Avery Point & New London Ledge Lighthouse

About

Perched on the rocky shoreline of the University of Connecticut's Avery Point campus in Groton, the Avery Point Lighthouse stands as one of Connecticut's most photogenic coastal landmarks. Built in 1943, this octagonal concrete tower served as a training aid for the Coast Guard before being decommissioned. After years of deterioration, a passionate community restoration effort brought the lighthouse back to its former glory, and it was relit in 2006.

The lighthouse sits within the beautiful Avery Point campus grounds, where paved walkways wind along the waterfront with panoramic views of Long Island Sound and Fisher's Island. While the tower itself isn't open to the public, the surrounding grounds offer plenty to enjoy. You can stroll the campus paths, watch boats passing through the sound, and take in some of the best sunset views on the Connecticut coast.

Just a short drive away, the New London Ledge Lighthouse adds another chapter to the area's maritime story. This striking three-story French Second Empire structure sits right in the Thames River, looking more like a brick mansion than a traditional lighthouse. It's one of the most architecturally unique lighthouses in New England and comes with its own resident ghost story - the tale of "Ernie," a keeper who supposedly haunts the building after a broken heart. The Ledge Light can be viewed from shore at various points around New London Harbor, and seasonal boat tours bring visitors closer.

Together, these two lighthouses make for a rewarding day trip along Connecticut's southeastern coast. The area is rich with other attractions too. Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium are nearby, and downtown New London offers restaurants, shops, and additional waterfront parks. Whether you're a lighthouse enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful coastal outing, this corner of Connecticut delivers a memorable experience without the crowds you'd find at busier beach destinations.

Accessibility

The Avery Point Lighthouse is located on the University of Connecticut's Avery Point campus and is described as easily accessible. The campus features paved walkways and relatively flat terrain along the waterfront, making it suitable for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids. Standard university parking is available on campus, though visitors should check with UConn for designated accessible parking locations near the waterfront area.

The lighthouse tower itself is not open to the public, so there are no interior stairs or confined spaces to worry about. All viewing is done from the surrounding grounds, which means the experience is naturally inclusive for visitors of varying mobility levels.

The New London Ledge Lighthouse sits in the water and is primarily viewed from shore or by boat tour. Shore viewing points around New London Harbor are generally accessible, though terrain varies by location. If you're interested in a boat tour to get closer, contact tour operators in advance to ask about vessel accessibility and boarding accommodations.

Restroom facilities on the UConn campus should include ADA-compliant options, though availability may vary by season and building hours. The campus is an active university setting, so pathways are generally well-maintained.

For the most current accessibility details - including seasonal access changes, specific accessible parking locations, and restroom availability - contact the University of Connecticut at Avery Point directly. For Ledge Lighthouse boat tours, reach out to operators like Project Oceanology or Cross Sound Ferry for specific accommodation information.

More accessible places in Connecticut

• Mystic Aquarium (Mystic)
• New Britain Museum of American Art (New Britain)
• Yale Peabody Museum (New Haven)
• Connecticut Post Mall (Milford)
• Harkness Memorial State Park (Eolia Mansion)
• Connecticut Science Center (Hartford)