Road to the Revolution: Walking Benedict Arnold’s 1781 Raid from the Thames

NEW LONDON BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Road to the Revolution: Walking Benedict Arnold’s 1781 Raid from the Thames

A 75-minute Thames River Heritage Park boat-and-walk experience in New London that traces colonial trade and the Battle of New London, ending with a Fort Griswold book signing.

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Road to the Revolution: Walking Benedict Arnold’s 1781 Raid from the Thames.

Duration
75 Minutes
Location
New London
Operator
Thames River Heritage Park
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Step back to 1781 along the Thames: this short, focused tour traces colonial life and commerce on the river, recounts Benedict Arnold’s raid during the Battle of New London and Groton Heights, and finishes at Fort Griswold with a book-signing by the author.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE HISTORY

Benedict Arnold’s Raid Re-lived

The program centers on the 1781 Battle of New London and Groton Heights, following the historic path of Arnold’s raid and interpreting the colonial-era trade and militia actions along the Thames.

THE COMMUNITY

A Tour That Keeps Heritage Local

All ticket profits support the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation, helping connect and sustain more than 20 heritage sites and institutions along the Thames.

THE FINALE

Fort Griswold Book Signing

The visit culminates at Fort Griswold, where participants have the opportunity to meet the author for a book signing that complements the walk’s historical narrative.

What the day feels like

What the Experience Feels Like

In a compact 75-minute format, the outing moves from the Thames River Landing in Groton onto river-facing sites and the battlefield approaches that tell the story of colonial trade and the 1781 raid; it blends narrated river views with a short walk and a concluding book signing at Fort Griswold.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this short heritage outing suits best — and where to be cautious.

1
History BuffsIdeal for those who want a concentrated, interpretive glimpse of the 1781 Battle of New London and local colonial trade; the program emphasizes historic narrative and site visits.
2
Active FamiliesSuitable for families: the tour is described as for all ages and is a brief 75-minute commitment that combines boat time with a short walk.
3
Casual SightseersA good match for visitors seeking a short, contextual taste of local heritage rather than an extended hike or intensive battlefield study.
4
Those Needing AmenitiesNot ideal for participants who require onboard restroom access—the boat has no bathroom—so plan accordingly before boarding.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The program runs approximately 75 minutes.

Meeting Point

Meet at Thames River Landing in Groton for boarding and the start of the tour.

What to Bring

You may bring snacks and non-glass drinks aboard; glass is prohibited. There is no bathroom on the boat—plan accordingly.

Good to Know

100% of ticket profit benefits Thames River Heritage Park Foundation and supports over 20 local heritage sites.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes.

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Thames River Landing in Groton to board the vessel.

Can I bring food or drinks?

Yes—snacks and drinks are allowed aboard, but glass containers are prohibited.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

No; there is no bathroom on the boat, so plan before boarding.

How can I contact the operator with questions?

For questions contact the operator at 860-407-5655.

Who benefits from ticket purchases?

100% of ticket profits benefit the Thames River Heritage Park Foundation, supporting more than 20 heritage sites along the Thames.