Groton is a small but beautiful New England town with a sense of community enjoyed by locals and visitors. This town is in New London County, Connecticut.
Get ready to be fascinated with the numerous historical sites and picturesque parks that make for a perfect getaway in the town.
Groton has a rich military history that extends to the present day; not only does it house the For Griswold, which played a vital role in the Revolutionary War, but it is also the site of the American Navy’s principal submarine base.
The town has much to offer to please both the young and the young at heart.
Are you looking for what to do in Groton? Here are the best and fun things to do in Groton, CT.
Things to Do in Groton, CT
1. Wonder at the beautiful view of Avery Point Lighthouse
Avery Point Lighthouse
Avery Point Lighthouse is one of the best places to visit in Groton, CT. The Avery Point Lighthouse, standing on the east shore of the Thames River, was established in 1943.
The tower is well-known among lighthouse lovers for its exposed brick design and elaborate details.
This is the perfect place to wait for sunset, with the views of the magnificent lighthouse.
You can access the lighthouse via the University of Connecticut’s Avery Point Campus.
Do not forget to visit this hidden gem and take selfies with Avery Point Lighthouse as a backdrop.
Address: 1084 Shennecossett Rd, Groton, CT
2. Soak up the Sun at the Eastern Point Beach
Eastern Point Beach
One of the fun things to do in Groton, CT, is to explore Eastern Point Beach. Soak up the Sun at Eastern Point Beach with your family and friends.
Eastern Point Beach is a small-family-oriented beach at the entrance of the Thames River. This site offers picnic tables, showers, concession stands, and playgrounds.
The beach also offers shallow water depths and seasonal supervised swimming, making it a family favorite.
Spend a day in the Sun, swim in the waters, and play in the sand. Whether you want to swim there or relax beneath the Sun, Eastern Point Beach is an idyllic place to have fun.
Pack a lunch box or snacks and have a picnic here with the fantastic ocean view. Seasonal parking tickets are available for sale annually for both locals and tourists.
Nothing beats spending time with the whole family under the Sun, so load your sun protection and swimming essentials before you go to Eastern Point Beach.
Address:1 Beach Pond Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
3. Uncover the history of Submarines at the Submarine Force Museum
Submarine Force Museum
If you are searching for a thrilling exploration opportunity during your stay In Groton, the Submarine Force Museum is the ideal place to explore.
Learn about the history and other intriguing facts about submarines in this museum, home to over 33,000 archives, photographs, and artifacts. The USS Nautilus is also housed in the Submarine Force Museum.
Here, you will have the opportunity to tour the original nuclear-powered vessel and get a closer look at the technical side of the submarine.
Besides the captivating exhibits, you will enjoy the encompassing views of the Thames River that borders the museum.
The entry is free, so don’t miss out on the chance to see an interactive exhibit at the Submarine Force Museum.
Visiting the Submarine Force Museum is among the top things to do in Groton, CT.
Address 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
4. Drink a beer at Outer Light Brewing Company’s Beers
Drop by Outer Light Brewing Company’s Beers if you want to kill time.
Outer Light Brewing, tucked into a strip mall on Bridge Street, features a bustling taproom.
The brewing company opened in 2015 in Groron and has established itself in the Connecticut brewing scene by offering a rotating and core lineup of crafted small-batch craft beers.
Outer Light Brewing Company offers a range of selections, whether you want a sweet and malty beer, a dark and roasty craft beer, or a crispy and clean flavor.
Its premises are wheelchair-accessible and can be used by visitors with physical constraints.
Outer Light Brewing Company is dedicated to producing high-quality beer for all active beer aficionados.
Address: 266 Bridge St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
5. Stroll around the Trails of Bluff Point State Park
Bluff Point State Park
If you want to be surrounded by the serene atmosphere of nature, you should go to Bluff State Park, with its magnificent natural scenery and ocean view. Visiting this Park is one of the best things to do in Groton, CT.
Hike the paved tree-lined trails, with some uphill challenges, where you will encounter the marvelous wildlife in the state park.
You can also take a delightful stroll on the beach, fish, bask under the Sun, or search for sea glass and shells.
There is a dedicated picnic area with beautiful views of the shimmering ocean where you can have a picnic.
Visiting Bluff Point Park is one of the many ways to get away from the hustle and bustle of the community center.
So load your outdoor essentials and head to Bluff Point State Park for an outdoor adventure.
