Another great option off season is Tod’s Point in Old Greenwich. In season it is primarily a resident only location (non-residents can enter for a fee) but off-season the opportunity to enjoy Tod’s Point unique perspective is provided to all.
There is a lovely 2.25 mile loop paved walk around the point. The views of the NYC skyline and various interior wildlife offer wonderful opportunities to be present.
The two scenes below captured on my first walk of 2021, could easily be overlooked. I highly recommend an intentional “pivot and pause.” The top being a perfect reflection of the trees and house in the water. The bottom has the ducks in various conversations and preening while the herring gull caught a fish which he has hanging from his mouth.
The first time I went to Tod’s point many years ago, I can only say I was overwhelmed by the beauty it had to offer. As I am not a Greenwich resident, I was a guest and joined my friend for a walk. While we were in conversation that day, I admit I could not focus on the topic but rather at the ocean side walk and views of the NYC skyline.
History
In 1884 a wealthy banker, J. Kennedy Tod, purchased parcels of land that would become known as “Tod’s Point.” He joined two small islands with fill and optimized the use of marsh land. He created a road around the island to the main land and a small beach.
After Tod’s death and subsequently his wife, Tod’s Point property went to the Presbyterian Hospital of New York and then ultimately to the Town of Greenwich in 1944.
One of the restoration projects I particularly look forward to is for the Chimes Building originally built in 1901.
Per the Greenwich free Press, “through the restoration project, the physical chimes and their intricate mechanisms will be restored to their melodic glory. Upon completion, the chimes will be named “Emily’s Chimes” to honor the life of 16-year old Greenwich High Schooler Emily Fedorko, who tragically lost her life in 2014, during a water tubing accident on Long Island Sound. “ My son knew this family through school and the tragic event was quite impactful to many. The family has done incredible work to educate and support the community in Emily’s name. What a joy it will be to one day soon hear Emily’s chimes.
Sunsets
It’s also one of my favorite places to catch a sunset with the low horizon and opportunities to capture through the trees of stick season. There are many areas to drive up and see the sunset or picnic. I will continue to blog about Tods Point through the seasons.
Note: while by this time it’s normally open to non residents to drive in, due to the pandemic the off season date keeps getting delayed. you can walk in with a paid ticket in season.
Pivot and Pause in New England 