Connecticut Convention Center events — Hartford, CT

Discover the State-of-the-Art Connecticut Convention Center

The Connecticut Convention Center is more than a convention center — it's a state-of-the-art hub that anchors Hartford’s riverfront with cutting-edge spaces and sweeping views. Located downtown at 100 Columbus Blvd, it’s the city’s premier destination for Connecticut Convention Center events of every scale — from national conventions and trade shows to expos, galas, and keynote sessions.

Opened in 2005 as the largest convention facility between New York and Boston, the venue features approximately 140,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 40,000-square-foot ballroom, and 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. A striking glass façade frames panoramic vistas of the Connecticut River and the Hartford skyline, while modern infrastructure supports events that demand both scale and polish.

Programming spans conventions, industry conferences, expos, banquets, and special events — including annual staples such as ConnectiCon and the Connecticut International Auto Show. The center has welcomed high-profile keynote speakers and special guests like Bill Clinton and Colin Powell, and it regularly supports community programming tied to the Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz.

Behind the scenes, the venue is built for performance and reliability: state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities, high-speed wireless internet throughout, and advanced lighting systems create a professional backdrop for production-heavy schedules. Pre-function spaces, executive boardrooms, and VIP lounges allow organizers to tailor experiences for sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees alike.

As a key anchor of Hartford’s riverfront revitalization, the Connecticut Convention Center delivers a polished, convenient, and flexible experience for attendees and organizers. If you’re exploring Connecticut Convention Center upcoming events, expect a well-run environment, memorable river views, and a layout built to scale with your plans.

Purchase Process

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Whether you're buying for a marquee convention, keynote session, or special event, Ticket Purchase gives you the confidence to buy worry-free.

Seating Recommendations and Charts

Connecticut Convention Center offers seating that varies by event configuration within approximately 140,000 square feet of exhibit space, with layouts tailored to theater-style, banquet, classroom, or open-floor exhibits. The flexible design includes a 40,000-square-foot ballroom and 25,000 square feet of adaptable meeting space, plus pre-function areas and VIP lounges that can be configured for premium experiences.

• Ballroom (40,000 sq ft): Ideal for keynote sessions, awards banquets, and gala dinners. For keynote-style programming, choose central seating in the main stage sightline for the best balance of proximity and overall view.
• Exhibit Halls (140,000 sq ft total exhibit space): For large expos and trade shows, look for seating or staging near feature areas or anchor exhibitors to stay close to event highlights. Theater-style stages within the hall often favor mid-floor, centered rows.
• Meeting Rooms (25,000 sq ft of flexible space): Breakout sessions and workshops typically use theater or classroom setups — arrive early to select front-center seats for clear sightlines and optimal audio during presentations.
• VIP Lounges and Executive Boardrooms: These areas are often reserved for sponsors, speakers, and premium passholders, offering quieter environments, lounge seating, and convenient access to private hospitality.
• Pre-function Spaces: When events create pop-up seating or overflow viewing areas here, position yourself near upper-level windows for panoramic river and skyline views during breaks.

Use Ticket Purchase’ interactive seating chart to view live seat availability, compare prices, and choose the section that fits your experience.

Ready to secure your seats? Browse Connecticut Convention Center tickets now — events often sell out fast!

Location and Transportation

Venue Address

Connecticut Convention Center

100 Columbus Blvd

Hartford, CT 06103

Located in downtown Hartford, the convention center sits along the Connecticut River with easy access to hotels, dining, and cultural attractions.

• Parking: On-site parking garage with 2,600 spaces; rates typically range from $3–$19 depending on duration and event. Additional surface lots and garages are nearby.
• Public Transit: Served by CTtransit bus routes; Hartford Union Station (Amtrak and CTrail) is about a 15-minute walk.
• Rideshare & Dropoff: Designated drop-off/pickup area at the main entrance on Columbus Blvd.

Arrival Recommendations

Plan to arrive 60–90 minutes before large events to allow time for parking, registration, and security screening when in effect. If your schedule includes back-to-back sessions in different areas, build in walking time — the facility is expansive and designed to accommodate multiple events simultaneously.

The venue is fully indoors, so weather rarely affects Connecticut Convention Center upcoming events; however, its riverfront setting can feel breezy outside near drop-off areas. If you’re waiting curbside or walking between nearby hotels and restaurants, a light layer can make arrivals and departures more comfortable.

For the smoothest parking experience, head directly to the on-site garage and follow event signage to recommended levels or entrances. If you’re arriving via CTtransit or Amtrak/CTrail, the 15-minute walk from Union Station is straightforward — budget a few extra minutes at peak times.

Venue Navigation

The convention center’s layout centers on large exhibit halls, a 40,000-square-foot ballroom for major sessions and banquets, and 25,000 square feet of adaptable meeting rooms for breakouts and workshops. Pre-function spaces and lounges serve as natural waypoints for registration, networking, and sponsor activations, while VIP lounges and executive boardrooms support premium and private gatherings.

Concessions and an on-site café operate during events, with merchandise stands appearing for conventions and expos. You’ll find a business center, coat check, ATMs, free Wi‑Fi in public areas, and charging stations to keep devices powered between sessions. With moderate walking distances expected, comfortable footwear is a smart choice — especially during full exhibit hall days.

Security and Policies

• Bag Policy: Security screening may be in place for large events; bag size restrictions vary by event.
• Prohibited Items: Weapons, outside food and beverages, illegal substances, and items deemed dangerous by security.
• Re-entry Policy: Typically allowed with event badge or hand stamp, but may vary by event.
• Service Animals: Permitted in accordance with ADA guidelines.