Address 55 Depot Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
6. Dig Deeper Into America’s Revolutionary History at the Monument House Museum
Monument House Museum
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) started meeting there in 1894, and members began donating items for display in the new museum.
The DAR included the Memorial Annex (upper room) to house the growing collection.
In the museum, you will discover displayed artifacts from the battle and other periods of the city’s history.
The Revolutionary War exhibit accommodates several fascinating artifacts, including a painting portraying the battle.
Monument House Museum holds hundreds of years of history, featuring archives, artifacts, and photographs to honor the historical significance of Groton.
Address: 300 Monument St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
7. Go over to the Historic Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Historic Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
You can climb the monument for a 360-degree view of the city and the Thames River or explore the tiny underground tunnel winding through the attraction.
The Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park is an outstanding piece of the United State’s revolutionary history.
The 17-acre site is preserved to retain the historical importance of the historic battleground’s strategic earthworks and structure.
A trip to the park makes for a delightful experience during your trip to Groton, so ensure you drop by and dig deeper into America’s Revolutionary War History.
Address: Park Ave & Monument St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
8. See the enigmatic Gungywamp in Groton
Gungywamp
The Gungywamp is a 100-acre site consisting of stone chambers and slabs, forming two concentric circles that date back over 4,000 years.
Gungywamp is home to numerous stone chambers considered root cellars, possibly built in colonial times.
Fascinatingly, the stone chambers bear a resemblance to some from Medieval Ireland.
Some scholars believe that Irish monks may have used the chambers. The function and origin of archaeological sites continue to baffle archaeologists.
The Denison Pequostsepos Nature Center organizes regularly scheduled hikes to the area.
A trip to Gungywamp is an extraordinary experience in Groton, so ensure you schedule a tour in advance.
Address: Groton, CT 06340, United States
Planning to explore Connecticut? Here is a list of things to do in Old Saybrook and fun things to do in Essex for a memorable vacation.
9. Go for a Walk at the picturesque Poquonnock River Walkway
If you want to spend an unwinding time in Groton, consider taking a stroll at the Poquonnock River Walkway.
The ½-mile boardwalk meanders alongside the Pocquonnock River in Groton. The boardwalk keeps out the problematic task of stressful hiking because it is accessible by a wheelchair and excellent for a casual stroll.
The expansive and level boardwalk makes this hike a suitable spot for families. Strollers, small children, wheelchairs, and walkers can navigate the surface quickly.
Enjoy the peacefulness of the beautiful landscape and keep your eyes peeled out to spot birds flying in the sky.
As you walk on the Broadway trail, breathe in the sunshine, even on a winter day.
There are also benches and a gazebo located at the end of the trail, where you and your family can spend a picnic day trip.
Address: Groton, CT 06340, USA
10. Go over to the Ebenezer Avery House
Ebenezer Avery House
This 10-room house was built in the 1760s. It initially stood at the corner of Latham Street and Thames Street.
You can explore the colonial house to learn about Avery’s family’s life during the Revolutionary period.
The family home’s design is preserved adequately with authentic furnishings inspired by the Victorian era.
The Ebenezer Avery House is available to the public for touring during weekends of the summer season, so make sure you drop by if you plan to visit Groton in the summer.
Address: 57 Fort St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
11. Take your little kids to Cognitive Garden at Avery Point
If you have little ones, you should carry them to the Cognitive Garden at Avery Point.
The attraction’s visitors, particularly young kids, may explore and learn about their environment through their senses. Using one’s senses is an extremely effective method of promoting mental growth.
In this well-designed garden, you will come across numerous sensory experiences as you walk from one section to the next.
Teenagers and adults may enjoy the outdoors and the serenity they bring while encouraging kids to explore and build a calming and therapeutic relationship with nature.
Address:1084 Shennecossett Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
12. Go Back in Time at the Avery-Copp House
Avery-Copp House
Among the top things to do in Groton, CT, is to walk down memory lane at the Avery-Copp House.
The Avery-Copp House is an 18th-century home located on the banks of the Thames River. A step inside this historical house is like stepping into a time machine.
The house houses two hundred years of history showcased via a collection of artifacts and preserved furnishing representing the typical family life in the 19th century.
In addition to local history, the house is nestled on gorgeously landscaped terraced grounds facing the river.
Let the walls narrate the house’s story as you walk through the museum, and allow it to guide you on a trip to the past.
Don’t miss out on a chance to glimpse history, so stop by this quaint, lovely house on your trip to Groton.
