Great River Park

Riverside Escape

Great River Park stretches nearly two miles along the eastern bank of the Connecticut River in East Hartford. It offers refreshing views of both the river and the Hartford skyline. When city life gets a bit much, this is where locals come to reset.

Trails Worth Traveling

Paved, well-lit walkways meander along the riverfront, well-suited for your morning jog, afternoon stroll, or casual bike ride. You'll spot plenty of regulars getting their steps in while soaking up the natural surroundings.

The trail network runs from the Buckley Bridge all the way to the Charter Oak Bridge, with the Connecticut River as your constant companion. Just a heads-up: after a good rain, some parts of the trail might be temporarily underwater - nature keeps things interesting!

Entertainment Under the Sky

Tucked within the park is a cozy 350-seat amphitheater that comes alive with events year-round. Summer brings the "Sounds of Summer" concert series, turning warm evenings into memory-making opportunities with live music and community vibes.

Water Adventures

If you're interested in getting on the water, Great River Park provides options. A public boat launch provides access to the Connecticut River for boating enthusiasts. The riverbanks also attract fishing fans, with catch-and-release being the popular approach among the local angling community.

Family-Friendly Spaces

Land-lovers will appreciate the picnic areas scattered throughout, complete with a few small grills for impromptu cookouts. The picnic tables aren't abundant though, so arriving early on nice days is definitely smart.

Kids can burn off energy at the small playground, but it's modest in size - sometimes the best playground is simply the open green space within the park.

Beyond the Boundaries

The park is a key piece of the larger Riverfront Recapture project, which aims to reconnect communities with the Connecticut River. The Founders Bridge Promenade links East Hartford to the capital city, making it easy to extend your adventure across the water.

Many visitors enjoy incorporating a bridge crossing into their park experience - it adds some elevation and different perspectives to your outing.

Artistic Touches

As you wander, keep an eye out for the interesting collection of outdoor sculptures that dot the landscape. History buffs might appreciate the informational displays about President Lincoln that add some historical context to your visit.

Practical Matters

Park rangers keep the grounds in good shape and help ensure everyone stays safe. If you're looking to mix fitness with fresh air, check out the outdoor fitness area where you can work out with river views as your motivation.

For necessities, portable restrooms are available throughout. Parking is sufficient for typical days, though it can fill up during special events when everyone has the same good idea to visit.