Next in the Park: August 16th-31st | | |
Pop-Up Tours and More on the Thames River
The Islands of Avery Point
Saturday, August 16th
This tour will examine the natural and human history of Pine Island, Bushy Point and Bluff Point, part of the newly created CT National Estuarine Research Reserve in collaboration with CT Sea Grant and Guest Guide Syma Ebbin.
Exploring Groton's History on the Banks of the Thames
Sunday, August 17th
Relive the heyday of the community that grew up along the river with Groton’s Historian and engaging storyteller, Jim Streeter. This tour will include a rare glimpse into the growth of the wealthy Eastern Point Community.
Mohegan Life on the Massapequatuck. Origins of the Mohegans
Saturday, August 23rd
Narrated by a knowledgeable tribal member as your guide, this tour will head north up the Thames and into the quiet estuary the Mohegan tribe calls home.
Captivating Books and Stories: Inspired by Sites along the Thames River
Saturday, August 23rd
Cruise along the Thames River and hear about sites that sparked authors' imaginations to write their own stories. In collaboration with CT Landmarks & the Hempsted Houses.
Well-Heeled and Wannabees. The Gilded Age on the Thames
Sunday, August 24th & Saturday, August 30th
View the summer cottages, elegant homes and estates while you hear stories of the wealthy vacationers who enjoyed the Thames River during the Gilded Age.
Discover the Thames
Sunday, August 31st
Travel along both sides of the Thames to its mouth on Long Island Sound where you’ll get an introduction to the people, places, and events which shaped the region.
| | |
NL Community Boatworks
Build a Figurehead
SAT, AUG 16 | 11AM-3PM
Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London
Learn about the art of boatbuilding from the local nonprofit New London Community Boatworks (NLCBW). Design your own two-dimensional ship figurehead, inspired by the spirit and history of the City of New London. Your design could help NLCBW develop a three-dimensional model that will later be added to one of their handcrafted boats.
MORE INFO
| | |
Historical Boat Tours & Cruises
Thames River Heritage Park
SAT, AUG 16 | ALL DAY
New London-Groton
Military Stories on the Thames | 11am & 12:45pm
Islands of Avery Point | 2:45pm
Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise | 11am-6pm
Every weekend, all summer long.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
New London Maritime Society
Explore Inside Ledge Lighthouse
SAT, AUG 16 | 4:30PM
City Pier, New London
Tours out to Ledge Lighthouse resume through the New London Maritime Society for the summer! This 90-minute trip brings you out to the lighthouse, with an hour to explore the landmark itself. Due to a Veolia/NL Water Authority grant, all New London residents can visit for just $5. Purchase your tickets in advance!
MORE INFO
| | |
Body Painting Competition
Naked Canvas by Culture Shock
SAT, AUG 16 | 7-11PM
Hygienic Art, New London
Come and experience this year’s competing artists using bodypaint designs to represent various cultures while showcasing their work on the runway in front of a panel of judges for a chance to win a cash prize. Music by DJ SHADOW and hosted by Frank Colemares and Cool Ray. Purchase tickets in advance or at the door!
MORE INFO
| | |
Sunday Service
Reverend Susan Olson
SUN, AUG 17 | 10AM
Pequot Chapel, New London
Celebrating faith and fellowship for over 150 years, Pequot Chapel is non-sectarian gathering space open to all. A remnant of the historic Pequot Colony; the Chapel is a spiritual, social, and cultural center for the neighborhood and region. This week's service is led by Reverend Susan Olson, First Congregational Church, Lyme, CT.
MORE INFO
| | |
New London Maritime Society
Explore Inside Ledge Lighthouse
SUN, AUG 17 | 4:15PM
City Pier, New London
Tours out to Ledge Lighthouse resume through the New London Maritime Society for the summer! This 90-minute trip brings you out to the lighthouse, with an hour to explore the landmark itself. Due to a Veolia/NL Water Authority grant, all New London residents can visit for just $5. Purchase your tickets in advance!
