30 Best Things to Do in New London Connecticut (CT)

New London, Connecticut, is a charming coastal city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here are 30 of the best things to do in New London Connecticut.

Let’s explore the best things to do in New London:

1. Visit the Lyman Allyn Art Museum

Start your trip to New London by exploring the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. This museum features an impressive collection of American art, including works by renowned artists such as Thomas Cole and John Singer Sargent.

2. Take a stroll through Ocean Beach Park

Ocean Beach Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, relax on the sandy beach, or enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the Long Island Sound.

3. Explore the Connecticut College Arboretum

Discover the natural beauty of New London at the Connecticut College Arboretum. This 750-acre nature preserve features miles of walking trails, gardens, and a variety of plant species.

4. Step back in time at the Custom House Maritime Museum

Learn about New London’s rich maritime history at the Custom House Maritime Museum. Explore exhibits on whaling, lighthouses, and the city’s role in the Revolutionary War.

5. Take a ferry to Block Island

Hop on a ferry and take a day trip to Block Island. This picturesque island is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and charming small-town atmosphere.

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6. Visit the Monte Cristo Cottage

Discover the childhood home of playwright Eugene O’Neill at the Monte Cristo Cottage. This National Historic Landmark offers guided tours and exhibits on O’Neill’s life and work.

7. Explore the Submarine Force Museum

Learn about the history of submarines at the Submarine Force Museum. This fascinating museum features a collection of submarines, including the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine.

8. Take a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue

Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline on a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue. This picturesque road offers stunning vistas of the ocean and passes by beautiful mansions and historic sites.

9. Visit the Hempsted Houses

Step back in time at the Hempsted Houses, a pair of historic homes dating back to the 17th century. Take a guided tour and learn about the lives of the Hempsted family and the history of New London.

10. Explore Fort Trumbull State Park

Discover the history of New London’s fortifications at Fort Trumbull State Park. Explore the fort’s museum, enjoy a picnic by the waterfront, or take a walk along the scenic trails.

11. Take a cruise on the Thames River

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Thames River. Choose from a variety of cruises, including sunset cruises, dinner cruises, and sightseeing cruises.

12. Visit the Garde Arts Center

Catch a show or concert at the Garde Arts Center. This historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and live music.

13. Explore the Avery-Copp House

Step inside the beautifully preserved Avery-Copp House. This historic home offers guided tours that provide insight into life in the 18th and 19th centuries.

14. Take a tour of the Coast Guard Academy

Learn about the training of future Coast Guard officers with a tour of the United States Coast Guard Academy. Explore the campus and visit the museum to learn about the history of the Coast Guard.

15. Visit the New London Harbor Light

Take a trip to the New London Harbor Light, the oldest lighthouse in Connecticut. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the harbor and Long Island Sound.

16. Explore the Old Town Mill

Discover the history of milling at the Old Town Mill. This historic mill offers guided tours and exhibits on the milling process.

17. Take a walk through the Mitchell College Arboretum

Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Mitchell College Arboretum. This beautiful campus features a variety of trees and plants, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.

18. Visit the New London County Historical Society

Learn about the history of New London County at the New London County Historical Society. Explore exhibits on the region’s Native American tribes, colonial history, and industrial heritage.

19. Go fishing at Fort Trumbull State Park

Cast a line and try your luck at fishing in the waters surrounding Fort Trumbull State Park. This scenic park offers fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.

20. Take a yoga class at the Thames Club

Relax and rejuvenate with a yoga class at the Thames Club. This health and wellness center offers a variety of classes for all fitness levels.

21. Explore the New London Waterfront District

Take a walk along the New London Waterfront District and explore the shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Enjoy waterfront dining and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively district.

22. Visit the Shaw Mansion

Step inside the Shaw Mansion, a historic home that served as a headquarters during the Revolutionary War. Take a guided tour and learn about the role of New London in the war.

23. Attend a performance at the Connecticut College Arboretum

Enjoy a performance at the Connecticut College Arboretum. This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts and theatrical productions during the summer months.

24. Take a hike in Bluff Point State Park

Explore the scenic trails of Bluff Point State Park. This coastal park offers miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for bird-watching and picnicking.

25. Visit the New London Maritime Society Custom House Museum

Learn about New London’s maritime history at the New London Maritime Society Custom House Museum. Explore exhibits on the city’s whaling industry, shipbuilding, and naval history.

26. Take a tour of the United States Coast Guard Museum

Learn about the history of the United States Coast Guard with a visit to the United States Coast Guard Museum. Explore exhibits on the Coast Guard’s role in maritime security and search and rescue operations.

27. Explore the art galleries of downtown New London

Discover the vibrant art scene of downtown New London by exploring the art galleries. Browse through a variety of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.

28. Take a bike ride along the Thames River Heritage Park Trail

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Thames River Heritage Park Trail. This 12-mile trail connects historic sites and parks along the Thames River.

29. Visit the New London Farmers Market

Sample local produce and artisanal products at the New London Farmers Market. This weekly market features a variety of vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and more.

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30. Attend a concert at the Hygienic Art Park

Experience live music in a unique outdoor setting at the Hygienic Art Park. This park hosts a variety of concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

With so many exciting things to see and do, New London Connecticut is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or the arts, this vibrant city has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover all that New London has to offer!