Bradley International Airport (BDL) is Connecticut’s busiest airport, serving as the primary air travel gateway for the Hartford area and much of western New England. Located about 24 kilometres (15 miles) north of downtown Hartford, it offers an efficient, regional airport experience with a variety of amenities and services, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Connecticut and beyond. Bradley International Airport is well-positioned for both business and leisure travellers with connections to a host of major U.S. cities. Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines operate regular flights to and from destinations that include the buzzing east coast city of New York in rugged New York State, the lake-side State of Illinois ‘Windy City’ of Chicago, the State of Georgia’s capital city Atlanta, and the theme-park capital of the world, Orlando in the Sunshine State of Florida. For international flights, travellers will need to consider nearby Logan International Airport (BOS) in the State of Massachusetts city of Boston. It offers an extensive network of overseas flights to Europe, Asia, and other global destinations.

The best way to explore Hartford and the State of Connecticut is by renting a car at Bradley International Airport. The airport features a convenient, on-site car rental facility located just outside the terminal, with a range of vehicle options to suit different needs. You’ll find several major rental companies including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Whether you're visiting for business, a family vacation, or a weekend getaway, you'll find a rental car that fits your needs. Options include compact cars for city driving, SUVs for navigating scenic routes, and minivans for group trips. Booking your car rental in advance is recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons. Advance reservations help ensure availability and often offer better rates. Once you’ve picked up your rental car, you can explore Hartford, Connecticut’s capital, as well as the many attractions and scenic spots the state has to offer. Hartford is a city rich in American history, arts, and culture. There’s plenty to see and do, from visiting museums and historic homes to enjoying nature and beautiful parks. The countryside around Hartford, Connecticut, is rich in wildlife and birdlife, offering a diverse natural landscape of forests, wetlands, and open fields. Common mammals include white-tailed deer, raccoons, and Eastern coyotes, which roam the wooded areas and fields. Squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits are often seen in suburban and rural settings, while beavers and otters can be spotted near rivers and ponds. The region is a haven for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of species found throughout the year. Red-tailed hawks soar above open fields, while woodpeckers, including the Downy and Pileated, drum on tree trunks. The forests are home to songbirds like the Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, and Northern Cardinal. In wetlands and along waterways, you might encounter great blue herons, mallards, and Canada geese. In spring and fall, migratory birds such as warblers and shorebirds pass through, adding to the area's birdwatching opportunities. The rural setting around Hartford truly offers a diverse and vibrant wildlife experience.