This Christmas, Give Your Family The Gift Of A New England Vacation

Posted on October 9, 2025 by Ben Rueter

A great and sometimes overlooked Christmas gift is giving someone a vacation. Maybe it’s because there are an astounding number of vacation destinations in the United States. One that stands out from the rest for an ideal family vacation is the New England region.

No matter the season, you are going to find fun and spectacle in New England and, more specifically, the Upper Valley area. This Christmas season, consider giving your family a vacation to New England through The Norwich Inn. We are located in Norwich, VT, an ideal location for sightseeing and appreciating the stunning scenery that can only be found in New England.

Why Give The Gift Of A New England Vacation?

One of the best gifts is that of a vacation. New England is an especially relaxing and beautiful place to spend an extended vacation. Here are some reasons why you should take advantage of the unique charm of New England for a family vacation.

Christmas can be a stressful time of the year, so a vacation can help relieve some of that stress.
With winter break for families with children or college students, it’s easy to find time to bring the family together for a weekend or more.
A Christmas vacation is an excellent way to bond with your immediate and extended family.
You’ll easily find great prices for attractions, events, and more during Christmas.
There is no shortage of winter fun in the Norwich, VT, area. Whether you like to spend time inside by a warm fire or out on the ski slopes, there is something for everyone in New England.

What Things Are There To Do For A Family On A Christmas Vacation?

There is a wide range of activities to enjoy year-round in and around Norwich, VT. While Christmas time has a special charm to it, whether you are here for the holidays or planning next year’s summer vacation destination, there is something for everyone. Take a look below at a brief rundown of some of the most popular attractions.

Give The Best Christmas Vacation Gift

This is just an example of some of the things to do and the benefits that await you when giving your family Christmas vacation gifts. The Norwich Inn is a cozy slice of New England life, no matter the time of the year.

The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely Inn (or check availability online).

4 Great Movies Filmed In New England

Posted on September 1, 2025October 1, 2025 by Ben Rueter

Movies that exude cozy vibes and beautiful scenery tend to take place (or at least are shot) in New England. Not only is New England a stunning location, but it’s also easy to visit many iconic movie locations when you visit. Whether you find the exact location yourself or a place even more beautiful, an excellent starting point is from The Norwich Inn in Norwich, Vermont. It’s not hard to find more than a few stunning destinations that may have inspired your favorite movies set in New England.

Watch These Movies That Take Place In New England

Grab a warm mug of apple cider and your favorite blanket. It’s movie time, and these are some of the best movies that will put you in the best mindset for a vacation to Norwich, Vermont.

Ghost Story (1981)

Some parts of the 1981 movie Ghost Story were filmed in Woodstock and White River Junction —specifically, the Tally House and the bus station. This movie is also the final film starring Fred Astaire and Douglas Fairbanks.

The Skulls (2000)

Just across the river from The Norwich Inn is the town of Hanover and Dartmouth College. The college has a beautiful campus, which that compliment also extends to the entire town as well. The Skulls’ narrative takes place in Toronto, Ontario; however, many scenes were shot in the town of Hanover. Dartmouth College serves as a stand-in for the University of Toronto, with several notable buildings visible in the movie.

Me, Myself & Irene (2000)

Me, Myself & Irene was shot all over the state of Vermont and Rhode Island, so you get a sample of many different New England locations in one movie. The comedy stars Jim Carrey and Renée Zellweger in a story of a Rhode Island state trooper, played by Carrey, who suffers a psychotic breakdown. He later becomes involved with a woman named Irene, played by Zellweger, whose ex-boyfriend, a mobster, is hunting.

Star Trek (2009)

North of Norwich, there is a small town called Barre. In Barre, you will find the Rock of Ages Smith Quarry, where a small portion of the 2009 Star Trek movie was filmed. The scene is very early in the movie, where a young James T. Kirk is dangling from the edge of a massive and unique-looking cliff. That’s the Rock of Ages Smith Quarry.

See Why Hollywood Comes To New England

Once you arrive, it will be immediately noticeable that New England is a fantasy land during fall, but it’s also a stunning place to see outside of the season, as you’ll find by the variety of movies filmed here. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn, you are one step closer to walking onto the set of one of your favorite movies in New England.

3 Fall Things To Do With Kids In New England

Posted on August 12, 2025September 12, 2025 by Ben Rueter

When the temperature starts to drop, it’s time to start planning a vacation to New England with the kids. The New England region is not only one of the most beautiful places to be in when it’s fall, but it’s a phenomenal area for families. Just make sure you bundle up your kids before heading out and exploring every nook, cranny, and covered bridge in New England.

