I grew up in Norwalk, and as a result spent many afternoons at Cranbury Park as a kid. As I've gotten older, the park has remained just as enjoyable. The centerpiece of the park is the historic Gallaher Mansion. Built by the industrialist Edward Beach Gallaher during the Great Depression and designed in the Tudor Revival style by Percy L. Fowler, it was modeled after St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Norwalk1. The mansion is gorgeous. While it isn't generally open to the public, you can walk around it and admire its lovely gardens.
There is something for everyone at Cranbury park.. A playground for kids, a picnic pavilion to sit and eat lunch, an area just for dogs to run around, and even a regulation disc golf course. Also on the grounds is the Carriage House Arts Center and Theatre, which puts on plays throughout the year. There are acres and acres of wooded trails, as well- perfect for hiking and mountain biking. The park's hallmark is the enormous Weeping Beech tree that lives on the edge of the great lawn. I had lots of fun exploring underneath that tree as a child, and it still definitely evokes a sense of wonder.
The park is beautifully maintained, thanks both to the Parks and Rec department as well as the Friends of Cranbury Park group. Certainly worth a visit if you're in Fairfield County... Bring a picnic lunch and a frisbee on a beautiful day and you have a fun (and free!) afternoon.
Cranbury Park is located on Grumman Avenue in Norwalk, Connecticut and is free and open to the public seven days a week.
1 Source: friendsofcranburypark.org↩
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