Travel Guide

Find a Great Brewery or Distillery Near Norwich, VT

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Two men drinking at a Norwich brewery.Near Norwich, VT, we know you’ll find a great brewery or distillery. It’s an excellent area for sampling new beers and sipping unique cocktails. It’s a good thing that you’ll be near a great brewery or distillery when you stay at The Norwich Inn. Marvel at the scenery and enjoy your drinks at some of the best in the area. These are the best beers and spirits near Norwich, VT. Cheers!

Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse

This is Norwich Inn’s very own brewery. So it’s obviously the best place to start. We have a restaurant menu with seating inside and outside on our patio. All of the ales are made on-sight with a new beer selection, depending on the season. Check out what is on tap right now.

Vermont Spirits

If you are more in the mood for spirit, Vermont Spirits is the spot for you. The distillery offers vodka, bourbon, and gin. If you are interested in a bottle, you will be able to find them at their location in Quechee, VT, or at a local liquor store too.

River Roost Brewery

River Roost Brewery is set in downtown White River Junction, VT. The brewery is along the Connecticut River, so you’ll be treated to some beautiful water scenery. In addition, the brewery offers beer on tap, cans, and bottles. Bring some home with you when you leave.

SILO Distillery

It’s outside the city limits, but it offers a special feeling that you won’t get anywhere else in Vermont. SILO Distillery touts its farm-to-bar-to-bottle way of distilling its many spirits. It offers vodka, gin, whiskey, ready-to-drink cocktails, and cider. 

There’s a Lot of Drinks to Sample in Vermont

There’s a delicious brewery and distillery not far from you when you stay at The Norwich Inn. Some are basically right outside your room, and others that allow you to escape the city for a moment. The Norwich Inn is located near Dartmouth College and includes a variety of attractions downtown. When you stay with us, we can guarantee that you will have plenty of things to do and see. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, which is why you can trust us about all the best ways to enjoy the Upper Valley. Give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our inn (or check availability online).

Restaurants, Bars Near Hanover to Watch Dartmouth Sports

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A group of young people at one Hanover restaurants.One of the Norwich and Hanover area’s main attractions is Dartmouth College. One of the exciting things about this college is the enthusiasm and passion behind its sports. Athletic programs are an institution at many universities with long and storied histories. If you are lucky to be staying at the Norwich Inn during the school year, chances are you will come across fans gushing about an upcoming game. 

Top Bars, Restaurants to Watch Dartmouth Sports

How to best soak in the local pride depends on what sport you are interested in a where you are watching it. We’ve compiled a list of the best hangouts and restaurants in Norwich and Hanover to watch the big game. Before you walk into one or more of these establishments, check out the Dartmouth athletics schedule and plan accordingly.

Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse

We can’t go without bringing attention to Norwich Inn’s alehouse. We offer a wide selection of finger foods, brews, and signature cocktails. It’s the best place to catch up on happenings in the area while sipping on a house-brewed Jasper Murdock ale.

Molly’s Restaurant and Bar

Molly’s has been a staple in the community for college students since the 80s. The menu will have something for everyone with burgers, pizza, and sandwiches for you to enjoy during the game. Take some time to view the restaurant’s Ivy League memorabilia, Hanover sports photos, and more.

Dunk’s Sports Grill

Located in downtown Hanover, Dunk’s is an upcoming sports bar. It’s a great place to watch The Big Green when you are in town. Check out the bar’s beer menu as it offers twelve draft beers that are constantly changing and new bottles and cans each week.

Cheer On the Big Green at Norwich Inn

It’s true. This is the best place to cheer on Dartmouth while you are in town. Start your stay at Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse and visit one or two restaurants in Norwich or Hanover. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, which is why you can trust us about all the best ways to enjoy the Upper Valley. Give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our inn (or check availability online).

Take In the Scenic Nature at an Upper Valley Golf Club

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A women swinging a golf club at a Norwich golf course.No matter where you travel, chances are you will try to squeeze in a few rounds of golf where you can get it. Otherwise, you probably wouldn’t be reading this. We are here to tell you that The Norwich Inn is close to an outstanding golf course for you to visit.

A Great Golf Course is not far away Near Norwich

So whether you are touring Dartmouth College or some of the breweries in the area, you won’t be far from a green. Visit or more to explore these golf courses’ unforgettable scenes and views.

