Expand your knowledge of Hartford’s architectural treasures by venturing east and west of Main Street. Understand the historical and cultural significance of buildings along South Prospect Street, from the 1788 Amos Bull House to the BPO Elks Lodge, to the Hartford Times Building. To the west, explore more of the city’s South Downtown neighborhood on Elm and Gold Streets.
Turn off your cell phones, take deep breaths, and let your mind observe nature using all your senses through the practice of shinrin yoku, also known as forest bathing, with Certified Forest Therapy Guide Professor Suzanne Hudd.
The Coventry Farmers’ Market on the grounds of the Nathan Hale Homestead is an experience not to be missed. This market carries the tradition of being the largest farmers’ market in the state, featuring some of the best of Connecticut-grown, Connecticut-made products in one of the most unspoiled countryside settings in the state. Each week, the staff of the Homestead will lead a family-friendly activity to connect the history of the site with the theme of the market. Admission to the Nathan Hale Homestead is by regular admission and is not included in the Farmers’ Market program.
The Phelps-Hatheway School of Floral Arts was created to showcase the magnificent blooms grown in our small community and, for the final session, in our great state of Connecticut. All ages and abilities are welcome! Late May marks the return of the peony, known for its deep hues and exquisite fragrance. Debora Reynolds, long-time supporter of the Phelps-Hatheway House & Garden, flower farmer, and floral designer, brings decades of experience in the growing and styling of the peony. Debora will share her horticulture tips and guide you on your way to the perfect arrangement.
In collaboration with the Suffield Historical Society and Kent Memorial Library, join staff to learn the stories of individuals who resided on Suffield’s North and South Main Streets yet have long been erased from memory. A reception will follow in the Visitor Center.
Updated for 2026! Join an easy 1.5-mile walking tour on the sidewalks of Hartford’s historic Main Street from the Butler-McCook House & Garden to the G. Fox Building exploring this city's colonial roots and more! This walk includes some of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route. This program is offered FREE as part of Connecticut Trails Day.
The Coventry Farmers’ Market on the grounds of the Nathan Hale Homestead is an experience not to be missed. This market carries the tradition of being the largest farmers’ market in the state, featuring some of the best of Connecticut-grown, Connecticut-made products in one of the most unspoiled countryside settings in the state. Each week, the staff of the Homestead will lead a family-friendly activity to connect the history of the site with the theme of the market. Admission to the Nathan Hale Homestead is by regular admission and is not included in the Farmers’ Market program.
What could be more delightful than a beautiful summer day and a garden full of blooms? On Sundays in June, bring your painting supplies and explore the grounds to find the perfect spot for inspiration. Grounds fees are waived for those painting on Plein Air days.
Bring a lawn chair and a picnic dinner as our historic garden comes alive with music! Round out your evening with free tours of the house museum’s first floor, an audio tour of the garden, and featured artist exhibitions. In case of inclement weather, the concert will move indoors to the Amos Bull Community Room.
Bring your project, a comfy folding chair or blanket, and enjoy the grounds of the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden! Grounds fees will be waived for those who have knitting projects with them.
Join us as the environmental educator from White Memorial presents an informative talk on how to best create a backyard habitat for the wildlife that helps our gardens. You might even meet a “critter” or two!
The Coventry Farmers’ Market on the grounds of the Nathan Hale Homestead is an experience not to be missed. This market carries the tradition of being the largest farmers’ market in the state, featuring some of the best of Connecticut-grown, Connecticut-made products in one of the most unspoiled countryside settings in the state. Each week, the staff of the Homestead will lead a family-friendly activity to connect the history of the site with the theme of the market. Admission to the Nathan Hale Homestead is by regular admission and is not included in the Farmers’ Market program.
What could be more delightful than a beautiful summer day and a garden full of blooms? On Sundays in June, bring your painting supplies and explore the grounds to find the perfect spot for inspiration. Grounds fees are waived for those painting on Plein Air days.
So, you think you’re a trivia expert? Now you can prove it! Don your thinking caps for tavern-style trivia in the Nathan Hale Homestead barn. Teams of up to 6 may compete in a general knowledge competition. Prizes for the top 3 teams! Teams may bring their own snacks and refreshments.
Hartford joins cities worldwide on the longest day of the year to celebrate the annual Make Music Day Hartford. Bring a picnic and your dancing shoes to the garden of the Butler-McCook House and join the party in Hartford’s best kept secret—our historic garden oasis–with the String of Pearls Big Band.