Travel Guide

3 Fall Things To Do With Kids In New England

Posted on by Ben Rueter

New England Kids in fall.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 by Ben Rueter

Saint Gaudens National Historical ParkIt’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. 

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).

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

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Gorge Quechee bridge.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. 

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).

Where You Can Run Near Norwich, Vermont

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A woman on a run in Vermont.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 by Ben Rueter

A map of things to do in Norwich, VT.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. 

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).

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

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Someone at Simon Pearce Restaurant.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 by Ben Rueter

A view of the countryside that you can explore as one of the many Things To Do in Woodstock Vermont.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 by Ben Rueter

A person skiing to the Skiway Dartmouth.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).

Unique Romantic Vacation Ideas In Vermont and New Hampshire

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A man and a woman enjoying a Romantic Vacation in Vermont.New England is a wonderful place for a romantic vacation. You can seclude yourself in the area’s beautiful nature, find time for a simple coffee date, and enjoy delicious craft beer paired with a dinner meal. When you plan a romantic vacation at The Norwich Inn, you won’t have to travel far to find any of those delights in Vermont or New Hampshire. 

Stay at the Inn, enjoy the food, nature, and craft beer, or venture into the Upper Valley with your partner for a date. Either way, Vermont and New Hampshire are romantic vacation destinations you shouldn’t miss out on.

Start Planning The Best Romantic Vacation In The Upper Valley

Get a jump on planning your best romantic getaway now. Vermont and New Hampshire have plenty of unique, cute, and romantic things to do almost everywhere you look. Here are some favorites near The Norwich Inn.

The Brewery At The Norwich Inn

We said you won’t have to travel far to find your first date spot when you stay at The Norwich Inn. You’ll be steps away from the Brewery, which offers more than 50 craft beers, such as Whistling Pig Red Ale and Second Wind Oatmeal Stout, and several guest taps from regional breweries.

King Arthur Baking

King Arthur Baking is a popular date destination, and for a good reason. That’s because their baking school is an incredible and unique thing to do that you aren’t going to find anywhere else. You and your partner can learn to make bread, the perfect pizza, cream puff, macron, and many other delicious delights. 

There is also a store where you can buy tools, recipe books, and baking mixes. Bring home a tasty treat or bring back the knowledge of some extra special that you and your partner can bake together.

Mt. Cardigan

Many people choose to visit New England because of its spectacular natural features. It’s a must-experience attraction in the Norwich and Hanover area. Hiking with someone you love is extra special, and Mt. Cardigan is one of the best places around. The area has many bare granite ledges, ideal for photographing the horizon and peering over the land. 

Cardigan Mountain State Park has a superb Mount Cardigan Loop Trail that should take you about two hours to complete.

Bring Your Date To New England

Make this a romantic getaway to remember. Vermont and New Hampshire are excellent romantic vacation destinations that are both magical and affordable. You’ll see why this place is so special once you arrive 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).

Plan A Family Holiday Vacation In Vermont’s Upper Valley

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A child tubing down a hill and enjoying a Family Vacation in Vermont.Vermont really shines with a fresh coat of snow during the holiday season. It makes the season all that more special for the family to gather and have fun. So start planning your family winter or holiday vacation in Vermont’s Upper Valley. It’s a really fun place with lots of winter activities. Your next family vacation in Vermont can start from the comfy lodging only found at The Norwich Inn. 

Fun Family Vacation Ideas In Vermont

Take a moment to explore what the Upper Valley can offer your family this winter or holiday season. There is a nice variety of fun, and we know you will not be disappointed. Check out some of the popular activities during winter and the holiday season in the Upper Valley.

Billings Farm & Museum

The Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock is always a hit with children. That’s because this farm has around 70 Jersey cows, calves, draft horses, steers, pigs, goats, Southdown sheep, and chickens. In winter, the farm offers horse-drawn sleigh rides. The museum is also very interesting, with plenty of facts about the area and farm life.

Killington Ski Area

If you have a thrill-seeking family, they will love the Killington Ski Area. Even if you are new to the Killington Ski Area, there are ski and snowboarding lessons as well as rental gear to get you up to speed. This place has everything to keep you entertained all day. There are 17 dining options, a tubing park, the largest vertical drop in New England at 3,050 feet, 155 ski trails, and 21 lifts. After an afternoon of skiing thrills you can relax at the Killington Grand Spa.

Baking School With King Arthur Flour

For those who would rather stay warm indoors, we suggest signing up for a baking class at King Arthur Flour. We are located less than a mile away, and guests can enjoy a 20 percent discount when staying with us from November through April. We also offer a shuttle to and from the Inn for $5 each way per person. This makes for a great gift, or you can brush up on your baking skills and make some delicious holiday treats for the family.

The Upper Valley Is For Families

The Upper Valley in Vermont is a family vacation destination, and you will love the variety of activities available. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn, you and your family can enjoy the comfort and amazing amenities like our brewery and more. 

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).