The Sanctuary comprises the largest area of preserved open space in Newport County.

Hanging Rock, a prominent local landmark, is located within the sanctuary overlooking the ocean.

There is also a Visitor Center and gift shop, and a 19th-century barn museum featuring displays about the wildlife for children and adults.

[2] The property of the Norman Bird Sanctuary has an agricultural history dating to the early 18th century, when a large tract of land was purchased by Isaac Smith, a descendant of one of the area's first settlers.

In 1898 George Norman, a Newport businessman, purchased the farm, then reduced to about 129 acres (52 ha), and it was his daughter Mabel who modernized the house and gave it a more Colonial Revival appearance.