The photos were taken at Wooden Boat Show in June 2026 at Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut. If you see yourself, your boat, your pet, etc — please reach out to me for a free digital copy of the photo without the watermark. Use the Contact Me form on the home page here. Prints are also available for purchase.
Thursday June 25
Friday June 26
Saturday June 27
Sunday June 28
USS South Dakota returned to Groton, CT on June 25, 2026 from a deployment.
During off-season, Eastern Point Beach would be my go-to spot but since there was an admission fee to get in — I had to find somewhere else to go. First, I went to UConn Avery Point where I spotted USS South Dakota sitting in the water waiting for the tug’s arrival to assist.
Then I went down Shore Ave past Eastern Point Beach to see it pass by.
Always get excited when I see the tug boat!
I drove to another location where the submarine veterans greeted USS South Dakota home with their usual tradition of cannon firing. The families were here sporting clothes with USS South Dakota on them and some held up posters, even an enlarged face cut out. It never gets old to watch these homecomings!
Thank you to all of the sailors and their families for the sacrifice.
If you've spent any time in Mystic, Connecticut, chances are you've spotted the Sabino gliding along the Mystic River. It is a coal-fired steamboat that looks like it sailed straight out of another era. Built in 1908 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1992, she came to Mystic Seaport Museum in the 1970s and has been captivating visitors ever since.
Shortly after I moved to Mystic, the Sabino underwent a multi-year restoration project. I found myself drawn to the shipyard at the museum again and again, watching the work unfold. When she finally returned to the water, fully operational, I was in awe. A 100 plus-year-old landmark — still running. Think of all the stories she's carried since 1908!
I fell in love when I took my first ride on Sabino. She ran so smoothly and the views of the Seaport… so beautiful! Walking the grounds at the Seaport isn’t enough, you have to see it from water — trust me! If you want even more of the scenery, Sabino cruises through Downtown and out towards Noank twice daily!
Sabino is one of the most iconic landmark in Mystic. I’ve loved chasing her with my camera… at sunrise, at sunset, through fog and fair weather, from every angle I can find.
If I had to name my most favorite spot in Mystic… it’d be the Mystic Seaport Museum. That won’t come as a surprise if you’re following me on Instagram (@knotsoloud) as I’ve posted many, many photographs from there! I have been visiting them for years, so often that my parents gifted me a membership one Christmas. I’ve been a proud member since 2013!
Mystic Seaport is DOG FRIENDLY! I bring my Dalmatian and we’d walk around the grounds, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mystic River. The drawbridge downtown can be seen from many points at Seaport. I was particularly excited when ‘Bring Fido’, a traveling app for people with pets used my photo of my dog and I at the Seaport!
It’s one place that is gorgeous during all seasons. I really can’t pick a favorite. The Mystic River is gorgeous in the autumn with the trees changing colors. The reflection of its colors on the river’s water just enhances the beauty of Mystic. The snowy covered grounds is also a sight! I was lucky to be granted access (member privilege!) right after a snow storm, one of my favorite photographing memory! Summer is colorful, with those sailboats in the river.
Mystic Seaport Museum is known for their 19th century seafaring village, the shipyard, and sailing ships. Each of the building in the village is set up as an exhibit. The exhibits portrays all the craftsmen and trades that contributes to ship building. It is very interesting to learn about what goes into building a ship.
The shipyard is where it all happens, the constructing of a boat. There is always a boat there that is being restored. There is an observe deck near the boat that is being restored so you can watch the volunteers at work. It amazes me to watch them work!
There are a few ships at Mystic Seaport to tour. The Charles W. Morgan ship is a favorite. It is the oldest surviving wooden whaling ship from the 19th century. I watched it go under a multi million dollar restoration project in 2010, it was very fascinating to follow the progress. I followed it closely up to the day it was re-launched into the Mystic River. That day was a very memorable event. Thousands of people came out on their boats on the river or stood along the Mystic River to see the ship sail. I stood near the drawbridge when I saw it sail down the Mystic River to embark on the voyage around New England for the summer. It is currently docked and an active exhibit at Mystic Seaport so I highly recommend you to check it out.
The Mystic Seaport hosts many events throughout the year. A favorite of mine is the Wooden Boat Show at end of June. I attend the event annually! It shows a collection of beautiful traditional and classic wooden boats. The festival is usually all weekend long, so there is plenty to do. There are demonstrations and performances to see, special tours of wooden boats, and vendors/exhibitors.
Another worthy mention about the Seaport, is that they offer sailing programs. This is where I learned how to sail the year I purchased our sailboat. The instructors were very informative and helpful.
Don’t forget to stop in the Museum bookstore on your way out. A collection of nautical related books, apparel, souvenirs, nautical home decor products and many more!
Hours and pricing information are available here on their website here.
All photos are my own. Prints are available for purchase.
