Groton in Connecticut has a close connection to water as it sits on a strategic position along the Thames River. Indeed, water has played a major role in the development of Groton. There is a deep history behind this city and reflects in the number of historical monuments around the city. For instance, you can take the family out to visit the Fort Griswold, a base during the war that was used for defence. There are several state parks around the area where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy walks and hikes. When feeling peckish, there are several quality restaurants for one to check out. Do read the article below to find out more about some of the best things to do in Groton, Connecticut.
1. Visit the historic Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Posted by Fort Griswold Battlefield on Tuesday, 10 December 2019
The Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park sits strategically above the Thames River. This site contains elements of the Revolutionary War fort as well as a monument that aims to pay tribute to those who lost their lives protecting the region. Besides the Groton monument in the Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, there is also a Monument House Museum. Artefact remains from the battle are now housed in this museum. This park is free for all to explore and learn more about the history of the war that ensued.
Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Address: Park Ave & Monument St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: Free
2. Check out Nautilus and Submarine Force Museum
The Submarine Force Museum located in Groton, Connecticut, is home to Nautilus, a nuclear-powered vessel. It is said that the Nautilus was the first ship to head to the North Pole and the first submarine to go deep down under the water. In this museum, visitors have the chance to explore the open spaces in and around the vessel. Visitors can find out more about how the crew worked onboard the vessel as well as their way of life. The Submarine Force Museum is home to some of the best artefacts in the world.
Nautilus and Submarine Force Museum
Address: : 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Nautilus and Submarine Force Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9am - 4pm (closed on Tue)
Price: Free
3. Enjoy the scenic Haley Farm State Park
Posted by Lindsey's Lens Photography on Thursday, 12 December 2019
Do not miss visiting Haley Farm State Park when you are in Groton. This is a great park which is rich in birdlife. The park allows you to engage in a range of outdoor activities. Recreational activities such as hiking, biking and walking can be enjoyed here. While on the trail, there is also an opportunity to enjoy the wildlife. Appreciate the calming sounds of birds chirping as you walk the trail. Dogs are also allowed to use the trails only when they are leashed.
Haley Farm State Park
Address: 24 Haley Farm Ln, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Haley Farm State Park
Opening hours: 8am - sunset (daily)
Price: Free
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Learn a lot at Project Oceanology
Posted by Project Oceanology on Friday, 8 November 2019
Project Oceanology provides an entire family with the chance to enjoy an awesome day out at sea. This involves guided oceanographic cruise aboard the famous R.V. Envirolab. The vessel comes equipped with competent crew comprising oceanographers and interns. Visitors will be guided through a session where they will learn methods of catching varied sea creatures such as a squid or crab. Visitors get a hands-on experience of doing so and also learn about the various marine life. This is one activity that both adults and children and engage in!
Project Oceanology
Address: 1084 Shennecossett Rd #1, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Project Oceanology
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 4.30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
5. Take a boat tour with Mystic Boat Adventures
Mystic Boat Adventures specialises in offering guided powerboat tours. In these tours, you are the captain of the boat and you get to enjoy sailing in the sea for as long as you decide prior to the sail. Why not make the most of this experience and undertake a sunset tour? Depart at dusk and enjoy the experience as you admire the sunset. Do note that you need to be above 18 with a valid driver’s license in order to operate the boat.
Mystic Boat Adventures
Address: 145 Pearl St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Mystic Boat Adventures
Opening hours: 9am - 5.30pm (daily)
Price: From 60 USD
6. Taste beers from Outer Light Brewing Company
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Outer Light Brewing Company is the local brewery in Groton that caters ti beer enthusiasts and adventurous beer lovers who come from all over the world. Experience the entire brewing process and end with a tasting when you visit this brewery. The beers offered here include standard flavours along with a rotation of different flavours. The company comes up with new flavours from time to time. It is a great idea to make a trip to Outer Light Brewing Company with friends or family.
Outer Light Brewing Company
Address: 266 Bridge St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Outer Light Brewing Company
Opening hours: Wed: 5pm - 9pm; Thu: 5pm - 8pm; Fri: 2.30pm - 9pm; Sat: 12pm - 9pm; Sun: 1pm - 6pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
7. Play around at Eastern Point Beach
Eastern Point Beach is a lovely destination which has facilities centred around an entire family. The beach comes equipped with snack bars, sanitized restrooms, showers and so on. The entire family can enjoy basketball or volleyballs in the courts available. While at this beach, soak in the sun and the scenic views. This is also where the Thames River meets the Long Island Sound, hence photography enthusiasts will have a great time. The peak season is typically from mid-June right up to early September. This is when everyone tries to be out, enjoying sun, sea and sky.
