Plan A Family Holiday Vacation In Vermont’s Upper Valley

Posted on November 4, 2024December 4, 2024 by Ben Rueter

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).

Rewarding Leaf Peeping Hikes And Drives In New England

Posted on October 24, 2024 by Ben Rueter

There are not many places more magnificent than New England in the fall. Witnessing the colors changing in the fall is one of the biggest attractions to the New England region. Because of this, you can find many great hiking trails with amazing vistas and stunning drives for leaf-peeping in New England. We recommend you visit as soon as possible to see the peak leaf-peeping season in New England, and the best place to immerse yourself in the fall season is with The Norwich Inn.

Hike Or Drive To See The Colorful Scenes

There are more than enough hiking trails for those who prefer to see the colors change on foot. But, there is plenty to appreciate for those who want to take everything in via a vehicle. Whatever you choose, you are in for an unforgettable experience. Here’s how you can leaf-peep in New England on foot or by car.

Gile Mountain Trail

You should get up high to appreciate the vast array of colors in fall best. There is no better way to do this than hiking the Gile Mountain Trail. This trail is located inside the “Norwich Town Forest.” It’s a somewhat easy trail to navigate, and it isn’t too long at less than a mile to reach the end.

Shumway Forest

The Shumway Forest connects to various trails, giving you many options to explore. The trail network is more than 16 miles long, and its difficulty ranges from easy to moderate. Some trails of the Shumway Forest network include the Appalachian Trail, Three Mile Road, and the South Peak of Moose Mountain.

Drive Through Some Gorgeous Covered Bridges

You are bound to notice the variety and number of covered bridges in the Upper Valley. Visiting covered bridges is a big draw to the area, and they make a fantastic backdrop for a group photo.

We recommend visiting the Taftsville Covered Bridge in Woodstock. It’s the oldest covered bridge in Vermont.

Also near Woodstock is the Middle Covered Bridge, which is special because it has a covered walking path that allows you to take cool photos and marvel at the craftsmanship.

The Vermont Country Store Kissing Bridge is popular with couples on a getaway in New England. Many couples visit to pose for a kiss with the fiery red and golden foliage behind them.

Tour New England In The Fall

See why so many flock to the New England area for leaf peeping. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn to experience a New England fall in Norwich, Vermont. Browse our elegant, romantic guest rooms to find one that suits your style and budget perfectly.

The Norwich Inn’s history dates all the way 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).

Try Some Of The Best Vermont Beer From The Brewery At The Norwich Inn

Posted on September 18, 2024 by Ben Rueter

Vacations are a time for relaxing and catching up with close friends or family. One of the best ways to do that is over a few cold beers, drinks, and delicious pub food. The experience can be even better when you have a brewery attached to your lodging. This is something unique that you can only find in New England this fall (and any time of the year) when you book directly with The Norwich Inn. We are located in The Upper Valley, which has stunning fall foliage that pairs magnificently with a cold Vermont beer from Brewery at the Norwich Inn. Here’s what you can expect when you book with Norwich Inn and drink some great Vermont beer with us at the Brewery at the Norwich Inn.

What Is The Brewery At The Norwich Inn?

This is the Inn’s dining and beer destination in Norwich, Vermont. It’s a small brewery, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the best in the state, with more than 50 different craft beers to taste. The beer is made from mostly local ingredients, including occasionally hops grown in our hop garden here at the Inn.

What Type Of Beer Is On Tap?

That changes depending on the season. However, there are always six different beers ready. The Brewery also offers “Guest Taps” featuring brews from other Vermont breweries. Some of the beers you might find on tap include Whistling Pig Red Ale, Second Wind Oatmeal Stout, and a guest tap such as Fiddlehead Brewing Co. Fiddlehead IPA.

Where Can I Buy More Beer?

You are going to have to get it straight from the source because it’s sold only at the Inn. Before you leave, take home some beer in either 22-ounce bottles, by the case, the 5-gallon keg, or Growlers. While you are at it, take home some Jasper Murdock Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar, our signature ale cheese made in collaboration with Woodstock’s Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company.

Vermont Brewery & Spirits Tour Package

If the Brewery at the Norwich Inn isn’t enough for you, we have a special vacation package that will interest you. To book this package, call 802-649-1143. This package includes:

Two nights lodging at the Norwich Inn
A Welcome Beer Flight per person at the Brewery
Inn pick up at 10 a.m. for a full-day Beverage Program
A tour that includes visits to Cabot Cheese and Vermont Spirits Distillery; Long Trail Brewery; Harpoon Brewery, Silo Distillery, and other venues in Artisans Park, Windsor; River Roost Brewery, King Arthur Flour Store and Café
A $25 dining credit per room/stay at the Inn, which is good for food or beverage any time during your stay
A 22 oz Bomber per person of the beer of your choice
A block of our Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar Cheese, made in conjunction with Vermont Farmstead Cheese Co.

