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Downtown New London Waterfront

4.6
·481 reviews·New London, United States

A vibrant waterfront destination with picturesque harbor views, ferry departures, and a lively downtown area.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

Pleasant atmosphere and views

CrowdMedium
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Dining Room

Downtown New London Waterfront

Best Time

Daylight hours

Pleasant atmosphere and views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant waterfront destination with picturesque harbor views, ferry departures, and a lively downtown area.

4.6
(481 reviews)

"This area has grown and become so beautiful, a great destination with great food and atmosphere."

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TIP

🔋 Free Charging Stations

Look for FREE ENERGY USB charging stations powered by wind and solar near the parking area. :iphone:

⚓️ Harbor Views Galore

Enjoy watching boats, ferries, and even submarines. A great spot for a leisurely stroll. :ship:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

City Pier Expansion

City Pier Expansion

City Pier

A beautiful expansion offering stunning views of the harbor and passing ferries. Perfect for a relaxing walk.

Ferry Departures

Ferry Departures

City Pier

Catch ferries to Block Island and Fishers Island for a day trip or longer adventure.

Submarine Sightings

Submarine Sightings

New London Harbor

A unique thrill is spotting a submarine gliding through the harbor. A memorable sight for all ages.

Captain Scott's Lobster Dock

Captain Scott's Lobster Dock

Near the marina

Enjoy excellent seafood, especially the highly-rated fried clam platter. A local favorite for a reason.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterfront Vibe

The Downtown New London Waterfront offers picturesque views and a lively atmosphere. It's a great spot for a stroll, with ferries to Block Island and Fishers Island departing from City Pier. Keep an eye out for passing submarines!

Navigating New London

While the waterfront has seen significant growth with new shops and bars, some visitors note issues with street care and drivers. Be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding the presence of homeless individuals, though daylight hours are generally pleasant for exploring.

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
Pleasant atmosphere and views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Explore the vibrant dining, waterfront views, and unique shops of Downtown Patchogue! 🌊🥪#discoverlongisland Plus, don’t miss the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 23rd, starting at 12:30 PM on Main Street🍀 📲For more information on accommodations, activities, and nearby attractions, visit discoverlongisland.com or download our mobile app.
discoverlongisland
1.6K likes • 42.8K views

🔋 Free Charging Stations

Look for FREE ENERGY USB charging stations powered by wind and solar near the parking area. :iphone:

⚓️ Harbor Views Galore

Enjoy watching boats, ferries, and even submarines. A great spot for a leisurely stroll. :ship:

reddit.com

Food and fun times around New London

reddit.com

Beach bummer: New London to seek new management options for Ocean Beach Park

🦞 Seafood Delights

Don't miss Captain Scott's Lobster Dock for delicious fried clams and other seafood. :clapper_board:

🚶‍♀️ Connect to Fort Trumbull

Consider walking to the historic Fort Trumbull for a dose of history and more scenic views. :fort:

reddit.com

Places to see trains go by?

Tips

from all over the internet

🔋 Free Charging Stations

Look for FREE ENERGY USB charging stations powered by wind and solar near the parking area. :iphone:

⚓️ Harbor Views Galore

Enjoy watching boats, ferries, and even submarines. A great spot for a leisurely stroll. :ship:

🦞 Seafood Delights

Don't miss Captain Scott's Lobster Dock for delicious fried clams and other seafood. :clapper_board:

🚶‍♀️ Connect to Fort Trumbull

Consider walking to the historic Fort Trumbull for a dose of history and more scenic views. :fort:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(481 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Downtown New London Waterfront is praised for its beautiful harbor views, the lively atmosphere of City Pier, and convenient ferry access. Visitors enjoy watching boats and submarines, and dining at local spots like Captain Scott's Lobster Dock. However, some reviews mention concerns about street conditions and the presence of homeless individuals, suggesting a need for awareness, particularly after dark.

"This Area has grown and become so beautiful. City Pier is a great expansion to the downtown New London. Our Harbor has ferries to Block island and Fishers island. We also have our world famous train station that riders can take all the way to Florida. New London Harbor has a great downtown with over 20 shops and Bars... Future destination location. Great Food. Fishing. Atmosphere."

Flowers and Kain

"New London has some nice sea views, and that's it, other than that is a horrible place with horrible people, mad drivers and very bad care streets. If you want to go to Block Island better choose the ferry from Judith Point, there's no other reason to go to NL"

Johan Bautista

"USB and 3 prong charging -after going over train tracks to the right FREE ENERGY USB charging wind and solar powered charger available - to the left near the parking , are the 3 prong plugs -beautiful short walk along pier from block island and Long Island ferries and behind Amtrak station to the boat marina -it would be nice if they connected it to the Trumbull fort which is an amazing fort and to captain Scott’s lobster dock! Cap Scott’s has excellent sea food the fried clam platter has always been good!(really really good actually )"

Luna Gray

What People Like

Beautiful harbor views
Lively City Pier
Ferry access

What People Dislike

Street care issues
Homeless presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The waterfront is easily accessible by car, with parking available near the pier and Amtrak station. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules. The Amtrak station is conveniently located nearby, making it a great destination for train travelers.

Yes, there are parking areas available near the pier and Amtrak station. Some spots may have fees, so be sure to check signage. Free energy charging stations are also available in some areas.

Absolutely! The Amtrak station is located right at the waterfront, making it incredibly convenient for train travelers to access the shops, restaurants, and ferry terminals.

