Start Planning A Fall New England Roadtrip Now

Posted on October 8, 2023November 8, 2023 by Ben Rueter

A simple pleasure during the fall months is getting outside, feeling the cool breeze, and marveling at the fall foliage. If you bring your car, a great place to take it for a spin during fall is in Vermont, specifically the Norwich area. Norwich is based in the Upper Valley in New England, and it’s one of the best times of the year to see the colors change and explore covered bridges, wildlife, and more. Start your fall New England roadtrip at The Norwich Inn. Here is what you should stop and look at when you begin your fall New England roadtrip.

Upper Connecticut River Valley

You can drive 130 miles along the Connecticut River to see most of the Upper Valley. That’s one way of saying you will be on the road for a while, but you will see so much! The main highlight of this drive is the Connecticut River. Because you will drive near the river, you will have many opportunities to stop in small, welcoming towns. You’ll also see your fair share of covered bridges.

Woodstock, Hartland, Lebanon

These are three neighboring cities to Norwich. Driving to all three should take more than an hour, but you will want to stop into some shops, cafes, and parks to get the most out of your drive.

Biking In Norwich And More

Another way to explore the countryside is via a bike. You can rent an e-bike from Vermont Bike & Brew. They offer rentals for Haibike Trekking 5 and the iZip Vida ST 2.0. This is an affordable way to drive through the Upper Valley if you don’t have a car accessible to you.

Don’t Let The Season Pass You By

Fall is a special season in the New England region, and you will soon realize that to be true when you take this roadtrip from The Norwich Inn. Read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. 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).

Bring Your Family To These Fall Festivals, Events

Posted on September 5, 2023October 5, 2023 by Ben Rueter

Fall is a spectacular time to travel. Start planning a family vacation in Vermont this fall. Many exciting fall events are happening in Vermont and more so near the city of Norwich. Bring your family to The Norwich Inn and start your family’s fall vacation with the best lodging. Here are some more popular and exciting family-friendly fall events near Norwich, Vermont.

Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival

Travel west to Woodstock, Vermont, to participate in the Apples & Crafts Fair & Food Truck Festival. This is a beautiful way to sample yummy fall treats from 100 juried craftspeople, specialty food producers, and food trucks. There is an admission fee of $5. This event takes place in October, and in 2023, the event occurs on Oct. 7.

Fall Dressage Show & Vermont Foliage Getaway

If you have someone in your family who is a fan of horses, then you need to attend the Fall Dressage Show & Vermont Foliage Getaway. Spectators are welcome at the event, which takes place on Oct. 7 at 5491 South Road, S. Woodstock, VT.

One Day Fall Fishing Mini Camp

For the avid anglers in your family, consider attending the One Day Fall Fishing Mini Camp in Hanover, NH. This is an excellent fishing opportunity since the fish will be plentiful and big. Ages 7-15, all are welcome. The camp is being led by Mike Blatt, a licensed guide and member of the Jackson Kayak Fishing Team.

Fall Family Fun

Your family will enjoy any of these fall events near Norwich, Vermont. It all starts at The Norwich Inn. Read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. 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).

Visit These Landmarks On A Vermont Family Vacation

Posted on August 15, 2023September 15, 2023 by Ben Rueter

If you haven’t been to the Upper Valley in the New England region, you owe it to yourself to visit it on your next Vermont family vacation. Not just for the gorgeous natural scenery but several national and regional landmarks scattered throughout the area. The easiest way to explore these Upper Valley landmarks and other attractions is to book directly at The Norwich Inn. Here are some of the most interesting Upper Valley landmarks you must see on your next Vermont family vacation.

Soldiers Memorial Building

In Lebanon, NH, you can visit The Soldiers Memorial Building. Construction on the building was completed in 1890 by Civil War veterans. It acted as a free public library until it was moved to its current location, where the first floor was turned into a war museum. Today it’s a memorial to area veterans of all wars.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion

The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion was built in 1805, and in 1967, the mansion was designated as a National Historic Landmark. It’s a lovely home, and you should see it on a guided tour.

Baker-Berry Library

This is the main library on the Dartmouth College campus. The library opened in 1928, and in 2002 a new complex was constructed and added to the facility. Today the library holds over 2 million volumes in its collections.