Cheers To You!

This fall, find time to sit back and enjoy The Upper Valley with a cold Vermont beer brewed locally at Brewery at the Norwich Inn. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn, you will not only be steps away from our one-of-a-kind Brewery but also stay at one of the most accommodating Inns in The Upper Valley. Our Inn, steeped in history dating back to 1797 and close to Dartmouth College, is the perfect base for your summer adventure. Immerse yourself in centuries of New England heritage by staying with us. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Events, Celebrations At Dartmouth College, And Hanover In Fall

Posted on August 27, 2024 by Ben Rueter

If you plan on touring or are an incoming student at Dartmouth College, the fall semester will be full of things to take in. Dartmouth and the town of Hanover have some interesting and fun events in the coming months. Visit the area or the historic college. You should book directly with The Norwich Inn to enhance your time in the Upper Valley. Plan to attend these events during the fall season at Dartmouth College and the Upper Valley area.

Community Lunch at Dartmouth

One way that Dartmouth kicks off the new fall semester is with a community lunch. The college puts together a big cookout. It’s a great way for students and the community to get together and start the fall season and a new school year. The event typically takes place in early to mid-September.

FallFest in Hanover

FallFest is Hanover’s annual celebration of the best things that fall brings. The town government and community groups will come together for fall-themed activities. Bring the family and participate in the petting zoo, cider making, juggling, arts and crafts, and other live entertainment at Storrs Pond. The event in 2024 will take place on Sept. 27.

Dartmouth Homecoming

The big fall event for Dartmouth students and alumni is its homecoming. In 2024, homecoming will take place on Nov. 1-2. The highlights of homecoming weekend include the homecoming parade, bonfire, and watching live sports on ice and field.

Get To Know Dartmouth This Fall

The fall is a wonderful time to visit the Upper Valley and Dartmouth College for some of these fall events. On and off the college campus, you will find beautiful scenery, delicious food, and brews at places like The Norwich Inn. Our Inn, steeped in history dating back to 1797 and close to Dartmouth College, is the perfect base for your summer adventure. Immerse yourself in centuries of New England heritage by staying with us. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Plan A Day Trip To The Great Town Of Hanover, NH

Posted on July 2, 2024August 2, 2024 by Ben Rueter

The Upper Valley and the New England region are home to some quaint and interesting American towns. Hanover, NH, is a phenomenal town with a rich history and attractions. It’s a place you absolutely should visit this summer or fall, and the best place to stay in the Upper Valley is with The Norwich Inn. We are a hop, skip, and jump away from the town of Hanover, NH. Continue reading to learn how you can plan a day trip to the town of Hanover, NH.

Dartmouth College

The biggest attraction in Hanover is the Ivy League school Dartmouth College. Established in 1769, it has a long history in the area. Several stops on the Dartmouth campus are worth seeing up close, such as Hopkins Center for the Arts (aka the Hop), Baker Memorial Library, and Memorial Field.

Hood Museum of Art

Since its opening in 1985, the Hood Museum of Art has held around 65,000 objects. It has one of the oldest and largest museum collections. The museum is free to visit. Some of the most impressive objects in the collection include six Assyrian stone reliefs from the palace of Ashurnasirpal II and the complete archive of photojournalist James Nachtwey.

Tuk Tuk Thai Cuisine

Tuk Tuk Thai Cuisine is one place that’s great for a meal break during your day in Hanover. They offer indoor dining, delivery, and a full bar. Overall, you are in store for some of the best Thai food in the state. The menu covers soups, curry, salads, noodle entrees, kid’s meals, and more.

Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is more than 2,000 miles long and runs from Maine to Georgia. Part of it goes right through the heart of Hanover. It’s one of the most well-known American trails, so take advantage of the opportunity and tell people back home you walked part of it.

Explore All Of Hanover, NH

Hanover, NH, is a fantastic town where you will have more than enough things to do when you are here. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn, you are in the best place possible to explore Hanover, NH, and more of the Upper Valley. Our Inn, steeped in history dating back to 1797 and close to Dartmouth College, is the perfect base for your summer adventure. Immerse yourself in centuries of New England heritage by staying with us. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Best Flower Shops In Vermont, New Hampshire

Posted on June 25, 2024 by Ben Rueter

When it’s time for spring or summer, that means a color display of flowers blooming. There are few better ways to boost your spirits when buying or browsing flower shops. One of the most gorgeous areas of the United States is New England. You can find a phenomenal selection of flowers in Vermont and New Hampshire, which you can easily find when you stay at the historic Norwich Inn. Continue reading to learn where to find amazing flower shops near Norwich, Vermont.

