Hartford in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Hartford

16°C (61°F) High Temp

3°C (37°F) Low Temp

89 mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Peak fall foliage display - November 1-15 offers spectacular red maples and golden oaks throughout the Connecticut River Valley, with temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration at 10-16°C (50-61°F)
Significant hotel savings - November rates drop 35-45% from October peak season, with downtown hotels averaging $95-140 versus October's $150-220 range
Comfortable walking weather - Cool, dry conditions ideal for exploring the 2.4 km (1.5-mile) downtown cultural district without summer heat or winter ice concerns
Indoor cultural season begins - Hartford Stage, Medina Atheneum, and Connecticut Science Museum launch winter programming with fewer tourists and easier reservations

Considerations

Daylight ends early - Sunset occurs around 4:30 PM by late November, limiting afternoon outdoor activities and making evening dining feel rushed
Unpredictable rain patterns - 10 rainy days with sudden temperature drops from 16°C to 7°C (61°F to 45°F) can disrupt outdoor plans
Limited outdoor dining - Most restaurant patios close after November 15 due to nighttime temperatures dropping to 3°C (37°F)

Best Activities in November

Connecticut River Valley Fall Foliage Tours

November's cool temperatures and low humidity create perfect conditions for scenic drives through the Connecticut River Valley. Peak color occurs November 1-15, with maples displaying brilliant reds against the crisp blue November skies. The 32 km (20-mile) route from Hartford to Gillette Castle offers impressive photography opportunities without summer's heat haze.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours 7-10 days ahead as November foliage tours fill quickly but cost 25% less than October peak rates, typically $45-65 per person. Look for operators offering indoor heated buses with large windows. See current tours in the booking section below.

Hartford Cultural District Walking Tours

November's 10-16°C (50-61°F) afternoon temperatures are ideal for exploring the 2.4 km (1.5-mile) downtown cultural corridor. The Medina Atheneum launches special exhibitions in November, and the cooler weather makes the uphill walk to the this destination building comfortable rather than exhausting.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours cost $12-18 through visitor centers, while private guided options run $35-55 per person. November offers 30% fewer crowds than summer months, making photography easier. Book museum entries online for guaranteed admission.

Indoor Food and Brewery Experiences

November's cooler weather drives locals indoors, creating busy atmospheres at Hartford's craft breweries and food halls. The city's brewing scene peaks in November with seasonal ales and stouts, while food halls like The Grid offer comfort food perfect for 3°C (37°F) evenings.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours typically cost $25-40 including tastings, with November offering easier reservations than warmer months. Food hall experiences run $30-50 per person for guided tastings. Book weekend brewery tours 5-7 days ahead.

Mark Twain House Winter Programming

November marks the beginning of the Mark Twain House's intimate winter programming, with smaller tour groups and special literary events. The 90-minute house tours are particularly atmospheric in November's shorter daylight, creating the perfect mood for exploring Twain's Victorian mansion.

Booking Tip: Standard tours cost $20-16 for adults, with special November literary evenings running $35-45. Book weekend tours 10-14 days ahead as November's reduced schedule fills quickly. Look for combination tickets with this destination.

Bushnell Park Ice Skating Preparation Tours

November is when locals begin preparing for winter activities, making it perfect timing to explore Bushnell Park before the ice skating rink opens in December. The 16-hectare (41-acre) park offers beautiful pre-winter walks with temperatures comfortable for extended outdoor time.

Booking Tip: Park access is free, with guided historical walks available for $15-25 per person through local operators. November offers clear views of the park's carousel and pond before winter weather arrives. Check current walking tour options in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Throughout November

Hartford Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert Series

The Hartford Symphony's November programming features classical and contemporary performances at the Bushnell Theater, taking advantage of the season when locals embrace indoor cultural activities

First Thursday of November

First Thursday Art Walk

Monthly downtown gallery walk featuring local artists, with November's cooler weather creating cozy gallery atmospheres and wine tastings

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - Start with base layers for 3°C (37°F) mornings, add/remove for 16°C (61°F) afternoons

Waterproof jacket with hood - November's 89mm (3.5 inches) of rain falls unpredictably, often during walking tours

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - Wet leaves on sidewalks create slippery conditions downtown

Light gloves and warm hat - Essential for early morning or evening activities when temperatures drop to 3°C (37°F)

Umbrella that fits in day bag - Sudden showers last 15-30 minutes but occur frequently

Warm scarf or neck warmer - November wind along the Connecticut River adds significant chill factor

Thermal underlayer - Indoor venues may be overheated, but outdoor transitions require warmth

Sunglasses despite low UV - November sun creates glare off wet pavement and remaining foliage

Small backpack for layers - You'll constantly add/remove clothing as temperatures fluctuate 13°C (24°F) daily

Insider Knowledge

Locals start indoor activities in November - Follow them to breweries, museums, and cultural venues for real feels rather than struggling with outdoor plans

November hotel rates drop dramatically after Halloween weekend - Book accommodations after November 1st for 35-45% savings compared to October

The Connecticut Science Museum offers the best rainy-day backup plan - Locals bring visiting family here during November's unpredictable weather

Restaurant reservations become easier in November as tourist crowds disappear, but many outdoor patios close after November 15th

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming November weather is like October - The 10°C (18°F) temperature drop catches many visitors unprepared for evening activities

Planning too many outdoor activities - With sunset at 4:30 PM and 10 rainy days, indoor backup plans are essential

Overpacking summer clothes - November's 16°C (61°F) highs feel significantly cooler with 70% humidity and frequent wind