Rising from the waters of the Thames River at the confluence with Long Island Sound, New London Ledge Light is one of America’s most architecturally distinctive lighthouses. Built in 1909, its French Second Empire design—complete with mansard roof and red brick facade—resembles an elegant three-story mansion rather than a traditional lighthouse.

The light remains active, operated by the Coast Guard, though the structure is not open to public tours. Visitors can best view and photograph it from the New London waterfront, Fort Trumbull State Park, or via harbor cruises—golden hour provides stunning reflections off the water.

Nearby attractions include the historic downtown, Mystic Seaport, and the USS Nautilus submarine museum. The lighthouse is also famous for its resident ghost legend, “Ernie.”

Explore Nearby

• Brooks Memorial State Park — State Park in Washington
• Harkness Memorial State Park — State Park in Connecticut
• Gold Mine Bridge — Covered Bridge in Connecticut
• Comstock’s Bridge — Covered Bridge in Connecticut
• Connecticut State Route 169 — Scenic Byway in Connecticut