Elizabeth Park

Elizabeth Park, located on the border of Hartford and West Hartford, Connecticut, is a historic public park spanning 102 acres. Established in 1897, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park's centerpiece is the Helen S Kaman Rose Garden, which holds the distinction of being the oldest municipal rose garden in the United States. This 2.5-acre garden contains approximately 15,000 rose bushes representing 800 varieties.

The park offers a diverse array of gardens beyond its famous rose garden. These include the Annual and Tulip Garden, the Julian and Edith Eddy Rock Garden, the Perennial Garden, the Heritage Rose Garden, the Sunrise Overlook, and the Hosta Garden. The park's landscape also features expansive lawns, century-old trees, and scenic walking paths.

Elizabeth Park provides numerous recreational facilities for visitors. The park includes tennis courts, basketball courts, softball fields, and a playground. A gravel walking track on the East Lawn offers exercise opportunities, while open green spaces are available for picnicking and relaxation.

The park is maintained through a partnership between the City of Hartford and the Elizabeth Park Conservancy, a non-profit organization. The Conservancy organizes various events throughout the year, including garden tours, concerts, and educational programs. The park is open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk, offering free admission to all visitors.