Curator’s statement
Mystic, a charming village in coastal Connecticut, was once a hub for shipbuilding as early as the 1600s. The Mystic Seaport Museum and historical homes along the Mystic River preserve the village’s seafaring history, while the growing food scene and boutique shops continue to draw visitors. It's perfect for a weekend getaway and next door to the vineyards of Stonington, Rhode Island beaches, and Watch Hill, Rhode Island. Its location—one hour from Newport and 1.5 hours from Boston—make it an ideal stop on your New England road trip.
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Where to stay in Mystic, Connecticut
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Things to do in Mystic, Connecticut
Sift Bake Shop
Dine and shop along Main Street or in Olde Mistick Village. Rochelle’s is a stylish women’s boutique on Main Street, while Trove caters to the guys. Northswell, Just Mystic, and Mystic Knotwork are great for souvenirs. My kids loved their Mystic Knotwork adjustable woven “friendship” bracelets. Stop for ice cream or coffee and a photo at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream.
Outside the Mystic Seaport Museum, catch a glimpse of The Charles W. Morgan, the world’s last remaining wooden whaleship.
The Mystic Aquarium is home to African penguins, stingrays, seals, sharks, and beluga whales. Purchase tickets in advance on the aquarium website.
In warmer months, head out on the water with Argia Mystic Cruises for a leisurely sail or Mystic Boat Adventures for a bit of an adrenaline rush. Adventure Mystic offers paddleboard, kayak, and bike rentals.
Enjoy live music at Stonington Vineyards during the Summer Music Series or annual Harvest Food & Wine Festival.
Places to eat & drink in Mystic, Connecticut
The Shipwright's Daughter
Start your day with a coffee and pastry from Sift Bake Shop, or make a reservation for brunch, dinner, and drinks at the Mix Rooftop, which is now open year round.
The Shipwright’s Daughter, located in the Whaler’s Inn, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to hotel guests and locals. Chef David Standridge won the Best Chef in New England James Beard Award in 2024. As a “tide to table” restaurant, there is a focus on utilizing locally sourced ingredients. Don’t skip the housemade sourdough bread with blackberry thyme butter.
We had to cancel our reservations at Oyster Club during Covid. Since then, chef and partner Renee Touponce was recognized as a James Beard Award Finalist for Outstanding Chef 2024, and Best Chef Northeast 2023. The treehouse is an extension of the Oyster Club with a changing seasonal menu. For 2025, its summer menu is inspired by Mexico City.
For craft beers and American comfort food, head to the Engine Room, sister restaurant of the Oyster Club (about a 15-minute walk from the Seaport Museum).
For Italian, Via Emilia is located right on Main Street. The aperitivo menu is available Friday through Sunday from 3 to 5 pm.
In the fall, treat yourself to apple cider and donuts at B.F. Clyde’s, the oldest steam-powered cider mill in the United States.
Need to know
Weekapaug Inn, Ocean House, and Watch Hill Inn—properties located in Westerly, Rhode Island— are ideal for lazy beach days and are about a 30-minute drive from Mystic.
My favorite restaurant in the area, Matunuk Oyster Bar, was recently destroyed in a fire (spring 2025), but it looks like they are determined to reopen. Visit their Instagram and website for updates.
High-speed ferry service from New London, Connecticut, or Point Judith, Rhode Island, make Block Island an ideal day trip as well. Enjoy the local shops and restaurants or rent bikes and hit the trails and beaches. Stop to enjoy the views from the scenic Mohegan Bluffs and keep your eyes open for glass orbs that are hidden around the island as part of the @glassfloatproject. End your day with a lobster roll or sushi and drinks at The Oar. Looking to stay for a few nights? Consider Block Island Beach House or The 1661 Resort.
T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) is 40 minutes from Mystic. Boston Logan International (BOS) is about an hour from Mystic.
I recommend renting a car for ease of exploring neighboring towns, but you can easily reach Mystic from Boston on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Line.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, check out my guide to Newport, Rhode Island.
Travel Advisor
Nicole Sansone
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