15 Singular Things to do in New London CT and Nearby Groton On the Riverfront

WHY GO: You’d be amazed by all the artsy and historically important things to do in New London CT and Groton across the Thames River. This shoreline city is where playwright Eugene O’Neill spent his childhood summers swimming in thick morning fog that still envelopes New London CT like smoke from Benedict Arnold’s deadly fires. In 1781 America’s most noted turncoat led British troops on a raid that left this naval stronghold in cinders, destroying ships, homes and shops. 

New London is home to what was the country’s oldest operating Custom House (closed in Sept. 2021), where the Amistad was taken and sold in 1839, and is where the United States Coast Guard Academy can be found.

America’s first nuclear propelled submarine, the Nautilus, was built here – and you can actually tour it near General Dynamics Electric Boat, the company that makes the Navy’s nuclear submarines. A tour there is free, so even if you’re bound for Mystic Seaport, just five miles away, make it a point to stop there.

New London also boasts a world-class art museum, Connecticut and Mitchell Colleges, H.H. Richardson’s last train station design, and large ferries that roar multiple times a day to Block Island and Greenport, NY on the North Fork of Long Island.

This Getaway takes you from New London to Groton. Once “gritty ports,” these riverside towns offer much to those seeking a romantic escape, starting, of course, with water views (with, perhaps, a surfacing submarine) and a glamorous boutique inn.

Pair this getaway with a visit to neighboring Niantic and Waterford CT: smaller ‘burgs on the Connecticut shoreline.

Check out this post for more Romantic Getaways in Connecticut.

And here for Romantic Ideas all over New England.

The Inn at Ocean Ave made it onto our 20 Best Romantic Hotels Northeast USA 2021 list. 

New London and Groton made it on to the Getaway Mavens Top 20 Romantic Getaways in the US 2021 list.

Things to do in New London and Groton CT

TOUR: Historic Nuclear Sub Nautilus and Submarine Force Library and Museum, Groton

This somewhat unsung military museum and the first nuclear submarine in the world, first nuclear submarine, Nautilus and Submarine Force Library and Museum – adjacent to the Naval Submarine Base New London – is is a must-see on the Connecticut Coast.

It’s no surprise that the first Nuclear Sub was built in Connecticut. This New England State is an exemplar of Yankee Ingenuity. Key example? David Bushnell invented The Turtle, the world’s oldest working submarine, here in 1776.

Bushnell created a vessel from two hollowed Oak trunks in the shape of turtle shells. Built to thwart the English Fleet, the sub was capable of diving 20 feet and attaching bombs to the hulls of British Frigates. Unfortunately, those plans failed.

You’ll find a model of The Turtle among an extensive collection of missiles, control panels, submarine models and videos of submarines and their payloads throughout the museum. The 31-foot long, 35,000-pound 4-section Polaris Missile, operational from 1964-1981, is terrifying in its heft and destructive power.

Self Guided USS Nautilus Tour

But of course, you came here to descend into and walk through the tight quarters of an underwater metal tube – the USS Nautilus. (FYI – there is no wheelchair accessibility. And forget it if you are claustrophobic or have problems climbing through narrow hatches with 18” thresholds or can’t scramble up or down ladder-like stairways).

If you’re OK with the above, you’ll be rewarded with an intimate look at how submarine sailors lived and worked. An audio-tour of the vessel provides a fascinating look at military life in an underwater, constricted environment.

The decommissioned 700 foot long, nuclear-propelled USS Nautilus was launched in 1954. It was the very first nuclear-powered object, and the first ship in the world to cross the North Pole (August 2, 1958).

After serving in developmental testing programs and in military operations alongside other subs, in 1982, The USS Nautilus was designated a National Historic Landmark. It opened to the public in 1986 as part of the Submarine Force Museum.

World’s First Nuclear Submarine

You’ll receive an “Audio Wand,” which activates a narrated overview of what you see in each portion of the ship. Descend 30 stairs into the Torpedo Room to begin. Each area features lifelike mannequins depicting the roles of crew members: from torpedo operators to chefs in the mess hall. Bunks were coffin-small though food was some of the best in the military.

One of coolest “hidden gems” in the hold, on full display, is an 1892 copy of Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Verne’s masterful story featured a Captain named Nimo and a submarine called Nautilus – after which this ship is named.

