Groton is located in the state of Connecticut and has a lot of culture to offer as well as great sights and interesting destinations. So if you’re planning a trip to Groton (Connecticut), you’ve come to the right place!
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Vacation in Groton (Connecticut)
Groton, Connecticut is one of New England’s hidden gems. Situated on the Thames River, this historic town is full of colonial charm and New England character. With its antique shops, bed and breakfasts, and scenic river walk, Groton is the perfect place to embrace smalltown living. And, with Boston only an hour away, Groton makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.
No matter what time of year you visit, Groton has something to offer. In the spring, the town comes alive with the colors of tulips and daffodils. The Groton Renaissance Faire, held in May, is a great opportunity to step back in time and experience some Elizabethan fun. The summer months are perfect for exploring all that the Thames River has to offer. Go for a swim, rent a kayak, or just relax on the riverbank and enjoy the view.
Autumn is a magical time in Groton, as the leaves change color and the air grows crisp. Take a scenic drive through the Connecticut countryside, stopping at local farms to pick up some fresh apples or pumpkin butter. Or, spend a day hiking one of the many trails in nearby Mystic Seaport State Park. Wintertime holidays are also special in Groton. The town glows with holiday lights, and the annual tree lighting ceremony is not to be missed.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or just a chance to relax and enjoy the New England outdoors, Groton, Connecticut is the perfect destination.
Sights in Groton (Connecticut)
Groton, Connecticut is a quaint little city located in the Mystic region of the state. It’s the perfect place to enjoy stunning New England fall foliage, lovely long walks along the Thames River, or to explore the many historic sites the city has to offer. Groton was founded in 1655 and is one of the oldest cities in Connecticut. The city played an important role in the American Revolution, as it was the site of a major naval battle in 1781. Today, Groton is a wonderful place to visit, with a charming downtown area and many interesting sights to see.
The Historic Ship Nautilus & Submarine Museum is a mustsee when visiting Groton. The Nautilus is the world’s first nuclear submarine, and it’s been open to the public as a museum since 1986. Visitors can take a tour of the submarine, and there’s also a museum onsite with exhibits about the history of the submarine and the Cold War.
If you’re interested in exploring Groton’s maritime history, be sure to visit Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park. The park commemorates the Revolutionary War Battle of Groton Heights, which took place on September 6, 1781. Visitors can learn about the battle via an audio tour, see the restored blockhouse, and explore the park’s hiking trails.
For a taste of the arts, check out the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. The museum houses a collection of over 16,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, and glassworks. There’s also a beautiful floral garden on the premises.
No visit to Groton would be complete without taking a stroll along the Thames River. The riverfront area is home to a number of restaurants and shops, and it’s a great place to relax on a warm day. You can also catch a ferry to nearby Fishers Island from the GrotonNew London Ferry Terminal.
As you can see, Groton has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, the arts, or just enjoying the outdoors, you’ll find plenty to do in this charming Connecticut city.
History of Groton (Connecticut)
In 1650, the Connecticut River was named by English Puritans, who established the Connecticut Colony along its shores; the “long river” was upstream from the short Thames River. The first European settlers in the area were Dutchmen who established a trading post at the site of modernday Hartford in 1623.
The English quickly seized control of the Dutch colony in 1637 and in 1638, Puritans from Massachusetts founded the city of Hartford at the site of the Dutch trading post. In 1662, Hartford and the other colonies in the Connecticut River Valley were consolidated into the colony of Connecticut.
The town of Groton was part of Saybrook Colony until 1665 when it was separately incorporated. The townspeople were attracted to the area because of its rich farmland and its location on the Thames River which provided a means of transportation and trade.
The town flourished during the 18th century as a center of shipbuilding and maritime trade. The beginning of the 19th century was a period of economic decline for Groton, however, as the town’s shipping industry was hurt by the Embargo Act of 1807 and the War of 1812.
During the Civil War, Groton was a hotbed of antislavery activity and was the base of operations for the famous Underground Railroad conductor, Harriet Tubman. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Groton began to experience a resurgence as a tourist destination due to its picturesque setting and its proximity to New York City.
Today, Groton is a thriving community with a diversified economy. The town’s history is reflected in its many wellpreserved historic homes and buildings, and its commitment to preserving open space and protecting the environment.
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