Mystic, Connecticut, is a seaport town that boasts so much of what classic New England has to offer. It’s a place filled with sights, attractions, great food, and a ton to do. So stick around, as Viewcation presents: Best Things to Do in Mystic, Connecticut
The Mystic Seaport Museum
A trip to the Seaport Museum is a great idea if you’re looking to really soak in the history of the area. That’s because Mystic was long known as the number one shipbuilding region in the United States. Starting in the 17th century, more than 600 vessels were built over the next 3 centuries. As such, the museum is dedicated to preserving America’s maritime heritage and features exhibits and artifacts related to seafaring, including historic ships, tools, and equipment used by sailors, and displays on the history of whaling. You can get a guided tour of historic ships, watch demonstrations of traditional maritime skills, and explore exhibits on topics such as navigation and shipbuilding. The museum additionally hosts several educational programs and special events throughout the year, making it a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike. The staff here is particularly knowledgeable, and, combined with the authenticity and beauty of the exhibits, they make for a worthwhile time.
Mystic Aquarium
Another must-do in Mystic is to spend an afternoon at the Mystic Aquarium. It’s home to a wide variety of marine life, including fish, sharks, sea turtles, and beluga whales. You’ll be able to explore exhibits on ocean habitats, marine ecosystems, and the conservation of endangered species. The Aquarium also offers various educational programs and interactive experiences, such as touch tanks and behind-the-scenes tours. One of the aquarium’s most popular attractions is its outdoor beluga whale exhibit, which allows you can see these intelligent and playful animals up close. The Mystic Aquarium is also known for its research and conservation efforts. The aquarium conducts research on a variety of topics related to marine life, including animal behavior, ocean health, and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. Through its research programs, the aquarium aims to improve our understanding of the natural world and to promote conservation and sustainability. The aquarium also participates in a number of conservation initiatives, such as efforts to protect endangered species and to reduce the use of single-use plastics. So in addition to getting to see and learn about a whole bunch of incredible sea based wildlife, you’re also supporting conservation and education!
Trove
If you or the man in your life needs a gift while in Mystic, then Trove is a fantastic place to get it. It’s a shop that’s tailored specifically for men, and has a host of great gift opportunities. And if you’re simply in town and wanting something for yourself, that’s a great option too. Trove has a wide variety of male-centric items, like beard balm and other grooming sundries, Red Wing boots, men’s watches, ties, weekender bags, and more. And of course, there are things like Classic Bacon Jam, t-shirts and more that can be enjoyed by anyone.
Mystic Pizza
Fans of 1980’s movies will fondly remember the movie, Mystic Pizza, that was based off of this local pizzeria. It was an early Julia Roberts film that gave her some recognition as her career got started. It was filmed in Mystic, and helped put the town on the map as well. So a fair amount of people visit Mystic Pizza simply to get a slice at the shop that inspired a Hollywood movie. But Mystic Pizza is also just a place that serves a darn good slice. The restaurant is a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from around the world to sample its famous pizza and soak up the atmosphere of the small New England town. In addition to its iconic pizza, the restaurant serves a variety of other dishes, including seafood and pasta, and has a full bar offering beer, wine, and cocktails. With its charming location and storied history, Mystic Pizza continues to be a beloved destination for foodies and movie buffs alike.
Olde Mistick Village
Olde Mistick Village is a shopping and dining destination, made up to look like a New England town from centuries past. It featured quaint storefronts and winding cobblestone streets. You’ll be able to shop for a variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, gifts, and souvenirs. The village also features a number of restaurants and cafes, serving up everything from coffee and pastries to burgers and seafood. Throughout the year, Olde Mistick Village hosts special events, such as outdoor concerts, holiday festivals, and art shows. You can stroll through the village’s beautifully landscaped gardens and fountains, or relax in one of the village’s many outdoor seating areas. The village also offers a range of services, including a post office, a bank, and a variety of health and wellness businesses. One of the coolest features of Olde Mistick Village is its collection of antique shops and art galleries, which offers a chance to browse and purchase one-of-a-kind treasures. With its old-world charm and modern amenities, Olde Mistick Village is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, a delicious meal, or just a leisurely stroll in a picturesque setting.
The Mystic Museum of Art
The Mystic Museum of Art sits on the Mystic River, and highlights art from more than 1200 artists. The museum’s mission is to promote the appreciation and creation of visual art through exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach. The museum features a variety of exhibits throughout the year, showcasing the work of local, national, and global artists in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and printmaking. In addition to its exhibition spaces, the museum also offers a variety of educational programs for adults and children, including art classes, workshops, and lectures. The museum’s beautiful location, overlooking the river, provides a picturesque backdrop for both its exhibits and its events. Cit was created in 1913 by a colony of artists, in conjunction with a nonprofit organization. When you visit, you can either join a one-day workshop, or let your kids enjoy one geared towards younger folks, as you peruse the rest of the art and then explore more of the town. The museum also hosts an annual art festival, which brings together artists, musicians, and food vendors from around the region for a weekend of art and community celebration. The museum’s commitment to community engagement is reflected in its outreach programs, which provide art education and resources to local schools, community groups, and individuals with disabilities.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a non-profit organization, dedicated to promoting environmental education and conservation through hands-on learning experiences and community outreach. The center features a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding area, including more than 10 miles of nature trail, an animal sanctuary, and more. You can learn about local wildlife and habitats through interactive exhibits, live animal demonstrations, and educational programs for all ages. The nature center also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups who are interested in helping to preserve and protect the natural environment. The center holds various events, including guided nature walks, wildlife workshops, and outdoor concerts. The center’s beautiful location, surrounded by woods, meadows, and wetlands, provides an ideal setting for these activities and events. The nature center’s animal sanctuary is home to a variety of native animals, including birds of prey, reptiles, and mammals, which provide visitors with an up-close look at these fascinating creatures. The butterfly house, which is open during the summer months, features a variety of native and exotic butterflies, and provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about these important pollinators. With its commitment to education, conservation, and community involvement, the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a valuable resource for visitors and residents of the Mystic area who are interested in learning more about the natural world around them.
Charles W. Morgan
While we already mentioned the Mystic Seaport Museum, a special shout out should be made to the Charles W. Morgan. It’s a historic whaling ship located at the Museum. Built in 1841, the ship is the last surviving wooden whaling ship from the 1800s and was used for whaling expeditions in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The ship is 113 feet long and 27 feet wide and has 3 masts with a total of 25 sails. The ship was retired in 1921 and was later donated to the Mystic Seaport Museum, where it underwent a major restoration in the 1970s. Today, you can tour the ship and learn about the history of whaling and the life of a sailor on board a whaling vessel. The Charles W. Morgan ship is not just a static exhibit, but also a fully functioning vessel that is occasionally taken out to sea for sailing demonstrations. The ship is crewed by volunteers who undergo rigorous training to learn the skills required to operate a historic sailing ship. Visitors can also participate in a variety of hands-on activities, such as climbing the rigging and working with the ship’s crew to hoist the sails. The ship’s museum also features a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history of whaling and the life of a sailor. The ship is an important symbol of America’s maritime heritage and is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about the history of seafaring and the role of whaling in America’s past.
Now it’s time to hear from you. Have you ever been to Mystic Connecticut? If so, did we miss any of your favorites? If not, do you think you’ll ever get there? Let us know in the comments section below!