This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Hartford for couples based on significant travel, blogs, reviews, and social media stories.
If you are looking for some romantic things to do in Hartford, look no further! This article will list the best date ideas and activities for couples in the area. From exploring the city’s attractions to enjoying a relaxing dinner, there is something for everyone on this list.
So why not surprise your loved one with an impromptu trip to Hartford? They are sure to appreciate the gesture!
For man, I, myself, appreciate my lady planning out a date instead of being angry for me not knowing what they know. And, for women, I know they always appreciate a man being man enough to take charge and take care of everything.
Anyways, here are 30+ romantic activities to do in Hartford with your loved one.
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Table of Contents
Easy and Relaxing Indoor Date Ideas in Hartford
Experience romantic coffee dates at Blue State Coffee
- Cost: $15 – $100 (coffee)
- Address: 777 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103
- Phone: (860) 216-1255
“ This coffee shop is a great place to stop and have a specialty coffee and also learn about local missions. They buy only local products and serve organic coffees. they support local ministries with publicity and donations. Very clean shop and friendly staff ” – Renee S
One of the most enjoyable pastimes in the city is bowling. You can do this at Revolutions Bowling & Lounge.
This bowling alley has a romantic ambiance and is ideal for a date. You can also get food and beverages at this location, making it even better for a date!
Treat yourself to tasty desserts at West Hartford Center
- Cost: $20 – $400 (food)
- Address: 1 Memorial Rd, West Hartford, CT 06107
- Phone: (860) 937-2500
What’s sweeter than a dessert served with two forks or spoons? There are many locations to enjoy in the Hartford region.
There are plenty of dessert options in West Hartford Center, including The Cheesecake Factory’s dozens of unique cheesecake flavors, Avert Brasserie’s profiteroles, and Milkcraft’s bubble cone bursting with over-the-top ice cream creations.
The best free place to cool off in Hartford County is a well-kept secret.
Visit the Ocho Cafe West Hartford for lunch
- Cost: $22 – $350 (food)
- Address: 330 N Main St, West Hartford, CT 06117
- Phone: (860) 310-3063
“ I have been here several times and it’s always perfect! The owners are a very nice local family. The staff is lovely, everyone is friendly and helpful. The menu offers a great selection and everything I’ve ever had has been delicious. The salsa bar is nice touch too. ” – Cathleen C
Lunching at Ocho Cafe West Hartford is a great way to spend time. This is a Mexican eatery where you may order various Mexican meals. The meal is fantastic!
What’s even better is that the restaurant’s décor is stunning. This enhances your overall experience here. Furthermore, the service is excellent, making your date feel quite relaxed.
Enjoy Fine Dining at Peppercorn’s Grill
- Cost: $30 – $300 (food)
- Address: 357 Main St, Hartford, CT 06106
- Phone: (860) 547-1714
“ The food was delicate and tasty – the Puplo Carpaccio and Beef Carpaccio will definitely bring us back soon. Excellent and attentive service. A bit tight for space. Nice choices on menu. I need to try more of them. ” – Sherri-Ann M
If you want to enjoy fine dining, going to Peppercorn’s Grill is a terrific idea. This restaurant is fantastic if you’re seeking elegant date suggestions in Hartford.
You will undoubtedly like the delectable food served at this Italian restaurant. For instance, there are several amazing pasta recipes available here. Additionally, this location is incredibly cozy, making it ideal for a date!
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Fun, Exciting, and Active Date Ideas in Hartford
Ice skating at Newington Arena
- Cost: $18/person (skating)
- Address: 300 Alumni Rd, Newington, CT 06111
- Phone: (860) 665-7825
Ice skating is undoubtedly one of Hartford’s most enjoyable and romantic activities. You can do this at the Newington Arena.
There are public skating sessions here where you may have a good time.
The arena is also pretty large, so you have plenty of room to maneuver about, which adds to the pleasure.
Visit Mark Twain House for information about his life and work
- Cost: $24/person (ticketing)
- Address: 351 Farmington Ave, Hartford, CT 06105
- Phone: (860) 247-0998
“ Beautiful museum and house. I learned a lot of new information about Sam, his family, friends, and the time period overall. Highly recommended. ” – Jess
Mark Twain resided with his family at the Mark Twain House & Museum. He penned some of his most renowned works while he was living here. He penned “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” here, for example.
Nowadays, you may learn about Mark Twain’s life and work at the house, which is fascinating. The house is also visible from the inside.