The best place to start your fall adventure with the family is from the front steps of The Norwich Inn. We’re close to lots of unique and fun New England fall attractions that parents visiting with their kids love.

Fall Family-Friendly Things To Do Near Norwich, Vermont

Step outside and feel the crisp New England air in Norwich, Vermont. Then head out and visit these excellent fall attractions with your kids nearby, The Norwich Inn.

Montshire Museum of Science

The Montshire Museum of Science is a wonderful attraction at any time of the year and one of the best in Norwich. Your kids have the opportunity to get hands-on with more than 150 interactive exhibits. You also won’t find a better location for a science museum with more than 100 acres to explore along the Connecticut River. It’s an amazing opportunity for you and your kids, with special programming available for families as well.

Billings Farm & Museum

A short drive from Norwich will take you to Woodstock, and just outside the town is the Billings Farm & Museum. It’s one of the best places in New England to roam outside. The museum features a fully operational Jersey dairy farm, along with educational exhibits, interactive programs, and events. You’ll find unique children’s programming, including camps, learning experiences about farm life, and a sensory story hour for the young ones. Don’t leave without eating a scoop of Wilcox ice cream.

Valley Quests

If you want something to keep your children engaged while staying active, consider looking into one of the many Valley Quests. Valley Quests take place all over the Upper Valley. It’s meant to be an educational experience that involves walking, biking, canoeing, or snowshoeing. Families embark on a quest, solve clues, find treasure, and find some of Norwich’s best hidden gems along the way.

Family Fun In Norwich, Vermont

Your kids are going to love Norwich, and we know you are going to find a lot to enjoy with the many amenities The Norwich Inn has to offer any family. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely Inn (or check availability online).

Visit Saint Gaudens National Historical Park And More In The Upper Valley

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Ben Rueter

It’s fun to learn a thing or two about the area you are visiting when you are on vacation. The best way to do just that is by touring the area museums. Museums in the Upper Valley, like Saint Gaudens National Historical Park, offer a unique glimpse into the area’s history, while others are nationally renowned and can provide a distinctive experience that isn’t dependent on the local context.

Either way, a museum tour of Saint Gaudens National Historical Park is a fantastic family activity. Norwich, VT, and Hanover, NH, have some excellent museums that you shouldn’t pass by. But before you make your way to one or more of the area museums, book a room in The Norwich Inn. You’ll get a healthy dose of interesting history at the Inn and our other amenities (The Brewery At Norwich Inn).

Best Museums In Norwich, VT, And Hanover, NH

Learn something new and have some fun. These are some of the best museums and national parks for those who want to connect with a piece of American history.

Saint Gaudens National Historical Park

The Saint Gaudens National Historical Park preserves the home and studio of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Not only is this an interesting place to learn about Augustus Saint-Gaudens, but it’s incredibly beautiful. See stunning gardens and large bronze sculptures. Check out the calendar, as they host musical performances and art celebrations.

Billings Farm & Museum

Get in touch with the area’s land and natural history at Billings Farm & Museum. Located in the scenic Woodstock, VT, you’ll find a lot of fun and variety here. Regardless of the time of year, there is always something happening. Take part in a wagon ride, meet the farm animals, learn about life on the farm, stroll through the sunflower house, and don’t forget to try the ice cream.

Hood Museum of Art

A trip to the Norwich, VT, and Hanover, NH, area wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Dartmouth College. This is a historic university in America, so you’ll find something interesting to discuss around every corner.

But one of the standouts on campus is the Hood Museum of Art. Inside, you will find the oldest and largest collection of any college or university in the country. A highlight of the museum is the six Assyrian stone reliefs from the palace of Ashurnasirpal II. There are many more legendary historical artifacts for you to see and learn about.

Learn More At The Museums In Vermont And New Hampshire

Whether it’s the gorgeous terrace at Saint Gaudens National Historical Park or the expansive collection at the Hood Museum of Art, you are bound to leave your time at The Norwich Inn with a unique and enlightening experience.

Get To Know Quechee Gorge, “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon”

Posted on June 2, 2025July 2, 2025 by Ben Rueter

New England, and more specifically, Vermont, is located in one of the most beautiful wooded areas in the United States. Within the lush forests, you will find what many refer to as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.” Quechee Gorge is a splendid sight and, at times, will feel like something out of a fairy tale.

Also, it’s an easy natural attraction to visit and spend an afternoon admiring when you book directly with The Norwich Inn. The Inn is not far from Quechee Gorge, allowing you to see “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon” and explore more of the Norwich and Hanover area.

What Is Quechee Gorge?

