Norman Bird Sanctuary image

Norman Bird Sanctuary

Tourist attraction Nature preserve

One of the Top rated Tourist attractions in Middletown


Address

583 3rd Beach Rd, Middletown, RI 02842

Website

www.normanbirdsanctuary.org

Contact

(401) 846-2577

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (386 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 9 AM to 5 PM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: trails (14) walk (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Tara L. 1 year ago on Google
    Be aware it’s an animal sanctuary and most don’t allow dogs for that reason. (As a dog owner I know this can be frustrating but wildlife is much more relaxed sans canines). First thing we were greeted by was a deer eating by the welcome center. Completely unperturbed by our presence, we watched her for awhile. Very cool. Trails were maintained, good signage. The wetland areas had well-kept board walks. Past the pond leads into the forest with cool rock formations and interesting trees. There’s roots and rocks on the trails, but I enjoy that. If you’re using a trail app it could be a little confusing: All Trails showed trails ending on the map that actually didn’t, but that’s likely just where the sanctuary property ends. You can do short or longer hikes here, to Hanging rock for example. We used the signs and had no trouble navigating.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Margaret H. 2 years ago on Google
    3.18.22 Everyone has a unique experience here depending on day and time. We enjoyed this peaceful and we'll marked walking trail. Some areas were very muddy but others had stepping stones and a boardwalk. Lots of cool trees and pond and a nice walk in nature.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nicole N. 2 years ago on Google
    This was the only place so far where I had to pay to hike, but it was so worth it! Easy to find, plenty of parking, on-site attendants. Physical and virtual maps. Clean bathrooms. 7 different well marked trails, 1/2-1 mile long, each with different spectacular views and varying difficulties. I love that they even have a handicap accessible trail that leads to the pond. Fantastic. Highly recommended!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark D. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful trails. Perfect place for a peaceful walk in nature. If you're not a member trail fees are: Adults: $7 Senior/Military: $6 Students w. ID: $3 Children (3-18 yrs): $3 Under 3: Free They have occasional guided bird walks at no cost. They also occasionally host musical acts, yoga classes and other such events. Norman Bird Sanctuary is a treasure.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anton Mendez G. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely loved this sanctuary, wonderful place to go for a walk, hike and do some rock climbing. I did the full trail to the rocks and was worth it. Very fun and a beautiful view. The people at the store were amazing. Great customer service and very knowledgeable about the park and they truly care about their work. Definitely come here and support this sanctuary.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nico W. 1 year ago on Google
    An excellent place to hike and visit. It’s gorgeous with a lovely garden and wonderful wildlife to enjoy. We spotted a hawk and tiny field mouse. The paths are winding and hilly with beautiful ponds and winding creeks.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Catalina Forero L. 1 year ago on Google
    It is magical, a great place for all ages, we enjoyed it with everything and since it was already a little cold, I recommend you sign up for the page so that you receive emails about the activities.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leah D. 1 year ago on Google
    We enjoyed the Norman Bird Sanctuary as much as I knew we would when I found them online. When I saw the Raptor Roundup I was so excited because they're definitely my favorite kind of bird. Hunter the hawk was absolutely amazing and I enjoyed every minute of seeing her. The presentation about raptors was informative and since I'm new to birding all of the information was new to me and really interesting. After the presentation we headed out to walk a loop and see if we could see any raptors. Unfortunately it was rainy and cold and even the birds were taking shelter, but we still enjoyed the walk and got to see unshy deer, beautiful ducks and Red Winged Blackbirds. Everyone that worked there was so friendly and knowledgeable. Overall it was a great experience and I'm so glad we got a membership! We'll be back when things start to bloom, it will definitely be gorgeous when it's green.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 The Victorian G. 1 year ago on Google
    I absolutely wore the wrong shoes, but I climbed up steep slopes to get some awesome shots of the ocean! This place is a must see-so peaceful, beautiful, and quiet.

  • 5/5 Margaret B. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful trails with lot's of nature to take in! Wide and well maintained trails. Flowers, trees and some small wild life. The birds were too quick to take pictures of. I wish I had more time (at least 3+ hours) to spend exploring here. It's definitely worth a second trip. While the trails are marked - I had difficulty navigating around. Very enjoyable!

  • 5/5 Richard S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great trails. Most were completely shaded. Some of the paths have roots to watch out for (you could trip over then if you're not watching your step). A couple of trails had some decent hills that briefly got the heart pumping to walk up. There are red and black raspberry bushes all over the place. If you go in late July or early August you'd be able to leave quite full! We didn't spot many birds on the trails but they have a field of bird houses and a convenient pair of binoculars sitting out that anyone can use. In general it was a very nice place to explore; ponds, small streams and many miles of well defined trails.

  • 5/5 Jaz 1 year ago on Google
    Attend every year the Harvest Festival. Plenty to do for the two day event. Food trucks, hayride, petting zoo, egg toss, potato sac races, log sawing competition, pony rides, live music under the big tent, local vendors to shop local handmade products and foods. And so much more.

  • 5/5 Aging Millennial M. 10 months ago on Google
    Accessible trails, nice grounds. Friendly staff. Lots of birds. Kentucky Warbler among them this year.

  • 5/5 Matthew G. 6 months ago on Google
    Beautiful walking/hiking trails with a variety of scenery. I didn't mind paying to hike the trails as they were well manicured and offered great scenic views. The staff were very friendly and helpful as well. Nice area to picnic before entering as well. Chickens and gardens in front were great to view. Lovely little spot and so glad I stopped in.

  • 5/5 Natalya D. 6 months ago on Google
    Had a good time at the annual Bird Sanctuary Harvest Fair. Very entertaining family event!


Call (401) 846-2577 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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