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Mystic
Bask in New England charm
Batten down the hatches and set sail for a nautical adventure unlike any other in Mystic. Situated between New York and Boston, this seaside city in Connecticut is a popular vacation destination thanks to its laid-back New England charm, historical atmosphere and a slew of exciting museums and attractions.
Dive Into Excitement
The biggest draw here is Mystic Seaport, one of America’s top maritime museums. Step onboard the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship on the globe, and three other National Historic Landmark vessels. Next, explore the recreated 19th-century seafaring village complete with costumed interpreters and authentic trade shops from the 1800s. Not far from the village are a preservation shipyard, planetarium, historic gardens, and children’s museum just waiting to be discovered. The museum also offers scenic boat rides along the Mystic River from mid-May through Columbus Day.
For more marine fun, head to Mystic Aquarium. Here, you can uncover the depths of our oceans while getting close to beluga whales, African penguins, seals, stingrays and more. Kids will love getting immersed in the 4D theater, venturing into a steel shark cage and learning what it takes to be an Aquarium trainer.
If you want to play outside with a scenic backdrop, look no further. Tranquil parks and a serene river make Mystic a great destination for outdoor recreation. Rent a bike and cycle past historic harbors, seaside villages, and hidden lighthouses. Grab a paddleboard or kayak and catch a stunning sunset on Mystic River. Take a charter boat and reel in everything from bass and bluefish to marlin and tuna. Adrenalin junkies will want to visit Fields of Fire Adventure Park. Nestled in lush woodlands, this 50-acre park offers the thrill of a lifetime with its many ziplines and aerial adventure obstacles.
Discover a Vibrant Art Scene
Nautical attractions aren’t all you’ll find in Mystic. Artists and creatives will be glad to know that the city showcases an impressive selection of art at multiple venues. See the works of local artists in four galleries at the Mystic Museum of Art. Gaze at more than 15,000 ancient to present day objects from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. Don’t miss glassblowing demonstrations and seeing incredible blown glass sculpture work at Studio Jeffrey P’an. If you’re in town in August, check out the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival for over 100,000 art pieces scattered throughout the downtown core.
After a long day of sightseeing, kick back and relax in historic Mystic. Here, you can dine at award-winning restaurants and shop at a variety of independent boutiques. In the summer, take advantage of the free Summer Sounds concert series. The city hosts Blue Monday on Mondays and Summer Sounds on Tuesdays in Mystic River Park.
For More Information
Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce
860-572-9578
Connecticut Office of Tourism
888-288-4748