Explore These Fascinating Landmarks

You will learn something about the Upper Valley and appreciate the unique nature that can only be found here when you stay at The Norwich Inn on your next Vermont family vacation. Read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. 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).

Find The Best Hiking In New England Near Norwich, VT

Posted on July 3, 2023August 3, 2023 by Ben Rueter

The New England region is one of the best places in the United States for hiking. Every season of the year offers phenomenal views that are ideal for photography. Specifically, you will find much to see in the Norwich, VT, area. Whether you are interested in nature or urban hiking, you can find it steps away from The Norwich Inn. Strap on your hiking shoes and explore these New England area hiking trails and parks.

Appalachian Trail

One of the most famous trails in the United States passes nearby Norwich, VT. This section of the trial is wooded, providing lots of shade. You can find an entry point to the trail just west of the Inn. It’s absolutely worth exploring the almost 8 miles near the Inn for the day.

Hazen Trail

Hazen Trail is another tremendous wooded and shaded hiking trail. What’s great about this trail is that it includes interpretive markers representing the planets of the Solar System. If you want that experience, we suggest starting at the Montshire Museum. The trail is almost two miles long.

Brookmead Conservation Area Trails

You can traverse the Brookmead Conservation Area Trails just north of the Norwich Inn. This is an excellent option for those who want to hike various trails. There are more than three miles of trails to choose from. One of these trails is a loop as well.

Explore New England Yourself

Hiking in the New England area is a memorable experience. If the weather is nice outside, you owe it to yourself to see one of the best things about the New England region. The Norwich Inn is the best way to start your exploration of the Vermont area. Read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. 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).

Don’t Let Rainy Weather In Norwich, Vermont, Ruin A Vacation

Posted on May 1, 2023June 1, 2023 by Ben Rueter

Sometimes the weather in Norwich, Vermont, doesn’t cooperate with our vacation plans. It would be best to turn your attention indoors rather than take advantage of the New England countryside. Thankfully, if you are caught in this situation, there are things for your family to do when staying at The Norwich Inn. We’ll walk you through some fun and exciting indoor activities if the rainy weather in Norwich, Vermont, gets in the way.

The Montshire Museum of Science

The Montshire Museum of Science is less than a mile away from The Norwich Inn, making it one of the best places to visit if the weather catches you off guard. But it is a great place to visit no matter what the weather is like. It’s an interactive science museum that can be enjoyed by guests of all ages. There is a wonderful mix of new exhibits throughout the year that includes indoor and outdoor features.

Vermont Toy Museum

This is a beautiful place whether you are a child or a parent. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Inn. Your children will love the variety of fascinating toys in the Vermont Toy Museum. But also, it allows grownups to reconnect with their inner child. Show your kid a toy you used to play with when you were their age, or watch the joy wash over their face when they find something new and exciting to bring back home.

Upper Valley Aquatic Center

The Upper Valley Aquatic Center is a great place to visit with your family. The aquatic center is around a 10-minute drive away from The Norwich Inn. A splash park includes a lazy river, small waterfalls, a kiddie pool, and other water attractions. For the brave, according to their website, you can climb “20 feet to the top of our speed slide and take a 110-foot corkscrew to ride out of the building before landing back inside.”

Don’t Let The Rain Get You Down

Rain happens sometimes in Norwich, Vermont, so there is no reason to let it ruind your vacation. As you can see now, The Norwich Inn is there to help. Read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. 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).

5 Summer Marathons In New England

Posted on April 12, 2023May 12, 2023 by Ben Rueter

Plenty of exciting events are happening in New England during the summer months. For example, there are some fun marathons for those avid marathon runners. It’s a great way to see The Upper Valley, meet the locals, and exercise. You’ll be set up perfectly to take on all these marathons and more in New England when you book directly with The Norwich Inn. Here are some upcoming marathons in New England.

