America's Oldest Public Rose Garden Is A Charming, Historic, Fragrant New England Gem In Connecticut

There are times in life when you need to stop and smell the roses. Luckily, that's precisely what you can do at the Elizabeth Park Conservancy in West Hartford, Connecticut. Located a few miles from Connecticut's Old State House, an eclectic oddities museum, it's also known simply as Elizabeth Park. This New England gem has been welcoming visitors since 1897 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Even more impressively, it features the oldest public rose garden in the country: Helen S Kaman Rose Garden. Dating back to 1904, it is a flourishing fragrant paradise. Home to more than 15,000 rose bushes, one individual on Google described the garden as, "Exquisite, peaceful, sublime!"

If that wasn't romantic enough, Elizabeth Park's charming past will surely make you swoon. The site that is now Elizabeth Park was once a farm that belonged to Charles Murray Pond, a prominent figure in 19th-century Hartford. Upon his death in 1894, Pond bestowed this land to Hartford to use as a green space. The city of Hartford agreed, and Elizabeth Park, named at Pond's request to commemorate his late wife, was born.

The stunningly beautiful rose garden came a few years later, courtesy of Theodore Wirth, who was then Hartford's Superintendent of Parks. Although Wirth died in 1949, his legacy lives on. Notably, he's responsible for the rose garden's now iconic rose arches, which can only be described as ethereal. But where does the name Helen S Kaman come in? This was the Elizabeth Park Conservancy's first president, who aided in restoring the rose garden in the late 1970s. One thing is for sure: you won't want to miss out on seeing the roses in bloom.

The Helen S Kaman Rose Garden at Elizabeth Park consists of 2.5 breathtaking acres. In fact, it happens to be the third-largest rose garden in the country. With hundreds of varieties, you'll be amazed by the diversity you'll discover here. Not to mention that many of the rose types have unforgettable names that will be sure to amuse, such as "Top Gun" and "Julie Andrews," the former exuding a red hue, and the latter, bright pink. There is, however, a small catch: You'll have to visit Elizabeth Park during the summer or early fall (specifically, June to October) to witness their magnificence. If you do, you're in for a treat. 

Strolling the Helen S Kaman Rose Garden and inhaling the flowers' fragrance will transport you to a vibrant utopia that is nothing short of magical. A highlight is the story-book-like gazebo in the center. This structure is surrounded by benches; have a seat and immerse yourself in the surroundings. But of course, there is still much more flora to experience — this includes the Heritage Rose Garden from 1938, bursting with historic varieties. Some even date back to pre-1867. 

A word to the wise: consider stopping by Elizabeth Park in mid-June so that you may experience both gardens at their peak. Nevertheless, with the exception of late fall and winter, there is always something in bloom at Elizabeth Park. For instance, spring brings to life the Robert A. Prill Tulip Garden, as well as the Sue B. Hart Perennial Garden, and the herb garden. All told, Elizabeth Park has more than 100 acres to explore. With so much beauty, it's little wonder that Tripadvisor ranks Elizabeth Park as the best thing to do in West Hartford.

Every inch of Elizabeth Park's landscape will enchant visitors and pups of all ages. Yes, you read that right, Elizabeth Park is indeed dog-friendly. That said, visitors can expect a pond bustling with local wildlife, walking paths, and an array of historical structures, including the Garmany Visitor Center. Built in 1935, it houses Elizabeth Park's gift shop. Open only from April to December at the time of this writing, it offers home decor and accessories inspired by nature. If you thought that was all, you're mistaken. Elizabeth Park features a playground for little ones and various recreational courts for sport enthusiasts.

Grab a bite to eat while you're at it; Elizabeth Park is home to the Pond House Café, serving seasonal fare. Open Friday to Sunday, salads, sandwiches, and pasta are on the menu, with brunch served Saturday and Sunday. Reservations can be made on OpenTable. Elizabeth Park is open daily year-round. Additionally, this attraction offers free admission and parking. Note that Elizabeth Park is about a two-hour drive from New York City and Boston. Visitors will find several hotels nearby, including the pet-friendly Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford-East Hartford. Featuring a 4.4 rating on Tripadvisor, one night is typically less than $230. There is an indoor pool, and guests are offered complimentary breakfast and parking. 

If you're unfamiliar with the West Hartford area and are looking to fill your itinerary, check out New Britain, the endearing Polish-influenced town known for industrial flair, located less than 20 minutes away. Seeking another nature escape in the Constitution State? Bigelow Hollow State Park is about 40 minutes away and is beloved for its uncrowded forested lake beauty.