Connecticut Convention Center: Plan Your Hartford Visit
Looking for the Hartford Convention Center? Its official name is the Connecticut Convention Center. This guide covers event dates, parking costs, hotel choices, public transportation, floor plans and the details you need before arriving.
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Hartford Convention Center Address, Contact & Hours
Location
Connecticut Convention Center
100 Columbus Boulevard
Hartford, CT 06103
United States
Main phone:
(860) 249-6000
General email:
info@ctconventions.com
Event sales:
(860) 728-2639
When Can You Visit?
Convention center: Open for scheduled events, meetings and authorized activities. There is no single public opening schedule covering every event.
Attached parking garage: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Tickets: Admission prices, registration requirements and entry times are determined by individual event organizers.
Hartford Convention Center Events & Shows — 2026
The Connecticut Convention Center hosts trade shows, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, consumer events, competitions and holiday attractions. Its calendar changes throughout the year.
Upcoming Events Listed for October–December 2026
NEAUA 95th Annual Meeting
Professional conference and educational meeting.
Admission: Registration and eligibility depend on the organizer.
Connecticut GI Educational Symposium
Educational gathering for Connecticut GI healthcare professionals and related attendees.
Listed time: 3:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Aerospace Alley Future Workforce Fair & Tradeshow
Workforce and industry-focused exhibition.
Listed time: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
AYC CT States Cheer Competition
State cheer competition hosted by CTYFC.
Listed day-of-event ticket: $45.
Fall Connecticut Home Show
Home improvement, renovation, products and services exhibition.
Show admission and schedules are determined by the event organizer.
GLOW Hartford
Holiday light festival and market with seasonal attractions.
Entry arrangements and available ticket dates vary.
How to Find the Right Event and Tickets
Go to the convention center’s calendar and choose your event date or browse the upcoming listings.
Open the event page to check whether it is a public show, professional meeting, private convention or ticketed attraction.
Look for admission price, online registration, age requirements, show hours and exhibitor or attendee restrictions.
Use the event’s authorized booking or registration link if tickets or advance registration are required.
The venue calendar is informational. Tickets may be sold or issued by individual event organizers rather than the convention center.
Hartford Convention Center Parking: Rates, Garage & Alternatives
The easiest parking choice for most visitors is the covered garage attached to the Connecticut Convention Center. It serves the convention center and the Hartford Marriott Downtown.
First Hour
Published standard initial hourly charge.
Additional Hours
Each additional hour under the standard schedule.
Daily Maximum
Regular published daily maximum.
Standard Parking Cost Examples
| Parking Duration | Estimated Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 hour | $5 | Very short visit |
| Up to 2 hours | $7 | Short appointment |
| Up to 3 hours | $9 | Brief event or meeting |
| Up to 4 hours | $11 | Half-day activity |
| Up to 6 hours | $15 | Extended conference session |
| Up to 8 hours | $19 | Most of a conference day |
| Daily maximum | $23 | Long event day |
Examples use the published standard hourly schedule. Special event rates, prepaid passes and organizer-sponsored parking may differ.
Attached Garage Details
| Garage location | 100 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford |
|---|---|
| Standard capacity | Approximately 2,600 spaces |
| Garage levels | 8 |
| Hours | 24/7 |
| Height clearance | 8 ft 2 in on Level 1; 7 ft 6 in on other levels |
| Oversized vehicles | 125-space outdoor surface lot listed |
| EV charging | Designated charging areas; venue lists free charging |
| Garage operator | Propark |
| Parking office | (860) 728-2598 |
Nearby Parking Alternatives
| Garage | Listed Capacity | When to Consider It |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut Science Center Garage | 460 spaces | When the attached garage is busy |
| Front Street South Garage | 232 spaces | Overflow parking and Front Street visits |
| Front Street North Garage | 651 spaces | Large event overflow |
Alternative garages can have different prices and operating rules. Do not assume the convention center’s $23 maximum applies to them.
How to Park Without Getting Lost
Use the convention center address rather than a nearby hotel or attraction.
Enter the attached garage and check the clearance limits if driving a tall vehicle.
Note the garage level and parking area before walking to the elevators or lobby.
Level P1 connects to the main lobby. Level P5 provides an alternate entrance via the outdoor riverside esplanade.
Hartford Convention Center Map & Driving Directions
The venue is on Columbus Boulevard in downtown Hartford, close to the Connecticut River, Front Street District and Connecticut Science Center.
GPS Address
Connecticut Convention Center
100 Columbus Boulevard
Hartford, CT 06103
Driving Directions by Highway
| Coming From | Recommended Route |
|---|---|
| I-91 North | Take Exit 29A, Capitol Area/Convention Center. Follow the Columbus Boulevard/Convention Center exit, turn right onto Columbus Boulevard, and follow signs to the center. |
| I-91 South | Take Exit 29A, Capitol Area/Convention Center. Take the Columbus Boulevard exit and turn right. The venue and garage are immediately on the right. |
| I-84 East | Use Exit 52 to I-91 South toward New Haven, then Exit 29A and the Columbus Boulevard/Convention Center exit. |
| I-84 West / Route 2 West | Take Exit 54 toward Downtown Hartford, cross Founders Bridge and turn left onto Columbus Boulevard. |
Road closures and traffic patterns can change during downtown events. Check live navigation before departure.