Address: 154 Thames St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
13. Admire the Whaling Wall
In the center of downtown, you will discover another impressive tribute to the city’s history as a busy whaling port.
This colorful mural, called the Whaling Wall, was painted by environmental artist Robert Wyland. It was painted on the side of a building at the junction of Eugen O’Neill Drive and State Street.
The large painting created in 1994 features jellyfish, giant sperm whales, and dolphins.
Signs of wear and tear are apparent at different times throughout the year. Fortunately, this treasured landmark is touched up yearly to revive it.
This gigantic beauty is the primary attraction on New London’s famous Mural Walk.
Address: The corner of Eugene O’Neill Drive and State Street, New London, Connecticut
14. Brush your swings at Shennecossett Golf Course
Shennecossett, a historic public golf course in Groton, has 18 challenging holes.
Thomas Avery, a local homeowner, constructed the first four-hole course on this property in 1898.
Over the next few decades, Shennecossett experienced numerous transformations, including a redesign by Donald Ross, developing into the 18-hole country club it is today.
Many important events, like the Connecticut Open, played out in the course in the early 1900s.
Groton obtained the land in the 1960s and converted it into a municipal golf course.
The course offers beautiful vistas of the Thames River and Long Island Sound, and there is a chance to see a US submarine or a tall ship out at sea.
If you are searching for a fantastic place to play golf in Groton, Shennecossett is undoubtedly one of the best.
Partake in the rich history of golf by visiting and playing at this golf course.
Address: 93 Plant St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
15. Wander around the Haley Farm State Park
Haley Farm State Park
The Haley Farm State Park is another picturesque place to visit if you want more outdoor adventure.
Visitors can pedal their way through the trails on a bike since the park has a well-paved bike trail suitable for beginner riders and young cyclists. Haley Farm State Park also carries a little bit of history.
Here, guests will come across numerous stones constructed in the late 1800s and 1900s by Calen Haley, and there are still a few remains of the farm building spread around the park.
A trip to Haley State Park offers a thrilling opportunity to experience the outdoors and learn some history.
Address:24 Haley Farm Ln, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Planning a trip to Connecticut, don’t miss our checklist of fun things to do in Norwalk, and fun things to do in Hartford.
16. Watch a show at the Garde Arts Center
Garde Arts Center
Under threat of being destroyed in 1985, The Garden Art Center was established to help save, revive, and run the historic theater.
Their goal was to utilize the building as a performance and local gathering place to foster creativity and a sense of community.
You can catch a concert, comedy show, film, or dance performance on its stage. Aside from hosting engaging events, the Garde Arts Center offers family and special events and educational programs.
Address: 325 State St, New London, CT 06320, United States
17. Buy souvenirs at Lee’s Toy and Hobby
Lee’s Toys & Hobby has been family-owned and run since it was opened in 1952. Visiting this shop is like walking down memory lane.
It features an unrivaled selection of models, including airplanes, ships, automobiles, military vehicles, and ships. It also contains a large selection of science fiction models. Have a look at its selection of model train sets.
There are goods from their most popular lines- LIONEL, Woodland Scenics, and Bachmann-on display.
If you are in the mood for some quick action, browse their selection of aircraft, remote-controlled automobiles, drones, boats, and helicopters. Even more, you may buy model race cars for your tracks.
Lee’s Toys & Hobby promotes itself as a commercial shop and a place to find new interests.
Address: 935 Poquonnock Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
18. Take fun pictures along the Wall to Wall New London Mural Walk
You can see almost everything from gorillas to musicians and scuba divers while roaming along the Wall to Wall New London Mural Wall.
The mural walks take about 30 to 60 minutes to finish and perhaps longer if you get tempted to shop in the shops you pass or grab something to eat at one of the terrific restaurants.
The lively works are the creations of local and internationally acclaimed artists.
They were designed to foster cultural diversity while leading guests past historic structures and monuments and intertwining them around areas of stores, galleries, and cafes. They are captivating, vibrant, and highly photographable.
Address: 79 Bank St, New London, CT 06320, United States
19. Feel a Cannon at Fort Trumbull State Park
Fort Trumbull State Park
Visiting Fort Trumbull State Park is among the most fascinating things to do near Groton, especially on a sunny day.
This historic stronghold nestled atop a hill boasts beautiful views of the Thames River and a history lesson you won’t forget in a hurry.
