Make A Day Of
Visiting South Norwalk (SoNO)
Welcome to South Norwalk (SoNo), Connecticut—a vibrant waterfront neighborhood where historic charm meets modern flair. Whether you’re visiting Island House Needlepoint or exploring the area’s rich offerings, SoNo provides a delightful mix of dining, shopping, cultural attractions, and coastal scenic beauty. Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit and how we like to spend our time in SoNo. Take the train in from NYC, drive up the coast for the weekend, plan a needlepoint retreat, or put together a celebratory weekend for a loved one. We believe there’s something for everyone!
Getting HerE
BY TRAIN FROM NYC:
South Norwalk is easily accessible from New York City via the Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line. Trains run frequently from Grand Central Terminal to South Norwalk Station, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes. Tickets range from $12 to $20.
PARKING:
We are on the corner of Day Street and Hanford Place and have ample parking. We recommend parking in the lot in front of the building, accessed from Hanford Place. If you arrive via Day Street or require Accessibility Access, you can park under the building. You will require a code to access the elevator or the stairs. Please call us for the code.
Begin With
Coffee & Tea
Caffé Social
A cozy café offering a variety of foods in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Great for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or drinks.
SONO BAKING Co.
We suggest starting the day fresh with one of our absolute favorite bakeries – The SoNo Baking Co., a neighborhood eatery and gathering place located in the coastal community of South Norwalk. Whether it’s a fresh omelet or something savory like their Caprese sandwich, we love their delicious food. Our family likes to pick up an olive loaf for the road – it doesn’t get much better than a hot coffee and freshly baked bread. See their menu here.
MAAMA CAFÉ
A new café inspired by French and Italian café culture, promoting a casual, communal atmosphere. Offers Italian-style coffees, brunch items, and desserts.
Visit ISLAND HOUSE STUDIO
Join us for an open stitching session, a workshop or class, or stop by to drop off your finishing and discuss your vision.
Museums & Attractions
Traveling with little kids? Then we recommend the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, The Stepping Stones Museum, and The SoNo Switch Tower Museum!
- Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk – Home to more than 8,000 animals, including fish, sharks, rays, and seals. Recently launched the R/V Sound Explorer for on-water educational programs. The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is the perfect way to pass the time for all ages and abilities, especially on a cold or rainy east coast day.
- Stepping Stones Museum for Children is an interactive museum designed to inspire lifelong learning and enrich the lives of children. (Admission is $20 for Adults & Children).
- SoNo Switch Tower Museum – A unique railroad museum open May through October on weekends, offering insights into railroad signaling history. (Free or by donation).
- Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum – A national historic landmark showcasing Victorian architecture. If you’re a lover of antiques, history, and interiors, this is a must! Please review their website for different pricing tiers.
Fuel Up
Lunch & treats
The Galley
Located at Cove Marina, The Galley is a great spot for a casual lunch with great maritime scenery. Tuck into a classic BLT, their “Grady White” breakfast plate, or one of their many marina inspired sandwiches.
Sono Deli & Café
“A neighborhood eatery and gathering place located in the coastal community of South Norwalk. The doors open at 6AM with a hearty breakfast menu prepared by Chef/Owner Peter Telidis. The from-scratch menu continues through lunch with a variety of creative sandwiches, vibrant salads, and homemade baked goods. The aroma of a fresh pot of coffee and the sound of lively chatter fills the room of this charming neighborhood café.”
Milk N Cookies
Several years ago, a group of friends got together and opened Milk & Cookies inspired by their love of nostalgic yet playful flavor and joy of baking. They have since expanded to a few more locations for their growing business. This location is new to the neighborhood and is within a six minute walk of Island House Needlepoint on Main Street. A must for folks with a sweet tooth! Address: 8 S Main St, Norwalk, CT 06854
Things To Do & See
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The SoNo Collection – A modern shopping mall featuring high-end retailers like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom, as well as dining options such as Jacob’s Pickles.
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SoNo Riverwalk – A scenic walkway along the Norwalk River, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
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Calf Pasture Beach – A popular beach destination in Norwalk, recently reopened after temporary closure due to elevated bacteria levels.
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Greens Ledge Lighthouse – Located in Rowayton, this lighthouse has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the “50 quietest places around the world.”
Stay tuned for future blog posts on more activities in the SoNo region!
Finest At Sea
Oyster town
Travel Tip: Norwalk is known for Oysters and clams – we have some of the best on the East Coast. If you are interested in trying seafood, this part of the world is a great place to expand your horizons. If you can, join us for Norwalk’s annual Oyster Festival hosted in September!
Sono seaport seafood
Enjoy the waterfront views at @SoNo_Seafood. SoNo Seaport Seafood is ready for the 2025 seafood season. Within a five to eight minute walk of Island House Needlepoint, they have fresh seafood and great dessert options as well.
Washington Prime
From exquisite steaks to delicious oysters and everything in between , Washington Prime offers the best of the land and sea. With an eclectic menu crafted from an array of cuisines, there’s something for everyone from summery watermelon and feta salads and cauliflower “steaks” to sushi rolls, lobster frites, and fine cuts of beef.
Knot Norms
One of our favorite, more casual options! Knot Norms is just a short drive from Island House and is known for its lobster rolls and excellent fresh seafood. Looking to relax? No worries – this is a laid back spot and a family owned business. Please note it is not particularly vegetarian/vegan friendly.