Hotels Near Hartford Convention Center
The easiest hotel for attendees is the connected Hartford Marriott Downtown. Other downtown options may work better for visitors looking for different rates, room types or extended-stay facilities.
Hartford Marriott Downtown
Location: 200 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford
Access: Direct indoor connection to the convention center.
Rooms: 409
Best for: Attendees who prioritize convenience, especially during bad weather or early-morning sessions.
Phone: (860) 249-8000
View official hotel details ↗Residence Inn Hartford Downtown
Location: 942 Main Street, Hartford
Venue-listed walk: Approximately 13 minutes.
Best for: Longer stays and travelers who prefer suite-style accommodations.
Getting there: Walk through downtown or use local transportation when appropriate.
The Goodwin
Location: 1 Haynes Street, Hartford
Venue-listed walk: Approximately 16 minutes.
Best for: Travelers preferring a boutique-style downtown hotel.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
Location: Downtown Hartford.
Venue-listed walk: Approximately 15 minutes.
Best for: Convention visitors comparing major hotel brands and group rates.
Quick Hotel Comparison
| Hotel | Convention Center Access | Main Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Hartford Marriott Downtown | Directly connected | No outdoor walk between hotel and venue |
| Residence Inn Hartford Downtown | About 13-minute walk | Extended-stay accommodation |
| The Goodwin | About 16-minute walk | Boutique hotel atmosphere |
| DoubleTree Hartford Downtown | About 15-minute walk | Downtown hotel alternative |
Getting to the Convention Center by Airport, Train or Bus
Bradley Airport
Bradley International Airport (BDL) is approximately 15 miles from downtown Hartford.
The Bradley Flyer provides an airport-to-downtown bus option and serves a stop at the convention center’s lower lobby.
Hartford Union Station
Union Station serves Amtrak and other regional transportation.
From the station, use local transit, a taxi or rideshare, or walk through downtown if practical.
Hartford dash Bus
The free downtown dash circulator connects the convention center with hotels, restaurants and attractions.
The published weekday service is every 15 minutes, approximately 7 AM–7 PM. Event service may differ.
Which Transportation Option Should You Choose?
| Arrival Point | Practical Option |
|---|---|
| Bradley International Airport | Bradley Flyer bus, taxi or rideshare |
| Hartford Union Station | Local bus, dash when available, taxi or rideshare |
| Downtown Hartford hotel | Walking or free dash bus |
| Greater Hartford suburbs | CTtransit, CTfastrak or driving |
Hartford Convention Center Floor Plans & Event Spaces
The convention center contains approximately 540,000 square feet of total facility space. Its main event facilities include exhibit halls, meeting rooms, a ballroom and pre-function areas.
Venue Layout by Level
| Level | Primary Area | What Visitors Should Know |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Columbus Boulevard entrance / lower lobby | Key arrival point, garage connection, hotel access and transit pickup area |
| Level 3 | Exhibit Hall | Approximately 140,000 sq. ft., divisible into two halls |
| Upper meeting and ballroom levels | Ballroom, meeting rooms and pre-function spaces | Check the organizer’s room assignment and latest floor plan |
Meeting Planner Quick Facts
| Exhibition space | 140,000 sq. ft., divisible into two halls |
|---|---|
| Main ballroom | 40,000 sq. ft., divisible into three rooms |
| Meeting rooms | 14 rooms totaling approximately 25,000 sq. ft. |
| Pre-function areas | Approximately 25,000 sq. ft. |
| Executive boardrooms | 2 |
| Loading dock | 20 bays, including two drive-in bays |
| Freight door opening | 32 ft 4 in wide by 18 ft high |
| Freight elevator | 12,000 lb listed capacity |
| Service elevator | 5,000 lb listed capacity |
These details are useful for exhibitors, organizers and contractors, but they do not replace the assigned event layout or approved loading schedule.
Accessibility, Wi-Fi & Visitor Facilities
Accessible Arrival
The venue has an attached garage and direct lobby access.
Visitors needing accessible parking, a step-free route, an accessible drop-off location or help reaching a particular event level should confirm arrangements before arrival.
Convention center: (860) 249-6000
Parking office: (860) 728-2598
Internet Access
The venue’s FAQ identifies free Wi-Fi at The Landing Cafe on the fourth floor.
Conference-wide Wi-Fi, dedicated exhibitor connections and enhanced network services may have separate event-specific arrangements.
Do not assume complimentary public Wi-Fi covers all exhibit halls.
Dining & Refreshments
Food-service availability depends on the event and venue operating schedule.
The nearby Front Street District provides additional dining possibilities within the downtown area.
