Thames River Heritage Park | Groton

Thames River Heritage Park, located along the Thames River in New London and Groton, Connecticut, is a unique waterfront park without boundaries. Instead of a single property, it links together a collection of historic and cultural sites across both sides of the river, connected by a seasonal water taxi service. The park highlights the region’s maritime, military, and industrial heritage while offering a modern way to explore its historic shoreline.

Concept and History

Origins: The idea for the park emerged in the late 20th century as a way to unify New London and Groton’s historic waterfronts into a shared cultural destination.

Established: The park officially began operating in the 2010s, focusing on enhancing visitor access to significant sites through water transportation.

Historic Setting: The Thames River has been central to Connecticut’s history since colonial times, serving as a trade route, shipbuilding hub, and naval stronghold.

Park Layout

Two Waterfronts:

New London Side: Includes landmarks such as the Custom House Maritime Museum, Garde Arts Center, Shaw Mansion, and Soldiers & Sailors Monument.

Groton Side: Features Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, the Ebenezer Avery House, Submarine Force Museum & USS Nautilus, Avery Point Lighthouse, and other sites.

Water Taxi Route: Seasonal water taxis link the two sides, allowing visitors to move easily between Groton and New London while enjoying views of the river.

River Experience: The Thames itself is part of the park, emphasizing its role as a cultural and historic corridor.

Highlights and Experiences

Historic Forts: Fort Trumbull in New London and Fort Griswold in Groton interpret Revolutionary War battles, military strategy, and coastal defense.

Maritime Heritage: Museums and historic homes showcase New London’s whaling past, Groton’s shipbuilding legacy, and the region’s role in global trade.

Naval Legacy: The Submarine Force Museum and USS Nautilus highlight Groton’s role as the “Submarine Capital of the World.”

Cultural Sites: Galleries, theaters, and restored homes illustrate the area’s civic and cultural development.

Water Taxi Views: The boat ride itself is a highlight, providing perspectives of historic lighthouses, bridges, naval activity, and the working waterfront.

Activities

Guided Tours: Many sites offer docent-led tours, and the Heritage Park also organizes themed programs.

Events: Seasonal festivals, educational events, and river-based activities enhance the park’s draw.

Self-Guided Exploration: Visitors can plan their own itinerary, hopping between sites on either shore.

Recreation: Walking tours along the waterfront, picnicking, and sightseeing complement the cultural experiences.

Visitor Information

Access: The park has no single gate; visitors access individual sites, often through downtown New London or Groton.

Water Taxi: Operates seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall, with affordable fares and multiple boarding points.

Admission: The park itself is free; individual sites may charge separate admission.

Facilities: Amenities vary by site; downtown New London and Groton both offer dining, shopping, and visitor services.

Significance

Thames River Heritage Park is the first of its kind in Connecticut-a multi-site, water-linked heritage park that transforms the river into the centerpiece of exploration. It preserves and interprets the military, maritime, and cultural history of the Thames Valley while providing a scenic and enjoyable way for visitors to experience two historic cities bound by a shared waterway.