Norman Bird Sanctuary > a 300+ acre wildlife refuge near Newport RI, offering over 7 miles of hiking trails.

There is always something exciting to do at the Norman Bird Sanctuary!

With over 300 acres and seven miles of hiking trails, there is plenty to see at all times of the year! You can bring your binoculars and go for a walk along our well-maintained trails. You will be sure to see a variety of local and migratory birds, depending on the season. Check out our list of recent sightings on the Bird Droppings page.

Welcome! Our Welcome Center, Museum, and grounds are open 9:00am - 5:00pm every day (except major holidays). There is a trail fee of $6 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free. Members of the Sanctuary are welcome to hike our trails for free. Some discounts are available: please ask when you arrive, or call us at (401) 846-2577.

PLEASE NOTE: The Sanctuary does not allow dogs, horses, motorized vehicles, bikes, kites, jogging, littering, or collecting of any kind. Thank you for respecting our rules and helping us to protect this beautiful place!

Click here to download directions to NBS. You can also download our trail map by clicking here.

In addition to our hiking trails, the Sanctuary offers public programs, educational weekend programs, vacation camps, afterschool adventures, and much more!

For more information about these programs, please call (401) 846-2577 or e-mail education@normanbirdsanctuary.org

The Coyote Shuttle Loop!
Daily 8am-6pm Summer 2010
Relax and let the Coyote Shuttle get you where you want to go! Leaving from the Newport Gateway Visitor's Center every hour, the shuttle will make regular stops at several scenic Middletown attractions, including the Norman Bird Sanctuary. Only $5 per person for one complete loop!

Call 401-846-7090 for pick-up requests, or click here for more information.

Visit the Barn Museum!
Open during regular visiting hours (9:00-5:00 daily)

Our 19th Century Barn highlights Rhode Island's natural history with a variety of wildlife and ecosystem exhibits. With a historical perspective from the time of Native Americans to the present, you'll travel through the forest, field, ridge, and beach habitats of NBS!

Nature To Go! Bags
Available during regular visiting hours (9:00-5:00 daily)

NBS invites you and your family to participate in an exciting new nature discovery program during your next visit. Each Nature To Go! bag (available for check out in the Visitor Center) contains real naturalist tools that can be used to explore a variety of interests! Themes include Insects, Birds, Plants, Animal Signs, Ponding, and Orienteering. You can take the bag with you on your hike and use the materials for scavenger hunts, creature observation, and more. These interactive kits will help your family to experience NBS trails as never before!

Bag Rental Rates: Members ($2), Non-members ($4). Security deposit (car keys, driver’s license, etc.) is required.

Guided Bird Walks with Jay Manning
These walks will be postponed until October 17

Meet at NBS every other Sunday for free guided bird walks! No registration is necessary - bring your binoculars!

2010 Schedule: October 17 and 31, November 14 and 28, December 12.