Today is Friday, October 30, 2026
Hop-on Hop-off Harbor Cruises are not running today.

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2026-2027 Performance Series: History Comes Alive in the Park

History takes center stage in Thames River Heritage Park’s six-part Performance Series, History Comes Alive in the Park. Through engaging reenactments, lively debates, music, and storytelling, talented performers will bring historical figures and events to life, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience history beyond the pages of a textbook. 

Beginning November 10, 2026, and continuing through February 23, 2027, the series will explore the people, personalities, and events that shaped our nation, with special attention to the American Revolution, women’s contributions, and our region’s rich maritime heritage. 

From the intrigue of Benedict and Peggy Arnold and the spirited debate surrounding the Boston Tea Party to the powerful voices of Harriet Beecher Stowe, revolutionary women, and New London’s own Abigail Hinman, each performance offers a different perspective on the past. 

More than simply learning about history, audiences will have the opportunity to see it, hear it, and experience it firsthand. Ticket holders will also have access to museum galleries prior to the performance during the reception.

Dates: November 10, 2026 – February 23, 2027
Where: Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London, CT

Final Full Moon Cruise & October Walking Tours

Saturday, October 24 | 6PM & 6:30PM

Ghosts of Groton Bank

“A Walk in the Park” event co-hosted with Avery-Copp House Museum.

The chill in the air means Halloween is approaching. Tour the Avery-Copp House Museum and explore some history of the macabre. Discover the origins of Halloween traditions, then visit our parlor all set for a Victorian funeral. Our guide will take you for a stroll on Thames Street, telling haunted tales of the neighborhood along the way.

Sunday, October 25 | 11AM-12:30PM

Groton Bank Walking Tour

“A Walk in the Park” event hosted by Thames River Heritage Park Foundation.

Meet the Whaling Captains, Shipbuilders and People of Influence who made their homes on the Groton Bank of the Thames River. Tour the community where they lived and prospered; hear the stories of the achievements that made them legends in their times.

Monday, October 26 | 6-7PM
“Hunter’s” Full Moon Cruise

Set sail beneath the radiant Hunter’s Moon and enjoy a crisp autumn evening on the river. This unforgettable cruise pairs the seasonal atmosphere with gorgeous nighttime views of the New London & Groton waterfront.

Next in the Park…October Events & Programs!

Newsletter: October 16-31, 2026

Newsletter: October 1-15, 2026

E-newsletters will now be shared on a bi-monthly basis throughout the spring and summer months. There are so many amazing opportunities for exploration at all heritage sites for all to enjoy!

Thames River Heritage Park is comprised of 25 heritage sites throughout New London Groton and Waterford, Connecticut. Check out the latest newsletter and find the perfect event, program or activity for yourself, friends and family!

#DiscovertheThames #VisitCT #ExploreNewLondon

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

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