Hartford in August

May through October gives you Hartford at its best. Spring brings the tulips at Elizabeth Park — we're talking 15,000 bulbs creating one of New England's most impressive displays. Summer means outdoor concerts at Bushnell Park and the chance to actually enjoy walking around downtown. Fall is peak season for a reason — the foliage along the Connecticut River is spectacular, and October weather is perfect for exploring. Winter can be brutal, with lake-effect snow and temperatures that'll make you question your life choices. But here's the upside: hotel rates drop by 40% and you'll have museums like the Wadsworth Atheneum mostly to yourself. Avoid major insurance conferences in September and October when hotel prices spike and downtown gets crowded with suits.