Mystic, CT Visitors Guide
Known for shipbuilding and whaling during the 1600's to the 1800's, Mystic is a town of history and water fun of all types. Here are a few of the best things to do in Mystic, CT.
 Mystic Aquarium - Boasting more than 6,000 species of aquatic life, as well as demonstrations with animals, sea lions and whales (yes, whales!). There is a penguin pavilion and other outdoor exhibits as well. Also on the premises is Dr. Robert Ballard’s Institute of Exploration. The most noteworthy exhibit is the Challenge of the Deep which allows guests to use technology to recreate the search for the Titanic.
Mystic Seaport Museum - Home to America's largest maritime museum you will see numerous exhibits of ocean history and can board the 1841 wooden whale ship Charles W. Morgan, the square rigged Joseph Conrad and the schooner L.A. Dunton. There are also 400 smaller boats, a seaport community, a shipyard, a planetarium and a children's museum.
Old Mystic Village - Resembling a 1770's village, this shopping center has handcrafted stores, jewelry stores, clothing shops and assorted foods / eateries. As you visit, you will see ponds, fences, waterwheels, and stone walls. During the summer there are free concerts at the gazebo and during the holidays, Christmas festivities can be found along the luminary lined sidewalks. One such holiday activity is the lantern tours and the seaport  where costumed re-enactors tell the stories of life in the 18th century.
The Carousel Museum of New England - Come see the beautifully carved horses from carousels of the 18 and 1900's. The intricately carved horses are amazing! Also available are woodcarving classes.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center - From wildflower gardens to wildlife like mink, and sea otters to over 150 species of birds there is so much to see here. At the Trading Post you will find field guides, walking sticks, science materials and more that will enrich your experience as you walk the many (7 miles) of meander trails.
To see Mystic from the water, there are some great charter boats and towers available. They offer a variety of charter packages ranging in length of 30 minutes to mini-vacation trips. Cruise lines include Mystic Whale cruises, Voyager Cruises, Sabino Mystic River Cruises, Breck Marshall and Sterling Yacht Charters.
Photo Credits: Happy Couple in Mystic, CT by Michael Napoleon; Mystic, CT boat by Richard Taylor; Pacific white-sided dolphin by Gregory Moine |