Plan at least one and a half hours for both the museum and submarine. Admission is Free, Check website for dates and times open, tours.

DO: New London Historic Landmarks Events

Nearly all of New London was burned to the ground by anti-American forces led by Benedict Arnold in September, 1781.

Today, relish the buildings that survived the inferno, as well as other architecturally significant structures from the mid to late 1800’s – when shipbuilding and whaling created fortunes for many – now in various states of repair.

Members of New London Landmarks Commission are the enterprising guardians of these jewels, working hard to preserve buildings designed by leading architects of the day; Robert Mills (Washington Monument) and William Tuthill (Carnegie Hall) among other Colonial, Romantic and Victorian Era builders.

VISIT: Custom House Maritime Museum, New London

This granite structure, now the Custom House Maritime Museum played an important part in the Amistad story. Built in 1833-35 by Robert Mills (who also designed the Washington Monument), the New London Customs House (in operation until September 2021) was the “oldest continuously operating Customs House in America” and has seen its share of riches, cargo, contraband, and enslaved refugees.

Connecticut’s anti-slavery laws were deeply rooted. Here, on September 30, 1858, Police Court Justice Augustus Brandegee and Customs Collector John Perkins Mather applied Connecticut’s Personal Liberty Law against the Fugitive Slave Act. They asked a stowaway slave named “Joe,” “Do you want to be slave or free?” Joe answered, “Free!”

Perhaps the most well known episode in Abolitionist History took place here. In 1839, fifty-three men illegally abducted from Sierra Leone killed the captain and cook aboard the ship Amistad on its way to a Caribbean plantation.  Found tattered off of Long Island, NY, the Amistad was hauled to New London, CT.

The story of this fraught ship is told in a very impressive interactive exhibit in this Custom House/Museum which also features rotating lenses from nearby lighthouses, foghorns (a school group favorite), and a collection of beautifully preserved diving helmets from the early 19^th century. Check website for hours/dates open.

VISIT: Nathan Hale Schoolhouse

Nathan “I only regret I have but one life to lose for my country” Hale taught at this one room schoolhouse. Hale was hanged in 1776 by the British at the age of 21, after being caught spying for General George Washington. Check website for dates and times open, and admission fee.

VISIT: Coast Guard Museum on Grounds of Coast Guard Academy

The complicated history of the Coast Guard, an often forgotten branch of Homeland Security, is well documented in an engaging Coast Guard Museum on the campus of the US Coast Guard Academy. However – and this is a huge however – be aware that at some point in mid to late 2026, a nearly 40,000 square foot, brand new and interactive Coast Guard museum, will be opening adjacent to the New London Train Station. So be aware. It will be big, both literally and newswise.

“A few armed vessels, judiciously stationed at the entrance to our ports, might be made useful sentinels of the laws,” wrote Alexander Hamilton in 1790.

The history of the Coast Guard has had many twists and turns. The organization in current form is an amalgamation of five agencies. In 1789, the Custom Service established the Revenue Cutter Service.

Revenue Cutter merged with the US Lifesaving Service in 1915, when the Great European War illuminated the need for a strong Coast Guard ready to operate with the Navy if war came to United States shores.

By 1946, The Lighthouse Service, Steamboat Inspection Service, and Bureau of Navigation all folded into the agency that stands as our current U.S. Coast Guard with its five fundamental roles; maritime safety, maritime security, maritime mobility, national defense, and protection of natural resources.

Among the most important artifacts on exhibit here are the Breeches Buoy apparatus used to transport shipwreck victims from boat to shore in the 1800’s; and the large Eagle figurehead from the original German Horst Wessel.

The Tall Ship barque Eagle was built in Germany in 1936 and originally used to train Nazi naval cadets. Confiscated by the US after WWII, it’s been used ever since to train American Coast Guard cadets. All cadets must spend at least 6 weeks aboard the EAGLE, learning nautical traditions, and basic navigational, seamanship, and leadership skills.

The Coast Guard remains Semper Paratus, “always ready” to protect those at sea, from threats from the sea, and to protect the sea itself. Check website for hours and dates open.

