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Thames River Heritage Park

P.O. Box 851, New London, CT 06320 · New London, CT

Why you should go…

Thames River Heritage Park is a Connecticut heritage park connecting more than thirty historic and cultural sites along the Thames River, including the Submarine Force Museum and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park. A seasonal water taxi, run on refurbished navy vessels, makes a continuous hop-on hop-off loop between landings in New London and Groton, and the park also offers narrated cruises, walking tours and audio tours. The nonprofit Thames River Heritage Park Foundation operates and promotes the park.

  • #boat tour
  • #history
  • #waterfront
  • #sightseeing
  • #family

Good to know

General tours guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Confirm the meeting point

    It is often a corner, a lobby, or a dock rather than the address you searched for. Check it the night before.

  • Small groups fill first

    In high season the intimate departures sell out well before the big-bus options do.

  • Ask how much is on foot

    Knowing how much of the route is walking, standing, or outdoors tells you what to wear and carry.

  • Read the weather policy

    Cancellation windows and rain rules vary by operator, and they are easier to find before you pay than after.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Thames River Heritage Park, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Submarine Force Museum

    Free

    Home of the USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, on the Thames River in Groton, CT.

    2.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Shopping
    Local Gem

    Scooter A Long

    $25–$50

    Mobility scooter rental and delivery service serving Mystic-area attractions like the aquarium and Seaport.

    4.6 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Tours
    Outdoor Adventure

    Argia

    $25–$50

    A traditional wooden schooner offering sailing cruises out of downtown Mystic.

    6.3 mi awayMore like this

  • Shopping
    Local Gem

    Mystic Knotwork

    Free

    America's oldest knot shop, handcrafting nautical rope bracelets, decor, and gifts in a 180-year-old Mystic building.

    6.5 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Tours
    Date Night

    Sightsailing of Newport

    $25–$50

    Newport Harbor sailing charters and sunset cruises from Bowen's Wharf.

    41 mi awayMore like this

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Newport Classic Cruises

    $50+

    Sail Newport Harbor aboard classic schooners and a vintage 1929 motor yacht.

    41 mi awayMore like this