The Quechee Gorge is in Quechee, Vermont. It’s found in the Quechee State Park, but you can also see it from the Quechee Gorge Bridge and many other hiking trails in the area that run along the Ottauquechee River, which is the river that flows through the gorge.

How Deep Is The Quechee Gorge?

It is 165 feet deep, making it the deepest gorge in the state of Vermont.

How Was The Gorge Created?

It is speculated that the Quechee Gorge was created 13,000 years ago. The gorge was carved out as the Laurentide Ice Sheet retreated from the region. Many years later, in 1869, the A. G. Dewey Company established a woolen mill in the Quechee area, which stayed in the area for a long time. By 1936, this was the oldest woolen mill in the country. However, it closed in 1952 and moved its operations to Enfield, New Hampshire.

Soon after that, the construction of the North Hartland Dam and a park were initiated.

What Can You Do At Quechee Gorge?

The Quechee State Park is a major attraction in the area. In the park, you will find numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and restrooms. There is also a steady stream of programs happening throughout the year. This includes night hikes, nature crafts, amphibian explorations, fishing, and more.

How Far Away Is Quechee State Park From The Norwich Inn?

Quechee State Park is just more than 11 miles away, which should take you 15 minutes to drive there.

Visit A Popular Vermont Attraction Near The Norwich Inn

Get outside on a beautiful sunny day and experience the Quechee Gorge, “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” for yourself. Bring your camera and family, and spend as much time as you want, as you’re only 15 minutes away from The Norwich Inn. This gives you time to visit the gorge and explore Quechee or Woodstock, or head back to Norwich and enjoy the attraction right outside The Norwich Inn.

Where You Can Run Near Norwich, Vermont

Posted on May 4, 2025June 4, 2025 by Ben Rueter

The Upper Valley in New England is expansive, beautiful, and an all-around amazing place to explore on foot. Summer is an excellent time to explore Norwich, Vermont, and it’s truly a treat for runners looking to run on some of the area’s best hiking trails.

One area of the region that shines year-round is the Upper Valley and, more specifically, the Norwich, Vermont, area. Book directly with The Norwich Inn to get the most out of the town and The Upper Valley’s attractions. We are located in the heart of Norwich, Vermont, and near plenty of places to run.

Best Hiking Trails And Routes For Running Near Norwich, Vermont

You can easily find time for a quick run while on vacation in the Upper Valley. These are some of the best paths to run near Norwich, Vermont.

Huntley Meadows Loop

This is an easy and simple path to run along. Huntley Meadows Loop is less than a mile long and is open year-round. It’s considered an easy route to complete, and it should take you around 15 minutes to complete if you run the entire route.

Brookmead Conservation Area Trail Loop

This is another loop, but it’s longer for those who want something more challenging. That’s not to say Brookmead Conservation Area Trail Loop is a difficult run at four and a half miles long. It should take you two hours to complete your run. The trail is located on over 350 acres of land managed by the Upper Valley Land Trust, which means your run will be well-groomed.

Mosley Hill Appalachian Trail Loop

This is another beautiful trail that is slightly more than two miles long. It’s a popular path for birders and wildlife viewing because of its natural beauty. Some of the trail goes uphill, making it somewhat difficult to run or hike. Another reason why this is a must-visit trail is that it is part of the famous Appalachian Trail.

Gile Mountain Trail

The Gile Mountain Trail is an ideal place to start your run because it’s a five-minute drive from the hotel. The trail is about a mile and a half in and out, so you might even consider running to the trail from the hotel if you want a longer run. It can be a more challenging trail, but the view along the way is fantastic, especially if you visit during the fall.

Start Your Morning Run From The Norwich Inn

Don’t miss a day of your running routine and hit the hiking trails for a run near Norwich, Vermont. Start and end your run at The Norwich Inn. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely Inn (or check availability online).

Things To Do, Places To Visit In And Around Norwich, VT

Posted on April 14, 2025May 14, 2025 by Ben Rueter

New England is a vast region in the United States, renowned for its numerous attractions and activities. You can find many varied, wonderful, fun, and unique things to do in and around Norwich, VT. It’s a small town with a lot of charm and personality that’s easy to see at any time of the year.

You can find a lot of that special charm inside the lodging at The Norwich Inn. It’s the best place to start your journey through New England as you stop and enjoy the many amazing things to do here in and around Norwich, VT.

Things To Do, Places To Visit

The Norwich Inn is in Norwich’s heart, making your lodging the best place to start your adventure through New England. Here’s a step-by-step guide for one of the many sightseeing tours in and around Norwich, VT.

