Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for older children who can comfortably walk for 75 minutes.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

Pets are not permitted on this private historical walking tour to ensure safety and comfort for all guests.

What should I bring on the tour?

We recommend comfortable shoes, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and optionally a camera.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

While much of the path is paved or level, some areas near the riverbank may be uneven; please contact the company directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.

Can the tour be customized for private groups?

Yes, Thames River Heritage Park offers private tours that can be tailored for small groups with advance notice.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable weather and beautiful natural scenery, but the tour runs year-round with appropriate gear.

Explore Groton’s Historic Thames River Walk

Experience a unique journey through time with "Exploring Groton’s History on the Banks of the Thames," a private 75-minute adventure led by Groton's own historian, Jim Streeter. This intimate tour along the scenic Thames River unveils captivating stories about the community that thrived on its banks, spotlighting the luxurious Eastern Point Community and other significant historical landmarks. Perfectly suited for both history buffs and curious travelers, the tour offers a lively, engaging narrative that brings Groton's past to life. Stroll beside the water as Jim shares vivid accounts of the area's evolution, from colonial beginnings to modern-day developments, highlighting local architecture, maritime events, and the cultural heritage that shaped this vibrant spot in Connecticut. The experience is enhanced by the stunning river views and the peaceful ambiance, making it more than just a history lesson – it’s a chance to connect with the spirit of the place. Whether you’re visiting New London or the surrounding regions, this private tour by Thames River Heritage Park is an enriching way to understand Groton’s identity and enjoy an outdoor adventure that blends education and relaxation.

About Thames River Heritage Park

Thames River Heritage Park is a New London, Connecticut organization that preserves and interprets the history, culture, and natural resources of the Thames River estuary. The organization offers a curated series of guided 75-minute boat tours and talks that connect passengers with regional stories, including maritime history, Indigenous heritage, African American experiences, Gilded Age estates, Revolutionary War events, and local folklore. Tours feature collaborations with recognized local experts and institutions: UConn faculty, members of the Mohegan Tribe, Connecticut Sea Grant scientists, historians from the New London County Historical Society, and local authors. Many programs explicitly support area heritage sites and nonprofit partners through ticket revenue.

Departing from locations such as Fort Trumbull State Park, the tours navigate landmarks like Pine Island, Bushy Point, Bluff Point, and riverbanks that witnessed significant historical events. The schedule includes specialized programs — for example, guided conversations about emancipation and abolition; profiles of notable women of the Thames; natural-history excursions; a haunted-harbor ghost tour; and focused narratives on Benedict Arnold’s 1781 burning of New London. Most offerings emphasize education, community engagement, and place-based interpretation tailored to adults, families, and history enthusiasts.

Thames River Heritage Park emphasizes transparent partnerships, local scholarship, and stewardship of the river corridor. Tickets and public programs make regional history accessible while reinvesting in heritage organizations. Visitors can expect knowledgeable narration, close river access to shoreline sites, and an opportunity to support ongoing preservation and interpretation of New London’s maritime landscape. Seasonal schedules vary; check the foundation calendar for details and updates.