VISIT: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London

The last of three forts built on this site, Fort Trumbull State Park was obscured by trees and dilapidated buildings until 2002.  Now, a Visitor’s Center attracts adults and kids with a real periscope and interactive kiosks allowing history-buffs to build their own forts and detect submarines.

And the fort itself – an Egyptian Revival design built between 1839 and 1852- allows marvelous views of the river.  Where else can you teach a kid about our maritime past then look outside and see a submarine go by?”

DO: Take Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi

Take an hour long hop on hop off cruise on a refurbished surplus US Navy utility boat. The Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi makes stops at Fort Trumbull State Park, City Pier in downtown New London, and Thames River Landing in Groton.

VISIT: Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London

The 70-year-old neoclassical Lyman Allyn Art Museum sits on 32 hilltop acres. The museum showcases an abundance of Connecticut impressionists, art from the Hudson River School, and other American artists.

Named after the Whaling Captain, Lyman Allyn, as a gift to the town from his youngest daughter, Harriet Upton Allyn in 1926, the museum also features the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany, who had family roots in New London.

Don’t miss the centerpiece of “American Stories” Hall – the portrait of town heroine Abigail Hinman.  The painting depicts Hinman, draped in velvet finery, holding a musket aimed at Benedict Arnold, a family friend, right before he torched New London.

With her husband away, Abigail made a split second decision to assassinate the turncoat when she saw him on horseback right outside her window. At the crucial moment, however, her musket misfired.  Check website for admission costs, dates and hours open.

VISIT: Monte Cristo Cottage, New London

James O’Neill purchased the home he named Monte Cristo Cottage with funds earned by starring in and buying the rights to the stage version of The Count of Monte Cristo. Thus, it’s where his son, Eugene, spent his boyhood summers. Visitors familiar with one of O’Neill’s most famous plays, “Long Days Journey Into Night” will recognize the parlor. It looks exactly as it did on stage and screen. Open seasonally. Check website for dates open, tour times, and entry fees.

GO: Garde Arts Center,New London

This exquisitely renovated Art Deco Garde Performing Arts Center serves up a heap of culture to this small CT River town.

VISIT: Hygienic Gallery, New London

Formerly an ironic “greasy spoon” café, the Hygienic now showcases avant-garde art. As such, it draws a high concentration of pierced and tatted art aficionados.

Where to Shop in New London CT

Studio 33, New London

You’ll find unique painted lobster claw ornaments and other locally made crafts and jewelry in this tiny frame and gift shop. Plus – Studio 33 can restore faded treasured photos, and is now the drop off, pick up point for Everpresent Digitizing service: the company that converts old photos, home movies, and videos into online sharable photos and videos.

Thames River Wine and Spirits, Greenery, and Beanery, New London

Over twenty years ago, Charlotte Hennegan and Fred Argilagos brought upscale sophistication to New London downtown. They opened up three different shops under one roof: the Thames River Wine and Spirits, The Greenery, and The Beanery. Now, a Wine and Flower shop, with gifts and nibbles.

The “Greenery” – a pop-artsy florist – specializes in rare Dahlia’s, grown specifically for this shop.

The Beanery serves prepared salads and sandwiches as well as the stuff made from the “beans” – a variety of coffees.

And Wine and Spirits offers an interesting selection from small producers around the world. New to the shop – a Cigar Bar upstairs, where guests can unwind with a stogy and perhaps a sip of whisky.

Thames River Art Gallery

Thames River Art Gallery showcases local and established artists.

BEACH: Ocean Beach Park, New London

Ocean Beach Park is so much more than an expanse of  “sugar sand.” It’s got amusement park rides, mini-golf, a massive pool, arcades, waterslides, and kiddie “Spraypark.” Check website for access info.

Best Places to Eat in New London and Groton CT

EAT: Olio, Groton

Cross the I-95 bridge, take the first exit (Route 1), and then another first exit – right into Olio’s parking lot. This contemporary “New American” restaurant has been a hit since it opened, largely for its chic atmosphere and excellent food. I loved the fact that Chicken Milanese – breaded chicken cutlet heaped with arugula – is listed under “Salads.” I felt oh so much healthier stuffing nearly a whole helping of deliciousness into my mouth. Not for nothing is that “salad” one of the most popular items on the menu.

