Who knew that such an extensive and amazing museum was located in Hartford? We went as an afterthought when we went to see the Mark Twain house and some other things in Hartford. We were all amazed at the extensive collections housed in the fantastic architectural gems that comprise this museum. Whatever you want to see, they have it! There are multiple collections, along with extensive art, history and examples of antiquities, juxtaposed to modern art decorating the walls. Quite simply stunning and well worth the trip to Hartford. The special value was that it was free to enter on a Friday afternoon! Quite special and they even had some music playing from 6-8pm!

Whenever I am in Hartford, I love visiting the first public museum in the U.S. We were in the city when the museum was open (Friday thru Sundays). An extra plus is the museum is offering free admission through the end of January 2021. Walk-up visitors can be accommodated based on availability but it is recommended you reserve a time on their website. Took the Highlights Tour and the docent did a great job highlighting their various art collections. Do check out their artsy gift shop consisting of books, home goods and stylish items.

We don't get to Hartford as often as we'd like, but when we do it is often specifically to spend the better part of a day at this gem of a museum. This last trip we were interested in the glass exhibit [ "Fired Up" ] and once again The Wadsworth - Atheneum did not disappoint! Exceptionally well done special exhibit (placement, lighting, flow, information), docents on the floor helpfully engaged with the visitors, and there was a demonstration of glassblowing in the outside patio space which was marvelous and featured one of the best glassblowers we'd seen on Netflix's "Blown Away"!! In addition to the special exhibits, the permanent collection is what my mom would call, "choice" - turn a corner in every gallery and either see an old favorite or a piece you've never seen before by a favorite artist, there is a nice balance of painting, sculpture, mixed media art, but also historically relevant decorative arts, ceramics, and antiquities. The galleries are accessible, the staff are attentive, helpful, and kind, and the little cafe is just the right place for a cup of coffee or a light lunch. We highly recommend the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and encourage all visitors to Hartford to make sure to spend a few hours here - you won't regret it!