Here's What to Wear in Hartford, Connecticut in Fall

Got a fall trip planned to Hartford, CT? Hartford can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 63°F (that's 17°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Hartford, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. For footwear, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You'll be doing a lot of walking to take in all the sights, so you want to make sure your shoes won't give you blisters.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Hartford in fall—whether you're touring the Mark Twain House, exploring the Wadsworth Atheneum, visiting the Connecticut Science Center, or taking a walk through Bushnell Park.

🔗 What should women wear in Hartford, Connecticut in fall?

Hartford in fall is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: pashmina, lightweight pants, comfortable flats or loafers, light jacket, and cardigans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Hartford has to offer.

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Hartford. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Hartford that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Hartford can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Hartford, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Hartford in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 What should men wear in Hartford, Connecticut in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: stylish hat, sweaters, linen shirts, loafers or dress shoes, and jeans or khakis. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Hartford in comfort and style.

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Hartford trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Hartford, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Hartford. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Linen shirts

Packing for Hartford can be a daunting task, but there are a few items that are essential for any trip. One of those items is a linen shirt. Linen is a light and airy fabric that is perfect for a variety of weather conditions. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing linen shirts for travel. First, consider the color. Linen tends to absorb sweat and can become stained quickly. Light colors will help to keep you cool, while dark colors mask any stains better. Also, choose a shirt with a loose fit. Linen shirts are not meant to be skin tight!

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Hartford, Connecticut will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Hartford has to offer!