New London

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in downtown New London, enjoying fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee. After filling your stomach, take a stroll through the historic district, admiring the beautiful architecture and the charm of old buildings. Visit the Custom House Maritime Museum to learn about the city's rich maritime history.

For lunch, indulge in a fresh seafood meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can enjoy views of the Long Island Sound. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Lyman Allyn Art Museum, which showcases American art and decorative arts spanning several centuries. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the nearby Fort Trumbull State Park, where you can explore the historic fort and enjoy scenic views of the harbor.

As the sun sets, head to Ocean Beach Park for a delightful evening walk along the sandy shore. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside eatery, savoring local dishes while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Conclude your day with a stroll along the boardwalk, perhaps stopping for ice cream as you take in the nighttime views.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner before heading over to Ocean Beach Park for a fun-filled day. Spend the morning lounging on the sandy shores, or dive into the water for a refreshing swim. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline.

After a morning of sun and surf, grab a light lunch at one of the beachside shacks offering fresh seafood and summer snacks. The afternoon is perfect for participating in beach volleyball games or simply relaxing under an umbrella with a good book. Take time to enjoy the beach’s amenities, like the carousel and mini-golf, for a dose of nostalgia.

As the day winds down, enjoy a beach bonfire if available, or find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sunset. Dinner can be enjoyed at a local seafood restaurant, where you can savor the catch of the day. For a sweet ending, grab a slice of key lime pie from a nearby bakery.

Begin your day with breakfast at a quaint café in Mystic before heading to the Mystic Seaport Museum, a living history museum celebrating maritime heritage. Explore the historic ships and exhibits that tell the story of America’s seafaring past. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic boat ride along the Mystic River.

Join a hands-on workshop to learn traditional shipbuilding techniques or participate in a knot-tying session. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring classic New England fare, perhaps lobster rolls or clam chowder. Spend the afternoon wandering through the village, checking out artisan shops and galleries showcasing local crafts.

As evening approaches, find a cozy spot along the river to watch the sunset over the water. Dine at a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while listening to live music. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Mystic River, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local bakery before visiting the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, famed for its connection to American Impressionism. Explore the beautiful gardens and historic house that once served as a boarding house for artists. Take your time to appreciate the stunning artwork displayed throughout the museum.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby café featuring farm-to-table options, supporting local producers. Afterward, visit the nearby Lyme Art Association to discover even more about the region's artistic heritage. Spend the afternoon exploring the area's scenic landscapes or visiting local galleries.

As night falls, head back to New London for dinner at a trendy restaurant that highlights local ingredients and flavors. Experience the city's vibrant nightlife by catching a live performance at the Garde Arts Center. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the artistic journey.

Fuel up with breakfast at a local eatery before embarking on a hiking adventure at the nearby Harkness Memorial State Park. Enjoy the beautiful coastal views as you traverse the park’s trails surrounded by lush gardens and sandy beaches. Capture stunning photographs of the scenery and the historic Eolia mansion along the way.

After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch in the park, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails, or relax on the beach, watching the waves lap against the shore. For those interested in bird watching, bring binoculars to spot local wildlife in the nature reserve.

As the day winds down, return to New London for dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant, celebrating the flavors of Connecticut. Take a leisurely evening walk along the waterfront, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful city views. Cap off your night with a visit to a local brewery for a taste of craft beers.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before visiting the New London Harbor Light, a historic lighthouse that offers stunning views of Long Island Sound. Take a guided tour to learn about the lighthouse's history and its significance to maritime navigation. Enjoy the picturesque views of the coastline and surrounding waters.

For lunch, stop at a waterfront restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood while taking in views of the harbor. After lunch, head over to the United States Coast Guard Academy for a guided tour, where you can learn about the academy’s history and the training of future Coast Guard officers. Explore the grounds and take in the beautiful architecture.

As evening approaches, return to the harbor for a sunset cruise that showcases the stunning New London skyline. Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant with outdoor seating, allowing you to savor the warm summer breeze. Conclude your day with a stroll through the historic district, soaking in the ambiance of the city at night.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café before heading out to explore the eclectic shops in downtown New London. Wander through boutiques and artisanal shops to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Take your time to appreciate the local art scene and perhaps discover a new favorite artist.

For lunch, treat yourself to a culinary experience at a local food market or eatery that showcases regional flavors. Afterward, take a cooking class or food tour where you can learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques from expert chefs. Spend the afternoon sampling delicious bites and learning about the area’s culinary heritage.

As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a renowned restaurant that focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, visit a local wine bar or brewery for tastings of regional wines or craft beers. Conclude your culinary journey with dessert from a charming bakery, indulging in local specialties.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a family-friendly diner before heading to the nearby Connecticut Science Center in Hartford. Enjoy interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that engage visitors of all ages, making learning fun. Spend the morning exploring the various science-themed exhibits that spark curiosity.

For lunch, grab a quick bite at the Science Center's café or a nearby restaurant that caters to families. Afterward, head over to the nearby Lake Compounce Amusement Park for an afternoon of thrills and excitement, riding roller coasters and enjoying carnival games. Take breaks to enjoy snacks and refreshments available throughout the park.

As the day comes to a close, return to New London for dinner at a casual restaurant where the whole family can find something they love. If time allows, enjoy a movie at a local theater for a relaxing evening. End the day with a stroll through a nearby park, letting the kids burn off any extra energy before bed.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the nearby Connecticut Audubon Society for a morning of birdwatching and nature exploration. Join a guided tour to learn about local wildlife and the various ecosystems in the area. Bring binoculars to spot the diverse species that call this region home.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic in one of the nearby parks, surrounded by nature. Afterward, participate in an educational program or nature walk offered by the Audubon Society, deepening your understanding of the local flora and fauna. Spend the afternoon discovering hidden trails and enjoying the tranquility of the natural setting.

As evening approaches, return to New London for dinner at a restaurant that offers locally sourced dishes. Consider taking a twilight nature walk at a nearby sanctuary, where you can experience the beauty of the landscape as the sun sets. End your day with a visit to a local café for dessert and coffee, reflecting on the day's adventures.