fort griswold battlefield state park

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park was an interesting stop on a recent trip to the Connecticut coast. We enjoyed exploring the remains of this Revolutionary War fort and found that the interpretive signs helped us better understand its history as we walked along the earthworks and through old tunnels. The views of the Thames and New London were excellent, but then we got even better views by climbing the Park’s monument, though this took more effort! There were 166 steps in a narrow, tight spiral; it was not easy to pass those going in the opposite direction so those who are unsteady or claustrophobic may want to skip the climb. We also visited the small museum, which had military and cultural artifacts from several time periods (though the explanations of how the fort was used in times subsequent to the Revolution were sparse). The exhibit on Benedict Arnold’s command of the British Forces and his family’s contributions to the US offered an interesting perspective. Note that we entered Fort Griswold State Park in our GPS, but ended up on a dead-end street at the Ebenezer Avery House (which was not open the day of our visit), located at the edge of the state park. We were able to park near the House (not many spaces though) and walk to the fort. We later discovered a larger parking lot and better signage at the Park Ave. approach to the fort. We spent a bit over an hour at the fort and thought it was quite worthwhile for the history and the views.

I loved visiting Fort Griswold. It's not big, and there's not a lot of information, but it was really great to walk where a Revolutionary War battle was fought. There a beautiful views of the Thames river. We went on a Sunday, so the little info center wasn't open. It's free, but there isn't much parking (just on the road) so be prepared if you are there during a busy time in the summer. Plan on spending only 30 minutes or so here.

I was pleasantly surprised with how neat this historic site was. It's a nice little spot to check out some of CT's revolutionary history. I really liked the experience of walking the Covered Pathway that is still intact from the top of the fort down to the old base of the fort. It was neat step back in time. It's worth at least a quick visit while around Groton.

Perfect on a warm day, Fort Griswold is an excellent spot to bring a bite to eat or stop by to learn and walk in the footsteps of the past.

Fort Griswold is basically a small museum filled with colonial artifacts and then the remains of the old fort. Worth a visit, but don't make the mistake we did by going on a rainy day. The fort is in an open field, and some of us ended up wearing beach towels over our heads.

This is a very nice historic site with great views, but the people in the museum were the key to the excellent rating. They also have a very nice diorama that explains the condition of the fort during the war.

Went with some friends just to see what it is, cause it's free and we're in college. Surprisingly a lot of fun and entertaining. Actually spent a couple hours there. There's a nice view of the river, we bought some cheap kites from CVS and flew those, explored and just had a good time. Went back when the monument and museum were open and had an even better time. The steps are quite narrow, so beware if you're a big man but the view is worth the ridiculous amount of steps.

We visited this Fort in conjunction with Fort Griswold. We enjoyed exploring the grounds and climbing the 166 stairs in the monument. The view from the top is well worth the climb. The narrow stairs are not much fun to traverse, especially when you meet someone on the way down when you are heading up. It is great to learn more about CT's history. Well worth the trip.

Interesting and wonderful place. Monument is a tough climb up since there are no windows until you reach the top. Battlefield and remains of fort are very interesting. Museum is nice with lots of wonderful items to view. I recommend this trip for any fans of the American Revolution or even the British colonial period since this part was truly New England back then.

I love this park! Its such a great little place to walk around. And boasts beautiful sunsets and views.

If in a hurry, do not bother as there is much to absorb from this battlefield and the excellent museum and tower available to visitors. Learning and being reminded of historical events in our nation's past deserves a day. Bring a picnic lunch (no alcohol) to enjoy hillside while looking down the Thames River where the British made their entry. Cannons and plaques inform of the battle on grounds that are open to roaming. The stonework of the museum is beautiful and the contents are informing. If you are lucky enough to be in Groton for the annual Sailfest, bring a blanket and or chairs and stake out a section of the hillside battlefield for the firework display @ 9 pm. Food vendors set up early in the day so make full day of having fun. Do respect parking bans.

You can see where it all was at one time. I recomend a Warm Dry Day. Alot of Walking and it could get muddy in some areas. Neat little piece of History. No onsite Visitors Building. Kinda wished they did more for that Battlefield/Park.

my tour book gave me the impression of a museum and a true fort, but in reality, this are earth works and a couple of explanatory boards and pointers.

This is a good place to go and watch the fireworks. It is also a good place just to take your kids and show them some history. The cannons are cool and the kids enjoy the tunnels.

Amazing fort from pre revolutionary times. Was a little hard to find but worth it. The fort, the monuments and the museum all made for a great day. Being able to walk the fort and its tunnels was great fun. The history is very interesting, American Revolution, Col. Ledyard, Benedict Arnold, The War of 1812. The museum is small but also an interesting place because it was a house that ended up being a hospital to treat wounded during the Battle of Groton Heights.Oh, the museum is closed on Mon. & Tues. but you can still walk the fort.We had a great time.