Harrybrooke Park

For those seeking a truly unique and serene outdoor experience in Connecticut, Harrybrooke Park in New Milford stands as a testament to both natural beauty and a generous legacy. More than just a park, this 48-acre non-profit oasis was the cherished weekend estate of Frank and Elizabeth Harden, who, upon their passing, bequeathed it to the people of New Milford. This extraordinary gift has allowed the park to remain open to the public, offering a harmonious blend of manicured gardens, winding trails, and historical charm, all nestled alongside the tranquil Still River.

Harrybrooke Park is a place where history and nature coalesce seamlessly. Visitors can stroll through beautifully maintained gardens, wander along scenic nature trails that traverse varied terrain, or simply relax by the picturesque duck pond. At the heart of the park is the Harden House Museum, the Hardens' former home, which provides a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era with its elegant 1940s-era furnishings and artwork. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Harrybrooke Park is a vibrant community hub, frequently hosting events, weddings, and private gatherings, thanks to its versatile pavilions and stunning natural backdrops. Unlike many public parks, Harrybrooke receives no town, state, or federal funding, relying entirely on donations, fundraising events, and the dedication of countless volunteers. This makes every visit and every contribution even more impactful, allowing locals to directly support a cherished community asset that offers a peaceful retreat and a rich array of experiences right here in New Milford, Connecticut.

Harrybrooke Park is conveniently situated at 100 Still River Dr, New Milford, CT 06776, USA. This location places it within easy reach for residents of New Milford and surrounding towns in Western Connecticut, offering a readily accessible natural escape.

Access to Harrybrooke Park is primarily by car. While the park is generally open 365 days a year from sunup to sundown for walkers, runners, and casual visitors, it's important to note that during specific park-wide events, there may be temporary closures or admission costs. For certain large events, such as "Scarrybrooke Park CT's Haunted Trail," parking is explicitly offsite at the John Pettibone Community Center (2 Pickett District Rd, New Milford, CT 06776), with buses transporting attendees to and from the event. For general day-to-day visits, there is ample on-site parking available, making it convenient to visit.

The park's grounds are diverse, featuring paved paths, gravel trails, and natural walking paths. While many areas, particularly around the gardens and Harden House Museum, are quite accessible, some of the nature trails may involve uneven terrain, roots, and slight inclines typical of a natural park setting. This means that while much of the park is welcoming to a wide range of visitors, some more rustic sections may not be fully accessible for all mobility types. The park is suitable for leisurely strolls, brisk walks, and bicycle rides in designated areas.

Harrybrooke Park, as a non-profit park and museum, offers a range of services and facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience and support its mission:

• Harden House Museum Tours: The park includes the Harden House Museum, the former home of Frank and Elizabeth Harden. This elegant home, adorned with 1940s-era furnishings and artwork, is open for tours, offering a glimpse into the history of the property and its benefactors.

• Pavilion Rentals: Harrybrooke Park offers two pavilions, the Conn Pavilion and the Ohmen Pavilion, available for rent. These are popular for various private events, including graduations, anniversaries, family reunions, barbecues, and corporate gatherings. The park also offers smaller areas like "Small Pines" for parties of 40 people or less, and a "Great Lawn" for larger events.

• Wedding and Event Venue: The park is a highly sought-after venue for weddings and other special events. It offers a "Gated Garden" for ceremonies, complete with an innovative aisle of engraved custom bricks, and various outdoor spaces for receptions, including tented options. The Harden House Museum can also function as a get-ready room or a venue for smaller, elegant events.

• Picnic Reservations: For those who don't need a full pavilion but want a guaranteed space, the park offers reserved picnic areas.

• Nature Trails: An extensive trail system winds through the park's 48 acres, allowing visitors to explore diverse habitats including woodlands, meadows, wetlands, and areas along the Still River. These trails are perfect for walking, running, and nature observation.

• Duck Pond: A picturesque duck pond is a central feature, providing a tranquil spot for relaxation and observation of aquatic wildlife.

• Gardens: The park boasts beautiful gardens, providing aesthetically pleasing spaces for strolls, photography, and quiet enjoyment.

• Restroom Facilities: Public restrooms are available within the park, ensuring visitor comfort.

• Event Planning Support: For events like weddings, the park staff can provide setup and cleanup services and offer a list of preferred local vendors for catering, photography, and other needs.

These services collectively position Harrybrooke Park as a versatile venue for both daily recreation and significant life events.

Harrybrooke Park in New Milford, CT, is distinguished by several unique features and highlights that enhance its appeal:

• The Harden House Museum: This historic home, once the residence of Frank and Elizabeth Harden, is now a museum that offers a captivating glimpse into the 1940s era. Adorned with original furnishings and artwork, it serves as the cultural and historical heart of the park, providing a unique educational and aesthetic experience.

• Lions Club Bridge: A significant landmark within the park is the restored Lions Club Bridge. This bridge had undergone temporary repairs thanks to a town grant and is earmarked for full restoration, demonstrating the community's commitment to preserving the park's infrastructure and historical elements. Its reopening is a highlight for park visitors.

• Peacocks (Reported Presence): While historical information sometimes associates peacocks with Harrybrooke Park from its early days, some recent anecdotal mentions and community memory suggest their presence, or at least a notable past presence, at the park. If present, their vibrant display adds an exotic and delightful element to the park experience.

• Gated Garden & Engraved Bricks: The "Gated Garden" is a beautiful, dedicated ceremony area, particularly popular for weddings. Its unique feature is an aisle comprised of custom engraved bricks, commemorating couples who have been married in the garden, adding a deeply personal and lasting touch for visitors.

