Top 5 Things To Do in Mystic, Connecticut
Downtown Mystic, CT
Top 5 Things To Do in Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic, Connecticut is known as a quaint seaside town found along the Mystic River that runs into the Mystic Harbor. Although overlooked at times, Mystic has the coastal charm that’s perfect for a day trip adventure in New England.
About 2 hours from Boston, its peaceful atmosphere can make for a great getaway from the city. While there is plenty to do in and near Mystic where you can easily fill up an entire week, here’s how you can spend a day in Mystic, CT (including our top 5 things!):
1. Walk Along the Mystic River
I’m a firm believer that a great way to start the day is to go for a walk and get some fresh air. Along the Mystic River, there is a wooden boardwalk that lines it, making it the perfect destination for a morning (or afternoon) stroll. There are also many benches found along the boardwalk as well, so maybe spending the morning watching the boats float by on the river may be the peaceful reset you didn’t know you needed!
2. Watch the Mystic River Bascule Bridge in Action
Also found on the Mystic River is the historic Mystic River Bascule Bridge. Found in the heart of downtown Mystic, it raises up every hour at 40 minutes after (9:40, 10:40, etc.) to allow boats to pass. I will say that it’s debatable on whether or not the bridge itself can be considered as an “attraction,” but admittedly, you can’t help but watch it in action if you’re already in the area!
3. Grab a Sweet Treat at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream
Found right next to the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, is the Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream store. Grab an ice cream cone or a root beer float (like us!), and enjoy it in their cozy sitting area, or take it with you as you continue adventuring around downtown Mystic. Nothing says “vacation” like ice cream!
4. Shop on W Main Street
Downtown Mystic is lined with a great selection of specialty shops. Some of which include a spice and tea shop, bookstores, souvenir shops, wine/liquor stores, fashion boutiques (filled with coastal style), and more! We spent a good amount of time wandering around looking at wine, souvenirs, and ended up purchasing some spices to take home.
5. Have a Slice of Pizza at Mystic Pizza
And finally… Mystic Pizza. Have you seen the movie? I’ll admit that I have not… but it’s fun to know that the Mystic Pizza restaurant nestled in downtown was the setting of a comedy/drama made in 1988. Even though it was released in the 80s, the movie honestly still brings tourists through its doors to this day (we heard it ourselves!), so maybe we’ll give it a shot one of these days.
Annnd that’s a wrap!
There’s a lot more to explore in Mystic, CT! As we explore this city more in the future, I’ll be sure to edit this blog post with more recommendations for what to see and eat (we hear that the Mystic Aquarium is something to check out!). For now, these are 5 Things You Can Do for a fantastic day trip to Mystic, Connecticut.
Make it an adventure worth sharing about!
'Til the next one,
Gen
