National Coast Guard Museum, Windham County Travel Guide

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Explore the U.S. Coast Guard's legacy: opening in 2026, this museum will showcase maritime safety, security, and stewardship in New London, CT.

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National Coast Guard Museum

The National Coast Guard Museum in New London, CT, opening in 2026, will honor the U.S. Coast Guard's history and ongoing contributions. Through interactive exhibits and artifacts, visitors will explore the Coast Guard's vital role in maritime safety, security, and stewardship.

A brief summary to National Coast Guard Museum

15 Mohegan Ave Pkwy, New London, Connecticut, 06320, US
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring National Coast Guard Museum.

Check the museum's website for updates on the opening date and special events.
Consider visiting during the week for a less crowded experience.
Explore the surrounding New London waterfront area, including the Thames River Heritage Park.

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Getting There

Walking

From the New London Union Station, walk north on Water Street, then turn left onto Howard Street. Continue onto Eugene O'Neill Drive, and then turn left onto Mohegan Avenue Parkway. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Note that a pedestrian bridge will eventually link the parking garage to the museum.
Public Transport

From New London Union Station, take the SEAT bus Route 1 towards Crystal Mall. Get off at the US Coast Guard Academy stop. From there, it is a short walk to the museum. The bus fare is $2.
Driving

From I-95, take Exit 83 for CT-32 South toward New London. Merge onto CT-32 South and follow signs for downtown New London. Continue onto Bank Street, then turn left onto Mohegan Avenue Parkway. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available in the Water Street Garage and other nearby parking facilities. Expect to pay around $1.50 per hour.

Discover more about National Coast Guard Museum

The National Coast Guard Museum, set to open in 2026 in New London, Connecticut, will be a tribute to the United States Coast Guard, the oldest life-saving service in the country. New London, a historic seaport with a deep harbor on the Thames River, was chosen as the museum's location due to its long maritime history and its role as home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.The museum will feature over 200 galleries and exhibits, showcasing more than 600 artifacts and 5,000 images. These exhibits will highlight the Coast Guard's evolution since its founding in 1790 and its ongoing missions. Visitors can explore interactive displays, virtual reality simulators, and immersive galleries that capture the essence of Coast Guard life. The museum's exhibits are organized around three themes: safety, security, and stewardship, with storylines including Defenders of the Nation, Enforcers of the Sea, Lifesavers Around the Globe, Champions of Commerce, and Protectors of the Environment.The museum aims to educate visitors about the Coast Guard's history, its use of technology, and its role in protecting waterways, the environment, and commerce. It will also honor the men and women who have served in the Coast Guard and inspire future generations. The museum will also feature a STEM Discovery Center integrating science, technology, engineering, and math concepts throughout the exhibit.The museum is expected to attract 300,000 visitors annually and is projected to have an estimated annual economic impact of $10 million. It is part of a larger revitalization initiative in New London, including an expanded riverfront promenade and a pedestrian bridge connecting the downtown area with the waterfront. The museum will be easily accessible via rail, boat, and car, with connections to the city's transportation hub.