Anyone who’s spent any time here knows that we have some great cities and towns in Connecticut. Whether you’re in our bigger cities like Hartford or New Haven or some of our delightfully charming small towns, the fun never ends in the Nutmeg State. One of the very best places to visit in Connecticut is the town of Groton in New London County. This place has natural beauty, wonderful attractions, and delicious restaurants. It’s an enchanting spot that’s definitely worth a visit!

Despite having a population of around 38,000, Groton feels like a small town. You’ll find a number of charming locally-owned shops and businesses to support, plus magnificent scenery.

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Groton is located right on the Thames River, so there’s lots of waterfront area to explore.

Philcomanforterie/Wikimedia Commons

The Poquonnock River Boardwalk is a short-but-sweet path that runs right alongside the Poquonnock River. The 1/2-mile trail is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, so it’s a great easy trail that the whole family can enjoy.

Felipe Guadalupe/Alltrails Poquonock Bridge, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Fans of lighthouses won’t want to miss a visit to Avery Point Light. The lighthouse was first lit in 1944 and is located on the University of Connecticut’s Avery Point campus in Groton.

Pamela B/Tripadvisor Avery Point Lighthouse, Groton, CT 06340, USA

The Submarine Force Museum is one of the most underrated attractions in the state. The two-story museum has so much information on naval history and even has real submarines on display.

Greg Catcott/Google Local Submarine Force Library & Museum, 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Fort Griswold played a vital role in the Revolutionary War. This National Historic Site has a great museum and lots of scenic areas for picnicking and exploring.

Friends of Fort Griswold Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, Park Ave & Monument St, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Groton has one of the best breweries in Connecticut at Outer Light Brewery. It looks a little unconventional, being located in a strip mall, but the atmosphere is friendly and the brews are delicious.

Outer Light Brewing Company Outer Light Brewing Company, 266 Bridge St, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Esker Point Beach is a 600-foot man-made beach that tends to be pretty quiet, even in the summertime. It’s a great spot to escape the crowds.

VictoriaVenturing/Google Local Esker Point Beach, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Groton is such an amazing town in Connecticut with so much history and plenty of attractions the whole family can enjoy.

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Have you ever visited Groton for a day trip? Share your favorite destinations in the comments!

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Philcomanforterie/Wikimedia Commons

Felipe Guadalupe/Alltrails

Poquonock Bridge, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Pamela B/Tripadvisor

Avery Point Lighthouse, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Greg Catcott/Google Local

Submarine Force Library & Museum, 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Friends of Fort Griswold

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, Park Ave & Monument St, Groton, CT 06340, USA

Outer Light Brewing Company

Outer Light Brewing Company, 266 Bridge St, Groton, CT 06340, USA

VictoriaVenturing/Google Local

Esker Point Beach, Groton, CT 06340, USA

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Address: Groton, CT, USA