Montcalm Golf Club

This course offers fantastic views that you might not get to see anywhere else in the Upper Valley. Over the 18-holes, you can see mountains, hills, valleys, and lakes as you set up for your drive.

Green Mountain National Golf Course

This is another awe-inspiring golf course in Vermont. 18-holes with an expansive view of the surrounding nature. The course is nestled away in the mountains, so you can expect to be challenged by varied terrains and the elevation change. 

Eastman Golf Links

This is a fantastic choice for golf enthusiasts and newcomers to the game. If it’s your first time, guests are given a free full-color course yardage guide and offered the free Eastman Golf App. The course covers 18-holes that provide enough challenge for a seasoned golf player or a newcomer to the sport. It’s absolutely a fun and enjoyable course to spend the day on.

You Won’t Miss Tee Time. We’re Close to an Upper Valley Golf Club!

There’s nothing worse for your golf game than running late to your tee time. The good thing is that an Upper Valley golf course is near The Norwich Inn. You’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep thanks to our spacious rooms and a dedicated staff. You’ll wake up recharged and ready to play your best golf game in years. Give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our inn (or check availability online).

Traveler’s Guide to Vermont Leaf Peeping in the Upper Valley

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Vermont is up there for states that are not to be missed once autumn rolls around. At The Norwich Inn, we get to see this every year, so we know a thing or two about where to find the best locations to snap a photo or gaze at the fall foliage. We’ve made a simple guide for getting the most out of Vermont leaf peeping this autumn.

Vermont Leaf Peeping To-Dos

  • Don’t come too late! Peak colors fade out by the time October ends. So look to book with us in September or early October.
  • The first thing you’ll want to do is decide if you plan to walk, drive, or paddle. There’s no wrong answer, by the way.
  • Rent an ATV. ATV Vermont is nearby, and you can race to some of the best areas to snap pictures before anyone else has a chance. 
  • If an ATV is too fast for you, take things slow with a horse-drawn ride. Kedron Valley Stables is your best option.
  • Bring your mountain bike or rent one at Suicide Six. In addition, the Suicide Six trails are free to use.
  • Go ahead and walk at your own pace. Vermont has some fantastic hiking trails. For starters, you can get hiking on the famous Appalachian Trail or try the Gile Mountain Trail.
  • Take a breezy tour through Dartmouth College’s campus if you are interested in an urban stroll to see the fall colors.
  • If you want to see it all, might we suggest booking a reservation for a hot air balloon ride? Quechee Balloon Rides LC can take you up high for a once-in-a-lifetime view. 
  • Before you head out, check in with the Vermont Fall Foliage Reports. You’ll save some time and get the most up-to-date information on when to see the peak colors in the area.
  • Vermont is known for having historic and rustic covered bridges. It also happens to be a great place to pull over and shoot some photos.

When the Sun Sets Spend the Night at The Norwich Inn

After you finish your Vermont leaf peeping adventure, head back to The Norwich Inn for award-winning craft beer and casual dining. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, which is why you can trust us about all the best ways to enjoy Vermont leaf peeping this autumn in the Upper Valley. Give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our inn (or check availability online).

5 Summertime Outdoor Activities in the Upper Valley, Vermont

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A forest similar to one near Norwich, Vermont, with a barn in the distance. Ideally this is one of Vermont's outdoor activities.

5 Summertime Outdoor Activities in the Upper Valley, Vermont

Summertime is the best time to get outdoors and see what hides in the Upper Valley. The Norwich Inn knows this best. We hope you will soon discover what outdoor activities Vermont has in store for you this summer.

Here are five things to get you on your journey.

Tour Dartmouth College

The Norwich Inn is just a little over one mile to the center of campus, making it a stroll during your visit. Need another reason to visit this historical institution? We’re providing a College Visit Package, including a $25 dining credit at the Inn and a $25 gift card to the Dartmouth Coop.

Learn About the Upper Valley’s Nature

Montshire Museum of Science has more than 100-acres that you and your family can explore and learn about while staying in the Upper Valley. See a gorgeous view of the Connecticut River or trek the Planet Walk.