Race Around the Lake (May 21): This is a 5K and 10K. This marathon takes place in Silver Lake State Park. After the race, participants are invited to lunch, live music, and an awards ceremony along the lakefront.
Skip Matthews Memorial Run (June 18): The Skip Matthews Memorial Run is four miles long and takes place at Colburn Park, Lebanon, NH. Following the race can chow down on BBQ hosted by Salt Hill Pub.
Shaker 7 Road Race & Walk (June 25): The seven-mile race begins and ends in Shaker Recreation Park in Enfield, NH. You will pass Mascoma Lake, the Rail Trail, the Shaker Bridge, and more on the race path.
Hurricane Hill Trail Run (July 22): The Hurricane Hill Trail Run is a 5K and 10K marathon in Hartford, VT. There are various elevation changes, logging roads, wide-packed trails, and single tracks.
The Sprouty (Sept. 9): The 5K walk and 10K run occur near the White River in Sharon, VT. Free lettuce plants from Dandelion Acres are available to all participants.

Ready, Set, Go!

You are bound to make new friends and have a good time when you take part in any of these marathons in New England. You can rest well at The Norwich Inn when you finish your marathon. Take some time to read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. We’ve been in the area 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).

Best Vermont Restaurants And More For Foodies

Posted on March 6, 2023April 6, 2023 by Ben Rueter

If you are looking for culinary excellence while on vacation, look at what is on the menu in New England. Vermont has some of the best restaurants in the area, so it will not be hard to find something you’ll like. However, to get your search started for the best and most amazing meals, we at The Norwich Inn have compiled some suggestions for where to start. Look at some of the best restaurants in Vermont near The Norwich Inn.

Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse

We can’t go further without mentioning our in-house restaurant Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse. Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse is a restaurant across the river from Hanover, NH. It features one restaurant menu, whether or not your preferred dining venue is the Pub, Outdoor Patio, Lounge, or Indoor Terrace.

King Arthur Baking Company Cafe

This is a beautiful place for foodies to visit first thing when arriving at The Norwich Inn. King Arthur Baking Company offers delicious baked treats and classes on how to do so. Learn about our sample artisan bread, pastries, cakes, cookies, pies, and seasonal treats.

We also offer a King Arthur Baking Company special offer for those staying at The Norwich Inn. “Students” can enjoy a 20 percent discount when staying with us from November through April. And weekdays (Sun-Thurs) from May through October.

Simon Pearce

Simon Pearce is an upscale restaurant that is one of the best ways to highlight the wonderful Ottauquechee River. This is an excellent establishment if you want something luxurious and unique. Their bar features local beer, handcrafted cocktails, and a full wine menu. Be aware that reservations are required if you plan on eating here for lunch or dinner.

Sit Down And Enjoy Your Meal

We know there is a restaurant for everyone nearby, and foodies won’t regret staying in this corner of Vermont. At The Norwich Inn, we make it easy for you to enjoy your special New England vacation. Take some time to read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. We’ve been in the area 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).

Best Vacation Packages For Things To Do Near Dartmouth College

Posted on February 28, 2023February 28, 2023 by Ben Rueter

Vermont and New England are gorgeous and filled with many exciting attractions. If you are planning a New England getaway, you should take advantage of the vacation package for things to do near Dartmouth College. The Norwich Inn has a variety of incredible vacation packages that highlight why the New England region is a premier vacation destination.

Dartmouth College Visit

The Norwich Inn is ideally located for your college exploration to visit Dartmouth College. We are just more than a mile away from the center of the campus. Enjoy the authentic New England historic Inn experience, complete with a $25 dining credit at the Inn and a $25 gift card to the Dartmouth Coop.

Vermont Brewery & Spirits Tour Package

If you love to sample interesting beers and spirits on vacation, this package is for you. This package includes the following:

Two nights lodging at the Norwich Inn.
Welcome Beer Flight from our on-site Brewery at Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse
Full-day beverage program.
A tour that includes visits to Cabot Cheese and Vermont Spirits Distillery, Long Trail Brewery, Harpoon Brewery, Silo Distillery, River Roost Brewery, King Arthur Flour Store and Café, and more.
$25 dining credit per stay at the Inn.
22 oz. bomber per person of a Jasper Murdock Ale of your choice.
One block of our Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar Cheese made with Vermont Farmstead Cheese Co.

King Arthur Baking Class Rates

Learn from some of the best at King Arthur Baking. Guests can partake in the joys of baking and more by taking a delicious and fun class. King Arthur Baking visitors can enjoy a 20 percent discount when staying with us from November through April. This benefit is subject to availability and specific blackout dates. A shuttle service to and from the Inn and King Arthur Baking for $5 each way.