More about Mystic Seaport Museum:
Summer has begun in Mystic, Connecticut! There are plenty to do for everyone. As a local, I thought I’d share my top recommendations of what to do in Mystic during this summer. Some tips for summer visitors — if you can, visit during the weekdays when it’s less crowded. The drawbridge goes up every hour on the 40 mark from 7:40am to 6:40pm (and on demand). This can cause a traffic jam around the time and could have up to 20 minutes wait (depends on how many boats are passing by). Plan to drive around the bridge times to avoid being caught in the traffic! On the weekends, I would recommend you to arrive to Downtown area around 9-10am when finding parking won’t be as difficult. Hope you find plenty of fun things to do in Mystic!
GET ON THE WATER
There’s many ways to be on the water whether it’s sailing on a ship, a private boat charter, or kayaking. I’ve experienced a sunset cruise with Sail Argia and highly recommend it. The staff are also excellent in sharing their knowledge of the area. If you like kayaking or stand up paddle, look no further than Adventure Mystic. I’ve kayaked with them several times over the last 10 years and always had an amazing time. Other businesses to consider: Mystic River Cruises, Mystic Boat Adventures, Mystic Seaport Museum.
ENJOY THE RIVER VIEW FROM COASTAL ACCESSES
I frequent those coastal accesses for photographing the shoreline landscapes or just to appreciate the views. It’s all opened to the public but please remember to respect the coastal accesses area, as some are near private residences. The locals appreciate it greatly if you pick up after yourselves too! I complied a list of the Mystic Coastal Accesses here.
TAKE THE MYSTIC PIZZA TOUR
You know that movie with Julia Roberts? It really was inspired by Mystic Pizza right here in Mystic, CT! The pizza restaurant may not be the actual filming location but there are many nearby in Mystic, Stonington, Pawcatuck, Noank and Westerly, RI. Take a day road trip to check out the locations! The addresses of the locations can be found on this blog: Mystic Pizza Tour.
VISIT MUSEUMS/AQUARIUM
Mystic has a few museums and an aquarium worthy enough to visit!
Mystic Museum of Art - a small museum with beautiful curated art works. Opened year around with free admission (unless there is a special exhibition) but donations are appreciated. Don’t miss out on the waterfront views from the back of the museum.
Mystic Aquarium - the aquarium is one of the largest in the United States. It’s easy enough to spend an entire day there. I always look so forward to the sea lions show as well visit the penguins and the whales.
Mystic Seaport Museum - this 19th century seafaring village is one of my favorite spots in Mystic. There’s always something to photograph and I also enjoy walking around the grounds with my pup! You can get on the water from the museum on a small craft or a cruise on the Sabino (the steamboat).
SHOP AT OLDE MISTICK VILLAGE
Opened year-round, this colonial 18th century village has over 50+ unique shops! The village consists of a luxury movie theater, restaurants, unique shops and more. There is something for absolutely everyone. Don’t forget to bring your fur kiddos as it is dog-friendly too!
DOWNTOWN MYSTIC
Enjoy a stroll around downtown where there are plenty of local shops and restaurants to support. Mystic River Park is also a wonderful spot to relax, sit in one of the many benches and watch all the activity around the park. On Mondays during the summer from 6-8pm, you can enjoy music in the Mystic River Park. Take a photo of you and your loved ones by the drawbridge — it’s a Mystic landmark you can’t miss!
TAKE ME OUT TO A BALL GAME [JUNE-JULY]
Mystic Schooners (The New England Collegiate Baseball League) is playing from beginning of June to July 30th at Fitch High School in Groton (~10 minute from Mystic). The games typically starts at 6pm and it is free admission for everyone! Be sure to check their website here for game schedule.
MYSTIC OUTDOOR ART FESTIVAL [AUGUST]
This is one of the biggest events in Mystic. I look forward to it every August. It’s amazing to see the variety of art! It is free to attend and happens for two days (Saturday and Sunday). I wrote more about the festival here.
Mystic holds a lot of charm and I love how it is an ideal spot to visit year-round. I hope you find this guide helpful and enjoy your visit. Pop over to my Instagram @knotsoloud and see more of Mystic on my feed. I would love to hear about your visit to Mystic!
Mystic, Connecticut offers a charming variety of places to stay from cozy inns and boutique hotels to unique Airbnbs. Whether you're looking for historic charm or modern comfort, Mystic, Connecticut boasts an array of delightful accommodations! As a local resident, I know which ones are the best and I’m sharing it with you!
Home Away from Home
Look no further than Farmhouse Mystic. Located within a walking distance of Mystic Seaport and Downtown, it is a cozy farmhouse with coastal decor. The host went out of her way to make you feel welcome — whether it’s stocking up with snacks, milk, coffee, etc. There’s even a fire pit in the backyard for those summer s’mores!
Read more about my fall stay at: Farmhouse Mystic
A Coastal Retreat
Located on the banks of Mystic River in West Mystic, Harbor View Landing is your coastal retreat! Beautiful waterfront views and spacious units. It’s so picturesque that it caught the eyes of producers to film some scenes of Hallmark’s Mystic Christmas there.
