There are large parking lots behind Bushnell that are well lit and will be full of people and cars before and after the performance. It’s just a quick walk up Capitol Avenue to the theater. Don’t park next to the train station. It’s definitely not safe to walk around Hartford at night, but I’m not entirely sure it’s a good idea to walk around during the day either, unless you know Hartford well. If you want something to do during the day, then go visit the Mark Twain House on Farmington Avenue, the Wadsworth Atheneum on Main Street, the public library two doors down, the Old State House/museum of oddities by Main/Central Row, or any other attractions you can drive to and park easily.