Bushnell Park
Hartford, CT 06106
Phone: (860) 232-6710
- Cross Street:
- Elm Street
- Hours:
- Daily dawn-dusk
Editorial Review for Bushnell Park – by F. Caso
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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Insider Tips
Water FeaturesWhile you're there, don't miss the pond or the marble and stone Corning Fountain, a 30-foot fountain built in 1899 in honor of the Saukiog tribe.
User Reviews for Bushnell Park
07/28/2002 Posted by pounciest
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).
Pros: convienient, good parking
Cons: bring mosquito spray
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