Beneath the waters of the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut lies one of the most important centers of naval innovation in the world, the Submarine Capital of the World. For more than a century, Groton has stood at the forefront of submarine design, engineering, construction, and history, helping shape the future of undersea exploration and national defense.
Home to Electric Boat, the primary builder of many of America’s most advanced submarines, Groton became synonymous with submarine innovation during the early twentieth century. Generations of engineers, welders, shipbuilders, sailors, and military families helped transform this Connecticut waterfront community into a place recognized around the globe.
One of the most historic submarines ever constructed, USS Nautilus, was built here in Groton. Launched in 1954, Nautilus became the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine and forever changed naval warfare and underwater travel. Today, visitors from around the world travel to southeastern Connecticut to experience the Submarine Force Museum and walk aboard the legendary vessel itself.
But Groton is more than military history. It is a living maritime community filled with waterfront landmarks, historic bridges, naval traditions, hidden stories, and generations of people connected to the sea. Along the shoreline, visitors can explore museums, memorials, submarine overlooks, and historic locations that tell the story of America’s underwater fleet.
The Submarine Capital of the World is more than a nickname. It represents innovation, sacrifice, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the people who built a community around the submarine force. Through immersive storytelling, audio transmissions, videos, and historical exploration, this project invites visitors to discover the history, mystery, and maritime legacy that continue to shape Groton, Connecticut today.