If moving north or east of Hartford you are all Boston teams. If south you are New York. If in Hartford it’s predominantly Boston teams. As for minor leaguers go all in on the Yard Goats. Get season tickets with YG Club access and it will be your summer time past time (and you’ll get to know the staff and players and have a blast). I love hockey but skip the Wolf Pack - they’re awful. BUT since you’re wife will be at UConn law get all the UConn events at the XL Center. The men’s and women’s basketball and men’s hockey are highly rated in the nation and you’ll see a high level of competition.

If hiking and trails are important there are more options west of Hartford. The town of West Hartford is a nice with lots to offer in terms of shopping, restaurants, etc but it’s pricey. It’s also a a bit busy. After that is Avon which is still pricey but a good option and getting more towards rural areas. After that Canton is more affordable and near nature and hiking but close enough to Avon’s shopping etc. Also look into Granby and East Granby. South and north of Hartford don’t have too much to offer recreation wise BUT are near I-91 which can easily get you to many places. East of Hartford takes a while before you get past East Hartford, Manchester, and Vernon which I don’t think you would be interested in. There is Glastonbury and Portland which are southeast of Hartford and have some recreation but not the same as west of Hartford. Honestly, as with many things, it depends on what your budget is and what you are willing to compromise for (and you will always have compromises regardless of your budget). High speed internet is widely available but still need to check specific neighborhoods. Shouldn’t be any problem with deliveries in any of the areas I mentioned.