Go to Mortensen Riverfront Plaza for some fun
- Cost: $10 – $150 (Shopping)
- Address: 300 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103
- Phone: (860) 713-3131
“ Not only are the views beautiful, there are “statues” all over the plaza and the park. Benches are available to sit and just take in the scenery and there is a playground for little ones to enjoy. ” – Helen S
If you’re looking for some exciting free things to do in Hartford, you’ll find plenty of options right here. The plaza steps are an excellent area to work out or sit and relax while watching the boats on the river.
They also serve as front-row seats for the yearly dragon boat festival.
You can walk along the river on one of the many walking pathways, take a municipal boat tour, or cross the Founders Bridge into East Hartford from the Plaza.
Go indoor rock climbing at the Central Rock Gym
- Cost: $18/person (Day Pass)
- Address: 259 Eastern Blvd, Glastonbury, CT 06033
- Phone: (860) 659-8260
Going to the Central Rock Gym is a fun date idea in Hartford. The Hartford Rock Climbing Gym is a huge indoor rock climbing gym.
In addition, bouldering is available here. You can even attend classes if you’re both novices, which is a lot of fun.
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Fan of improv comedy? Have a laugh at Sea Tea Improv
- Cost: $10 (ticketing)
- Address: 11 Asylum St Suite 402, Hartford, CT 06103
- Phone: (860) 578-4832
“ I came here with some friends to see the stand up show on Friday evening. it was only $10 for the tickets to get in and it was so worth it! The group was really funny and the audience was great with the suggestions provided. They have a little bar where they served beer and wine which made for a great addition. I’d definitely go back! ” – Sammi De Rosa
One of the most enjoyable and romantic things to do in Hartford is to visit Sea Tea Improv. This is a comedy venue where you can see various comedy events.
So, if you’re looking for a fun night out, this is the place to be! You can even combine your visit with a romantic dinner elsewhere.
Take some Instagram-able pictures while playing mini-golfing at Nomads Adventure Quest
- Cost: Starts from $30 to $130 (fun activities)
- Address: 100 Bidwell Rd, South Windsor, CT 06074
- Phone: (860) 290-1177
“ My husband and I we’re looking for something fun to do. This place has it all! From arcade games, to black light mini golf, a Tavern and bumper cars. The staff was very helpful and friendly. We go back as often as we can. ” – Candy Wojzek
One of Hartford’s most traditional date ideas is to play miniature golf. You can find this at Nomads Adventure Quest. You can play indoor mini-golf here, and there are black lights to add to the excitement!
You can also engage in various other enjoyable activities at this location. You can, for example, play virtual reality games here.
So, if you want a good time, this is undoubtedly one of the greatest romantic things to do in Hartford.
Art, Cultural, Music, History Date Ideas in Hartford
See a show at Belding Theater
- Cost: $25 (ticketing)
- Address: 166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106
- Phone: N/A
The Belding Theater is a lovely theater where you may see a show with your sweetheart. You can, for example, go to a Hartford Symphony Orchestra event here.
Aside from that, there are other concerts held here. What’s amazing is that this is a small theater, so you’ll get a more personal experience here! Going here for a date is one of the top Hartford date ideas.
Go to the Infinity Music Hall and attend a concert
- Cost: $20 – $45 (ticketing)
- Address: 32 Front St, Hartford, CT 06103
- Phone: (860) 560-7757
The Infinity Music Hall is a stunning performance space. It is a big theater that hosts hundreds of events each year. Furthermore, there is live music as well as entertaining comedy events! As a result, there’s a good chance you’ll both enjoy a show.
Go to the Bushnell Performing Arts Center and attend a show
- Cost: $31/person (ticketing)
- Address: 166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106
- Phone: (860) 987-6000
“ My wife and I were in Hartford this weekend to see the Banff Mountain Film Festival. The Bushnell is a great place to see a show. There is not a bad seat in the house. Plenty of room to mingle before the show, during admission, and after the show. Cash bar is available. ” – David H
The Bushnell Performing Arts Center is a huge theater that hosts a variety of performances. You can, for example, go to a Broadway musical at this location.
Alternatively, you may attend a concert or a dance show. Whatever you enjoy, there is almost certainly a show for you!
The theater also boasts lovely decor, which adds to the enjoyment of visiting.
Learn about history at the Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library
- Cost: $12/person (ticketing)
- Address: 1 Elizabeth St, Hartford, CT 06105
- Phone: (860) 236-5621
“ The Connecticut Historical Society has a great archive for those needing to do research. Both manuscripts and books are available for use. They have several temporary exhibits throughout the year and often have an exhibit prepared by CCSU Public History students. ” – Rita B
You can learn about history at the Connecticut Historical Society. This is where you can learn about the history of the state.
