Hi everyone! Mike and I just got back from a super fun and much-needed get away. We have been itching to visit somewhere new and always wanted to go up North, especially to explore some coastal towns. If you like fresh seafood, beautiful views, and a fresh sea breeze then Mystic is a place you need to visit! It’s a quaint, historic town on the coast of Connecticut. We only had one night to spare so we chose somewhere that wasn’t too far from us.. ending up there! It’s an absolutely amazing area to visit and perfect for families! It is a popular summer weekend trip, but Mystic is also beautiful in the Spring as well. Bonus: it’s off-season so it wasn’t too crowded.
WHERE TO STAY:
Whaler’s Inn
We stayed in the Hoxie House at the Whaler’s Inn and it was perfect! The Whaler’s Inn is right in the heart of Mystic. There are tons of restaurants and shops within walking distance. Our room was also overlooking the beautiful Mystic River and drawbridge. Everything about this hotel is charming and coastal. The room could not have been more relaxing and comfortable if they tried! It was very clean and decorated so nicely. The room is complete with a Jacuzzi tub, and a fireplace! The bathroom was so pretty and felt just like a spa! Mike even took some photos of the bathroom as inspiration for when we remodel ours.
After our amazing night’s sleep on their ridiculously comfortable beds we enjoyed a delicious continental breakfast at their on site restaurant, Bravo Bravo. They also recently remodeled their lobby area and it’s absolutely gorgeous. The staff is second to none, everyone here was so helpful and friendly. They also have coffee, tea, and cookies in the lobby too! Free wifi and parking are included in your stay, which is always a plus in my book! If you visit Mystic then you need to stay here.
A huge thank you to the Whaler’s Inn for hosting us. All opinions are my own.
WHAT TO SEE & DO
Olde Mystic Village
Let’s just be honest here, coffee is always a number one priority, so when we arrived in Mystic our first stop was actually Vault Coffee Roasters. This coffee shop is a must stop and it’s located in the Olde Mystic Village so you get to experience two great activities in one! The Olde Mystic village is a totally unique shopping experience where you can wander along brick paths to over 40 stores and restaurants. It’s so nice to just walk around and take it all in.
Historic Downtown
The Historic Downtown part of Mystic is really the heart of it all. That’s where all of the quaint little shops, restaurants, and other tourist attractions are. Like I said before, everything is within walking distance in the downtown area and there is so much to see and do there. You can walk along the river and see boats, go on a boat ride, shop, or stop for a bite to eat.
Stonington Harbor Light House/ Beach
The Stonington Harbor Light house is a historic lighthouse built in 1840 and located on the east side of Stonington Harbor, which is only a quick drive from Mystic. It’s a really cool thing to check out and you get to drive through town and see really colorful and gorgeous houses along the way. There’s also a little beach area right behind the light house that is well worth the stop.
Other fun activities:
Mystic Aquarium
Mystic Seaport
WHERE TO EAT
The Oyster Club
We ate dinner at the Oyster Club and it was fantastic! It’s located in the downtown area and only a few minute walk from our hotel. They offer casual fine dining atmosphere and from farm/sea to table. Their menu changes daily so they always have something new to offer and it’s always fresh. It’s definitely a treat yourself kind of restaurant as it’s a little on the expensive side, but totally worth it. We had the muscles, fresh oysters, and their steak special. The steak was the best steak Mike and ever ate.
Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream
For a late night snack we found ourselves just across the drawbridge from our hotel at this little ice cream shop. Their ice cream is delicious and so creamy.
Sea View Snack Bar
Pull right up to the counter to grab a quick bite and relax on the riverside picnic tables at the Sea View Snack Bar. Mike and I love fun little restaurants like this one! What is better than sitting sea-side eating some delicious food? Not much 🙂 I got the grilled chicken sandwich and Mike got lobster roll (which I wish I got because it was soooo good!).
MBar
Possibly one of the coolest places I’ve been to. This place is so unique and aesthetically pleasing it’s unreal. Mbar is a restored gas station featuring coffee, spirits, and food. This place was a must so we stopped by for some lattes before heading home.
Some other restaurants we wanted to go to but didn’t get a chance to were:
Rise, Engine Room, the famous Mystic Pizza, and Deviant Donuts.
Thanks for reading our Mystic Connecticut Travel Guide! 🙂
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