First in a series about West Hartford businesses in ‘out-of-the-way’ locations.

By Joy Taylor

Businesses with storefronts in West Hartford Center/Blue Back Square and Bishops Corner benefit from great visibility. Elmwood and Park Road neighborhood businesses also get plenty of foot or drive-by traffic. Everyone knows where to find Corbins Corner or the Farmington Avenue Stop & Shop.

But what about those businesses in “hidden corners” of West Hartford? This begins a series about some of the smaller businesses that you may not have heard of, or may not know how to find.

Next time you are driving between Home Depot and New Britain Avenue, slow down and check out 635 New Park Ave. Tucked away down a lane, you may be surprised to find a yoga class, a new hair style, a really fun work out, and a place to leave your dog for a few hours – or a whole day – to play!

Lisa Matias Dance Centre has been providing quality dance education in West Hartford for 30 years with a focus on technique, performance, and character development. Students thrive in a supportive, non-competitive, and empowering atmosphere and can select from a variety of developmentally-appropriate classes encouraging personal growth.

“Our studio is where all dancers are inspired to meet their full potential in a joyous environment,” said Matias, who recently moved to 635 New Park from the Masonic Temple building on South Main Street. New offerings include Zumba and Aerial Yoga. Learn more at: www.LisaMatiasDanceCentre.com, or call 860-569-2205.

The PlayGround. Remember when the world was your playground? The driving theme behind the fitness training at The PlayGround is PLAY. The PlayGround offers programs for adults and children. The exercise programs are safe, demanding, bio-mechanically sound, and fun! Opening soon: Adaptive Movement Parkour. The mission is “to foster a lifetime of regular exercise and good health,” said Co-Founder/Fitness Director Glenn Marcella. Learn more at: www.thefitplayground.com, or call 860-236-8800.

The Karen Elizabeth Salon & Academy is committed to bringing top quality education in the field of cosmetology to students from all walks of life. As a small, hands-on academy, the students not only learn the skills needed to be successful hair stylists, but they also learn how to make their clients look and feel beautiful from the inside out. Salon services are also available to the public. Contact the Karen Elizabeth Salon & Academy to schedule a hair appointment with their experienced staff or students by visiting www.KarenElizabethSalonandAcademy.com, or calling 860-232-0212.

ÜberDog, Dog Playcare and Hotel is West Hartford’s premier dog daycare and boarding house. “Let your dog have its day!” is the business’ tagline. ÜberDog is a super-dog playcare that was born out of necessity. Dan, the Founder/Owner of ÜberDog, wanted to make sure all dogs “have the ability to be dogs” in a safe, clean, and friendly environment when a day care or extended care is needed. The trained employees (called “Wagologists”®) make sure every dog is safe and having the very best time. Find out more at: www.myuberdog.com, or call 860-236-8237.

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