Cynthia - Click to enlarge Edition #40, 20 April 2009

Hello, my name is Cynthia, a mermaid from the cool waters of New England. Thank you for visiting my collection of articles on coastal New England. Please tell your friends and family about my web site.

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Norwalk, Connecticut

Norwalk is the sixth largest city in Connecticut, and the third largest in the county of Fairfield. Norwark was chartered as a town in September of 1651. Norwalk was almost totally destroyed in July of 1779 when British forces arrived under the command of General William Tryon. Only six houses were spared. Today, the city is part of the New York metropolitan area. Here is a map of Norwalk.

The Norwalk Seaport Association sponsors several special events each year. Enjoy Harbor Cruises to Sheffield Island and Lighthouse Tours from May thru September. Check web site for specific dates. The NSA Oyster Festival will be held September 11-13, 2009. The Festival features international acts on the main stage as well as talented regional musicians. There will be activities for children, arts and crafts, and plenty of good food.

September 24-27 are the dates for the 2009 Norwalk International In-Water Boat Show. The Boat Show features free boat rides, refreshments, and dozens of exhibitors. In addition, one lucky person will be awarded $500 to spend at the show. The event will be held at the Norwalk Cove Marina. Admission is $15 for adults, and $8 for children 13-15. Children 12 and younger are free, and there are discounts for groups and advanced purchases.

Norwalk CT Be sure to pay a visit to the Maritime Aquarium located at 10 North Water Street. Fall in love with African Penguins, visit the harbor seals, then hold on to your seat as you enjoy one of the IMAX Theater presentations. The Aquarium also features a cafe and gift shop. See the web site for hours and admission prices.

The Norwalk Concert Hall is located in the Norwalk City Hall at 125 East Avenue. Upcoming concerts feature the Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut, the AmorArtis Orchestra, and the Fairfield County Childrens Choir.

The Norwalk Museum on Main Street features collections and exhibits reflecting the history and cultures of Norwalk from its settlement to the present day. The museum is open each week, Wednesday through Sunday, from 1pm to 5pm.

When it's time to eat, Jeff's Cuisine at 54 North Main Street is an excellent choice. Jeff's menu includes ribs, pulled pork, chicken, catfish, Po-Boy sandwiches, and New Orleans Jambalaya. Sound familiar to you somehow? This may be because Jeff's Cuisine has been featured on Al Roker's "Roker on the Road" show on Food Network. Jeff's food gets rave reviews from other diners as well, and Jeff is known as one of the friendliest restaurant owners you'll ever meet.

Folks are also talking about Costa Brava Restaurant at 120 New Canaan Avenue. The menu features Mediterranean cuisine. As one diner put it, think French/Italian with a mix of Spain. The seafood is fresh, and the wine list is well stocked.

Other restaurants worth special mention are Famous Pizza House at 23 North Main Street and O'Neill's Pub and Restaurant at 93 North Main Street.

Located at 303 West Avenue, the Stepping Stones Museum for Children is a non-profit organization that features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and fun for the whole family. Their new exhibit, Invention Convention, is designed to spark the imagination and creativity of children. The museum is open Tuesday thru Sunday, so grab the kids and 'Get Into It'.

Learn more about Norwalk at www.norwalkct.org and www.norwalk.com. If you should see me in the water, be sure to wave!

Mail

Maine Sunrise York Beach, by Robert G. Cynthia,
We visited York Beach in late September. It was off season and the town was transformed into a quiet little village. Few shops were open, but listening to the waves and watching the sunrise was well worth the trip.

Robert G.

Hello, Robert,
There are certainly advantages and disadvantages to traveling during the off-season. Thank you for your letter and photograph.

Hugs,
Cynthia


Readers: Click on Robert's photo to see the full-size version.

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Photo Credits:
Cynthia at Sunrise: DSI Photo
Norwalk, CT: Webshots/gcycphotos
Maine Sunrise: Robert G.

©2009 Gold Mermaid