Groton, CT — knot so loud

Did you know that Mystic is considered a village that is part of Groton, Connecticut? If you’re on the right side, that is. The downtown where Sift Bake Shop, Bank Square Books and Mystic Pizza are - that is the Groton side. If you cross over the bridge towards Whaler’s Inn and Mystic River Park, you’re in Stonington.

Groton was nicknamed “Rotten Groton”, but there’s nothing rotten about it! I first moved here when I came to Connecticut back in 2012. I learned about its rich military history. Groton is known as the submarine capital of the world. If you’re looking for an easy short day, look no further than Groton.

*A painted sub that was part of a town-wide submarine trail in 2016. Some subs can be spotted in the wild to this day.*

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park is a Revolutionary War era battlefield that sits next to the Thames River. It’s across the river from Fort Trumbull in New London, CT. Fort Griswold is a 17 acres battlefield with old cannons, memorials and monuments. There is a 135 feet obelisk monument dedicated to lives lost during the battle. I had the opportunity to walk up the 166 steps to the top and see the river view! It was gorgeous sunny that day when I went up. Next to the monument, there is a small museum (in the old caretaker’s house) with historical artifacts. The museum and monument are open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The battlefield is open year-round. It’s fun to explore and walk around the battlefield during any season. The river view is always amazing (here’s a tip, this is one of the best spots for sunsets!).

This upcoming weekend (September 4-5, 2021) is the 240th anniversary of the Revolutionary War battle. Fort Griswold is hosting an event ‘Patriots and Redcoats’ with enactments, demonstrations, music, lectures and activities for kids. The schedule is packed with lots to do and see, so it will be fun! For more information, their website here lists more details including the schedule.

*Rocky path down to the open field (there are other paths that aren’t as rocky, but may be steep climb).*

*One of underground bunkers at Fort Griswold.*

*The view of Thames River from Fort Griswold.*

Submarine Force Museum / USS Nautilus has an amazing collection of the submarine history. The museum is managed by the U.S. Navy. You can also tour the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear powered submarine. The tour is usually about half hour long, and definitely not for those who are claustrophobic! It was a challenge for me, but I did it. I have EVEN more appreciation for our Sailors, I can’t imagine being confided in a tight space for months! There are two submarines on display out front of the museum as well. There’s so much to look at inside the museum, it’s worthwhile to explore this museum!

*Submarine coming home - Halloween 2017.*

The reason why Groton is known to be the ‘submarine capital’ is because of U.S. Navy base (which is located right next to the museum) and General Dynamics Electric Boat. Electric Boat is the primary submarine builder for the U.S. Navy. If you’re lucky, you can spot a submarine going up or down the Thames River. Usually the best point of views is at Eastern Point Beach.

At Eastern Point Beach, you can see Thames River connecting into the Long Island sound. You can see many boats (ferries included) coming in and out. During the off season, parking is free for anyone. Many people go there to take in the beautiful coastal views. Again, this is another good spot for sunsets. From there, you can see two lighthouses - Ledge Light and New London Lighthouse. During summer, the beach can be a busy place to be!

*View of Thames River from Eastern Point.*

UConn Avery Point is near by to Eastern Point Beach. There is a walking trail that is open to anyone. It also has beautiful coastal views. This is the home to one of my favorite lighthouses - the Avery Point Light. I enjoy watching people fishing off the rocks here. The Branford House (a mansion modeled oof the Newport Mansions) is stunning. I’m always amazed by its details, it seems like I find a new one every visit. Many weddings have occurred here, so if you’re here during summer on the weekends chances are very likely that you will see one. I love the panoramic ocean view from the balcony!

*Branford Mansion at UConn Avery Point.*

*Avery Point Light. My pup couldn’t get in the festive mood with me!*

*Avery Point Light in the dark - the green light is on every night.*

Groton is also home of the BEST pasta ever. Where? Paul’s Pasta Shop. It is a gem. The pasta is made fresh daily right there in their shop. When I first moved to Groton in 2012, it quickly became a favorite. So much that we became regulars. We celebrated many milestones there (1st date-anniversary, the day we put in an offer on our first home, birthdays, etc). Paul’s Pasta is the coziness of Italian restaurants, friendly staff and amazing food. It is a very special place! The best part is that you can take fresh pasta home to cook another night!

Whenever I need some quietness from the bustle of Mystic, I enjoy walking around Groton either at the battlefield or Avery Point. You can’t beat those coastal views! I love how you can see all 3 lighthouses from Avery Point too. I used to sit at the Eastern Point Beach parking lot early in the morning with breakfast and watch the ferry when I lived in Groton. It took me a while before I finally saw my first submarine! That went in my book as one of the coolest thing I saw!