Things to do & Places to Eat in Mystic, CT

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Mystic, Connecticut, is a small town with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors. From its waterfront views to its museums and historic sites, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, nature walks, or just enjoying local food, Mystic is a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. In this post, you’ll learn about things to do and and places to grab food.

Visit Mystic Seaport

A waterfront scene with a small lighthouse, historic buildings, and ships. Autumn foliage is visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Mystic Seaport is one of the largest maritime museums in the world, showcasing the history of America’s seagoing past. Visitors can experience life in a 19th-century coastal community, including interacting with costumed interpreters and exploring historic vessels, such as the Charles W. Morgan, the last surviving wooden whaleship in the world. It’s also located in a beautiful spot along the Mystic River.

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Spend the Day at Mystic Aquarium

Two seals rest on rocks beside clear blue water.
Photo credit: Lisa MarcAurele.

The aquarium is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors an up-close look at marine life. It features various marine-life, including beluga whales, sea lions, penguins, and many species of fish, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs. It’s a great place to spend the day!

Shop and Dine at Olde Mistick Village

A red building with a water wheel labeled "KITCH" sits beside a small pond, surrounded by manicured bushes and trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Olde Mistick Village is a great spot to visit that’s right next-door to the Mystic Aquarium. Enjoy shopping and dining at the various shops and restaurants in Olde Mistick Village. There are so many unique stores to check out here from Cloak and Wand to Sticky Situations where you can taste-test honey of all flavors! You can also find some of the best donuts in Connecticut at Deviant Donuts here.

Stroll Through Downtown Mystic

A raised drawbridge in a busy town street with parked cars and pedestrians on sidewalks.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Downtown Mystic can get crowded, but don’t let that be a reason you skip it. Explore local shops and restaurants that offer everything from unique gifts to delicious food. Be sure to also enjoy views of the Mystic River from the historic drawbridge!

Denison Homestead

A rustic wooden house with a gambrel roof, surrounded by greenery and rocks, under a clear blue sky.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

The Denison Homestead is a historic site that offers a glimpse into colonial life. Visitors can tour the 17th-century house and explore the surrounding grounds. Something unique about this historic house museum is that everything it is furnished with has been in the Denison family.

Mystic River Park

Woman standing by a wooden post near a waterfront with a bridge and boats in the background.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This park on the banks of the Mystic River provides visitors with a peaceful and scenic environment for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park features a variety of amenities, including a boardwalk and restrooms. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to unwind, a fun spot for a family outing, or a great place to launch your kayak, this park along the Mystic River is a great spot to visit.

Boat Tours

Sunset over a calm body of water with a small boat in the distance. A waving flag is visible in the corner.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Mystic boat adventures typically depart from the Mystic River and follow the waterway to Long Island Sound, offering stunning views of historic homes and landmarks. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Mystic from a knowledgeable tour guide, who will provide interesting facts and stories about the area as you cruise along.

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

A display case with three taxidermy birds: two owls and one hawk, each perched on naturalistic mounts.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center offers trails for hiking and wildlife observation. It features exhibits about local ecosystems and the area’s natural history. The center also provides educational programs and events for all ages.

Explore The Hiking Trails at Coogan Farm

Ruins of a brick and stone structure with arches, surrounded by overgrown vegetation and trees.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

If you’re looking to do something outdoors, check out the hiking trails at Coogan Farm. You can hike to the foundation of the Stillman Mansion. There are also trails that connect to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center trails here.

Get a Pizza at Mystic Pizza

Sign for "Mystic Pizza" with a pizza slice illustration, reads "A Slice of Heaven Est. 1973" on a building exterior.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Mystic Pizza Restaurant is a local icon in Mystic, CT. The restaurant is best known for its pizza and the movie that made the brand a household name. It was established in 1973, and has been serving up mouth-watering pizza ever since. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Get Baked Goods from Sift Bake Shop

A bakery with customers standing in line. Display cases are filled with colorful macarons and pastries. Tables and chairs are in the foreground. Bright lighting and floral decor enhance the space.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This bake shop is a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering a delicious selection of baked goods, pastries, and coffee. The bakery’s charming and cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a morning pastry, coffee, or a relaxing afternoon treat. Oh, and did I mention the owner, Adam Young, was named “Best Baker in America” in 2018?

Grab Ice Cream at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream

Colorful mural of a harbor scene on a wall inside Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream shop with empty tables and chairs in the foreground.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

The Mystic Drawbridge is a significant landmark in downtown Mystic, so it only makes sense to grab some delicious ice cream from Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream. I’ll be honest, sometimes the line can be really long, but it’s worth the wait! They’re open year-round, and the off-season is a great time to enjoy this ice cream without the crowds.

Get Delicious BBQ At Noble Smokehouse

A pulled beef sandwich with melted cheese on a shiny bun, resting on foil.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

This is probably one of my personal favorites in Mystic. Not only is the food absolutely delicious, it’s also usually very quick to come out. Bonus: It’s not directly in downtown Mystic so it has its own parking lot and you won’t have to deal with finding street parking or paying to park like you would at a restaurant in downtown.

Get sourdough Pizza at Nana’s Mystic

A pepperoni pizza with fresh basil leaves on a metal tray, placed on a wooden table in natural light.
Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Nana’s in Mystic is a casual restaurant offering a variety of dishes, including breakfast and lunch options. It’s known for its sourdough pizza, local ingredients and simple, hearty meals. There’s indoor seating as well as waterside outdoor seating. This restaurant also has its own parking lot, which is always a bonus.

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