Mystic is an iconic coastal town in Connecticut. It’s home to the Mystic seaport, aquarium and, of course, Mystic Pizza. Here’s a guide to help you explore and learn more about Mystic, Connecticut.
History
Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village. The town has evolved from safe harbor for ships to weather storms to a quaint shoreline community that embraces it’s rich maritime past.
Today, with its quintessential New England charm, scenic roads, booming food and drink scene, and proximity to two of the nation’s largest casinos, Mystic has become a destination for both Nutmeggers and out-of-towners alike.
What to Expect
Mystic’s nearly 4-square mile downtown is dotted with mom and pop shops, award-winning eateries, and historic charm. In the heart of town, you’ll find the Bascule Bridge and the Mystic river that divides the village into two: an eastern side (Stonington) and a western side (Groton). Only a 15-minute drive away, you’ll find two of the nation’s largest casinos.
Interesting Facts
- Mystic is not a legally recognized town, it is a village within Groton and Stonington. The Mystic River divides the village of Mystic into an eastern side (Stonington) and a western side (Groton).
- The Bascule Bridge, located in downtown Mystic, opens once every 60 minutes at 40 past the hour during daylight hours/Seasonally May through October. Otherwise, it opens on demand.
- Key West, Florida was founded by Mystic sea captains.
- Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall honeymooned at the Inn at Mystic.
- Charles W. Morgan, last of the old time whaling ships, arrived in 1941 at the Mystic Seaport Museum.
The Lifestyle
Mystic combines friendly New England charm with abounding historical entertainment. There are seemingly endless things to do and see, along with a vibrant food and drink scene.
What to Do
Check out the world’s last remaining wooden whaleship
The Charles W. Morgan is the world’s last remaining wooden whaleship, and the oldest commercial ship still afloat in the United States. The Morgan sailed 37 times between 1841 and 1921. Don’t miss the opportunity to step aboard during your visit to Mystic Seaport Museum.
Visit a 300 year old family farm
The Denison Homestead is a 300 year old family farm with a mission to connect the community to the history, land and environment of the 160-acre property. The homestead is home to the 1717 House Museum, the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center and a farmers’ market.
Have a close encounter
Mystic Aquarium is the perfect family-friendly day trip. Explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits and discover thousands of animals and marine wildlife including the only beluga whales in New England, African penguins, sea lions, sharks, and more.
Take a sail on a traditional sailing ship
Embark on a day sail or sunset cruise on the last commercial schooner in Mystic, CT. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Mystic seaport, islands, lighthouses, and nature while sailing aboard the ARGIA.
Where to Eat
Mystic Pizza
You can’t visit Mystic without grabbing a slice at the iconic Mystic Pizza. Known not just for being the backdrop of the 1988 Julia Roberts movie of the same name, Mystic pizza is also known as “a slice of heaven” and some of the best pizza in CT.
Clyde’s Cider Mill
At Clyde’s Cider Mill you can both observe a cider making demonstration on the last steam powered cider mill in America, and enjoy free tastings of their delicious hard cider. Don’t forget to grab an apple cider donut while you’re there.
Young Buns Doughnuts
Established by Adam Young, winner of the “Best Baker in America” title on Food Network, Young Buns Doughnuts makes traditional, delicious, doughnuts every day from scratch.
S&P Oyster Co.
Enjoy oysters, cocktails, and some of the best views of the Mystic River and Bascule Bridge at the popular S&P Oyster Co.
Want to learn more about Connecticut towns? Check out our neighborhood guides here.