Roberts Flowers of Hanover

Roberts Flowers of Hanover is one of the closest flower shops to the Norwich Inn. The business has been in operation for over 80 years and has provided flowers for Dartmouth College and other businesses in the Upper Valley.

Holdn’ Heaven Daylily Garden

If you want to immerse yourself in a colorful sea of flowers, check out Holdn’ Heaven Daylily Garden. A splendid abundance of shrubs and mixed beds of perennials make up a wonderful, lush garden. Bring home a piece of the Upper Valley. According to the website, the peak blooming season is later in July.

Safflowers

Hop in a car and make a scenic drive to Enfield, New Hampshire, to Safflowers. They offer gifts and flowers for any reason, whether for a loved one or if you want to add color to your patio this summer. Safflowers has something for you.

Bring Some Fabulous Colors Home With You

Enhance your New England experience by bringing home some of its vibrant flowers. When you book directly with The Norwich Inn, you secure a comfortable stay and access to a unique shopping experience. Our Inn, steeped in history dating back to 1797 and close to Dartmouth College, is the perfect base for your summer adventure. Immerse yourself in centuries of New England heritage by staying with us. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Scenic Hiking Trails In The Upper Valley And Vermont

Posted on May 14, 2024 by Ben Rueter

There are few more beautiful places for scenic vistas and splendid hiking trails than those in New England. There are many large and small pockets of majestic natural beauty, and you can see some truly amazing sights and sounds in Vermont along the Connecticut River. Before you start dreaming of venturing into the wilderness, you should know that one of the best places to begin this adventure is from the steps of The Norwich Inn. We are steps from the Connecticut River near many outstanding hiking trails in Vermont and New Hampshire. Continue reading to learn more about all of the hiking opportunities waiting for you in New England.

Gile Mountain Trail

The Gile Mountain Trail is located right here in Norwich. It’s an amazing trail where you can experience the best views in the Upper Valley. At the summit of the trail, there is a fire tower that offers a 360-degree view of the area. The trail is about a mile and a half long. There are also a small number of parking spots available at the trailhead.

Echo Mountain Trail

This is another fairly short trail that is about a mile and a half long. The Echo Mountain Trail gives you an expansive view of Lake Morey. Be sure to take some photos of it from the Eagle Cliffs overlook. Parking spaces are also limited.

Ascutney Summit Loop

If you can’t get enough views from high up, then you should also add the Ascutney Summit Loop to your list of trails to hike near Norwich. The trail is about one mile long, and at the end, you can see a 360-panorama view from the summit viewing platform. There is an entry fee per person to enter the area.

See One Of The Best Sides Of Vermont

The nature and hiking opportunities are some of the best features of Vermont and New England. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn, you can easily see as much of the area as possible this summer. The Norwich Inn’s rich history dating back to 1797 and its proximity to Dartmouth College is the perfect starting point for your summer adventure. You’re not just booking a room when you choose to stay with us. You’re immersing yourself in centuries of New England heritage. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Best Summer Things To Do In New England

Posted on April 29, 2024 by Ben Rueter

Summertime is an opportunity to unwind, relax, and enjoy the warm weather. The New England region is spectacular because of the variety of events, attractions, and nature all around you. You should treat yourself to a special summer vacation this summer and do it in New England at The Norwich Inn. We are near some great summer attractions in Norwich and Hanover. Continue reading to find out what makes this area of New England a summer destination.

King Arthur Baking

Fans of baking or those who want to learn should head over to King Arthur Baking. It’s the best place to watch experts bake or take a class while you are here and bring home the knowledge of an experienced baker. The classes cover cookies, bread, British baking, pies, pasta, kids courses, and more. The store on campus has lots of baking wares and treats to take home.

Norwich Farmers Market

Staying on the topic of food, the outstanding Norwich Farmers Market is located in northern New England. This market stands out because it is one of the region’s oldest and largest farmers’ markets. It’s open on Saturdays from May through October. You’ll find all of your farmers market essentials like artisan cheese, crafts, art, plants, meats, and more.