MORE INFO
| | |
One Singular Sensation
A Chorus Line (1985)
TUE, AUG 19 | 7PM
Garde Arts Center, New London
Based on the Tony Award winning play which also won the Pulitzer Prize. Auditionees for a Broadway chorus line reveal their innermost thoughts and emotions in song and dance before a hard-boiled director. Enjoy this FREE classic movie brought to you by our generous community sponsors.
MORE INFO
| | |
Friends of Cedar Grove
Monument Cleaning Gathering
WED, AUG 20 | 3PM
Cedar Grove Cemetery, New London
David Oat, a Friends member, local historian and expert will discuss appropriate cleaning substances and materials and demonstrate techniques. Those in attendance also will have an opportunity to try their hands at cleaning headstones. Contact gbraccimac@gmail.com or suzanneoc22@gmail.com for more information. Location: 638 Broad Street, New London.
MORE INFO
| | |
Virtual Conversation
Stories of Early American Trade
WED, AUG 20 | 6PM
Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London
Join LAAM for a virtual discussion to explore China from China: Porcelain and Stories of Early American Trade with collectors H. Richard Dietrich III and Edward Tiedemann. This exhibit showcases the Dietrich collection of Chinese export porcelain and paintings, a portion of which was exhibited at the Chinese American Museum in Washington, D.C. in 2022.
MORE INFO
| | |
Historical Boat Tours & Cruises
Thames River Heritage Park
FRI, AUG 22
Nautilus Dock, Groton
In Our Nation's Defense. Military Stories on the Thames | 11AM & 12:45PM
Cruise past a Revolutionary battle site and learn how submarines are built in the Submarine Capital of the World.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
New London Maritime Society
Explore Inside Ledge Lighthouse
SUN, AUG 23 | 9AM
MON, AUG 24 | 9:30AM
City Pier, New London
Tours out to Ledge Lighthouse resume through the New London Maritime Society for the summer! This 90-minute trip brings you out to the lighthouse, with an hour to explore the landmark itself. Due to a Veolia/NL Water Authority grant, all New London residents can visit for just $5. Purchase your tickets in advance!
MORE INFO
| | |
Historical Boat Tours & Cruises
Thames River Heritage Park
SAT, AUG 23 | ALL DAY
New London-Groton
Military Stories on the Thames | 11am
Origins of the Mohegans | 12:45pm
Captivating Books & Stories | 2:45pm
Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise | 11am-6pm
Every weekend, all summer long.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
Ahoy There, Mateys
Pirate Night
SAT, AUG 23 | 6PM
Parade Plaza, New London
Embrace the legend of Captain Kidd and the joy of pirate play. Don your pirate attire and gather at Parade Plaza by the Pirate Ship for a delightful photo session. Mingle with the swashbuckling crew, enjoy a shanty or two, and engage in conversations about seeking hidden treasures as hints are unveiled on the exciting New London Pirate Adventure Map.
MORE INFO
| | |
35 Year Celebration
Sound Waves Magazine
SAT, AUG 23 | 8PM
Garde Arts Center, New London
Come see the many great musicians who have been a part of the Sound Waves Magazine history. This is a show 35 years in the making that you don't want to miss. Hosted and Emceed by David “Lefty” Foster & The Shaboo All-Stars featuring the UPTOWN HORNS. The horn section of the Rolling Stones!
BUY TICKETS
| | |
Sunday Service
Reverend Tryphena Evans
SUN, AUG 24 | 10AM
Pequot Chapel, New London
Celebrating faith and fellowship for over 150 years, Pequot Chapel is non-sectarian gathering space open to all. A remnant of the historic Pequot Colony; the Chapel is a spiritual, social, and cultural center for the neighborhood and region. This week's service is led by Reverend Tryphena Evans, United Methodist Church, Moodus, CT.
