In parallel with the research efforts for clearer insights into the response of conventional structures against seismic effects, recent research interests have been directed to innovative construction materials to be employed as alternative solutions. The ability of shape memory alloys (SMAs) to undergo reversible deformations up to around 8% strain with moderate energy dissipation capacities makes them nowadays under active studies for seismic design purposes. This paper explores the feasibility of SMA bolts used for extended end-plate connections through experimental studies. The basic idea is to concentrate the earthquake induced deformation into the connection, such that a ‘super-elastic’ hinge can be formed via the elongation of the SMA bolts. The connecting column and beam including the end-plate are expected to behave elastically. Two tests, considering two different SMA bolt lengths, were conducted. The connections were tested under static cyclic loading until the occurrence of fracture in the SMA bolts. It was mainly observed that the connection with the SMA bolts had a very good recentring ability with moderate energy dissipation. Ductility of the connections was less satisfactory due to the relatively early fracture of the furthest bolt in the threaded area. The early fracture of bolts might be avoided in future through increasing the net threaded area. In addition, slight degradation of rotational stiffness was observed as the cycle number increased.