Plan The Perfect New England Vacation Today

At The Norwich Inn, we make it easy for you to get the most out of your New England vacation with any of these vacation packages for things to do near Dartmouth College. Take some time to read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. We’ve been in the area 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).

Take The Family To These Events In Vermont This Weekend

Posted on January 1, 2023February 1, 2023 by Ben Rueter

There are interesting and exciting events for people of all ages in Vermont this weekend. Winter is a highlight for locals and visitors alike. The best place to start your winter vacation is at The Norwich Inn. We are in the perfect location for you to drive or walk to some of these events. Here’s a preview of some of the most exciting winter events this weekend in the Vermont area.

Dartmouth Winter Carnival

The Dartmouth Winter Carnival is one of the standout events in the area. This event has been ongoing since 1911, and it’s only grown in size over the past 100+ years. The event highlights the region’s beautiful winter scenery, and it’s an opportunity to celebrate Dartmouth’s many winter sports teams.

New England Silver Championships

The New England Silver Championships is an exciting regional swim meet. It takes place at the Upper Valley Aquatic Center in White River Junction. It’s a great opportunity to see some of the local talents and have a good time.

Dartmouth Athletics

Dartmouth sports are a popular draw for visiting parents and fans. Some of the winter sports that you can attend feature men’s and woman’s Hockey and Basketball games. It’s a great opportunity to watch your favorite sport or get a preview of campus facilities for interested students.

Experience The Fun Of A New England Winter

As you can see, there is a wealth of interesting events and festivals happening all winter long in the Vermont region this weekend. Take some time to read more about The Norwich Inn in our travel guide. We’ve been in the area for a while. The Norwich Inn’s history dates to 1797, located near Dartmouth College. When you stay with us, we can guarantee that 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).

History of Norwich Inn, Hanover, VT, Upper Valley, Hotels

Posted on December 21, 2022October 21, 2025 by Ben Rueter

The Upper Valley is a beautiful place filled with its remarkable history. One of those places filled with an exciting account is also one of the best hotels in Norwich, VT. We are talking about The Norwich Inn. It’s one of the best hotels in Norwich, VT, and it holds a special place concerning the history of the Upper Valley.

Norwich Inn History Facts

The historic hotel built by Colonel Jasper Murdock in 1797, the Norwich Inn, served as a stagecoach tavern and hostelry for generations of travelers.
The Norwich Inn was the first tavern in Vermont to entertain a United States chief executive. On July 22, 1817, President James Monroe visited the hotel, and while there, he addressed the townspeople of Norwich and “partook of a dinner, prepared…in handsome style.”
A devastating fire in December 1889 destroyed the hotel, the Union Hall, and several neighboring structures.
The Inn was rebuilt behind the financing of Dr. Bowles, a local dentist, and reopened in 1890. This is now the Main Inn.
In 1920, Dr. Bowles sold the Inn to Charles and Mary Walker, who again named it the Norwich Inn.
During the 1920s, with prohibition just starting to be enforced, townsfolk fondly recount that Mary Walker, known as “Ma,” quietly carried on the Norwich Inn’s tradition as a tavern. She did so by selling bootleg booze from the basement. Ma Walker is reputed to be the Inn’s ghost, who, according to some employees and guests, makes an appearance from time to time.
Theodor Seuss Geisel, “Dr. Seuss,” was a frequent patron of the Inn.
In 1991, Innkeepers and owners Sally and Tim Wilson began to painstakingly restore the Inn to its previous splendor as a Victorian landmark in the center of a lovely Vermont village.
The Inn was purchased in 2006 by Joe and Jill Lavin. They have continued in the tradition of the ongoing improvement of the Inn as it evolves through the 21st Century.
In 2010, the Lavins introduced a 22-room addition of modern guest rooms in the New England style; The Walker House and Ivy Lodge.

Spend Time In An Iconic Location

The Norwich Inn is one of the best and most historic hotels in Norwich, VT. There is a lot to explore when you stay here. The Norwich Inn’s history dates to 1797, located near Dartmouth College. When you stay with us, we can guarantee that 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).