Hotel Connection
Hartford Marriott Downtown is interconnected with the convention center.
This is especially useful for conference attendees carrying materials, traveling with children or avoiding outdoor weather.
Bag Policy, Security & Exhibitor Information
There is no single confirmed bag-size rule that should be assumed for every event at the convention center. Security procedures can vary depending on the organizer and event.
| Issue | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Bags and backpacks | Your event’s specific bag restrictions and screening requirements |
| Food and beverages | Organizer instructions and venue concession policies |
| Cameras and recording | Event photography, video recording and equipment restrictions |
| Re-entry | Whether tickets or badges allow departure and return |
| Exhibit setup | Move-in dates, loading arrangements, electrical orders and labor rules |
| Accessibility support | Accessible seating, mobility routes and organizer-provided accommodations |
Exhibitor Information
For exhibitors, the convention center’s published technical information is a starting point, but actual booth requirements come from the event manual.
- Confirm your assigned booth number and exhibit hall.
- Check move-in and move-out time windows.
- Review freight, delivery and loading procedures.
- Order required electrical, internet and other utility services.
- Confirm which activities exhibitors may complete themselves.
- Review the current event-specific contractor and safety requirements.
Exhibitor services phone: (860) 728-2640
How to Book a Meeting or Convention at the Hartford Venue
Businesses, associations and organizers interested in reserving event space should contact the venue’s sales team with their requirements.
Identify event type, expected attendees, preferred dates, required meeting rooms and exhibition space.
Account for seating style, stage size, AV requirements, exhibitor booths, catering and accessibility.
Include move-in dates, loading, utilities, guest rooms, parking and food-service needs.
Ask about available dates, event-space configurations, pricing structure and a proposal.
Check cancellation terms, service charges, approved layouts, payment deadlines and event responsibilities before signing.
Convention Center Sales
Phone: (860) 728-2639
Email: info@ctconventions.com
There is no universal rental price for every event. Final costs depend on space, dates, services, staffing and the negotiated arrangement.
What Is Nearby? Local Hartford Visitor Tips
Connecticut Science Center
Located next to the convention center. A convenient nearby attraction for families and visitors extending their downtown stay.
Front Street District
Across from the convention center area. A practical choice for restaurants, entertainment and meeting colleagues after an event.
Connecticut Riverfront
The convention center overlooks the river, and nearby public spaces can be useful for a break between conference sessions.
Simple One-Day Visit Plan
| When | Suggested Action |
|---|---|
| Before leaving | Save ticket, check event entry time and verify parking arrangements |
| On arrival | Park, note garage level and locate your assigned entrance |
| Before the event | Find registration, restrooms, meeting hall and accessibility routes |
| During breaks | Use venue amenities or nearby dining according to event access rules |
| After the event | Check traffic, pay for parking and follow your saved exit route |
Hartford Convention Center: 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Hartford Convention Center officially called?
The official venue name is Connecticut Convention Center. It is located at 100 Columbus Boulevard in downtown Hartford, Connecticut.
2. What is the address of the Hartford Convention Center?
The Connecticut Convention Center address is 100 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT 06103. The main telephone number is (860) 249-6000.
3. How much is parking at the Hartford Convention Center?
The published standard garage rate is $5 for the first hour, $2 for each additional hour and a $23 daily maximum. Special event rates may differ.
4. Is parking connected to the convention center?
Yes. An attached eight-level garage provides approximately 2,600 parking spaces. The main lobby is accessible from parking Level P1.
5. What hotels are closest to the Hartford Convention Center?
Hartford Marriott Downtown is directly connected. Other downtown options include Residence Inn Hartford Downtown, The Goodwin and DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown.
6. Where can I see upcoming Connecticut Convention Center events?
The venue publishes an official events calendar at ctconventions.com/events/. Individual organizers provide ticket prices, admission rules and registration details.
7. Is there free Wi-Fi at the Connecticut Convention Center?
The venue identifies complimentary Wi-Fi at The Landing Cafe on the fourth floor. Other Wi-Fi services and event-wide access arrangements may differ.
8. How do I get to the convention center from Bradley Airport?
Bradley International Airport is approximately 15 miles from downtown Hartford. The Bradley Flyer bus serves downtown Hartford, including a stop at the convention center’s lower lobby. Taxis and rideshare services are also options.
9. Does the Hartford Convention Center have floor plans?
Yes. The official website provides interactive floor plans and technical venue information. Attendees should also check their event organizer’s current room assignments.
10. How do I book an event at Connecticut Convention Center?
Contact the convention center’s sales department at (860) 728-2639. Provide proposed dates, expected attendance, meeting-space requirements and event service needs to request availability and pricing information.
Before You Go
For most Hartford Convention Center visitors, the most important steps are confirming the event admission rules, checking the attached garage’s rate, saving the correct entrance and choosing transportation or a hotel that fits the event schedule.
Information reviewed October 23, 2026. Event dates, parking prices, hotel arrangements, transportation schedules and venue policies can change. Confirm time-sensitive details before traveling.