Explore Vermont’s Covered Bridges

Bridges are scattered all over the state, so you will probably drive and walk under one before you know it. But, if you haven’t seen one yet, try swinging by the Taftsville Covered Bridge. It’s near Woodstock and sits above the Ottauquechee River. It’s also the oldest covered bridge in Vermont.

Shop at the Norwich Farmers’ Market

Farmers’ markets are a phenomenal way to meet new people, try some local food flavors, and get inspired to cook something delicious. Norwich, Vermont’s farmers’ market also features live music and crafts.

Go on an Adventure With Hanover Adventure Tours

Hanover Adventure Tours will prepare you and whoever else you bring with you for, as you can guess, an adventure through the Upper Valley. The business touts electric bike rentals, tours via e-bike, hiking tours, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, hostel accommodations, and private outdoor event spaces. 

Let Norwich Inn Help You Get Outdoors This Summer

The Norwich Inn is the best place to start exploring Vermont’s scenic outdoors and discover new activities. From hiking, kayaking, biking, The Norwich Inn is a great place to start your outdoor exploration of Vermont. Please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 (or check availability online) to escape into Vermont’s Upper Valley.

The Norwich Inn Invests in On-Site Restaurant | Vermont Returns to “Normalcy”

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

The Norwich Inn Invests in On-Site Restaurant | Vermont Returns to “Normalcy”

As Vermont’s Upper Valley returns to a whole new level of “normalcy,” it’s important to note that the region’s oldest establishment, The Norwich Inn, has invested in its on-site restaurant and re-upped its affiliation with King Arthur Baking Company and the Vermont Nanobrewery Festival. With dining and travel restrictions lifted here in New England, the inn finally feels like its old self—with a twist!

Photo of The Norwich Inn's Outdoor Dining Area, Home to One of the Best Restaurants in Norwich, VT.Expanded, Renovated Outdoor Dining

While The Norwich Inn still exudes the “same old” sophistication, charm, and historical significance, the outdoor patio recently underwent a comprehensive overhaul, including an expansion and renovation. After all, we “never waste a crisis” to improve. You’ll notice several new features, including standing heaters, an oversized canopy, rope lights, new flooring, and enhanced landscaping. We couldn’t think of a better place in the Upper Valley to enjoy a plate of seared salmon (or beer-battered haddock) and a tall Whistling Pig Red Ale.

The Newhart Room’s Interior Transformation

Photo of the Newhart Room, a Newly-Renovated Restaurant in Norwich, VT.

Don’t forget about the most recent interior transformation of the Newhart Room (as pictured), a dazzling social area tailor-made for late-night drinks, an early-afternoon bite, or a small group gathering. Whether you aim to watch the Patriots finish a game-winning drive or sample an array of cocktails with your girlfriends, you’ll feel at home in the Newhart Room—named after the popular TV show, “Newhart.”

King Arthur Baking Company Resumes Live Classes

King Arthur Baking Company has officially resumed live classes as of June 21, 2021. It’s been a long time coming! And, much to everyone’s delight, The Norwich Inn is once again offering King Arthur packages, including the “Welcome Back Package,” featuring 20 percent off rates, a complimentary pint, a free shuttle to the bakery, and so much more!

Vermont Nanofest Returns

Raise a glass to the sky because the Vermont Nanobrewery Festival returns on August 21, 2021. The Norwich Inn is the “Nanofest’s” Official Lodging Sponsor. Thus, we’re offering an outrageous one-night Nanofest package, including free entry, a deluxe overnight stay, a complimentary pint, a souvenir tasting glass, a block of Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar, a take-home 22-ounce bottle of beer, and more!

This summer aims to be one for the ages, so please don’t hesitate to book a well-deserved vacation package before availability runs out. Browse through our specials and packages, or give us a call today at 802-649-1143. Cheers!

Jasper Murdock Ales: The Vermont Beer Trail Starts in Norwich

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Jasper Murdock Ales: The Vermont Beer Trail Starts in Norwich

Jasper Murdock Ales

There’s no denying that Vermont is home to some of North America’s richest craft beer history and finest brewing facilities. After all, the birthplace of the modern-day “hazy IPA” (often referred to as the New England-style IPA) is approximately 80 miles northwest of Norwich in the rolling hills of Stowe. Unbeknownst to many, Norwich’s historic, picturesque town is home to one of the longest-standing breweries on the Vermont beer trail: Jasper Murdock Ales, an Upper Valley staple that dates back to 1993.

