Garde Arts Center

Operating in the heart of downtown New London, Garde Arts Center is a nonprofit performing arts center and home to one of Connecticut’s few remaining historic movie palaces. Originally opened in 1926, the beautifully restored Garde Theatre features a stunning Moroccan-inspired interior and hosts a wide range of film, music, theater, dance, comedy, and community events.

Nationally recognized for its historic architecture and diverse programming, the Garde serves as a cultural anchor for SE CT and is preparing to celebrate its Centennial Season in 2026–27. In addition to the 1,300-seat theater, the Garde’s downtown arts block includes the Oasis Room, Garde Gallery, Mercer Building, Meridian Building, Stone Cottage and the future Mercer Community Hall – an intimate, flexible performance and community space designed to expand arts access, education, and community engagement for generations to come.

Your Garde Arts Center experience just got even better! Celebrate the Garde’s 100th season and explore the perks of the Flex Pass for the best seats in the house. Also, see your name in the lights and learn about how you can rent out the iconic marquee on State Street!

Address: 325 State St New London, CT 06320
Distance from City Pier Water Taxi Landing: 0.4 Miles
Phone Number: (860) 444-7373 Ext. 1
Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm & one hour before show times