With Hartford’s history and Mystic Country’s nautical heritage, planners can find plenty of options when looking for a unique off-site venue for their next event.
The Greater Hartford Jaycees Boat House (860.713.3131) on the Connecticut River is an ideal venue for midsize to large groups seeking an attractive site for a banquet or reception. The waterfront facility offers indoor and outdoor space for up to several hundred.
Blending literary history with an inspired meeting or event venue, the Mark Twain House & Museum (860.247.0998) showcases the celebrated American author and his time in Hartford while writing The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. In addition to group tours, the museum offers private meeting rooms.
The new Connecticut Science Center (860.724.3623), which opened its doors in downtown Hartford last June, offers a variety of unique locations for receptions and private events. Located conveniently next to the Connecticut Convention Center, the multilevel building features an inviting glass-walled atrium that can accommodate several hundred for parties, with space for dining stations on all floors, as well as outdoors on a sweeping patio overlooking the Connecticut River.
Out at the Brady International Airport, the New England Air Museum (860.623.3305) promises a memorable event or banquet set to a backdrop of aviation history. The museum displays an impressive collection of military and civilian aircraft, including the famous World War II B-29 Superfortress and the VS-44 Flying Boat. Groups of up to 300 can have their event right on the hangar floor alongside the planes, while conference rooms can serve up to 100.
Mystic Country
The Mystic Seaport (860.572.5305) is a natural choice for planners who want to infuse the energy and allure of the waterfront into their event. Along with the museum itself, with its series of preserved historical ships and exhibits, the Seaport holds a number of unique private venues--everything from strictly business gatherings around the conference table to festive receptions at outdoor venues. The River Room hosts up to 250 and offers exceptional views of the Mystic River, while the North Lawn can accommodate up to 500 for outdoor events. To get even closer to the water, the S.S. Sabino can take charters of up to 80 out for sightseeing tours or cocktail events. The Munson Room provides a large conference table for up to 40, while the Maritime Art Gallery accommodates up to 60.
—Hunter Holcombe