Post-Purchase Tips — Be Ready for Event Day

• Download your tickets before arriving — cell service can be limited.
• Bring a valid ID and cashless payment option.
• Charge your phone fully.
• Review venue policies in advance.
• Allow extra time for registration during peak arrival windows.
• If you plan to explore the riverfront outside the venue, bring a layer for breezy conditions.

Pre-Event Planning

Make the most of your day by building in time to enjoy the venue’s setting. Upper-level windows and pre-function areas offer panoramic views of the Connecticut River and downtown Hartford — perfect for a quick break between sessions. If your schedule allows, Mortensen Riverfront Plaza and the Riverfront Recapture parks and trails nearby are popular for a short walk.

Many attendees coordinate meeting points at registration desks or in pre-function lounges to keep groups together. If you’re attending a large expo or keynote, agree on a post-session rendezvous spot, especially if you’ll be moving between exhibit halls, the ballroom, and breakout rooms. For multi-day Connecticut Convention Center events, a consistent meetup location keeps your group in sync.

If you’re arriving early or staying late, consider pairing your event with a visit to the adjacent Connecticut Science Center or a stroll to nearby cultural spots. With dining options just steps away, it’s easy to plan a working lunch or celebratory dinner after a full day of programming.

Accessibility

Connecticut Convention Center is ADA-accessible, with ADA parking available in the on-site garage, accessible seating throughout event spaces, and elevators and ramps connecting all levels. Assistive listening devices are available upon request for certain events, and arrangements can be made in advance to accommodate specific needs.

For assistance choosing accessible seating, contact Ticket Purchase for personalized support before purchasing.

Dining Options

Inside the venue, you’ll find an on-site café and concessions operating during events, along with catering for private functions in the ballroom, meeting rooms, and VIP spaces. Menus at catered events often highlight local Connecticut craft beers and regional specialties, offering a taste of the area during receptions and banquets.

Merchandise stands appear during conventions and expos, and public areas offer free Wi‑Fi and charging stations so you can recharge while you refuel.

Food and Restaurants Near Connecticut Convention Center

If you're arriving early or staying nearby, there are excellent dining options in downtown Hartford, just steps from the venue:

• Vivo Seasonal Trattoria (Downtown Hartford) — Upscale Italian restaurant located inside the Marriott Hartford Downtown, adjacent to the convention center.
• The Capital Grille (Downtown Hartford) — High-end steakhouse known for dry-aged steaks and an extensive wine list.
• Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ (Downtown Hartford) — Popular spot for Kansas City-style barbecue and casual dining.
• Salute (Downtown Hartford) — Contemporary Italian-American cuisine with a lively atmosphere.
• Agave Grill (Downtown Hartford) — Mexican restaurant featuring creative margaritas and Tex-Mex dishes.
• Trumbull Kitchen (Downtown Hartford) — Eclectic American fare with global influences and a trendy vibe.
• Max Downtown (Downtown Hartford) — Renowned for its steaks, seafood, and sophisticated cocktails.
• Black-Eyed Sally’s Southern Kitchen & Bar (Downtown Hartford) — Southern-style comfort food and live blues music.

These nearby spots make it easy to grab a delicious meal or drink before heading into the show.

Other Venues in Hartford

Hartford and its surrounding areas offer a thriving live entertainment scene — and Ticket Purchase connects you to them all:

• XL Center — Multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL hockey), UConn basketball, and major touring acts.
• Dunkin’ Park — Modern baseball stadium, home to the Hartford Yard Goats (Double-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies).
• Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts — Historic theater hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and symphony performances.
• Infinity Music Hall & Bistro — Intimate concert venue and restaurant featuring live music from national and local acts.
• Webster Theater — Historic theater known for concerts, comedy, and special events.
• Hartford Stage — Acclaimed regional theater company presenting classic and contemporary plays.
• Xfinity Theatre — Large outdoor/indoor amphitheater hosting major summer concerts and festivals.
• TheaterWorks Hartford — Contemporary theater company staging innovative productions in a renovated downtown space.

Ready to catch your next show in Hartford? Browse Hartford events now and secure verified tickets through Ticket Purchase today.

Other Things to Do in Hartford

Beyond the events, the Hartford area offers incredible attractions for visitors heading to Connecticut Convention Center:

• Connecticut Science Center — Interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits for all ages, located next to the convention center.
• Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art — Oldest public art museum in the U.S., featuring European and American masterpieces.
• Bushnell Park — Historic city park with walking paths, a carousel, and the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch.
• Mark Twain House & Museum — Former home of the famous author, offering tours and literary exhibits.
• Elizabeth Park Rose Garden — Renowned public garden with thousands of rose bushes and scenic walking trails.
• Old State House — Landmark building and museum highlighting Connecticut’s political history.
• Harriet Beecher Stowe Center — Museum and historic house celebrating the author of "Uncle Tom’s Cabin."
• Riverfront Recapture — Network of parks and trails along the Connecticut River, offering outdoor recreation and events.
• Connecticut Historical Society Museum — Exhibits on state and regional history, genealogy, and culture.
• Mortensen Riverfront Plaza — Outdoor amphitheater and event space on the river, popular for festivals and concerts.

Secure Your Seats for Connecticut Convention Center Today

Don’t wait — Connecticut Convention Center events often draw big crowds. With flexible exhibit halls, a grand ballroom, and advanced technology supporting high-profile conventions and special gatherings, Ticket Purchase is your go-to source for verified, hassle-free ticketing. Whether you’re planning a special night out tied to a signature expo or locking in registration for a major conference, you’ll find secure options and clear seat maps here.

Browse tickets now and experience the magic of live entertainment at one of the world's most iconic venues.

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