Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford Farmington

Farmington sits in a handsome corner of the Farmington Valley, and the Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford/Farmington is the sensible base for visitors interested in the western side of the region. Hampton Inn is Hilton's value-oriented brand, with a reputation for dependable rooms, free breakfast and friendly service, and the Farmington property follows the formula with an outdoor-friendly suburban feel. Rooms typically include a work desk, a refrigerator and microwave in many categories, and suites offer extra space for families. For visitors who plan to spend time at the Hill-Stead Museum, the Farmington Valley trails, UConn Health and the surrounding towns, the location saves a lot of driving time compared with staying downtown.

Farmington is a pleasant town with a historic center, antique houses and a river that is popular for paddling. Hill-Stead Museum, with its Impressionist collection and Sunken Garden, is just a few minutes away, and the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail and Farmington River offer easy outdoor time. Westfarms mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the state, is nearby, and the Mark Twain House, Harriet Beecher Stowe Center and Elizabeth Park are all a short drive east.

Heublein Tower in Simsbury is also within about twenty minutes, so the hotel works well as a base for a hiking and museum weekend.

The usual brand strengths apply. Expect a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room and an indoor pool at many Hampton locations, although you should confirm the specific features of this property. Parking is typically free on site, which is a significant saving compared with downtown garages. Staff at Hampton properties tend to be experienced with business travelers, medical visitors and families, and the clientele reflects the nearby corporate offices and the hospital.

This hotel suits several visitors. Art lovers will appreciate the proximity to Hill-Stead. Hikers can reach Talcott Mountain without crossing downtown. Families benefit from the pool and breakfast, and anyone on a modest budget gets good value. It is less convenient for those who want to walk to dinner or evening entertainment, as the area is largely car-oriented, though Farmington Center has restaurants within a short drive.

If your trip is focused on downtown Hartford's museums and nightlife, choose a downtown hotel. If you prefer a quieter base with easy parking, this one is a good choice. Look at autumn weekends early, when leaf-peepers fill hotels across the valley, and check rates for weekends, which are often lower than weekdays.

Evenings in Farmington are quiet, so it helps to decide on a dinner spot early and make a reservation, especially on weekends in autumn.