About the Trail
The New Britain Historic Walking Trail, an urban trail that encourages exploration of the ‘Hardware City’ along 3 distinct loops totaling approximately 4 miles. Double-sided informational signs guide you along your journey, offering highlights of the City’s greatest achievements, distinguished citizens, significant memorials, and captivating art and architecture.
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"“New Britain’s Historic Walking Trail is a unique way for visitors and residents to learn more about the rich history of our community. From sports figures, to world-renowned manufacturers, presidential visits, early aviation flights, and more—New Britain has been the epicenter of Connecticut’s movers and shakers for centuries. Come learn about all of these fascinating events and figures who shaped not only the region, but our country on our Historic Walking Trails."
"“New Britain’s Historic Walking Trail is a unique way for visitors and residents to learn more about the rich history of our community. From sports figures, to world-renowned manufacturers, presidential visits, early aviation f...
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""New Britain is best explored by walking and there is no better companion than New Britain’s Historic Walking Trails. Each trail highlights an area of the city and reveals to residents and visitors alike New Britain’s vibrant history, historic buildings, events and parks. Walkers also get a snapshot of the many people who settled here and made New Britain a manufacturing hub whether they were the people that ran the companies or immigrated from abroad and made the goods that made New Britain famous."
""New Britain is best explored by walking and there is no better companion than New Britain’s Historic Walking Trails. Each trail highlights an area of the city and reveals to residents and visitors alike New Britain’s vibrant h...
Explore the Trail
The Historic Downtown
Gold Loop
Along this 1-mile relatively easy and flat walk around the heart of downtown, you’ll encounter some of the city’s important architecture and monuments. Discover some of the City’s important architecture and monuments and learn about the city’s early history. Check out stores, restaurants, parks and public art displays.
The Walnut Hill Park
Green Loop
The historic Fredrick Law Olmsted designed Walnut Hill Park is centric to this moderately challenging nearly 1.5-mile walk. Experience the best view of the city from atop “the hill”. You may consider combining your tour with summer concerts at the Darius Miller Band Shell or a visit to the Museum of American Art.
The Little Poland
Red Loop
This fairly-easy 1.5-mile walk takes you through Broad Street’s “Little Poland” neighborhood. Learn about the City’s industrial origins as the “Hardware Capital of the World”. Featuring quintessential New Britain establishments, bakeries and restaurants, and Sacred Heart Church, this loop immerses you in local culture.
Download Trail Guide
Hard copy trail guides are also available at City Hall, the Library, visitors center, and various locations throughout downtown.
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