Local bus routes may serve the downtown New London area. It's recommended to check with the Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) for the most up-to-date route information and schedules.

Yes, the Amtrak station is situated directly at the waterfront, offering immediate access to the pier, shops, and restaurants. It's a very short and easy walk.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to the waterfront promenade and public areas is free. However, tickets are required for ferry services to Block Island and Fishers Island.

The waterfront promenade is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific shop and restaurant hours will vary, and ferry schedules should be checked directly with the ferry operators.

Access to the City Pier itself is typically free for strolling and enjoying the views. Fees would only apply if you are boarding a ferry or utilizing specific services.

Ferry tickets for Block Island and Fishers Island can usually be purchased directly at the ferry terminal located at City Pier. It's advisable to check the ferry company's website for advance booking options, especially during peak season.

Viewing submarines from the waterfront is free. You are simply observing them as they pass through the harbor. There are no tickets or fees associated with this.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can stroll along the pier, enjoy harbor views, watch ferries and submarines, dine at waterfront restaurants like Captain Scott's Lobster Dock, and explore the shops downtown. It's a great spot for a relaxing walk and people-watching.

Yes, the downtown area adjacent to the waterfront boasts over 20 shops and bars, offering a variety of retail and dining experiences. Captain Scott's Lobster Dock is a notable seafood spot.

Expect picturesque views of the town, the bustling harbor, passing ferries, and potentially submarines. It's a scenic spot for photography and enjoying the maritime atmosphere.

During daylight hours, the waterfront is generally considered a pleasant place to visit. Some visitors have noted the presence of homeless individuals, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.

While specific fishing regulations and designated spots would need to be confirmed with local authorities, the waterfront area offers opportunities for enjoying the maritime environment, which often includes fishing activities.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Captain Scott's Lobster Dock is highly recommended for seafood, particularly their fried clam platter. The downtown area also offers over 20 shops and bars with various dining options.

Many of the restaurants in the downtown area are likely to be family-friendly. Captain Scott's Lobster Dock, with its casual seafood focus, is often a good choice for families.

You'll find a range of options, with a strong emphasis on seafood, especially at places like Captain Scott's. The downtown area will offer diverse choices from casual to more formal dining.

Casual eateries and bars in the downtown area often provide more budget-friendly choices. Looking for places with lunch specials or simpler menus can help keep costs down.

Yes, the downtown area has over 20 bars, so you'll have plenty of options for drinks, from casual pubs to more specialized establishments.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the harbor, ferries, and any passing submarines. The City Pier expansion offers great vantage points, and the maritime atmosphere provides endless photographic possibilities.

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the waterfront's charm. Daylight hours provide clear views of the harbor activity.

The City Pier, the ferries docked and in motion, and the general harbor views are prime subjects. If you're lucky, a submarine sighting will be a unique photographic moment.

Yes, you can photograph submarines from the public waterfront areas. It's a unique aspect of New London's maritime identity.

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide harbor scenes and closer details. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Downtown New London Waterfront offers a fun and engaging experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the passing ferries and submarines in the harbor, making for exciting photo opportunities and conversation starters. A stroll along City Pier provides plenty of space to run around and enjoy the sea breeze.

For a treat, Captain Scott's Lobster Dock offers a classic seafood experience that can be enjoyed by all ages, with kid-friendly options likely available. The accessibility from the Amtrak station also makes it an easy destination for families traveling by train. Consider a short ferry ride for an added adventure, or explore the nearby Fort Trumbull for a touch of history and open space.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Visiting the Downtown New London Waterfront can be a budget-friendly experience. General access to the waterfront promenade and City Pier is free, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views and maritime atmosphere without spending a dime. You can pack a picnic to enjoy by the harbor, saving on dining costs.

For affordable eats, explore the various shops and bars in the downtown area, which often have more reasonably priced options than upscale restaurants. Keep an eye out for free energy charging stations if you need to power up your devices. While ferry tickets have a cost, simply enjoying the waterfront itself offers a great value for a day out.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Harbor and Ferries

The Downtown New London Waterfront is defined by its active harbor. City Pier serves as a central hub, not only for enjoying the views but also as a departure point for ferries. Travelers can catch rides to Block Island and Fishers Island, offering opportunities for day trips or longer stays on these picturesque islands. The constant movement of boats, from small pleasure craft to larger ferries, creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere for visitors. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might even spot a submarine passing through the harbor – a unique sight that many visitors find thrilling.

Beyond the ferries, the harbor is a gateway to maritime experiences. The proximity to Captain Scott's Lobster Dock means fresh, local seafood is readily available, enhancing the waterfront dining experience. The area is also connected to the historic Fort Trumbull, which can be reached via a short walk, offering a blend of scenic views and historical exploration. The combination of transportation links, dining, and historical sites makes the waterfront a multifaceted destination.

Dining and Local Flavors

When visiting the Downtown New London Waterfront, indulging in the local culinary scene is a must. Captain Scott's Lobster Dock is frequently highlighted by visitors for its excellent seafood, with the fried clam platter receiving particular praise. This spot offers a classic New England seafood experience right by the water. The downtown area itself is home to over 20 shops and bars, suggesting a diverse range of dining options to suit various tastes and budgets.

Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a more substantial meal, the waterfront area provides choices. From fresh catches of the day to other popular dishes, the emphasis is on enjoying the coastal atmosphere alongside your meal. Exploring the various establishments can lead to discovering hidden gems and enjoying the vibrant food culture of New London.

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