Connecticut Magazine, February, 2002,
named Hill-Stead one
of nine “most-out-of-
the-ordinary places [Connecticut] has to offer for wedding receptions.” With spectacular acreage, historic buildings, a world-class art collection and a unique sunken garden, Hill-Stead provides an enchanting backdrop for weddings, commitment ceremonies, receptions, private parties and corporate meetings. From the moment guests enter Hill-Stead's winding drive, accented by original, hand-laid stone walls, the scene is set for a memorable event. Sweeping views of the picturesque Farmington Valley add to the splendor of special occasions at Hill-Stead.

Hill-Stead offers a variety of interior and exterior spaces that can accommodate events ranging from 80 to more than 200 guests. To inquire about planning an event at Hill-Stead, contact Gina Broadbent, Manager of Business Alliances & Special Events, at 860.677.4787 ext 181 or facilityrentals@hillstead.org.

See our Frequently Asked Questions page for initial inquiries.

Download our NEW Events Booklet (PDF) with more information and images of event spaces, weddings, meetings and other events, and contact information for our valued vendors.

West Lawn & Veranda
This superb setting with vistas of the Litchfield Hills and nearby views of the estate’s farm buildings, meadows and pond, is an open area that can accommodate large gatherings. A Mount Vernon-style veranda at the West Façade complements this space. Capacity: 200+ guests for a seated event; 200+ guests for a standing event. Maximum tent size: 60' x 150'.

Grass Court
Once the Pope family's grass tennis court, this site is situated across the entry drive from the estate's magnificent Sunken Garden and adjacent to the West Lawn. Accented by handcrafted stone walls on two sides, the Grass Court offers views of the historic estate. Capacity: 200 guests for a seated event; 200 guests for a standing event. Maximum tent size: 60' x 100'

Pope Board Room
A perfect setting for a small gathering (evenings and weekends only), this tastefully-decorated room as adjacent to the museum's exhibition spaces. A connecting stone porch may be used for cocktail receptions in fair weather. The Pope Board Room also serves as a bride's dressing room with private restroom. Capacity: 24 guests for a seated event; 50 guests for a standing event; 30 guests for lecture-style seating.

Sunken Garden
This magical one-acre perennial garden blooms from early spring through autumn. Set in a natural depression and surrounded by rustic stone walls, the garden’s ever-changing colors reflect the palette of Hill-Stead’s Impressionist paintings. A summer house at the center is a focal point, accented by brick pathways radiating out among 36 flower beds. Capacity: 200 guests for a standing reception. Tents are not allowed in the Sunken Garden.

Makeshift Theater
Originally designed as a community space and movie theater for the townspeople of Farmington, this airy Arts and Crafts-style space provides a charming and rustic setting for many different occasions.
Original benches accent the room, and an adjacent gallery space offers a multitude of options. Capacity: 80 guests for a seated event; 100 guests for a standing event; 125 guests for lecture-style seating.

Site Tours
Materials are available on site for self-guided site tours. Please inquire at the Museum Shop for self-guided tour materials. If you are interested in scheduling a site visit with Hill-Stead event staff, please contact Courtney Silk, Manager of Business Alliances and Special Events, at 860.677.4787 ext 181 or facilityrentals@hillstead.org

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for further information.

Preferred Professionals

Accommodations
Avon Old Farms Hotel
Centennial Inn
The Farmington Inn
Hartford Marriott Farmington
Homewood Suites by Hilton, Hartford-Farmington
The Simsbury Inn
Simsbury 1820 House

Catering
Ann Howard @ The Bond
Cafe Louise
Emily's Catering Group
The Epicurean Caterers
Inspired Catering
Jordan Caterers
Pastels Catering
Russell's Creative Global Cuisine
Tallulah's Caterers & Event Planners

Florists
A Special Place – 860.218.2981
A Victorian Garden
Datura: A Modern Garden
Dragonfly Event
The Gilded Garden – 860.673.1153 | gildedgarden@aol.com
Fleur de Lys
Pentimento Flowers
Wildflowers

Photography
ArtImage by Sam Chinigo
Christine Paluf Photography
Eric Foley Photography
John Groo – 860.655.8222 | groophoto@gmail.com
IRIS Photography
Powerstation Events
Stephen Charles Photography

Planners
Sixpence for Your Shoe

Tent and Rental Companies
Bremar Rentals
Connecticut Rental Center
Events by Superior
Sperry Tents
Stamford Tent & Party Rental
Taylor Rental
Tents Unlimited

Photo Credits for above images:
ArtImage by Sam Chinigo
Dennis Barnicle
Classic Images Photography (www.classicimages1.com)
Stephen Charles Photography
CT Photojournalist
The Wedding Network (www.theweddingnetwork.net)