update

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 presents: A Walk in the Park! This is a series of walking tours throughout the month of October hosted by heritage sites and institutional partners.

The park has many stories to tell and now you can lean into your favorite local history, while on foot! Purchase your tickets early for this limited capacity series below. 

• Sunday, October 18, 2026: Mamacoke Island Hike 
• Saturday, October 24, 2026: Ghosts of Groton Bank 
• Sunday, October 25, 2026: Groton Bank Walking Tour 

Rescheduled Date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
Time: 2:45-8pm
Departure Location: City Pier, New London

Experience the Thames River like never before aboard the Park’s first annual Norwich Harbor Glow Cruise. You’ll head north to Norwich with a narrated, guided river tour on the way to the free, family-friendly community event held at the Marina at American Wharf. Guests can enjoy the festival from 4-6PM and cruise back to New London while enjoying the sunset! This cruise was postponed from Sunday, September 27 due to poor weather conditions.

Itinerary:
Depart New London at 2:45pm
Get to Norwich at 3:45pm
Harbor Glow Event: 4-7pm
Depart Norwich at 7pm
Get to New London at 8pm

Guests of all ages are welcome on this excursion. Pack a cooler with your favorite beverages and snacks, grab your people and cruise! Questions? Contact Us: (860) 407-565

Ride & Save Program in Norwich:

Ticket holders for the cruise can take advantage of these exclusive deals at local businesses. All you have to do is show your receipt at checkout! Learn more on our website.

Strange Brew Pub
86 Water St, Norwich
10% credit or $1 cash off your first order

Traviezo
1 Market Street, Norwich
Free dessert with any entree

The Briar Patch
48 Franklin St, Norwich
10% off any in-store item

As of Sunday, September 13th, the Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise & Historic Boat Tour schedule has come to an end for the summer. While this regularly scheduled service has wrapped up, there are still plenty of opportunities to get on the river before the end of the Park’s official 2026 boating season!

Sunday, October 4th
Norwich Harbor Glow Cruise | 2:45-8PM
City Pier, New London

Experience the Thames River like never before aboard the Park’s first annual Norwich Harbor Glow Cruise. You’ll head north to Norwich with a narrated, guided river tour on the way to the free, family-friendly community event held at the Marina at American Wharf. Guests can enjoy the festival from 4-6PM and cruise back to New London while enjoying the sunset!

Sunday, October 4th
Black Heritage Along the Thames | 11:45AM
Fort Trumbull State Park, New London

New London’s 400-year history reflects the broader American story, yet many contributions of its Black community have long been overlooked. This tour highlights those stories of struggle, resilience, abolition, education, and community, honoring and learning about those who fought for equality and inspiring us to continue their work to deliver the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. Led by local historians Nicole Thomas and Tom Schuch.

Monday, October 26th
Full Moon Cruise on the Thames | 6PM
City Pier, New London

Set sail beneath the radiant Hunter’s Moon and enjoy a crisp autumn evening filled with dramatic skies and glowing moonlit waters. Traditionally marking the transition into the colder months, this unforgettable cruise pairs seasonal atmosphere with spectacular nighttime views of the historic waterfront.

Past Events:

Sunday, September 20th
Salsa on the Thames | 1PM & 3PM
City Pier, New London

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Park will be hosting Salsa on the Thames! This one-hour cruise will feature musicians and childhood friends, Alessandra Gonzalez and Daniel Villegas. From their indigenous background to their Nuyorican way of thinking, Daniel and Alessandra truly represent Colombia and Puerto Rico. Join us for this toe-tapping cruise as they bring culture to the Thames.