Does New London CT Have a Downtown?

By Alice Nichols

New London CT, also known as the Whaling City, is a charming coastal city located in southeastern Connecticut. It is home to many historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and beautiful views of the Thames River. One of the most talked-about topics among tourists and locals alike is whether or not New London CT has a downtown area.

Many argue that New London CT does have a downtown, while others believe that it does not. To better understand this debate, it’s important to first define what a downtown area typically consists of. A downtown area usually refers to the commercial and cultural heart of a city or town where people gather for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

In the case of New London CT, there are several areas that could be considered its “downtown.” One such area is Bank Street.

This street is lined with historic buildings that now house restaurants, shops, and other small businesses. It’s an excellent place to spend an afternoon shopping or enjoying a meal with friends.

Another contender for New London CT’s downtown area would be State Street. This street runs parallel to Bank Street and features several art galleries and theaters that host live performances throughout the year.

If you continue down State Street towards the water, you’ll come across another potential “downtown” spot – City Pier. This pier offers stunning views of the Thames River as well as access to several waterfront restaurants and shops.

While these areas all have their own unique charm and character, some argue that they do not collectively make up a true downtown area in the traditional sense. They believe that a proper downtown should have more high-rise buildings and larger chain stores than what can be found in these smaller pockets of activity.

Despite this debate over what qualifies as “downtown,” there’s no denying that New London CT has many unique neighborhoods worth exploring. In addition to Bank Street, State Street, and City Pier mentioned above there are also other popular spots such as Fort Trumbull State Park, Ocean Beach Park, and the Connecticut College Arboretum.

In conclusion, while there may not be a clear-cut answer to whether or not New London CT has a downtown area, there are certainly many areas that could be considered as such. Whether you’re looking for a quaint shopping district or a lively waterfront scene, New London CT has something for everyone.