Rowayton - a charming coastal village located within the city of Norwalk that is bordered on three sides by the Five Mile River, Wilson Cove and Long Island Sound. Rowayton is a tasteful blend of new and old, full of community spirit in a picturesque setting. The village is rich in oystering and 19th century history and maintains an eclectic feel with beach cottages and antique Victorians that once belonged to Sea Captains. Rowayton has several active local organizations including: The Rowayton Arts Center, Historical Society and Rowayton Gardeners that contribute to the flavor of the village. The Rowayton Fire Department is made up of volunteers and the all volunteer Rowayton Civic Association sponsors many events such as the Memorial Day Parade, summer concerts, Father’s Day Fun Run, Independence Day fireworks, The River Ramble, Cinema on the Sound, Labor Day swim races, Oktoberfest, Halloween Haunted House, Light Up Rowayton, Santa Run and Nativity Pageant.

HISTORY

Founded in the late 1600’s by farmers and fishermen, Rowayton is a salty little community defined by its waterfronts. Rowayton became a major oystering center in the 1800's when handsome Victorian houses were built by prosperous oystermen.  From 1880 to 1942, the Roton Point Amusement Park attracted visitors by ferry from NYC and trolley from inland to enjoy the wooden roller coast, carnival activities, and musical acts like Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway. In the 1920’s and 1930’s summer beach communities developed and now Rowayton, formally known as Norwalk’s 6th Taxing District which provides many of its services, functions as its own suburb, with an easy commute to NYC. There are offices for local businesses, vibrant boating, tennis and paddle tennis facilities an independent library, restaurants and an active downtown, all wrapped in the atmosphere of a traditional New England fishing village. 

CAFES & RESTAURANTS

Sails

Rowayton Pizza

Brendan’s 101

Rowayton Seafood

Brendan’s 101 Rowayton │ was built in 1885 and is recognized by the Rowayton Historic Society as the Henry W. Wells' Wharf Place. 

Rowayton Seafood │ located at 89 Rowayton Avenue in Rowayton, CT, has been a community favorite since 1996. It boasts the best waterfront location in the area and is deeply rooted in the history of Rowayton.

SHOPS

Rowayton Market

Seaside Delights

Rowayton Wine Shop

Rowayton Arts Center

Chou Chou

The Collected Home

HELPFUL WEBSITES

raveis.com

rowayton6td.com

rowaytoncurrents.com

rowaytonct.nextdoor.com

norwalkct.org

seaport.org

rowaytonparentexchange.com

The Rowayton Farmers’ Market │ was named one of the 10 best farmers’ markets in the country in Country Living Magazine’s April 2013 feature, America’s Best Farmers’ Markets. Rowayton, the market’s hosting town, was named 2013 Top 10 Best Places to Live on the Coast, by Coastal Living Magazine.

Rowayton Historical Society │ ​was founded in 1959 to preserve Rowayton’s vibrant history by maintaining and exhibiting its archives, memorabilia and artwork. Membership and public meetings are held regularly during the year at the Seeley-Dibble-Pinkney house including special programs and speakers. Displays and exhibits, addressing the history of our region are open to the public. We encourage researchers and other interested people to contact us with their questions.

The Rowayton Civic Association │ The mission of the Rowayton Civic Association is to enrich the lives of Rowayton residents and neighbors through providing cultural programs, educational events and supporting local community initiatives. The RCA invites all residents to become involved in the RCA through volunteerism and helping to identify the needs of our community.

Farm Creek Preserve │ The Norwalk Land Trust seeks to balance nature and development by acquiring land and preserving it in its natural state for the benefit of Norwalk residents and future generations.  The 16 acre nature preserve rests on a tidal estuary with wooded glens, an open meadow and abundant wildlife.

Bayley Beach │ Bayley Beach, part of Neville Bayley Park, is owned and maintained by the 6TD and is home to The Rowayton Tennis Association and the Velotti Baseball Field.

Nursery Schools

United Church of Rowayton Nursery School

Five Mile River Nursery School

The Community Coop Nursery School

Elementary School (K-5)

Rowayton School