Living in New London County, CT

New London County occupies Connecticut's southeastern corner, where the Thames River meets Long Island Sound and the state's character shifts to a more maritime, independent spirit. The city of New London, home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and Connecticut College, is a compact waterfront city with a revitalizing downtown, a thriving arts community, and Amtrak service to Boston and New York. Directly across the Thames, Groton is known as the Submarine Capital of the World, hosting the Naval Submarine Base New London and General Dynamics Electric Boat, a major employer that builds nuclear submarines. The county's crown jewel for many visitors is the Mystic area, where Mystic Seaport, Mystic Aquarium, and the charming Mystic downtown draw millions of tourists each year. But beyond the tourist attractions, residents enjoy a genuine coastal lifestyle in communities like Stonington Borough, one of Connecticut's most beautiful seaside villages, and the quiet beach towns of Waterford and East Lyme. The northern part of the county, including Norwich and Colchester, offers a more rural and affordable landscape. Two major tribal casinos, Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, are significant economic engines and entertainment destinations.