Dartmouth College

While school isn’t in session, it’s the perfect time to tour the Dartmouth College campus. The Norwich Inn is about a mile away from the campus. Whether you are considering attending the college or want to explore this piece of New England’s educational history, you will not be disappointed with your tour of the college grounds.

Gile Mountain

Gile Mountain offers a great view of the area and spectacular photo opportunities. The short hiking trail leads to an observation tower, which you can climb to gaze out onto the Norwich scenery.

Make Summer Plans Today

Don’t wait too long to book your New England summer vacation. By booking directly with The Norwich Inn, you’ll be on track for a splendid summer getaway this year. The Norwich Inn’s rich history dating back to 1797 and its proximity to Dartmouth College is the perfect starting point for your summer adventure. You’re not just booking a room when you choose to stay with us. You’re immersing yourself in centuries of New England heritage. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Great Vermont Breweries, Distilleries In The Upper Valley

Posted on March 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by Ben Rueter

For those who relish a tall, cold glass of beer, the Upper Valley in Vermont is a treasure trove of unique and exciting breweries. Every sip is an adventure from the delicious beer to the remarkable beer halls. Whether you create your brewery crawl or sign up for a distillery tour, The Norwich Inn in the Upper Valley is the perfect base for your exploration. Here, we present some of the most intriguing breweries, distilleries, and tours that await you in the Upper Valley of Vermont.

Brewery at the Norwich Inn

You don’t have to walk far to find one of the best breweries in Vermont. The Brewery at the Norwich Inn is one of the coziest breweries in the state, with an excellent selection of beers and ales. The brewery has been operating since 1993 when Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse began producing traditional English-style ales in five-gallon glass jugs. With more than 50 unique beers in the rotation, including the popular Whistling Pig Red Ale, and guest taps from other local breweries, such as Lawson’s Sip of Sunshine IPA, there’s a brew for every beer lover.

Vermont Spirits

If you are looking for some delicious spirits, try Vermont Spirits. They offer some of the area’s best vodka, gin, and bourbon. Specifically, they offer Vermont Gold Vodka. Then there is the smooth No 14 Bourbon. Lastly, according to their website, the Coppers Gins are a “curated blend of botanicals and handpicked wild juniper from Vermont.”

Bright Side Brewing

Try driving down to West Lebanon and pulling up a seat at Bright Side Brewing. It’s a newer brewery in the area with great taste in both the beer and the food. Swing by for their lunch specials, like build-your-own Mac and Cheese, and enjoy a beer from their always-rotating selection of craft beers.

Enjoy The Best Spirits And Beer In The Upper Valley

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a connoisseur of fine cocktails, the distilleries and breweries near Norwich, Vermont, offer a delightful array of options. The Norwich Inn, with its rich history dating back to 1797 and its proximity to Dartmouth College, is the perfect starting point for your adventure. When you choose to stay with us, you’re not just booking a room, you’re immersing yourself in centuries of New England heritage. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn or check availability online.

Things To Do On The Connecticut River In Winter

Posted on February 1, 2024March 1, 2024 by Ben Rueter

If you’ve never found time to visit the Connecticut River, you should do it during the winter. It’s a beautiful and splendid time that paints the Connecticut River in a unique light that’s hard to find elsewhere in the New England region. The Norwich Inn is not far from the river, making this a must-see destination when you travel to New England. Here is a rundown of some things you must do when visiting the Connecticut River’s winter shores.

Connecticut River Byway

Get in your car and admire the Connecticut River nature from the comfort of your car. The Byway follows near the Connecticut River along the western border of New Hampshire. Part of the Byway passes through Hanover on the way to Lyme and Orford. The total length of the drive stretches to 140 miles long.

Hiking

No matter the season, the Connecticut River is a beautiful area. In winter, you will get something different from other seasons. So bundle up and head to the Rinker-Steele Natural Area or the Lower Slade Brook Natural Area to get close to the river. You can also walk along the Ledyard Free Bridge and take neat photos over the river with a snow-covered backdrop.

Birdwatching

Winter is still a wonderful time for birdwatching along the Connecticut River. You might spot a bald eagle from Canada nesting along the river for easy fishing. While seeing an eagle is cool, you might also see Canada geese, herring gulls, common goldeneyes, and more.

Experience Winter On The Connecticut River

In winter, the Connecticut River is a wonderful scene to experience firsthand. It’s an easy attraction to see when you are lodging so close to the river at The Norwich Inn. We’ve been in New England for a while—the Norwich Inn’s history dates to 1797, located near Dartmouth College. When you stay with us, we guarantee you will have plenty of things to do and see. Call us today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our Inn (or check availability online).