New London is the perfect family-friendly destination for a day well spent on the water. You can choose to stay ashore and enjoy our beaches, parks and waterfront dining, or you can venture out to sea for a little adventure on the water.

Besides the famed Ocean Beach Park, beautiful Green Harbor Beach is also right here in New London, located across the street from Green Harbor Park. Offering both a sandy beach for swimming and picnic tables and a playground with great harbor views, it’s an ideal spot for a family outing.

Historic Fort Trumbull State Park is also worth a visit, where you can get an interactive history lesson at the visitor’s center, or wander around and explore the Fort and ramparts, boardwalk and fishing pier all while enjoying a great view of the Thames River.

If you’d prefer to get out on the water, you can hop aboard a Water Taxi and head to City Pier to explore visit Downtown New London’s waterfront district featuring our famous boardwalk and majestic piers.

The Water Taxi operates seasonally and offer a one-hour hop on, hop off tour, with stops at Fort Trumbull and City Pier in New London, as well as Thames River Landing in Groton.

For premiere outdoor dining on the Thames River, visit On the Waterfront, where you can dine on their brand-new patio. For more casual fare, visit Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock or Fred’s Shanty.  Other great downtown dining options include Hot Rod Café, Mambo Bar & Restaurant, Muddy Waters Café, and Noble. If you’re looking to try something different, New London’s choices for cuisine are as diverse as they are delicious. You can’t go wrong at: Tony D’s (Italian), Noodles and Rice Bistro (Thai), The Green Room (American), Swan Tandoori (Indian) Mi Casa (Mexican), and Right Path Organic Café (Organic).

Got a history buff in the family? Our world-class museums include the Custom House Maritime Museum, Lyman Allyn Art Museum, and Monte Cristo Cottage, which was the boyhood home of famed American Playwright, Eugene O’Neill.

And lastly, don’t forget about our city’s rich arts and entertainment scene, including Hygienic Art, Garde Arts Center and Fosnot galleries.

We hope you enjoy your visit to New London and discover a few of our hidden gems while here. You’re welcome back anytime!