Step back in time and embrace the charm of coastal New England in Mystic, Connecticut. Cobblestone streets wind through a historic village where weathered clapboard houses tell tales of whaling ships and salty adventures.
Think museums bursting with nautical treasures and harbor cruises where dolphins might just become your new best friends. Mystic is more than just a pretty postcard coastal town. Find out why with these 17 fantastic things to do in Mystic.
1. Visit Mystic Seaport Museum
Explore America's leading maritime museum, featuring historic ships, a recreated 19th-century coastal village, and various maritime exhibits. These include the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship in the world, which has been meticulously restored and is open for tours.
Visitors to this Connecticut attraction can explore interactive exhibits on topics such as whaling, shipbuilding, navigation, and maritime art. There are also rotating exhibitions that showcase artifacts, artwork, and stories related to the sea.
2. Tour Mystic Aquarium
Dive deep into adventure at the Mystic Aquarium, a Mystic CT attractions. A family and budget-friendly place, it is home to over 3,000 animals, including sea turtles, jellyfish, tropical fish, amphibians, and more, offering a glimpse into the diversity of the underwater world.
For an unforgettable experience, participate in an animal encounter program and get up close with penguins, seals, or even beluga whales! Also, immerse yourself in stunning ocean visuals and captivating stories in the aquarium's giant-screen IMAX theater.
3. Shop And Dine In Downtown Mystic
Explore the quaint streets of downtown Mystic lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visit shops like the Spicer Mansion Emporium for luxury items or Mystic Knotwork for nautical-themed accessories.
Whether you're craving fresh seafood, gourmet cuisine, or casual fare, you'll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from. Don't miss iconic spots like Mystic Pizza, known for its role in the eponymous movie, or S&P Oyster Company for waterfront dining with a view.
4. Stroll Down Olde Mistick Village
Step back in time at Olde Mistick Village, a charming New England-style village featuring shops, eateries, and beautifully landscaped gardens. If you are looking for things to do in Mystic CT, wander cobblestone streets lined with colorful shops and colonial-style buildings.
Throughout the year, the village comes alive with special events like Cabin Fever Chowder Cook-Off, Kelley's Pace Hare Hop 5K, and the Olde Mistick Village Art Show.
5. Explore Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
Experience nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and educational programs at this nature center dedicated to environmental conservation. Visitors can explore numerous trails that wind through these ecosystems, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.
One can encounter native wildlife up close through the center's live animal exhibits. These exhibits feature a variety of reptiles, amphibians, birds of prey, and small mammals, providing opportunities for learning about local species and their habitats.
6. Visit Mystic River Bascule Bridge
More than just a bridge, the Mystic River Bascule Bridge is a symbol of Mystic, Connecticut, standing tall for over a century. This magnificent feat of engineering not only allows for boat traffic but also serves as a popular attraction, making it a must-visit place.
During the peak season (May to October), the bridge rises automatically every hour on the 40-minute mark, offering a captivating spectacle for onlookers. It also opens on demand for larger vessels.
7. Attend A Performance At Mystic Dark Room
More than just a theater these attractions Mystic CT is an immersive experience that blends cabaret-inspired productions with a touch of mystery and a dash of passion. Mystic Dark Room's productions are anything but typical.
Expect a captivating blend of drama, dance, and music, often infused with burlesque elements. The talented artists showcase their skills through captivating performances, drawing inspiration from various influences to create unique and thought-provoking shows.
8. See Exhibits At Mystic Museum of Art
Located in the heart of charming Mystic, Connecticut, the MMoA should be on your things to do in Mystic Conn list. It is a vibrant cultural hub and a gateway to exploring American art and creativity.
With a blend of permanent collections, engaging exhibitions, and diverse programs, MMoA offers something for every art enthusiast, casual visitor, and curious mind. Admire landscapes by renowned artists like Frederic Edwin Church and Martin Johnson Heade.
9. Tour Denison Homestead
Steeped in history and surrounded by scenic landscapes, Denison Homestead provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the heritage of one of the area's founding families. Surrounding the homestead are meticulously maintained historic gardens, featuring a variety of plants and flowers commonly found in colonial-era gardens.
