This theater was built in 1930 in homage to local theologian Horace Bushnell and today it still remains as one of the Connecticut's best event venues. A must-visit for all culture lovers, the Bushnell has inspired audiences with its fantastic shows and plays a leading role in the Hartford's cultural vibrancy. It is a non-profit organization renowned for community programs and a leading educator and advocate of the arts. From Broadway shows to comedians, it's a great place to spend an evening.
City Steam Brewery Café is a spectacular seven-level restaurant in the historic Richardson Building with the Marriott Residence Inn. The 15-barrel brew house allows brewmaster Ron Page to handcraft up to 12 styles of ales and lagers. The moderately priced classic brew house menu has new world touches that provide for everyone's tastes. Award winning Brew Ha Ha Comedy Club performs on Thursday at 9p, Friday and Saturday at 7p and 10p. You can enjoy a DJ on Thursday through Saturday without a cover. There is also a large upscale pool room, outdoor beer garden and many function rooms.
Education, events, film, dance and much more is the entertainment provided at Real Ways. The center is housed in an old typewriter factory and it functions as a multi-purpose venue which hosts theatrical productions, concerts, movies and art installations throughout the year. It's no wonder Real Art Ways is considered one of the best places to catch a show in Hartford.
In 2009, the Playhouse Theatre Group decided to open the doors and present some of the best classic plays and other performance pieces on stage. From comedy and children's shows to Othello and modern, interpretive dance, there is something for all tastes. Tickets are relatively inexpensive and the organization constantly provides outreach programs to foment a love for the arts in the greater Hartford region.
Bridge Street Live in Collinsville (just 15 minutes from Downtown Hartford) is not your typical performance venue. Located in the 19th-century industrial town of Collinsville, this one-of-a-kind music venue has an incredible art deco decor. Drinks and snacks are served upstairs at the bar, or outdoors during summer months when you can take the beverages out to the patio. Private events can also be arranged at the venue.