COFFEE/EAT: Muddy Waters Cafe, New London

Might well be a stage set for Friends, this coffee house/ lunch and dinner place is chock a block with smushy couches, chairs and cocktail tables.  Sit on the outside deck overlooking train tracks, city piers and Thames River. A popular hangout for Connecticut College kids and faculty.

COFFEE: Washington Street Coffee House, New London

A bit off the beaten track, it’s got rough plank floors, a funky vibe, an eclectic menu (BBQ? Goat Cheese Tacos?). And according to some locals, WSCH has “the best coffee in Connecticut.”

DINNER/VIEW: On the Waterfront,New London

Have a drink and/or a meal with one of the best views in New London. A quick drive (or long walk) from the new Inn at Ocean Ave, On the Waterfront overlooks boats bobbing at marinas, the Thames River, and Groton on the far side.

EAT: Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock, New London

Capt’n Scott’s is a New London institution – a picnic-table hotspot beloved by locals and tourists, too. Named after the man who built the Race Rock Lighthouse in 1871, members of the Scott family have owned this really tough to find place for the last two decades, and it still radiates the best of deep fryer New England.

ICE CREAM: Michael’s Dairy – on Mitchell College Campus

Oh My Gosh, get a “small” scoop of ultra creamy Graham Central Station! Graham Cracker ice-cream studded with chocolate-covered Kix cereal (or a facsimile of that brand). If that doesn’t entice you, Michael’s Dairy has a slew of other unusual blends.

Where to Stay in New London CT

STAY: Inn at Ocean Avenue

The six room Inn at Ocean Ave, a stately brick mansion, stands in contrast to the other more modest homes on Ocean Avenue in New London’s beach and marina district. On four sprawling acres that encompass a pool and undulating lawn, you’re likely to see guests relaxing outside, reading, or sunbathing. It’s that kind of place – where guests, sheltered from crowds, don’t need to do anything but rest.

Back-story and First Impressions

As a travel writer covering the Connecticut Coast, I was waiting for someone to open up a boutique hotel or inn in New London. It’s a town steeped in beauty and history, and worthy of lodgings other than corporate-ish hotels.

When New Yorkers, Allan and Sharon Goldfarb, discovered this house on a trip to Mystic, they were enthralled enough to buy it as a personal home in 2015, with visions of turning it into a romantic inn sometime down the road.

Though the exterior was in good shape, the interior needed plenty of work. For starters, the multi-room mansion only had one working bathroom. It took two full years to update plumbing and electric, and gut renovate each room.

Just a month after the Goldfarbs opened the Inn at Ocean Avenue to guests, Covid-19 forced them to close.

But, when Covid was on the wane, the owners were in for a surprise. No sooner had they turned on the virtual “open” sign than guests started booking. Many were heading to Mystic CT – a 20-minute drive away. Others were just looking for a place to work remotely for a change of scenery.

While photos of each room, might have initially drawn them in, it’s the setting, immaculate spaces, and warmth of the Goldfarbs that earn the Inn high ratings on review sites. (Not to mention word of mouth).

There are a couple of modern and tidy sitting rooms, a formal dining room where you’ll meet other guests over breakfast, and an ADA-guest room, on the first floor.

Guests camp out in a small enclosed reading nook on a stair landing. And, of course, on that backyard lawn, where relaxed guests read in the afternoon sun.

Rooms at Inn at Ocean Avenue

Original hardwood floors and woodwork in the dining room sparkle anew. The Goldfarbs added modern bathrooms, featuring Carrara marble and white subway tile rain showers, in each of six guest rooms.

Stylistically, each room is a study in 20’s glamour. That’s 1920’s, by the way – with mirrored furniture and subtle shades of white and off-white. Beds are so soft, snuggly, and dreamy, you might just sleep much longer than you expect to. Guests (including me) report an unheard of uninterrupted 8 or 9-hour slumber.

Breakfast at Inn at Ocean Avenue

Allan is the Omelet King, so let him know what you’d like him to mix in, and he’s happy to oblige. His egg dishes are delish, but Allan’s hash browns are no slouch. In fact, crisped with caramelized onions, you might want to ask for more.

Find Inn on Ocean Ave on Getaway Mavens 15 Top Romantic Hideaways Northeast US 2022

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