The centerpiece of the homestead is the Denison Pequotsepos house, a well-preserved example of colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the interior of the house, which is furnished with period-appropriate furniture and artifacts, providing insight into daily life in colonial Connecticut.
10. Discover Local Craft Beverage Scene At Barley Head Brewery
This nano-brewery, one of the smallest in Connecticut, offers a unique and intimate experience unlike any other. Step inside and you'll be transported to a cozy, almost secret spot, perfect for savoring carefully crafted brews and escaping the hustle and bustle of the town.
With a 2-barrel brewing system, Barley Head creates small batches of beers, allowing them to experiment with a wide variety of styles and flavors. Expect the tap list to change frequently, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience on every visit.
11. Admire Art At Studio Jeffrey P’an
A haven for glass art enthusiasts and those seeking unique treasures, Studio Jeffrey P'an should be on your things to do Mystic CT list. The studio offers a glimpse into renowned artist Jeffrey P'an's artistic process and a chance to own a piece of his magic.
The gallery space, open Tuesday and Wednesday 10-2 and Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, showcases a curated selection of Jeffrey's work, from intricate sculptures and vessels to whimsical jewelry and ornaments.
12. Shop Fresh Produce From Whittles Willow Spring Farm
Founded in 1918, this farm is a cherished family-owned and operated establishment for over five generations. Throughout the year, Whittles Willow Spring Farm offers a bountiful harvest of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
In the spring, you can find asparagus, rhubarb, and lettuce bursting with life. Summer brings sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and plump blueberries. Fall is a haven for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and vibrant mums. Winter offers locally sourced honey, maple syrup, and fresh eggs.
13. Check Out Mystic Knotwork
Mystic Knotwork is a family-owned business, established in 1964, specializing in handmade nautical-themed knotwork creations. They are not only the "first and oldest knot shop in the United States," but also the creator of the now-popular nautical-style bracelets.
If you happen to be in Mystic, Connecticut, you can visit their charming store located at 22 West Main Street. Here, you can browse their extensive collection, chat with the friendly staff, and even witness the knot-making process firsthand.
14. Visit Mystic Seaport Museum Research Library
Located within the Mystic Seaport Museum, the library is an integral part of one of the nation's premier maritime museums. The library boasts an extensive collection of materials related to maritime history, encompassing a wide range of subjects.
Researchers have access to a rich array of manuscripts, correspondence, ship logs, personal journals, and other archival materials documenting the lives and experiences of sailors, captains, shipbuilders, and maritime communities throughout history.
15. Take A Walk By Elm Grove Cemetery
Beyond the bustling charm of Mystic lies a peaceful oasis steeped in history – Elm Grove Cemetery. Walk through the wrought-iron gates and enter a serene world where rolling hills meet meandering brooks, creating a park-like setting unlike any other cemetery.
Lose yourself in the intricate details of the Victorian-era monuments, each one a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the time. From towering obelisks to weeping angels and gargoyles, the symbolism carved into the stones tells stories of lives lived, loved, and lost.
16. Stop By Mystic & Shoreline Visitor Information Center
Located in the heart of downtown Mystic at 27 Coogan Boulevard, this visitor center offers a wealth of resources and assistance to tourists and travelers seeking to explore the area's attractions, activities, and amenities.
Inside the center, visitors will find a comprehensive array of informational resources, including brochures, maps, guides, and directories highlighting attractions, accommodations, dining options, events, and more. It also features interactive displays showcasing the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Mystic.
17. Get Some Antiques From MINE in Mystic
MINE in Mystic is a unique shop located in Mystic, Connecticut that offers a wide variety of antiques, collectibles, and oddities. With its ever-changing inventory and eclectic mix of items, MINE is a treasure trove for anyone looking for something unusual or one-of-a-kind.
From vintage furniture and clothing to antique toys, books, and artwork, MINE has something for everyone. You'll also find a selection of nautical items, maritime collectibles, and local crafts.
