Top Rated Attractions in New London

The Customs House in New London was constructed in 1833 and is the oldest continuously-operated customs office in the United States. This building is still a functioning customs building for the city of New London. Another notable feature of this building is that it was designed by Robert Mills, architect of the Washington Monument. The Customs House is today home to the Maritime Museum that offers a glimpse into the town's fascinating history and culture as well as the famous story of La Amistad, a historic schooner. The museum also offers special lighthouse and boat trips, a museum shop, and interesting temporary exhibitions.

Owned and managed by the Denison family since it was first built, the Denison Homestead is a charming manor. Constructed in 1717, the Pequotsepos Manor as it is colloquially known, is a well-preserved historical landmark today and houses precious relics. Every nook and corner of the estate exudes an undeniable historical charm and its picturesque gardens are a marvel to behold. Delighting history buffs and outdoor lovers alike, and surrounded by beautiful environs, the homestead is a must-visit during a trip to Mystic. Tours of the estate are available, and events can also be hosted within the premises.

The Florence Griswold Museum spawned from the home of Florence Griswold, whose residence was the center of the Lyme Art Colony. The colony of American Impressionists used this home as their base as it was a boarding house for the region's budding artist community. Today, the house has been restored to how it appeared in 1910 and is one of the region's best-loved museums. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for books on local art and images of Long Island Sound.

The Museum of America and the Sea is a great place to take the kids to teach them about the importance and effects of the whaling industry on the towns dotting the Connecticut shoreline. America's last wooden whaling ship, the Charles W. Morgan, resides at this fascinating living history museum in Mystic, a quaint seaside town about an hour outside of New Haven. Learn about the steps involved in making the perilous trip out to sea for fishing or whaling, admire the historic vessels on display here, and walk down memory lane as you explore a historic seafaring village. Scenes from Steven Spielberg's 1997 film Amistad were filmed here. Visitors can also participate in numerous hands-on activities, making a trip here an incredibly memorable one. The nation's leading maritime museum, Mystic Seaport is a must-see if visiting Connecticut.

Launched in 1841 from New Bedford, Massachusetts, the Morgan is considered to be the last surviving commercial ship made of wood still afloat. The ship undertook 37 whaling voyages across its 80-year career with a 38th being launched in 2014 after complete restoration. This 'lucky ship' is a surviving relic of a bygone era and offers unique insight into one of New England's most common economic enterprises. A National Historic Landmark, the ship is today docked at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Tours are available on site.

Babcock–Smith House is an impressive Georgian manor built in the 1730s; it is a house museum with antique furniture elegantly reflecting the past through the displays. This colonial mansion serves as home to two different owners- Dr.Joshua Babcock and Orlando Smith in two different timelines. Tour the grounds and admire the displays inside the house. Learn about the two owners, local history, and the Granite industry.