Several permanent exhibitions each focus on a different aspect of the state’s history. Aside from that, there are also temporary exhibits.
Attend various art exhibitions at the Art Museum at USJ
- Cost: Free
- Address: The Bruyette Athenaeum, 1678 Asylum Ave, West
- Phone: (860) 231-5399
The USJ Art Museum is a beautiful site to visit. If you and your date enjoy art, this is one of Hartford’s most interesting date ideas.
A permanent collection of about 2000 works of art is on display. And these things are both old and contemporary, with a wide range of styles. Seeing this is awe-inspiring, which is why it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Hartford.
There are also frequently changing temporary exhibitions at this museum. These exhibitions are diverse, showcasing both local and foreign art. Furthermore, the work on display at these exhibitions spans centuries.
See art at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum
- Cost: $5 – $15 (ticketing)
- Address: 600 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103
- Phone: (860) 278-2670
“ Very diverse museum that is not overwhelming. While we were there, a fabulous glass exhibition was there. The architecture of the building also is interesting. ” – Cindy Coppola
If you enjoy art, a trip to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is necessary. At this location, you can find a wide range of different types of artwork.
This location, for example, has European Baroque art. There are also Impressionist artworks on display. Bronzes come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Going here is a fantastic pastime because of the variety. Furthermore, this is the world’s oldest public art museum that is still in operation.
See classic and indie movies at Cinestudio
- Cost: $10/person (ticketing)
- Address: 300 Summit St, Hartford, CT 06106
- Phone: (860) 297-2544
At Cinestudio, you can see both independent and classic films. Additionally, these films are perfect for a date. That’s because it’s likely that neither of you has seen the film before!
Another wonderful aspect of this theater is how cozy it is. As a result, going to this theater is among the most romantic activities in Hartford.
Go to Bushnell Park and see a memorial arch
- Cost: $15/person (ticketing)
- Address: 99 Trinity St, Hartford, CT 06123
- Phone: (860) 232-6710
“ Nice park across the road from the capital. There is a carousel that was not running when we were there. There are plenty of hunches around and a nice pond for watching ducks. There is a walking path around the outer edge ” Gail V
Bushnell Park is a lovely park ideal for a romantic stroll. There is a lot of natural beauty here, and it is conveniently located near the city core.
Also noteworthy is the presence of a historic arch at this location. This beautiful monument honors residents who fought in the Civil War.
Explore the city’s historic center to see all kinds of buildings
- Cost: Free
- Address: Hartford, CT
- Phone: N/A
Do you have any interest in architecture? If so, one of the best date ideas in Hartford is to visit amazing architecture.
You can take a stroll in the city center and see a variety of historic structures.
Learn about the fascinating history of this city in just a few hours at Old State House
- Cost: Free
- Address: 800 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103
- Phone: (860) 522-6766
You can learn about this city’s interesting past in just a few hours. It’s a fantastic and relaxing time to stroll and look at the various historical artifacts and paintings.
Various interesting exhibits, artworks, and historical relics are on display—some claim that the structure is haunted, which adds to the thrill.
Explore an exciting collection at the Connecticut Historical Society Museum
- Cost: $12/person (ticketing)
- Address: 1 Elizabeth St, Hartford, CT 06105
- Phone: (860) 236-5621
This museum will be a fantastic activity to do if you’re searching for some affordable activities to do near you. You’ll learn a lot while having a good time.
You’ll have the opportunity to see Inn & Tavern Signs of Connecticut, which houses the country’s biggest collection of inn and tavern signs.
Women’s suffrage, the home front, WWII propaganda posters, Victorian fashion, traditional folk artists, costumes from Hartford’s West Indian Community, and other themes in New England history and culture are among the displays.
Learn more about civil rights and feminism at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center
- Cost: $20/person (entrance fee)
- Address: 77 Forest St, Hartford, CT 06105
- Phone: (860) 522-9258
This is undoubtedly one of the attractions to see this weekend if you know an activist or want to learn more about civil rights, feminism, Connecticut history, and more.
Please take advantage of the tour, freedom lessons, and the rich history of what we struggle for today.
Youthful Date Ideas in Hartford
Enjoy a youthful date at Lake Compounce
- Cost: $40/person (entrance fee)
- Address: 185 Enterprise Dr, Southington, CT 06010
- Phone: (860) 583-3300
Lake Compounce is a fantastic place to visit with your significant other. This is without a doubt one of the most entertaining date ideas. This is because this is a really enjoyable amusement park with various rides and attractions.
Aside from that, it’s a water park. So you can spend a few hours here and have a good time.
