Avery Point Lighthouse | Groton

Information

Landmark: Avery Point Lighthouse
City: Groton
Country: USA Connecticut
Continent: North America

Avery Point Lighthouse, Groton, USA Connecticut, North America

Avery Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse situated on the coast of Groton, Connecticut, USA.

It serves as a navigational aid and a historical marker for the region.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse is a cylindrical brick tower, painted white, with a black lantern room. It stands approximately 45 feet tall. The structure exhibits a simple, functional design characteristic of late 19th-century American lighthouses.

Location & Access Logistics

Avery Point Lighthouse is located at 100 East Shore Road, Groton, CT 06340. It is approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) east of downtown Groton. Access is via East Shore Road. Parking is available in designated lots on the grounds of the University of Connecticut Avery Point campus. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is several miles away, requiring a taxi or ride-share service for the final approach.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Avery Point Lighthouse was completed in 1894. It was built by the United States Lighthouse Board. Its original purpose was to guide ships into the Thames River and New London Harbor.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the lighthouse exterior and surrounding grounds. Photography of the structure and coastal views is permitted. Access to the interior of the lighthouse is generally restricted, with occasional open house events announced by the governing body.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the University of Connecticut Avery Point campus buildings during operating hours. Shade is limited to areas near campus buildings. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the vicinity. No food vendors are located directly at the lighthouse; dining options are available on the university campus or in nearby Groton.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting conditions for photography, the late afternoon hours (approximately 2-3 hours before sunset) provide favorable illumination of the lighthouse. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, offering milder weather. No tide-specific access requirements are in place for viewing the exterior.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical fact is that the lighthouse was automated in 1967 and decommissioned as an active aid to navigation in 1975. It is now maintained by the University of Connecticut.