Eastern Point Beach
Address: 1 Beach Pond Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Eastern Point Beach
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Take in fresh air at Bluff Point State Park
The Bluff Point State Park is a public park which offers visitors the ideal paths for hiking and biking. The wooded trails turn out even more gorgeous due to the presence of a wide range of animals around. This state park includes a barrier beach and is protected by steep cliffs. A major portion of this state park has been designated as a coastal reserve. There are many recreational activities available for outdoor enthusiasts. These include activities like hiking, fishing, mountain biking and boating.
Bluff Point State Park
Address: 55 Depot Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Bluff Point State Park
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Dine out with family at Olio Restaurant & Bar
If you are craving for Italian food, then visit Olio Restaurant located in central Groton. Diners here can expect a warm ambience due to the fascinating zen decor that you walk into when you visit the restaurant. The restaurant adopts a black and white theme, adding to the classic look of the eatery. The ambience is absolutely appealing and comfortable. The menu features well-known Italian food as well as innovative creations by the chef.
Olio Restaurant & Bar
Address: 33 Kings Hwy, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Olio Restaurant & Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11.30am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11.30am - 10pm; Sun: 4.30pm - 9pm
Price: From 30 USD
10. Go grubbing at The Shack
The Shack is an affordable, family-owned eatery which is devoted to serving people with good quality American food. Operating since 1989, the Shack opens at breakfast and serves up to dinner. The menu features American all-time favourites and can satiate the cravings of both adults and children alike.
The Shack
Address: 441 Long Hill Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: The Shack
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6am - 8pm; Sun: 6am - 1pm
Price: From 10 USD
11. Swing by Alexey von Schlippe Gallery of Art
Alexey von Schlippe Gallery of Art is a prestigious art gallery located in the University of Connecticut: Avery Point campus. This gallery is home to several impressive work by regional artists along with American and international ones. The work here is varied and covers a broad spectrum of themes. The gallery which is free to enter runs exhibitions on various themes on a regular basis. Do check out the website to find out more about the latest events being held.
Alexey von Schlippe Gallery of Art
Address: 1084 Shennecossett Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Alexey von Schlippe Gallery of Art
Opening hours: Thu: 12pm - 4pm; Fri - Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
Price: Free
12. Shop at Olde Mistick Village
Olde Mistick Village is the ideal venue for one to spend their day shopping. This village is a beautifully recreated area where stores are housed in timber buildings depicting the past. Take your time and browse through the shops in the area which include cinemas, restaurants, coffee shops and many more. The village features elements of the European settlers who resided in the Mystic region back in the 1650s. Visit one of the many souvenir stores and grab some giveaways. There are various events which are held in this village throughout the year. The village is open all year round and is free to explore.
Olde Mistick Village
Address: 27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, United States
Website: Olde Mistick Village
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
13. Pick what you need at Groton Square Shopping Centre
You can be rest assured that with Groton Square Shopping Centre, all your shopping needs will be met. There are tons of stores which also include beauty stores, restaurants, cafes, grocery store and so on. Famous stores include Walmart, Kohl’s and Payless. Groton Square frequently offers sales and offers, making it worth your time to visit the mall. It is also a short drive from Downtown Mystic.
Groton Square Shopping Centre
Address: 220 Connecticut 12, Groton, CT, United States, 06340
Website: Groton Square Shopping Centre
Opening hours: 6am - 11.30pm (daily)
14. Plan a day at Ebenezer Avery House and Museum
Ebenezer Avery House and Museum is the site where wounded American soldiers who fought the battle of Groton Heights were brought to, eventually becoming their shelter. This house has stood strong for over two centuries and is situated between Latham and Thames Street. The Ebenezer Avery House was bought over by Stanton Avery of California. In 1971, it was handed over to Avery Memorial Association. This association has been responsible for restoring and furnishing the home again.
Ebenezer Avery House and Museum
Address: 57 Fort St, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Ebenezer Avery House and Museum
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
Price: Free
15. Bring your friends to the popular Ryan's Pub
This is a neighbourhood pub which is best known for its range of drinks and grub offered on the menu. The ambience of the eatery is laid-back and attracts large crowds, especially during the weekend. The drinks are served chilled, ideal for a hot day or night. Burgers are listed on the menu and are equally delicious. There is a pool table in the area which diners can use.
Ryan's Pub
Address: 112 Fort Hill Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Ryan’s Pub
Opening hours: 8am - 1am (daily)
16. Take a swim at Esker Point Beach
Esker Point Beach is one of the few public beaches in the state of Connecticut. This beautiful beach is located on Esker Bay close to Groton Long Point. There is ample parking space in the vicinity so those coming by car will not have a problem with parking. The beach features a small boat launch area from where non-motored boats like kayaks and rafts leave. The beach has fine sand which makes it perfect for people to laze around as well as for kids to play. One can also play volleyball on the beach with the courts available for public use.
Esker Point Beach
Address: 900 Groton Long Point Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Website: Esker Point Beach
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Spend quality time in Groton
There are quite a number of interesting things that one can do while in Groton. Regardless of your interests and group size, you will definitely be well entertained. Pack your bags and land in Groton right away.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to