Home of the largest submarine manufacturer in America, Groton is a medium-sized oceanfront community. The first nuclear submarine (USS Nautilus) was built here in 1954, and has now been put on public display in the shipyard.
The Historic Ship Nautilus and Force Museum offers tours of the sub's torpedo and control rooms, living and dining areas, and attack center. The Museum also has a collection of submarines, circa 1700s - present.
Several instructional cruises set out to identify marine animals and to learn about the 1909 New London Ledge Lighthouse. These are unique explorations of the area that provide a wealth of knowledge, a day of adventure, and a heap of fun.
New London, an old whaling town near Groton, is home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the Tall Ship, Baroque Eagle. Sitting on the banks of the Thames River, it is often a port of call for Tall Ships and luxury cruise liners.
A night out on the town here often means taking in a Broadway show at the Garde Arts Center, where national and international performers come out to play, or enjoying a free performance at Leamy Hall Auditorium and dining out at one of the area's numerous restaurants.
Outdoor activities are favored here with many resources for hiking, fishing, swimming, skating and biking. Connecticut College's 750-acre arboretum has trails through numerous ecosystems that provide beauty and enjoyment to its visitors..
Pier fishing at Fort Trumball State Park often yields great results with its variety of game fish including striped bass, bluefish and tautog. Swimming and camping are available at Ocean Beach State Park. Ice skating can also be found at the Norwich Ice Rink.
