Photo: New London Ledge Lighthouse
Photo: Abir papon
Photo: Ken Morris
New London Ledge Lighthouse
★4.8(36 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 3-4 hours including boat ride and lighthouse tour👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Younger children may struggle with the boat ride duration and climbing stairs inside the lighthouse, while older kids and teens appreciate the historical stories, ghost tales, and hands-on maritime experience.🧡 Saved by 6 families
About
Step aboard a tour boat for an unforgettable maritime adventure to the historic New London Ledge Lighthouse, a stunning 1909 structure perched in the waters off the Connecticut coast. Kids will be captivated by tales of lighthouse keepers, the building's unique architecture, and the famous legend of Ernie the ghost, making this an educational journey that feels more like a treasure hunt than a history lesson.
Highlights
- ✓Boat ride across Long Island Sound with scenic coastal views
- ✓Exploring the historic 1909 lighthouse structure and keeper's quarters
- ✓Learning about "Ernie the ghost" and the lighthouse's spooky legends
- ✓Climbing to the top for panoramic water views
- ✓Hands-on maritime history lessons from knowledgeable tour guides
Pro Tips
- 1.Book tickets well in advance during summer months as tours sell out quickly, especially on weekends
- 2.Bring layers and light jackets even in summer,it can be breezy and cooler on the water
- 3.Pack motion sickness remedies if your kids are prone to seasickness, as the boat ride can be choppy
- 4.Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes with good grip for navigating boat decks and lighthouse stairs
- 5.Arrive 20-30 minutes early for parking and check-in at the New London Maritime Society office on Bank Street
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings during late spring or early fall offer the best experience with smaller crowds and pleasant weather. Summer weekends are most crowded, though they also offer the most frequent tour departures.
What to Know
Tours operate seasonally from late May through early October and require advance reservations through the New London Maritime Society. Ticket prices are moderate (typically around $40-50 for adults, less for children), and the experience involves climbing stairs, so it's not wheelchair accessible.
Seasonal Notes
Tours operate seasonally from late May through early October, weather permitting. Tours may be cancelled due to rough seas or severe weather. Summer months offer the most frequent tour schedules, while spring and fall have limited departure times.
Nearby Eats
The nearby downtown New London area offers family-friendly options like The Oar restaurant with waterfront views and kid-friendly seafood options, or head to Mystic (15 minutes away) for more extensive dining choices including Mystic Pizza and family casual restaurants along the waterfront.
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