Also noteworthy is that this is one of the country’s oldest amusement parks. This enhances the park’s mood and makes it even more lovely.
See an outdoor show at the XFINITY Theater
- Cost: $15/person (ticketing)
- Address: 61 Savitt Way, Hartford, CT 06120
- Phone: (860) 548-7370
Going to the XFINITY Theater is one of the greatest date ideas in Hartford. This is a vast outdoor arena located around the city.
A total of 30,000 individuals can visit this site. Going here is one of the most romantic things in Hartford, especially during the summer.
This is because you will be able to attend outdoor performances here. You can also sit on the lawn at this time, which is a unique experience to share.
Take pictures with Darth Vader at Westfarms Mall
- Cost: From $20 – $250 (shopping)
- Address: 1500 New Britain Ave, West Hartford, CT 06110
- Phone: (860) 561-3024
No, Darth Vader is not always there. But, you don’t know who or what you might see.
That’s the whole point of going out.
One of the most enjoyable and romantic things in Hartford is going shopping with your sweetheart.
The Westfarms Mall has a wide variety of shops and restaurants. So you can go shopping and then eat dinner, which is fantastic!
It is also one of the state’s largest malls, so you may spend a lot of time here.
Rob your noses and show off your love at the Abrantes Bakery & Pastry Shop.
- Cost: $5 – $90 (food)
- Address: 1851 Park St, Hartford, CT 06106
- Phone: (860) 232-1464
The point here is to show some affection to your partner.
If they were asked when was the last time you showed them affection and appreciation, I bet the answer would be: too long ago.
I understand. Once you have been married for 7 years, men seem to treat their wives like family and old friends. Romance is gone.
But, if you are reading this. Just know that it doesn’t have to be.
Next time you walk past the Abrantes Bakery & Pastry Shop, think “rub your nose” – feed your partner, touch their cheek. Say something nice.
Those freshly baked sweets will make you guys feel lighter.
Don’t worry about the calorie. You have been working out and working hard.
You deserve it.
Sometimes romance is just the intent plus some environmental cues.
Play an escape game at Mission Escape Games
- Cost: $30 – $50 (games)
- Address: 76 LaSalle Rd Unit 403, West Hartford, CT 06107
- Phone: (860) 337-1821
This is one of the top date ideas in Hartford if you want to have a good time. You can play an escape game with your companion at Mission Escape Games.
You must work to escape from a room in this game. And you can do it by solving a variety of entertaining puzzles.
Furthermore, each area has its theme and tale, making the experience much more enjoyable! Because you have to work, this is one of the most romantic things in Hartford.
Bowl and play games at Revolutions Bowling and Lounge
- Cost: $6/per person (game)
- Address: 60 Bidwell Rd, South Windsor, CT 06074
- Phone: (860) 282-2695
This bowling alley has a romantic ambience and is ideal for a date. You can also get food and beverages at this location, making it even better for a date!
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Hartford
Stroll in the stunning Elizabeth Park Rose Garden
- Cost: Free
- Address: 1561 Asylum Ave, Hartford, CT 06105
- Phone: (860) 231-9443
Romance nowadays is not limited to just ‘wine and dine’.
The experience that leads to the place also matters. So, how about taking a stroll through the third-largest garden in the country?
Visitors can enjoy formal gardens, green spaces, picnic areas, and recreational amenities at Elizabeth Park.
Throughout the year, the Elizabeth Park Conservancy conducts a variety of special events, including outdoor concerts, tours, talks, and garden workshops, many of which are open to the public.
Experience the beauty of Riverside Park
- Cost: Free
- Address: 20 Leibert Rd, Hartford, CT 06120
- Phone: (860) 713-3131
With its riverfront location in downtown Hartford, this magnificent park is a perfect spot to experience both nature and an urban setting.
There is room for strolling, relaxing, and taking in the river and a sizable shoreline where numerous festivals are held all year.
Take a stroll through the Wickham Park Gardens
- Cost: Free
- Address: 1329 Middle Turnpike W, Manchester, CT 06040
- Phone: (860) 528-0856
Wickham Park is a lovely place to visit with your significant other. It’s a great place to go for a date in Hartford if you enjoy the outdoors.
In this magnificent natural setting, there are several gardens to be found. There are many walking trails and gorgeous flowers, so going for a walk here is fantastic!
HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT – Top 10 Places You NEED to See!
Final Thoughts
Hartford is a fantastic New England location. Museums, historic homes, outdoor areas, and renowned eateries are among the city’s many attractions.
Whether staying in Hartford for a while or just passing through, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied.
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now |