A Unique Slice of Upper Valley History

Jasper Murdock Ales on the BarAccording to the Brewers Association, Vermont boasts the most breweries per capita in America. We take craft beer seriously—and you should too. The self-guided Vermont beer trail, which we cover in more detail below, starts and finishes at The Norwich Inn. It’s not often that you stumble upon a 28-year-old brewery located inside of a 1797 inn that has hosted the likes of Dr. Seuss and President James Monroe.

Today, travelers can stroll into this classic Irish pub for a tall pint, a 22-ounce bottle to-go, or even a growler fill. The pub has retained its original charm, thanks to its rich mahogany bar, old-timey photography, and Irish-green accents.

Jasper Murdock Ales: The Legacy Continues

Jasper Murdock Ales in Front of a Fireplace

What began as a modest venture that only produced five-gallon jugs of English-style ales has blossomed into one of the proudest breweries in New England. The team now concocts 125-gallon batches covering nearly beer style, ranging from smile-inducing cream ales to trendy IPLs and classic Irish reds.

Jasper Murdock’s premier beer remains the Whistling Pig Red Ale, a multi-generational recipe that’s a delicious ode to the classic Irish reds that pre-date the new-age Vermont brewery scene. Recent hits include the genre-bending Schwarzpils, the aptly-named Mash Up, and the crowd-pleasing N2B Cream Ale, a proclaimed “lawnmower beer.”

A Self-Guided Journey on the Vermont Beer Trail

There’s no better reason to visit the Upper Valley this August than the annual Vermont NanoFest, the region’s premier dabbler. At the NanoFest, grinning beer enthusiasts can taste-test many of the state’s top-rated breweries, which is a welcomed alternative to a lengthy drive on the Vermont beer trail. Participants include Red Clover Ale Co., Green Empire Brewing, and Upper Pass Brewing Company. We also urge thirsty beer nerds to visit some of the area’s top-rated taprooms in White River Junction, Bridgewater Corners, and beyond. Use this Vermont brewery bucket list as your trail guide.

To book a long-awaited craft beer-inspired escape to Norwich, please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 (or check availability online).

7 Reasons to Visit Norwich This Spring

Posted on by Ben Rueter

7 Reasons to Visit Norwich This Spring

An Older Couple Hiking on This Vermont Spring VacationSpring has officially sprung in Vermont. The snow is finally melting, the flowers are blooming, and the days are getting longer. It’s the perfect time of year to make the trip to our Vermont hotel, The Norwich Inn. Keep us in mind for your spring travels, and continue reading below for seven reasons to visit Norwich this spring.

1. Our Brewery

There’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of warm weather than with a cold beer. Cheers to the newly-arrived spring season at our Norwich brewery, home of Jasper Murdock Ales.

2. The Outdoors

Norwich spring is a special time of year, where Vermont transforms from a winter wonderland to a summer playground. There’s no better time of year to enjoy all that Vermont has to offer than during the spring. Get outside and get active this spring.

3. Sample the Baked Goods

What better way to kick off a Norwich spring day than with a trip to the iconic King Arthur Baking Company, where you can sample your fill of sweets or take a baking class to learn to make your favorite treats at home.

4. Visit the General Store

Have a classic small-town experience with a visit to Dan & Whit’s General Store this spring. Their motto is “if we don’t have it, you don’t need it,” in reference to their all-encompassing inventory.

5. It’s Hiking Season

Springtime in Norwich means it’s officially time to hit the trails, now that you no longer need cross-country skis. Our favorite hikes include Gile Mountain Trail and Montshire’s Ridge and Hazen Trail.

6. It’s Warm Enough to Find a Good Swimming Hole

It may not be summer yet, but it’s starting to get warm enough to explore the local swimming holes. This spring, head to Twenty Foot Hole on the Black River for a break from the heat.

7. The Farms and Orchards

Experience the best of Vermont’s world-famous produce at the Sugarbush Farm. Sugar Bush Farm started as the first production site of cheese packaged in wax bars in 1945 and now boasts a plentiful production of cheese and maple products set amongst a charming hillside location. 

To learn more about the lovely town of Norwich, Vermont, or to book your stay, head to our website. We can’t wait for you to get here.

