A weekend in Norwich for my family means one thing, going home. I grew up in Norwich, Connecticut, and even though I live in Massachusetts, the town has become a second home for my kids as well. On many occasions, a trip home coincides with some kind of author event, a reading most likely. At other times, it is a recording for our podcast. On this weekend in Norwich, we were able to combine typical fun activities with events that only happen in the summertime.
Norwichtown Burial Ground and Lowthorpe Meadows
In the Norwichtown neighborhood, where I grew up, is a Revolutionary War-era burial ground and adjacent meadows that my kids simply love to romp around in. My son Tommy at age three is in full exploration mode. Enjoying every nook and cranny of the Samuel Huntington mansion is pure joy for him. This is now used as offices for United Community and Family Services. After work hours though, it is his playground.
First of all, the entryway is flanked by two lions made of Italian marble. A ride on them is a must. He then winds his way around the side yard, stepping on tree stumps, weaving through flowers and into the sunken side garden. After that, it is down the path directly behind the mansion into the Lowthorpe Meadows. From here, it is heading back up the hill through the cemetery. Studying and climbing around (not on) Samuel Huntington’s grave is also a favorite sport. Between the mansion grounds, the meadow, and both sections of the cemetery, this can easily take two hours.
Dodd Stadium
Of course, I’ve written about the wonders of Dodd Stadium before. This former home of the Norwich Navigators, Connecticut Defenders, and Connecticut Tigers now houses two collegiate wooden bat teams, the Norwich Sea Unicorns and the Mystic Schooners. We went to a Sea Unicorns game which was a hit with the whole family, and even watched fireworks after the game. Dodd Stadium is still a fantastic place to take in a game. As a bonus, my older son even got an autograph from Red Sox closer Keith Foulke!
Rose Arts Festival
Our visit also coincided with the annual Rose Arts Festival. The festival had been on hiatus for two years due to Covid-19 but came back in full force in 2022. As we arrived early, we only caught one musical act, but the afternoon and evening was chock full of live music at the main venue on Chelsea Parade, as well as a variety of stages across the city at night. There were also crafts, food, and children’s programs. My son loved the kids play area. This included a dunk booth, bouncy houses, and other hands-on activities.
Instead of eating at Rose Arts, we opted to take out cheesesteaks from Philly’s. I had craved one but was sad to find out that they were not manning their Dodd Stadium outpost for this season. This time I went for the Barkley, part chicken, part steak, and all awesome.
Taftville Playground
Another one of my kids’ favorite Norwich destinations is the playground in Norwich’s village of Taftville. Given the height of the tallest slide, the nickname of this playground is “Mount Everest”. They enjoy romping through the field, and climbing on the playscape.
36 Town Grill & Tap
36 Town Grill & Tap is a family restaurant with a large menu near my folks’ house in Norwich. I’ve been here for a beer and apps. I’ve always enjoyed my time but recently on a take-out order, I tried the burger. It’s massive! A huge patty topped with cheese and excellent bacon. Not only was it big, but it is also one of the best burgers I’ve had in the area. It’s a great choice for either eating inside or taking out, highly recommended! For the tap part of their name, think of great local beer choices such as Grey Sail and Outer Light.
Going home to Norwich is never simply a walk down memory lane as the city is a lively place to visit, with things to do and special events. Our weekend in Norwich was a success for the kids and adults alike!