MORE INFO
| | |
JIBBOOM Club #1
Historian John Steward
TUE, AUG 26 | 1:30PM
Custom House Museum, New London
Historian and author, John Steward, will take you on a journey into the controversy surrounding Colonel Ledyard's death, from it's creative beginning in 1781 to today, illustrating how the story became an urban legend in spite of its dubious past. Jibboom is not a 'club', but a friendly gathering. Please come and bring a friend.
MORE INFO
| | |
Waves & Jams at the Beach
Mass-Conn-Fusion Trio
WED, AUG 27 | 6-8PM
Eastern Point Beach, Groton
Concerts all summer for this mid-week series will be held on the front lawn of the Zbierski House. Bring your chair and take in the beautiful views of the Long Island Sound and Thames River. The Snack Bar will also be open for all to enjoy during the live music performance.
MORE INFO
| | |
Historical Boat Tours & Cruises
Thames River Heritage Park
FRI, AUG 29
Nautilus Dock, Groton
In Our Nation's Defense. Military Stories on the Thames | 11AM & 12:45PM
Cruise past a Revolutionary battle site and learn how submarines are built in the Submarine Capital of the World.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
Sea Inspired Fun
Pirate Days
SAT, AUG 30 | 11AM-4PM
SUN, AUG 31 | 11AM-4PM
Hempsted Houses, New London
Come out and explore an encampment where you’ll experience the life of a pirate. Stay for ship making, racing, crafts, and walking the plank like a pirate! Spend some time listening to stories of real-life pirates like Captain Kidd who visited Connecticut in 1690 and is said to have left behind treasure near modern day Milford, CT. Free for all ages.
MORE INFO
| | |
Historical Boat Tours & Cruises
Thames River Heritage Park
SAT, AUG 30 | ALL DAY
New London-Groton
Military Stories on the Thames | 11am & 12:45pm
Gilded Age on the Thames | 2:45pm
Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise | 11am-6pm
Every weekend, all summer long.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
Haitian Benefit Concert
Harmony for Hope
SAT, AUG 30 | 7PM
Garde Arts Center, New London
The Haitian Community Center of Greater Norwich is pleased to present an inspiring evening of Haitian music and cultural celebration. This special event will feature talented and distinguished artists performing kompa and other traditional Haitian music, highlighting the rich musical heritage of Haiti and its power to bring communities together.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
Weekend of Reggae
The Lost Tribe
SAT, AUG 30 | 7PM
Hygienic Art, New London
The Lost Tribe is a drum-centered Afro-funk fusion ensemble, led by percussionist Jocelyn Pleasant. She started the group in 2016, with the goal of infusing the djembe ensemble into African Diasporic music like jazz, rock, blues, and reggae. The staples of a Tribe performance are energy, stage presence and GROOVE.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
Sunday Service
Fr. Mark O'Donnell
SUN, AUG 31 | 10AM
Pequot Chapel, New London
Celebrating faith and fellowship for over 150 years, Pequot Chapel is non-sectarian gathering space open to all. A remnant of the historic Pequot Colony; the Chapel is a spiritual, social, and cultural center for the neighborhood and region. This week's service is led by Fr. Mark D. O'Donnell, Catholic Church, New London, CT.
MORE INFO
| | |
Live Music and Art
Shoreline Reggae Fest
SUN, AUG 31 | 4PM
Hygienic Art, New London
The Hygienic Art Park will be filled with energy for the Shoreline ReggaeFest featuring Glaucoma Suspect, Red Lion and Jam Shed. Doors open at 4pm. Tickets can be purchased early online for a small discount or in-person. Send of August with live music & art featuring Katie Fogg.
BUY TICKETS
| | |
New London Maritime Society
Explore Inside Ledge Lighthouse
SUN, AUG 31 | 4:15PM
City Pier, New London
Tours out to Ledge Lighthouse resume through the New London Maritime Society for the summer! This 90-minute trip brings you out to the lighthouse, with an hour to explore the landmark itself. Due to a Veolia/NL Water Authority grant, all New London residents can visit for just $5. Purchase your tickets in advance!
