Things to Do in Norwalk, Connecticut

By jhenr | Updated October 14th, 2022

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Searching for things to do in Norwalk, Connecticut? Well, look no further! This historic town has lots of activities to offer, making it ideal whether you’re looking to have fun with your family at their popular lighthouse island or celebrate a special occasion on a boat cruise with your friends. Check out the top ten things to do when visiting Norwalk and plan your unforgettable vacation today!

Sheffield Island Lighthouse

NORWALK, CT – AUGUST 24, 2019: The Lockwood-Mathews mansion, a National Historic Landmark since 1971, stands in Norwalk, Connecticut.

The Sheffield Island Lighthouse is a great place to visit while in Norwalk, Connecticut. The lighthouse is located on an island off the coast of Connecticut and is only accessible by ferry. The ferry ride to the island is short and scenic, and once you’re on the island, you can explore the lighthouse, go for a swim, or just relax on the beach.

There are plenty of benches around the area to sit down and enjoy your surroundings, or if you prefer, bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic, nap or catch up on some reading. You might even spot some eagles soaring overhead.

The Maritime Aquarium

A great place to take the family for a day out, where everyone can enjoy is the Maritime Aquarium. There are sharks, big and small, stingrays, sea turtles, harbor seals, game fish, jellies, crabs, lobsters, mollusks and so much more, some exhibits allow you to touch stingrays, jellyfish, and intertidal animals. Also at the Aquarium are birds and mammals so it’s a pretty interesting place.

Located right off the Metro-North Railroad, with covered parking next door, warm and spacious on-site cafes, a gift shop, and a 4D Theater, the Aquarium is a most excellent family outing, date, or solo visit

Address: 10 N Water St, Norwalk, CT 06854

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum

NORWALK, CT – AUGUST 24, 2019: The Lockwood-Mathews mansion, a National Historic Landmark since 1971, stands in Norwalk, Connecticut.

This building that currently houses the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum was built in 1864 and is considered a historic building. It is regarded as one of the finest and earliest second Empire Style Country houses to have been built with 62 rooms and costing well over $2,000,000.00 at that time, so you can imagine the grandeur of the place.

It’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning about the history of Norwalk, Connecticut. The museum offers guided tours of the mansion, as well as exhibits on the history of the area. Plus, the grounds are beautiful and worth exploring. If you’re looking for things to do in Norwalk, Connecticut, be sure to add the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum to your list

Address: 295 West Ave, Norwalk, CT 06850

South Norwalk Historic District (SoNo)

NORWALK, CONNECTICUT, USA – AUGUST 14, 2021: Downtown district schoolhouse c 1826 located at Mill Hill historic park

SoNo is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a mix of history and modernity. This area was once a thriving maritime community, and you can still see some of that old-world charm in the architecture and atmosphere.

There are also plenty of great shops and small museums to visit as well as restaurants should you feel like enjoying a delicious sit-down meal. There are lots of bars if you prefer to grab a drink and munchies. If you’re looking for things to do in Norwalk, Connecticut, be sure to add SoNo to your list!

Coastal CT SUP

A middle-aged woman stand up paddle boards on a bay at sunset in Ontario, Canada.

Looking for a great way to spend a day in Norwalk, Connecticut? Why not try stand-up paddle boarding with Coastal CT SUP. They offer lessons and rentals, so it’s perfect for beginners and experienced paddle-boarders alike. And what better way to explore the beautiful coastline of Connecticut than from the water! So head on down to Coastal CT SUP and give stand-up paddle boarding a try.

Coastal CT SUP

Address: 11 Wall Street, Norwalk, CT 06850

Norwalk Island Friday Night Sunset Cruise

Perdido Pass, Orange Beach, Alabama

Bring your friends and family, or make it a romantic evening with a special someone on The Norwalk Island Friday Night Sunset Cruise. This is a great way to spend an evening in Norwalk, Connecticut. You’ll get to see the beautiful sunset over the Long Island Sound while cruising around Norwalk Island.

Bring snacks, wine, beers, your favorite drinks, or whatever you and your crew would like, and enjoy this beautiful cruise with them.

Norwalk Island Friday Night Sunset Cruise

Office: 213 Liberty Square, Norwalk, CT 06855

Dock: 4 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT 06854

Panic Room

happy woman gambling at casino playing slot machine

One of the most popular things to do in Norwalk, Connecticut, is trying your luck at the escape room Panic Room. This unique attraction offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is perfect for those looking for a little bit of excitement.

The Panic Room is an immersive escape room that will challenge you and your group to solve a series of puzzles in order to escape the room. With multiple rooms to choose from, there is sure to be a perfect match for your group’s skill level.

Address: 37 North Ave #107, Norwalk, CT 06851

Sono 1420 American Craft Distillers

Young bearded brewery worker with a glass of beer evaluating its visual characteristics after preparation while working in a processing plant

This is a great place to learn about the distilling process, and they offer tours and tastings. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they have a beautiful space with comfortable couches. The distillery is located in an old firehouse, which adds to the charm. If you’re looking for things to do in Norwalk, Connecticut, be sure to check out Sono 1420 American Craft Distillers

Address: 19 Day Street, South Norwalk, CT 06854

Music Theater of Connecticut

People applauding in the movie theater. Standing ovation.

The Music Theater of Connecticut is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something fun and cultural to do in Norwalk. The theater offers a variety of shows and performances, so there’s sure to be something that interests you.

Located in the heart of downtown Norwalk, you can easily explore the rest of the town before or after the show. Regardless of your taste in music, there will always be something to see at the Music Theater of Connecticut. Whether it’s concerts, plays, or ballets, they have it all.

Address: 509 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT 06851

Stepping Stones Museum for Children

New York, New York, USA – March 8, 2012: The main entrance of the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan.

Stepping Stones is a hands-on museum that is great for kids of all ages. The museum has exhibits on a variety of topics, including science, art, and history. Plus, the museum offers a variety of programs and events that are perfect for families.

Your kids will have hours of fun going through the tubes with floating balls to mimic a water park. The archeology section has toy tools and jackets to simulate a dig, even sand with hidden artifacts, a

Large shaded outside area where kids can build forts using poly cushions. With so much to do here for young to teenage kids and family focus, it’s no wonder Stepping Stones is a popular attraction for people visiting Norwalk, Connecticut.

Conclusion

Norwalk, Connecticut, is a great place to visit for its history, charm, and variety of things to do. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend trip with friends, Norwalk has something for everyone. Check out this list of favorite things to do in Norwalk, Connecticut.