New London

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with New London's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore New London
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ocean Beach Park, relaxing on the sandy shores. Grab a breakfast sandwich from a nearby café to fuel your adventure.

afternoon
:

Visit the United States Coast Guard Academy to learn about maritime history. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant for a true taste of New England.

evening
:

Take a scenic walk along the New London waterfront. Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant while watching the sunset.

day 2
Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Lyman Allyn Art Museum to kickstart your day with some art and culture. Engage with the various exhibits that showcase regional artists.

afternoon
:

Explore the Connecticut College Botanic Gardens, enjoying the beautiful landscapes. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the lush gardens.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the Garde Arts Center for an entertaining evening. Dine at a local bistro to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

day 3
Maritime Adventure
morning
:

Start with a tour of the Connecticut Maritime Museum to dive into local maritime history. Engage with interactive displays and exhibits.

afternoon
:

Take a ferry to Fishers Island for an island exploration. Have lunch at a charming café and soak in the seaside views.

evening
:

Return to New London and enjoy a casual dinner at a harbor-side pub. Relax by the seaside after your adventurous day.

day 4
Nature Escape
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at Harkness Memorial State Park. Enjoy the magnificent coastal views and serene pathways.

afternoon
:

Spend time at the nearby Eolia Mansion, exploring its beautiful gardens. Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the tranquility of the park.

evening
:

Head back to New London for a relaxed evening at a local pizzeria. Savor some classic New York-style slices to end your day.

day 5
Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Spend a leisurely morning at the beautiful Ocean Beach. Walk along the shore and enjoy early morning beach activities.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a beachside café and try local seafood specialties. Spend the afternoon lounging at the beach or swimming in the ocean.

evening
:

As the sun sets, have a beach bonfire with friends. Conclude your day with s'mores and stories by the fire pit.

day 6
Active Day
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic roads along the waterfront. Enjoy the morning breeze and stop at viewpoints to take pictures.

afternoon
:

Have a leisurely lunch at a café near the water before heading to the New London Skatepark. Enjoy some time skating or watching others.

evening
:

Visit a local gym or sports center for evening activities. Grab dinner at a burger joint popular among locals afterward.

day 7
History and Heritage
morning
:

Visit the historic Custom House Maritime Museum to learn about New London's shipbuilding past. Explore the different exhibits and historical artifacts.

afternoon
:

Head to Fort Trumbull State Park for some exploration and learning about local military history. Enjoy a waterfront picnic for lunch.

evening
:

Take an evening ghost tour in downtown New London for a spooky twist on the area’s history. Cap off the night with dessert at a local ice cream shop.

day 8
Arts & Crafts Day
morning
:

Participate in a pottery or painting class at a local art studio. Unleash your creativity while enjoying a hands-on experience.

afternoon
:

Visit local galleries to admire various forms of artwork. Have lunch at a nearby eatery that features local art.

evening
:

Attend a crafting workshop to learn a new skill in the evening. Enjoy dinner at a trendy spot that embodies the city’s artistic vibe.

day 9
Scenic Views
morning
:

Visit the New London Harbor Light and take a morning walk along the scenic views. Capture stunning photos of the lighthouse and the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a waterfront lunch at a café with outdoor seating. Spend the afternoon strolling through downtown New London for some shopping.

evening
:

Return to the harbor to appreciate the view during sunset. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront seafood restaurant for a delightful end to your day.

day 10
Local Music Scene
morning
:

Explore local record stores to discover new music and memorabilia. Have breakfast at a diner known for its music-themed decor.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the local music venues to learn about bands that originated from New London. Grab lunch at a café with live music.

evening
:

Attend a live music performance at a local venue to experience the thriving music scene. Finish your day with drinks at a trendy bar nearby.

Discover New London

Read more in our New London 2024 Travel Guide.

New London Travel Guide