The Brewery at the Norwich Inn

Even before you leave your lodging, you can stop at one of the best breweries in Vermont. The Brewery at the Norwich Inn is our on-site brewery, offering 50 different craft beers throughout the year. We typically rotate six beers and serve guest taps from other local breweries.

Montshire Museum of Science

One place to visit that offers many interactive activities is the Montshire Museum of Science. This is a hands-on science museum featuring more than 150 exhibits to explore. Consider trekking through the 100 acres of trails and outdoor exhibits if it’s a beautiful day. The Woodland Garden and the outdoor Science Park are unique and gorgeous activities to explore independently.

Vermont Bike and Brew

Feel the crisp New England breeze on the back of an electric bike available through Vermont Bike and Brew in Thetford. This is a wonderful way to explore this corner of Vermont and New Hampshire.

Vermont Bike and Brew offers electric bike rentals and several self-guided tours. Some tours include the Upper Pass, Farm Stand, Bent Hill, and our Brewery at the Norwich Inn.

Union Village Covered Bridge

New England is known for its beautifully crafted and constructed covered bridges. The Union Village Covered Bridge is one of the most iconic covered bridges in the state. You will find it in Thetford, crossing the Ompompanoosuc River.

It was built in 1867, and a major rehabilitation project was completed in 2003. It is the state’s longest multiple kingpost truss bridge. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

Chart Your Course From One Of The Best Norwich, VT, Hotels

No matter which direction you choose, you will easily find many things to do and places to visit in Norwich, VT, when you start from the doorsteps of The Norwich Inn.

Discover The Simon Pearce Restaurant and Other Culinary Delights Throughout The Upper Valley

Posted on March 2, 2025April 2, 2025 by Ben Rueter

The Upper Valley and the Norwich, Vermont area are treasure troves of flavors, artisanal products, and unforgettable dining experiences, like those at the Simon Pearce Restaurant. You are bound to taste something amazing and see more delicious food than you can eat.

Take a culinary tour of the Upper Valley starting at The Norwich Inn in Norwich before heading to Simon Pearce Restaurant and more. There is more than enough to eat and drink here and in the entire Upper Valley.

All You Can Eat In The Upper Valley

The Norwich area is where culinary excellence meets community spirit, from baking to farmers’ markets and unique dining experiences. These are some culinary experiences you can find in the Upper Valley.

King Arthur Baking

This may be the reason you are visiting the Upper Valley. King Arthur Baking is a legendary culinary destination. That’s because it’s more than just a store. It’s also a learning experience. Check out their long list of classes in their Baking School and learn from expert bakers with hands-on classes. Learn something new and bring your expertise back home with some new tools for your kitchen.

In addition, our guests can enjoy a 20 percent discount when staying with us from November through April or weekdays (Sun-Thurs) from May through October.

Norwich Farmers’ Market

Get to know the welcoming community in Norwich by browsing the vendors at the Norwich Farmers’ Market. There are unique arts and crafts, but for those visiting the area for its culinary delights, there is plenty of delicious fresh food for you. Specifically, fresh food is worth visiting the farmers’ market. Snack on the delectable pastries as you listen to some local musicians.

Simon Pearce Restaurant

You need to end your culinary tour of the Upper Valley at the Simon Pearce Restaurant. Simon Pearce in Quechee is known for its glass-blowing and luxury kitchenware, but it also has an incredibly unique restaurant and bar.

You are going to get an amazing view while you eat. The dining area sits above the Ottauquechee River near a waterfall. You’ll be dining on American cuisine. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and if you’re not in the mood for a full meal, there is a spectacular bar, too, that serves local beer, cocktails, and wine by the bottle.

Norwich Is A Culinary Destination

If you want to dine well on your next vacation, consider visiting the Simon Pearce Restaurant and exploring more of the Upper Valley. Do it after booking directly with The Norwich Inn. Your culinary journey through Norwich and the Upper Valley starts here in our pub, wine room, patio, or The Newhart Room.

Enjoy appetizers and craft beer from our own brewery–Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely Inn (or check availability online).

Things To Do On Day Trip To Woodstock, Vermont

Posted on February 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by Ben Rueter

The New England area is a gorgeous piece of the United States with many unique pockets to discover. The winding roads with covered bridges and quaint towns scattered throughout its rolling hills are a joy to see firsthand.

One of those towns that you can easily find yourself in with lots of things to do is in Woodstock, Vermont. It has a remarkable charm that isn’t the same elsewhere in New England. It’s one of the many neighboring communities you can explore at The Norwich Inn. The Inn has been in New England for quite some time, and with that comes a storied history that you won’t find anywhere else in Vermont. You’ll be close enough to Woodstock, Vermont to easily explore all of the things to do.

