update

Each summer in southeastern Connecticut, the park’s retired naval utility boats shake off their dust and return to the Thames River. With the season in the rearview, it is always nice to reflect on the reach and impact of our collective efforts.

The park launched a vibrant schedule with Pop-Up Tours, a new departure location at the Submarine Force Museum’s Nautilus dock and strengthened our partnerships with heritage sites and local storytellers.

We could not have had the range of success without our dedicated team of crew and volunteers who greet you upon arrival, help you on and off the boat and brought the maritime history to life on the river.

It was special to wrap up the season over the CT Maritime Heritage Festival. There was so much excitement and joy surrounding the free Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruise service and boat tours that recounted the region’s role during Benedict Arnold’s raid.

We look forward to seeing you all next year | One river. A thousand stories.

Brunch by the Sea was a fundraiser benefiting the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation held at the home of Ana Stankovic.  

Thank you to everyone who joined us at this year’s annual TRHP fundraiser! Your presence and enthusiastic support made the event a success and helped us to not only achieve, but to exceed, our goals.  

A huge thank you goes out to Ms. Ana Stankovic for opening her beautiful home by the Sea, allowing us to enjoy a gorgeous day by the Sea, as we ate a delicious Brunch by the Sea.  

We are so grateful for everyone’s generosity and commitment to helping us further our mission and purpose of promoting, supporting and sustaining the heritage sites that make up Thames River Heritage Park.  

And a special shoutout to the event sponsors: Cross Sound Ferry, Linda Mariani and David Neusner, Dime Bank, Phyllis and Doug Teeson, RJDA LLC, Muddy Waters Cafe and Secor Auto Group. As well as auction donors, volunteers and partners who dedicated their time! 

October in the Park Newsletter…Events & Programs!

October 1-31, 2025 | Latest Newsletter

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

Mark Your Calendars for this Unique Lineup of Heritage Site Walking Tours! 

Thames River Heritage Park presents, A Walk in the Park! A series of walking tours throughout the month of October at various heritage sites in New London and Groton.  

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. 

• Saturday, October 4: The Gilded Age Residents of Cedar Grove Cemetery 

• Sunday, October 12: Hempstead Historic District Walking Tour 

• Sunday, October 19: Mamacoke Island Hike 

• Saturday, October 25: Ghosts of Groton Bank 
• Sunday, October 26: Groton Bank Walking Tour 

September in the Park Newsletter…Events & Programs!

September 14th-30th, 2025

September 1st-14th, 2025

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