7 Best Things to Do in Norfolk, Connecticut

April 8, 2019 - Updated

Norfolk, CT is an intimate New England town which is surrounded by the natural beauty of Connecticut’s forests and hills. There’s a wonderful variety of things to do, no matter if you’re planning a vacation filled with quiet solitude or lively gatherings.

1.Infinity Music Hall and Bistro

Infinity Music Hall and Bistro is not just a concert venue - it’s a complete entertainment and dining experience. The venue was originally built in 1883 as a combination barbershop, saloon, and opera house. Even then, there was nothing even similar to it in the picturesque city of Norfolk. Today, the music hall retains much of its original charm, including the original stage, while adding modern upgrades such as a world-class sound system. The relaxed and intimate setting is the perfect place for you to enjoy great music along with fabulous food. Stop in for the popular open mic night to get a glimpse of some extremely promising local artists.

20 Greenwoods Rd W, Norfolk, CT 06058, Phone: 860-542-5531

2.Haystack Mountain State Park

Haystack Mountain State Park is a public recreation space that every outdoor adventurer should explore while in Norfolk. Encompassing Haystack Mountain, visitors are able to drive to the top on the winding mountain roads or hike up there on the rugged trail. Either way, you’ll be able to take in the breaktaking views of the surroundings, which are at its prime in the fall when the spectacular colors of the foliage really stand out. At the top of the mountain, you’ll find the 34-foot-tall Haystack Mountain Tower, which was built in 1929 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

385 Burr Mountain Road, Torrington, CT 06790, Phone: 860-482-1817

3.Campbell Falls State Park

Have a memorable outdoor experience within the diverse natural areas of Campbell Falls State Park. Campbell Falls is a great example of nature being preserved as naturally as possible; though informal trails are there from years of being a popular hiking spot, there are no paved trails or other major facilities. The lack of development within the park has actually made it a thriving space for the local flora and fauna, much of which you can get up close and personal with as you hike through the area. Another popular activity that you can partake in while at Campbell Falls is stream fishing.

117 Old Spaulding Rd, Norfolk, CT 06058

4.Norfolk Historical Museum

Maintained by the Norfolk Historical Society, a non-profit organization which was established in 1960, the Norfolk Historical Museum is a wonderful place for visitors to better understand the people and events that have shaped the town. In the museum, you’ll be able to see a number of records and artifacts relating to the artistic, literary, natural, and civic history of the town. The building in which the museum is housed in is itself a historical marvel; built in 1840, the building was used as the old Norfolk Academy and the Town Hall and Jail before it was used as the museum.

13 Village Green, Norfolk, CT 06058, Phone: 860-542-5761

5.Dennis Hill State Park

Dennis Hill State Park is a 240-acre estate that is absolutely marvelous to explore any time of the year. You can hike to the summit to see panoramic views of your surroundings and on a clear day, you may be able to see as far as New Hampshire. The colorful leaves during the fall foliage season should not be missed if you find yourself in the area during that time. In addition to hiking, visitors at Dennis Hill State Park can also partake in outdoor photography, bird watching, picnicking, and much more.

385 Burr Mountain Road, Torrington, CT 06058, Phone: 860-482-1817

6.Beckley Furnace Industrial Monument

Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the Beckley Furnace Industrial Monument is a historic site which was established in 1946. Visitors will be able to see a well-preserved 19th century iron-making blast furnace right in the middle of Burr Pond State Park. The main furnace is a large stone structure which towers at over 40 feet tall; it was built by John Adam Beckley in 1847 for the production of pig iron and continued to operate until 1919. There are several other dams and furnaces to be seen alongside the nearby Blackberry River. Activities you can participate in in the surrounding state park include hiking, picnicking, pond fishing, or taking a seasonally-offered tour of the furnace.

Burr Pond State Park: 385 Burr Mountain Road, Torrington, CT 06790, Phone: 860-364-5147

7.Berkshire Country Store

No matter if you call it a country store, general store, or a trading post, there’s no denying that these establishments are a historic centerpiece for rural small towns all across the nation. The Berkshire Country Store is one such place that serves the surrounding community and its visitors with a wide variety of goods but also a restaurant serving classic foods which are delicious. Going to the store will take you back in time as the decor, products, and hospitality all are reminiscent of eras past. You can feast on a hot or cold sandwich such as the Sweet Chili Chicken Melt or the Beauty & the Beef Berkshire wrap. Other items include pizza, hot dogs, burgers, soups, salads, and a number of sides.

6 Station Pl, Norfolk, CT 06058, Phone: 860-542-7176