Things To Do In New London, Connecticut
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Looking for a unique coastal getaway with history, charm, and culture? New London, Connecticut delivers with its scenic waterfront and rich maritime heritage. Whether you’re exploring historic forts or exploring Bank Street, this small city packs a big punch for weekend travelers.
Climb New London Harbor Light
Did you know that you can climb the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Connecticut and on Long Island Sound in New London? Many people think that this lighthouse is privately owned, but only the old lightkeeper’s house is privately owned. The New London Maritime Society offers tours of New London Harbor Light year-round.
Learn more about visiting this lighthouse: Climbing New London Harbor Lighthouse
Tour New London Ledge Light
New London Ledge Light is known as one of Connecticut’s most haunted lighthouses. This lighthouse is also cared for by the New London Maritime Society, who offers tours of the lighthouse. Inside the lighthouse there are some displays about the history and there’s even a room dedicated to Ernie, the resident ghost.
Learn more about visiting this lighthouse: What To Expect When Visiting New London Ledge Light
Take A Ride On The Cross Sound Ferry
Cross Sound Ferry offers various trips. They offer a high-speed ferry to Block Island, Rhode Island, a ferry to Long Island, New York, and two different lighthouse cruises from New London. Whether you’re looking to take a day trip or go on a lighthouse adventure, Cross Sound Ferry has you covered.
Learn more about lighthouse cruises they offer: Cross Sound Ferry’s Three Different Lighthouse Cruises
Ocean Beach Park
Ocean Beach Park is a great spot for a beach day. With a beautiful beach, a boardwalk, mini golf, an arcade, a splash pad, and a pool, it offers fun for all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax or keep the family entertained, this beachfront destination has it all. It’s no wonder it was named one of the top 25 beaches in the U.S.
Learn more about this beach: Ocean Beach Park In New London, CT
Grab A Bite To Eat At Muddy Waters Cafe
Muddy Waters Cafe is a great spot to grab breakfast on Bank Street in downtown. They have great coffee, baked goods, and breakfast options. They have indoor seating and outdoor seating on a deck overlooking the Thames River. If you’re traveling by train, it’s a short walk from the train station.
Discover more spots to grab breakfast around Connecticut: Breakfast Places To Try In Connecticut
Grab Drinks and Pizza At The Diamond
If you’re craving pizza, check out Diamond Pizza. This local favorite serves up delicious sourdough pizza. It also has a fun, vintage vibe inside. I love playing the old arcade games and pinball machine when I go!
Discover more places to grab pizza in the area: Can’t-Miss Pizza Places In Southeastern Connecticut
Grab Ice Cream At Michael’s Dairy
Michael’s Dairy is a great spot to grab ice cream. It started out as a milk processing business and began serving ice cream in the 1950s. The dairy processed milk until the 1970s and it is now owned by Mitchell College who devotes all proceeds to helping their students. This spot has great ice cream and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy your frozen treat!
Discover more ice cream spots to check out in CT: Best Ice Cream Spots In Eastern Connecticut
Go Sightseeing On 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 also catch this taxi on the other side of the river in Groton.
New London County Historical Society
The New London County Historical Society offers a deep dive into the region’s rich maritime and colonial history. Located in the historic Shaw Mansion, it features exhibits, archives, and artifacts that bring the past to life. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about local heritage, this is a worthwhile stop in downtown New London.
Discover more ways to dive into CT’s history: 13 Historic Houses You Can Tour In Connecticut
Fort Trumbull State Park
Fort Trumbull has a legacy of service spanning two and a half centuries, from the American Revolution to World War II to the Cold War. It’s definitely worth a visit if you get the chance! There’s a great museum and you can actually go inside the fort as well. You get great views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the fort.
Nathan Hale Schoolhouse
There are two Nathan Hale Schoolhouses in Connecticut: the one in East Haddam and the one in New London. The schools are named after Nathan Hale who taught at both schoolhouses. Nathan Hale is recognized as a hero in the state. He was the only soldier that volunteered to spy on the British who had taken control of Long Island when George Washington needed valuable information.
Connecticut College Arboretum
The Connecticut College Arboretum is a peaceful 750 acre park filled with natural beauty and native plant collections. With miles of walking trails and scenic landscapes, it’s perfect for nature lovers and casual explorers alike. It’s free and open to the public year-round from sunrise to sunset.
Walk The City Pier
The New London City Pier is a scenic waterfront spot that’s perfect for relaxing, sightseeing, or catching a ferry or water taxi. With views of the Thames River and easy access to downtown, it’s a great starting point for exploring the city. Whether you’re watching boats pass by or enjoying a summer event, the pier offers a laid-back coastal vibe.
Grab A Bite To Eat At Captain Scotts Lobster Dock
Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock is a go-to spot for fresh seafood and classic New England eats. Located right on the water, it offers casual outdoor dining with views of a marina. From lobster rolls to fried clams, this local favorite serves up quality, no-frills meals that keep visitors coming back. Full warning: there is usually a line, but that’s just because it really is that good.
Custom House Maritime Museum
The Custom House Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s deep maritime roots. Housed in an 1830s historic building, it features exhibits on lighthouses, shipwrecks, and local seafaring history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Connecticut’s nautical past.
