Norwich, Connecticut used to be a hotspot in the small state, but after the closing of the movie theatre, burning of Putts Up Dock, and loss of the Norwich Navigators baseball team, it may seem like there is not much to do in the rundown city. That is not the case, and as the city rebuilds and expands to reach the prominence it once had, you can still enjoy a lot of activities and here is a look at the top 5.
5. Norwich Ten Pin: After a major remodeling, the Norwich Ten Pin has become a top destination in the city. Along with fresh lanes, automatic scoring and pop-out bumpers, the expanded alley features a full-sized arcade, delicious diner and a clean atmosphere. Players can enjoy games from morning to night and special events like the “Rock ‘N Bowl” are great for teenagers.
4. Eating Out: If you are hungry, Norwich, Connecticut is a great place to find a bite to eat. For breakfast, Taft Station and Old Tymes Restaurant offer fresh-cooked meals while McDonalds, Wendys, and Burger King offer fast food fare. Lunch and dinner options include La Stella Restaurant, Olympic Pizza, 99 Restaurant, and plenty of Chinese options. Other fast food options include Dominos, Dunkin’ Donuts and Dairy Queen.
3. The Rink: Ice skating is available all year round at Norwich’s “The Rink.” The ice skating rink is open to free skating sessions every day of the week, but the Rink is host to many other activities. Families can enjoy live ice productions of classic stories like “Wizard of Oz” or catch a game from local youth hockey leagues and games featuring the Norwich Free Academy ice hockey team. Children can host a birthday party at the Rink that features an hour of free skating and a full sized party room. A store in the Rink features NHL memorabilia as well as skates, sharpening, and hockey accessories.
2. Mohegan Park: Norwich is a city, but visitors and residents can escape to nature at the massive Mohegan Park. One entrance to the park features the beautiful Rose Garden and as you drive deeper, you can see the vast forest and nature within the park. The park features multiple play grounds for children and dozens of picnic areas, both open and under trees. A large fountain sits in the center of park and there are plenty of spots for fishing or looking out at ducks and swans along the water. Through the woods there are multiple bike and walking paths that go throughout the whole park. During the summer, the park features several events, and the highlight is “Family Free Day.” This event features multiple exhibits, a road race and free food for the entire family.
1. Norwich Marina: The Thames River runs right through Norwich, Connecticut and citizens can get right up to the water at the Norwich Marina. The Marina features a boat launch for non-members, or members can dock their boat at the Marina all year round. A large gazebo sits in the middle of the marina and there are plenty of tables to enjoy lunch and look out on the water. During the Fourth of July, the Norwich Marina fills with vendors to celebrate and watch the fireworks over the water. Other events include the Taste of Italy and multiple Farmer’s Markets. The setting is beautiful and provides one of the most scenic views that Norwich has to offer.