MORE INFO
| | |
All Talents Welcome
Open Mic at the Museum
SUN, AUG 31 | 6-9PM
Custom House Museum, New London
Co-hosted by Kenny "Doc" Frazier and Christina Corcoran, the monthly open mic welcomes music, poetry, prose, stand-up or just say what is on your mind. Open to all ages and abilities for fun and camaraderie! You can even Live Stream the event.
MORE INFO
| |
Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruises
Thames River Heritage Park
Saturdays & Sundays | 11AM-6PM
Departure Locations:
- Fort Trumbull State Park, New London
- City Pier, New London
- Thames Landing, Groton
The water taxi operates in a continuous loop every hour, on the hour. Walk, shop, eat or cruise along the route while exploring Thames River heritage sites.
MORE INFO
| | |
New London Harbor Light Tours
NL Maritime Society, New London
Saturdays & Sundays | 12PM
Climb 116 steps up into the lighthouse lantern for spectacular views of the Sound in the oldest and tallest lighthouse in the country. Tours occur each weekend of the year for groups of up to five people.
MORE INFO
| |
City of Groton Farmers Market
Washington Park, Groton
Tuesdays | 3-6PM
June 10th - October 10th
A variety of vendors will line the green of Washington Park all summer long with handmade items, produce, food, live music and more. Shop local!
MORE INFO
| |
Summer of Music & Family Fun
Ocean Beach Park, New London
Mondays: Cruise Night | 5PM
Wednesdays: Magic Show | 7PM
Thursdays: Boardwalk Dance Nights | 7PM
Friday-Saturday: Live Music
The park also has fireworks, festivals and one-off events all summer long!
EVENT SCHEDULE
| | |
Blissworks Yoga
Garde Arts Center, New London
Relocated from their Bank Street location, their classes now takes place in the spacious Garde.
Yoga Basics
Tuesdays | 9AM
Intermediate Yoga
Saturdays | 8:30AM
CLASS CALENDAR
| | |
Yoga with Kim
Hygienic Art, New London
Every Sunday | 9AM
Start your Sunday with Kim for a yoga experience at Hygienic Art sponsored by Yale New Haven Health. Best of all, it's FREE! Don’t miss out on this unique experience to practice and unwind in downtown New London.
MORE INFO
| | |
Gift Cards
Gift cards may be used for ALL historic and pop-up boat tours, Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruises, Lecture Series, Docent Academy registration and merchandise.
| | |
Season Pass
Season Pass holders enjoy unlimited boat rides for our Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise / Water Taxi service connecting New London's City Pier, Fort Trumbull and Thames Landing in Groton.
| | |
Become a Member
Memberships start as low as $35 donation. Members receive a variety of special benefits, including recognition on our website to discounted tickets and season passes.
| | |
Subscribe to Our Mailing List
Monthly Newsletters, Boat Tour Schedules, Heritage Site Updates and More
| | |
Visit the Park's Heritage Sites
| Thames River Heritage Park Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization committed to connecting, preserving, supporting and promoting the history and heritage sites along the Thames River estuary today and for generations to come. | | Thames River Heritage Park Institutional Partners are organizations committed to preserving and promoting our culture and history but may not have a site to welcome visitors. They are historic or cultural associations, “friends” organizations, and educational institutions. | |
- Connecticut Maritime Heritage Fest
- Connecticut Sea Grant
- Downtown New London Assoc.
- Friends of Fort Griswold
- Friends of Fort Trumbull
- Groton Bank Historical Assoc.
- Ledge Light Foundation
- National Coast Guard Museum
| |
- NL County Historical Society
- New London Landmarks
- New London Maritime Society
- Southeastern CT Cultural Coalition
- Southeastern CT Enterprise Region
- UCONN Avery Point Maritime Studies
| | |
Thank you to our Sponsors and Grantors
| | | | |