• Picturesque Still River: The park runs alongside the Still River, providing scenic views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. The river contributes to the park's tranquil ambiance and offers beautiful backdrops for photography.

• Extensive Nature Trails: Harrybrooke boasts diverse nature trails that wind through forests, past wetlands, and open fields. These trails offer opportunities for peaceful walks, vigorous runs, and nature observation, appealing to various levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

• Non-Profit and Volunteer-Driven: A significant highlight is the park's status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, operating solely on donations, fundraising, and over 10,000 hours of annual volunteer work. This grassroots support underscores its value as a community-cherished asset, making a visit feel like a contribution to its ongoing preservation.

• Host of Community Events: The park regularly hosts a variety of events, from seasonal festivals and outdoor concerts (like the Summer Concert Series) to educational workshops and the popular "Scarrybrooke Park CT's Haunted Trail" in the fall. These events draw large crowds and foster a strong sense of community.

These distinctive features collectively make Harrybrooke Park a vibrant, historically rich, and visually captivating destination in New Milford.

As a non-profit park that operates without town, state, or federal funding, Harrybrooke Park's "promotions" often come in the form of community engagement, fundraising initiatives, and accessible pricing for various activities and rentals.

• Free General Admission: The most significant "offer" is that Harrybrooke Park is open 365 days a year from sunup to sundown at no cost to general visitors. This provides free access to its walking trails, gardens, and general open spaces for daily enjoyment.

• Early Bird Discounts for Events: For ticketed events like the "Harrybrooke Open" golf tournament or "Scarrybrooke Park CT's Haunted Trail," early registration or online ticket purchases often come with discounted rates. For example, "Scarrybrooke Park" tickets might be $25 online versus $30 at the gate, encouraging advance booking.

• Group Rates for Events: Specific events frequently offer group discounts. For "Scarrybrooke Park," groups of 10 or more might receive a reduced price per person.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Harrybrooke Park relies heavily on volunteer hours (over 10,000 annually). They "offer" a chance for locals to contribute their time and skills, which is a rewarding way to support the park and often provides a unique behind-the-scenes experience.

• Fundraising Events: The park hosts various fundraising events throughout the year, such as the "Harrybrooke Open" golf tournament or "Line Dancing Night." While these are ticketed, they are designed to be fun, engaging events that directly support the park's operations, making participation a form of "promotion" for its continued existence.

• Flexible Rental Packages: For private events like weddings or parties, Harrybrooke Park offers various rental options for its pavilions, the Harden House Museum, and other areas. They are known for being flexible and working with clients to customize events. While not "discounts," this flexibility and comprehensive service can be seen as an attractive "offer."

• Community Partnerships: The park sometimes partners with local businesses or organizations for events, which may lead to cross-promotional benefits or special offers for attendees.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any upcoming events, their pricing, and specific opportunities, it is always recommended for locals to check the official Harrybrooke Park website's "Events" and "Reservations" pages.

For information regarding Harrybrooke Park, including general inquiries, event bookings, and museum details, the park's administration is the direct point of contact.

• Park Address: 100 Still River Dr, New Milford, CT 06776, USA

• Mailing Address: PO Box 364, New Milford, CT 06776

• Main Phone: (860) 799-6520

• Email: office@HarrybrookePark.org

• Official Website: harrybrookepark.org (This is the primary source for comprehensive information on park hours, events, rentals, and history. They also have a dedicated section for weddings at harrybrookeweddings.org.)

• Office Hours: Typically 10 AM - 4 PM. (It is always advisable to confirm current hours, especially if planning a visit to the office or museum).

It is highly recommended to consult their official website or contact them directly for the most current information regarding specific event schedules, park rules, or rental availability.

Harrybrooke Park in New Milford, Connecticut, is an exemplary local destination that offers a wealth of benefits and experiences perfectly suited for residents across the state. Its unique status as a non-profit park, sustained by the generosity of its founders and the community, imbues it with a special charm and makes every visit feel like a participation in its ongoing legacy.

For Connecticut locals, Harrybrooke Park provides a readily accessible and consistently engaging outdoor space. Its location in New Milford ensures that a peaceful and picturesque retreat is always within a reasonable drive. The park's diverse landscape, featuring manicured gardens, winding nature trails, and the tranquil Still River, offers a variety of experiences for all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a vigorous run, a quiet moment by the duck pond, or a beautiful backdrop for family photos, Harrybrooke Park provides the ideal setting. This versatility makes it a perfect spot for regular visits, allowing residents to embrace the outdoors and find a personal connection with nature throughout the year.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Harden House Museum serves as a fascinating historical anchor, offering a tangible link to the past right in the community. Exploring its period furnishings and art provides a unique educational opportunity and a glimpse into a bygone era of Connecticut life. Furthermore, Harrybrooke Park truly shines as a community hub. Its ability to host a wide array of events, from popular seasonal festivals and concerts to private weddings and gatherings, demonstrates its integral role in local life. These events not only provide entertainment but also foster a strong sense of community, bringing people together in a beautiful and welcoming environment.

The fact that Harrybrooke Park operates as a non-profit, relying on donations and volunteers, resonates deeply with local pride and community spirit. Visiting the park or attending its events directly supports its continued maintenance and programs, allowing residents to actively contribute to the preservation of this cherished local asset. This makes Harrybrooke Park not just a place to visit, but a community endeavor, a testament to the power of local generosity, and an indispensable resource for recreation, culture, and connection in Connecticut.

Harrybrooke Park

100 Still River Dr, New Milford, CT 06776, USA