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Books of the Thames

Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026
Departure: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London, CT

This boat tour highlights local history, literature, and sites that inspired famous books. Led by history educator Julie Cagle, the tour brings maritime and colonial stories to life.

In Our Nation’s Defense. Military Stories on the Thames

Dates: June- September
Departure: Nautilus Dock, Groton, CT

From the Revolution to modern Submarine Warfare, the Thames River has played an important role in our nation’s defense. Join us on a tour which includes local history from the Revolution, the War of 1812, World Wars I and II and the development of the Modern Submarine. Cruise by the Coast Guard Academy and Submarine Base New London while we regale you with tales of our contributions to our nation’s military history.

 

Groton Congregational Church

Groton Congregational was established in 1702.  Its minister, Rev. Aaron Kinne, served as the chaplain for the American forces during the Battle of Fort Griswold, on September 6, 1781. Most adult male members of the church perished at the battle.  The current building is the fourth meeting house, which was constructed in 1902 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The sanctuary is comprised of polished oak; Moller Pipe Organ; original chandeliers; and stained-glass windows, most notably The Avery Memorial Window.
 
Interested in visiting the site outside of service hours? Tours can be arranged by calling the church.
 
Address: 162 Monument Street, Groton, CT 06340
Distance from Thames River Landing Departure Location: 0.4 miles
Phone Number: 860-445-7409
Hours: 10AM Sunday Service

Harkness Memorial State Park

 

Much of the Park’s historic distinction is attributed to Eolia, the grand former summer home of philanthropists Edward and Mary Harkness, and its surrounding gardens and greenhouse. This Gatsby-era mansion is among the best remaining examples of the grand seaside estates that once occupied the Sound’s shoreline at the beginning of the twentieth century. The Park’s meticulously maintained grounds feature spectacular formal gardens, expansive lawns, and picnic areas, a rock filled sandy beach and panoramic views of the Sound.

Situated on Goshen Point, Harkness Memorial State Park is amongst the most spectacular sites on the East Coast, with lengthy coastline and panoramic sea views. The property boasts bucolic colonial-era fields, stone walls, and buildings associated with the ancestors of the Park’s donor, Mary Stillman Harkness. The park includes 237 acres of gardens, groves, beaches and tidal marshes, with some 60 buildings, 15 of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From its vast lawns, Fishers Island, Great Gull, Little Gull, Plum Island and the North Fork of Long Island can be seen.

Eolia Tours: Friends of Harkness volunteer docents lead guided tours on weekends and holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day on Saturdays & Sundays from 10am – 1:30pm. Sign up at the Mansion on the day of the tour. Donations for tours are welcome and most appreciated, but space is limited. Mansion & Garden Tours are also available by appointment through the Friends of Harkness.

Address: 275 Great Neck Rd, Waterford, CT 06385
Distance from City Pier Water Taxi Landing: 5 miles
Phone Number: 860-443-5725
Hours: Open Daily, 8am-Sunset | Fees apply Memorial Day through Labor Day
Admission: Free for In-State Registered Vehicles | $10-$15 for Out-of-State Vehicles

Gift Card

Not sure which gift to choose for your favorite person? Select a gift card in any denomination! It can be used for the Docent Academy, Lecture Series, Harbor Cruise Season Passes, Boat Tour tickets, and more!

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