Welcome to Norwalk
A thriving community with a historic seaport and relaxed vibes
The historic city of Norwalk was established as a quiet agricultural community in 1651, and by the 1800s became famous for its locally-harvested oysters. The city's historic Colonial homes and Cape Cod cottages line the waterfront, giving the town its laid-back, seaport vibes. Contemporary design thrives in the SoNo district, where modern amenities blend perfectly with reimagined industrial architecture. Locals are friendly here, enjoying the waterfront lifestyle and large city parks. Hip shopping and dining are close by, drawing locals downtown to enjoy great restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife.
What to Love
- Laid-back, outdoorsy vibes
- Waterfront living
- Hip boutiques and trendy restaurants
- Top-notch local oysters
Local Lifestyle
The lifestyle here is laid-back but with a hip, fun energy. Walk along the waterfront, where wide beaches and sprawling mansions create a peaceful atmosphere. On warm days, join the rest of the locals and enjoy the outdoors in this great community, where residents can relax with a game of golf, a day on the water, or at a vibrant local festival. Large parks beckon residents outdoors to explore the excellent local restaurants and trendy boutiques.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The historic seaport, known locally as SoNo, anchors the community with its bustling energy and great nightlife. Locals gather here to try the latest seasonal dishes or search for the latest fashion trends, ranked as one of the coolest neighborhoods in the state. Settle in for a relaxed evening with friends at
Tablao SoNo, where incredible tapas and paella never disappoint, and the social atmosphere is enhanced by exposed brick walls and a modern sensibility.
Relax at the famous Sunday brunch at
The Spread, where fresh, locally-sourced ingredients highlight inventive takes on traditional favorites. At night, the grilled oysters, signature cocktails, and weekend DJs draw in locals for a fun night out.
The match is an excellent farm-to-table restaurant known for its casual elegance and great outdoor patio. After a great meal, walk down the street to peruse fashionable boutiques and luxury retail stores. Enjoy incredible shopping at The
SoNo Collection, an upscale mall featuring classy retailers, art installations, and a rotation of events, including fitness classes and live entertainment.
Things to Do
Norwalk offers an abundance of arts and culture. Experience the acoustic excellence of the
Norwalk Concert Hall, where the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra puts on incredible shows during their ever-popular summer season. Explore an incredible variety of art in the
Norwalk Art Space, where local artists and Korry Fellows exhibit contemporary works in a light-filled, historic architectural gem. Student classes and hands-on experiences are often available in this innovative museum, we're trying something new is always encouraged.
When you're ready to head outdoors,
Calf Pasture Beach offers a wide swath of golden sand, along with boat rentals, picnic areas, and a kayaking trail. For those who want to learn more about the community's unique history, visit
Sheffield Island Lighthouse, which is beautifully preserved and accessible via a stunning harbor cruise. It's the perfect day trip for a summer weekend, allowing locals to explore one of the Norwalk Islands that create the perfect habitat for the city's famous local oysters.
Schools
The Norwalk School District offers an abundance of progressive learning opportunities for all types of interests. Choose a school that fits the unique needs and interests of each student to create lifelong learners. This district's focus on personalized learning offers something for everyone, from arts integration to overseas opportunities.
- Concord Magnet School, K-8, Arts-integrated curriculum (46 Concord St., (203) 899-2840)
- Center for Global Studies, 9-12, language and cultural immersion programs and overseas experiences (300 Highland Ave., (203) 852-9488)