The Norwich Inn’s Guide to Exploring Rural Vermont: 3 Day Trips

Posted on by Ben Rueter

The Norwich Inn’s Guide to Exploring Rural Vermont: 3 Day Trips

A couple on a Vermont day tripVermont is a land of rolling hills, rocky peaks, wooded trails, and craft beers. In short, Vermont is a mecca for adventure in the Northeast. Additionally, as one of the Thirteen Colonies, each town, county, and wilderness area is layered in a rich history tied to the birth of our nation. Near the prestigious Dartmouth College, The Norwich Inn stands as it has since 1797, as a mecca of hospitality and fine dining in a quaint town marked by its general store. While our delightful Vermont inn and small-town atmosphere draw visitors from all over the country, we’re also perfectly positioned for a variety of Vermont day trips. Continue below to read our three-part guide to exploring Vermont.

Strafford, Vermont 

If you’re visiting New England in search of a winter wonderland, Strafford should be on your shortlist of Vermont day trips. Just under half an hour on the road from The Norwich Inn, the Strafford Nordic Center provides locals and visitors with over 30 kilometers of groomed, skiable trails for skiers of all abilities.

The Hazen Trail

If you’re in Vermont during the fall, spring, or summer months, hit the trails and check out some of the area’s best hiking. The Hazen Trail is an ideal Vermont day trip for nature lovers. The hike takes you through heavily-forested areas along the Connecticut River and is a moderate hike that’s just over four miles point-to-point. Much of the trail is on the Montshire Museum of Science property and may require a pass.

Sugarbush Farm 

Vermont is known to many as the land of fall foliage and maple syrup, and Sugarbush Farm provides just that. Sugarbush Farm started as the first production site of cheese packaged in wax bars in 1945 and now boasts a plentiful production of cheese and maple products set amongst a charming hillside location. Tour the farm, sample the products, and enjoy this classic Vermont day trip. 

The Norwich Inn is home to an in-house brewery and one of the largest wine selections in the state. For more information on our charming inn or to learn more about Vermont, please read further.

Crisis Management 101 | Enhancements at The Norwich Inn

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Crisis Management 101 | Enhancements at The Norwich Inn

“Never let a crisis go to waste” is a quote attributed to Winston Churchill as the world emerged from World War II. Sometimes a severe challenge such as COVID-19 can cause some to shift paradigms: how they view their world…even at a country inn. Maybe it’s getting around to things we always wanted to do; maybe it’s totally new.

Refinished Floors and a Restored Bar Top

In the former category, since our restaurant has had reduced hours and mandated capacity restrictions, we’ve been able to refinish the floors in a number of our dining venues while also restoring the bar top to its original luster. We are lucky to have Dale, our talented and versatile maintenance manager, put his skills to work. Everything looks like new. 

We’ve also instituted a Shuttle Service to area attractions: Dartmouth College, King Arthur Baking Company, and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

The Newhart Room

Photo of The Newhart Room.In the latter category, we’ve re-imagined our original Dining Room into a multi-purpose space. Now our guests can eat, drink, work, meet, watch TV, or all of the above. We ran a contest to name the new space, and the winner was “The Newhart Room.” Where did that come from? Media sources have it that The Norwich Inn and the Town of Norwich were the inspiration behind the popular TV Show, “Newhart,” an eight-season, Golden Globe-nominated sitcom featuring Bob Newhart.

We’ve also incorporated “Whistle,” which is a premier customer service and communication platform for hotels. Whistle improves customer service through real-time engagement utilizing text and mobile message communication with our guests.

Enhanced Al Fresco Dining

The Norwich Inn has always had seasonal al fresco dining. While it had been popular, the surge in demand for the outdoors caused us to re-evaluate how to enhance and broaden the space. First, a sail cover was installed over our Patio, decorated with string lights. Second, we opened our Beer Garden to foodservice. Between the two venues, The Norwich Inn now has the most ample outdoor dining capacity in the area.

On tap for the 2021 season is a total redo and expansion of the Patio with upgraded coverage and new heaters.

While “COVID era” challenges have been daunting, it has caused us to rethink what we do to increase our relevance and enhance the guest experience.

To learn more about the historic Norwich Inn, please visit us online.