
For the drive
Would You Rather? Road Trip Edition
A conversation starter game using humorous or thought-provoking dilemmas tailored to travel scenarios to generate lively family debate and insight.
Ages 8+Free30 min

AfternoonFestival day Fair-weather plan

Ages 3–10 $ ~17 mi driving (est.) 74°F, drizzle, 50% rain

On the way 2.5 mi · ≈5 min drive
Riverside Park
Riverfront park with trails, sports courts, playgrounds, and a boathouse.
Free
The main thing 6 mi · ≈13 min drive
Princess Prep Academy1:00 PM
at Wickham Park
A royal-themed event for children featuring lessons, performances, face painting, and food trucks.
Ages 3-10Registration required
A treat after 6.5 mi · ≈14 min drive
Blue Chip Creamery
Local ice cream shop offering a variety of flavors in a convenient downtown location.
$
For the drive
Would You Rather? Road Trip Edition
A conversation starter game using humorous or thought-provoking dilemmas tailored to travel scenarios to generate lively family debate and insight.
Ages 8+Free30 min