Bushnell Park

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

The first of its kind, this historic park is perfect for picnics and carousel rides.. The Background
At the urging of Reverend Horace Bushnell, Hartford residents voted to turn a parcel of downtown land into a park in 1854. Designed by Jacob Weidenmann, Bushnell was the first planned municipal park not fashioned after a European garden or the New England town green.

Features
Perhaps the biggest draw is the fully restored carousel built in 1914, which kids can ride for under a dollar. The Pump House, a city-owned art gallery located inside a working pump house, is also worth a visit. While you're strolling don't forget to look at the trees, many of which are not native to New England. The park has several memorials, including a Spanish-American War memorial and the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, commemorating the 4,000 Hartford citizens who served in the Civil War.

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pounciest

Joined 11 years ago

Jazz with a view!. Not only do you have a great view of the Capital, but a carosel, two fountains, playground and on Monday nights in the summer, Jazz from 6-10 pm! Romantic and fun for the family, just BYOP (bring your own picnic).