The original Fort Trumbull was constructed in the 18th century to protect the harbor from raids by the British. The family-friendly fort displayed today is the third and was built in the mid-19th century.
Many signs are posted around the fort and its ramparts, which makes it easy to embark on a self-guided tour.
For a more profound experience, book a guided tour. Then, go inside to view the living quarters as they would have seemed in the 1800s and a 1950s office and mock laboratory.
Interactive exhibits are in the visitor center, generally open between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
While on the fort’s ground, slowly stroll down to the boardwalk and fishing pier. The waterfront is particularly gorgeous and offers a lovely backdrop for pictures.
Fort Trumbull State Park is in New London, CT, 8 minutes from Groton, CT.
Address: 90 Walbach St, New London, CT 06320, United States
20. Pay tribute to Maritime Heroes at the US Submarine Veterans of WWII National Memorial East
The US Submarine Veterans of WWII National Memorial East memorializes those who served in the United States submarines during the Second World War.
It comprises a giant Wall of Honor, different memorials, and a pathway lined with plagues celebrating the lives of soldiers and submariners who died in the conflict.
In 1994, the city dedicated the Wall of Honor, memorializing over 3,600 submarine troops.
The memorial also features the submarine Flasher’s tower. This tower is significant because it was responsible for capsizing more Japanese ships by tonnage than any other submarine during the Second World War.
Paying tribute to the Submarine Veterans of WWII National Memorial East is another top thing to do in Groton.
Address: 37 Bridges St, Groton, Ct, United States
21. Connect with nature at the Connecticut College Arboretum
Connecticut College Arboretum
This natural utopia featuring 750 acres of lush landscapes opened in 1931. It provides a much-needed breath of fresh air in the center of New London.
The arboretum is maintained to educate the next generation about sustainability and expand their wealth of knowledge about the environment and ecology.
It is practically a “living laboratory,” and students use it to conduct research. Others use it to enjoy a fantastic break from reality.
Several trails wind their way through the grounds, which include a 30-acre Native Plant collection (with North American wildflowers and plants,) a three-acre Caroline Black Garden (containing a variety of woody plants), and a 120-acre Campus Landscape (featuring trees and shrubs from across the globe).
Address: 270 Mohegan Ave Pkwy, New London, CT 06320, United States
22. Have a fun time at Groton Bowling Center
Do you have spare time on your hands? If yes, you should step out for a little and go bowling at Groton Bowling Center. It is one of the fun things to do in Groton, CT.
Groton Bowling Center has a large projection screen and a few televisions on the wall so customers can relax, watch the game, toss corn hole, and play pool.
Additionally, there is an arcade that is suitable and fun for both young and old. Groton Bowling Center also has a snack bar available for usage.
Address: 27 Kings Hwy, Groton, CT 06340, United States
23. Look at artistic works in Hygienic Galleries
The Hygienic Galleries are harbored in the Hygienic Building, reconstructed in the early 20th century. The first structure was burned by British forces in 1786.
It is owned by Hygienic Art, Inc., a company that revived this formerly abandoned building.
Inside, you will discover a public art gallery and artist’s studios showing off intriguing works from creators of all types.
The fun does not end there. In 2001, the company transformed a once dark and unfavorable corner at the bottom of the building into a peaceful and inviting outdoor space.
Intricate wrought-iron fences surround the sculpture garden, highlighting a remarkable mural gracing the building’s side wall.
This beautiful site is a great, quiet place among the bustling streets.
Address: 79 Bank St, New London, CT 06320, United States
24. Look around the US Coast Guard Museum
The US Coast Guard Museum is located in the US Coast Guard Academy. To obtain access, you must go via the front gate and show a government-issued ID upon arrival.
If you are visiting from overseas, you must contact the museum curator before your visit.
Although small, this exceptional museum is crammed with captivating finds and records the history of the US Coast Guard from its genesis to the present day.
It features a collection of different US Coast Guard-related items, such as weapons, flight suits, paintings, historical artifacts, and elaborate information on the Guard’s storied past.
Address: 15 Mohegan Ave Pkwy, New London, CT 06320, United States
Explore other parts of Connecticut. Check out our list of things to do in Bridgeport, things to do in Stamford, and things to do in Greenwich for a fun vacation time.
Plan Your Trip to Groton
Wondering what to do in Groton, CT? A trip to the town allows you to take home many historical learnings and unforgettable experiences, as it offers exciting and educational adventures.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit to Groton Today.