Things To Do Along The Thames River in Connecticut
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As a southeastern Connecticut local, I have spent a lot of time along the Thames River. This list compiles some of my favorite parks and other points of interest along the river, like historic sites and museums. There’s plenty to see and do along the Thames River!
Fort Shantok
Fort Shantok in Uncasville has been a long-time favorite of mine. This park is along the west side of the Thames River. It’s owned by the Mohegan Tribe, but it’s accessible to the public. The park features a pond, some trails, a playground, and access to the Thames River.
Learn more about visiting the park: Fort Shantok Park In Uncasville CT
New London Harbor Lighthouse
New London Harbor Light is situated at the mouth of the Thames River on the western side. While many people believe this lighthouse is private, it’s actually accessible to the public. Only the light keeper’s house is privately owned. The New London Maritime Society offers tours of the lighthouse year-round.
Learn more about climbing the lighthouse: Climbing New London Harbor Lighthouse
New London Ledge Light
New London Ledge Light is located at the mouth of the Thames River and it’s only accessible by boat. The New London Maritime Society offers seasonal tours inside the lighthouse where you can view the various exhibits and climb to the top of the lighthouse. There are also lighthouse tours you can take to view this lighthouse from the water.
Learn more about visiting the lighthouse: What To Expect When Visiting New London Ledge Light
Cross Sound Ferry Lighthouse Cruise
If you’re looking for a lighthouse tour that’s both fun and educational, Cross Sound Ferry has you covered. They offer two different lighthouse cruises out of New London that depart from the Thames River. Both tours are worth taking if you’re interested in lighthouses, but my favorite is the Lights & Sights Cruise because you get to see lighthouses in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New York.
Learn more about these lighthouse cruises: Cross Sound Ferry’s Three Different Lighthouse Cruises
Mohegan Sun
Mohegan Sun is a casino that’s situated along the banks of the Thames River. While you can’t exactly enjoy the river from the casino itself, some of the hotel rooms have phenomenal views of the river. There’s plenty to do at the casino from dining to entertainment.
Discover things to do: Mohegan Sun In Connecticut Is Not Just For Gamblers
Avery-Copp House
The Avery-Copp House is situated along the Thames River in Groton. It is a house museum that is completely free to visit, although donations are appreciated. During the tour, you will learn about the house as well as the family that lived there. This house has been beautifully preserved and it’s absolutely worth a visit if you’re interested in historic homes.
Discover more house museums to visit: Historic House Museums In Southeastern Connecticut
Submarine Force Museum
The Submarine Force Museum in Groton is located right on the Thames River. The museum is home to the USS Nautilus, which was the first nuclear-powered submarine. During your visit, you can tour the submarine and explore the world’s finest collection of submarine artifacts. The museum is completely free to visit.
Discover more things to do in town: 10+ Things To Do In Groton, CT
Fort Trumbull State Park
Fort Trumbull is located along the Thames River in New London. The park features river access, a museum, picnic areas, and access to the historic fort. It’s a great spot to spend an afternoon whether you’re interested in history or spending time along the water.
Discover more things to do in town: Things To Do In New London, Connecticut
Stoddard Hill State Park
Stoddard Hill State Park is located in the village of Gales Ferry, which is a part of Ledyard. The state park features access to the Thames River as well as wooded hiking trails. What’s nice about this park is that there are nice water views even from the parking area.
Discover more things to do in town: Things To Do And Places To Eat In Ledyard, CT
Howard T. Brown Memorial Park
This park in Norwich is a great spot to sit back and enjoy the views of the Thames River. This spot is where the Thames River, Yantic River, and Shetucket River meet. In the winter months, this is a great spot for bird watching. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out some of the businesses in downtown like Epicure Brewery, Cream Coffee Shop, or La Stella.
Discover more things to do in town: Things To Do In Norwich, Connecticut
The Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi
The Thames River Heritage Park’s water taxi is a great way to explore the Thames River. The boats are refurbished surplus U.S. Navy “liberty” utility boats that were used to shuttle sailors to shore from larger ships for liberty or free time. Their most popular offerings are the hop on, hop off harbor cruises where you can hop on and off at various sites along the river. You can catch the taxi from New London and Groton.
Discover more boat rides: Boat Rides And Ferries To Take In New England
Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
This park is great to visit if you’re into war history. The historical park is the site of the largest Revolutionary War battle in Connecticut, the 1781 British massacre of colonial militia. You can walk the grounds, check out the museum, and climb the monument tower. However, if you’re not into history, it’s still worth a visit since it offers great views of the Thames River. Plus, it’s completely free to visit.
Discover more free things to do in southeastern CT: 20+ Free Things To Do In Southeastern Connecticut