Thing To Do In Woodstock, Vermont

Several cute attractions in Woodstock will become a highlight of your journey through New England. These are some of the best things to do in Woodstock.

Billings Farm and Museum

The Billings Farm and Museum is a fun attraction for the entire family. It’s best to visit the farm during the warmer months as it gives you ample time to stroll through the farm and visit its many attractions. Experience what it was like to operate a farm in the 1890s, from discovering the area’s history to learning about the families there. Your children are going to love meeting the farm animals, too. Don’t leave without buying a yummy snack like some of the farm’s delicious ice cream.

Gillingham’s

Gillingham’s is the oldest general store in Woodstock. It opened its doors in 1858. It’s a popular attraction for its history because it allows you to sit back in time for a moment. The store features many gifts, arts and crafts, and local products you can’t find anywhere else.

Village Butcher Shop

Consider picking up a sandwich from the Village Butcher Shop if you need a meal. This is one of the best places in New England to grab a box lunch before a picnic. Remember to order ahead of time! Founded in 1972, the Village Butcher Shop has been serving the Woodstock community with fresh cuts of meat and delicious treats for years.

Walk Back In Time On Your Vermont Family Vacation

Woodstock is a place stuck in time and with that comes unique and fun things to do. If you have extra time in the town, stroll through it and marvel at the buildings, parks, and scenery. It’s something special, as is the Norwich area and The Norwich Inn. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely Inn (or check availability online).

Find The Dartmouth Skiway And Others In Vermont And New Hampshire

Posted on January 3, 2025February 3, 2025 by Ben Rueter

New England is a fabulous place in winter. One reason is the excess of skiing, snowboarding, and tubing hills available to the public like the Dartmouth Skiway. New Hampshire and Vermont have excellent slopes and hills, and if you love winter sports, then New England ought to be on your bucket list for winter vacation destinations.

Set your gaze to Norwich, Vermont, and Hanover, New Hampshire. Both are neighboring communities separated by the Connecticut River near wonderful skiing and tubing endeavors like the Dartmouth Skiway. You can start your winter sports journey at The Norwich Inn. It offers quaint and accommodating amenities. It’s also near more than a few skiing and tubing destinations.

Place To Ski, Snowboard, Tube In New England

There are multiple places worth visiting for winter sports near The Norwich Inn. Some are far but worth the drive, while others are minutes away from our front door.

Mount Tom Sledding Hill

This is a must-visit spot if you are traveling with children. Mount Tom Sledding Hill has a 500-foot slope and is completely free to use. The hill isn’t groomed, but it is still a popular spot for locals and visitors to have fun in the snow during winter.

Dartmouth Skiway

Another ski location adjacent to the Inn is the Dartmouth Skiway. It’s located about 20 minutes away from Dartmouth University and includes more than 30 trails to explore. The University’s ski team hosts skiing events during the Dartmouth Winter Carnival. In addition to the slopes, there is a terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. If it’s your first time, there are lessons available too.

Oak Hill Outdoor Center

The Oak Hill Outdoor Center is a real gem in the Upper Valley. The center is the catalyst for miles of cross-country skiing trails that take you throughout Hanover, New Hampshire. One of the special things you can do here is participate in a night ski on specific routes lit during the night.

Saskadena Six

This ski slope is one of the area’s older ones and is not far from us. Saskaddena Six (Formerly Suicide Six Ski Area) is more than 80 years old and offers plenty of thrills still to this day in South Pomfret, Vermont. The area has three lifts and 28 trails to explore. They provide skiing lessons, gear repair, and gear rentals, too. It is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday through Sunday.

Dartmouth Green

If you want to slow things down for a moment, try ice skating at Dartmouth Green. The rink is about 70 by 120 feet wide and open to the public. It’s a great reason to visit downtown Hanover and have fun, enjoy delicious food, and do a little shopping.

Artisans Park

At Artisans Park, you will find an excellent outdoor adventure outfitter called Great River Outfitters. They offer a variety of fun things to do all year round. In winter, you will find a variety of winter sports to participate in with your family and friends.

Dartmouth Hockey

If you are a hopeful student at Dartmouth College or you want to watch a hockey game, consider sitting down for a Dartmouth hockey game. Check out the college’s schedule for upcoming games for the men’s and women’s teams.

Stay At One Of The Best Inns Near Dartmouth Skiway

Whether you are interested in Dartmouth Skiway or Saskadena Six, it’s clear that one of the best inns near both is The Norwich Inn. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, so your well-deserved Upper Valley getaway certainly won’t be short on historical significance. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our lovely Inn (or check availability online).