Read more about my Mystic Christmas themed stay at: Harbor View Landing
For the Campers
If you’re hauling a camper or like sleeping in tents better — Sun Outdoors is ideal location with the proximity to Mystic and Stonington. It’s fun how you can have the tourist-y fun in Mystic but also have camping experience under the starry sky! Very spacious campground and plenty of activities for everyone!
Read more about my overnight camping stay at: Sun Outdoors
Historical New England Home
First of all, the exterior of the classic New England colonial house is stunning! Williams 1807 House is patriotic-themed (outside and inside!). Also there is a nod to local history especially Mystic Seaport. The house is very large with 3 floors, it is perfect for large families or multi-groups traveling together. The hosts are excellent, very friendly and provided a helpful digital guidebook for your stay in Mystic.
Read more about my experience with: Williams 1807 House
A Boutique Hotel
Whaler’s Inn is a beautiful inn with waterfront views and located IN Downtown Mystic. You can’t beat this location if you want to be within walking distance of everything Downtown has to offer. The rooms are very clean, beautifully curated with the coastal charm of Mystic.
Read more about my stay at: Whaler’s Inn
There are many more options in Mystic and the surrounding areas that I haven’t experience yet. I’m sure that you can find a suitable place altered to your needs. If you need more assist in finding tailored accommodations, I would love to possibly help you. Please contact me through the home page under the contact form. This also applies to any owners of Mystic stays who would like to collaborate with me.
Please note that this blog isn’t sponsored. I collaborated with Farmhouse, Williams 1807 House and Harbor View Landing in exchange of 1-2 night stays for the individual blog posts linked. I paid for my own stay at Sun Outdoors and Whaler’s Inn.
Newport, Rhode Island is a beautiful city by the sea. My first visit there was on 4th of July years ago (I know… crazy me!). I have done many day trips since then. This month I had the opportunity to spend overnight in Newport for two nights! I was thrilled to have more time to walk around and enjoy it from sunrise to sunset.
The first thing I did when I arrived in Newport was a leisurely drive on Ocean Drive. It’s a scenic route overlooking the water, with beautiful huge homes. Many people use this route for exercise — cycling, running, walking. I passed by this farm with horses and I loved the pink trees backdrop so I had to capture this!
After a delicious dinner at Brick Alley Pub, I headed over to a park on Goat Island to see the sunset. It did not disappoint! It was stunning especially with the Pell Bridge. I wasn’t the only one there to enjoy the sunset as it was crowded with many people fishing.
I got up at sunrise to go to the beach then a walk on the Cliff Walk. It’s always a must when you go to Newport. It is a long walking path right by the water — taking you right by the Newport Mansions as well other beautiful private properties. I’ve always captured many beautiful scenes here. I loved how it wasn’t crowded as it was still considered off-season and really early in the morning.
While I was in Newport, I also walked up and down Thames Street for all the shopping. I captured some scenes on an overcast day. There were some beautiful pink blooms near the center of Thames Street!
Later that same day, I walked around a side street lined with many historical homes. I love how Newport is full of historical homes and how well maintained they are. It’s hard to not take photos of them! I also came across a small park with more pink blooms!
Most of those homes were in the same general area with exception of the last two. The house on the rocky shore was from Ocean Drive — imagine waking up to that beautiful view of the ocean daily! The last one is a building of Salve Regina University which was located on the Cliff Walk.
Newport is always stunning but this was my first time during spring! I couldn’t believe I’ve never been there during this time of the year but it sure won’t be the last time. There were plenty more of Newport that I wish I could’ve captured but I ran out of time. Until next time!
Read more from Newport, RI:
Newport, RI Getaway: Why Wellington Resort Is Simply Unforgettable.
Newport, Rhode Island has easily earned a spot in my top five favorite New England destinations. I've made countless day trips there, but had never stayed overnight — something I always knew I'd want to do eventually, to truly experience Newport from sunrise to sunset.
For full transparency, I reached out to them about a collaboration. As always, I choose the same way that I'd choose a place for myself. I was gifted a two-night stay in May 2026 in exchange for an honest account of my experience.
I had never visited Newport in the spring, so I was thrilled to discover the city in bloom. I couldn't have asked for better weather — sunny skies and highs in the upper 60s the entire trip. Wandering through Newport and the downtime at Wellington was very enjoyable.
Wellington Resort
The waterfront resort overlooks the harbor, tucked just off Thames Street — steps away from the majority of shops and dining — yet Wellington was removed from the bustle. Newport may not be known for being a quiet city, but Wellington manages to feel like a peaceful retreat. The resort is made up of a cluster of smaller buildings, each housing a handful of suites. There's a range of suite options to choose from, varying by size and kitchen setup, from partial kitchens to full ones. On-site amenities include a fitness room, both an indoor and outdoor pool, a patio with BBQs, and a dedicated parking lot for guests.
My Stay Experience
I stayed in a second-floor suite in a building that housed about five or six units total. Walking in, I was immediately amazed by just how spacious it was. The suite had two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, a dining area, a living room WITH a fireplace, in-unit laundry, and a balcony overlooking the harbor. The living room featured a beautiful window view of both the harbor and the Pell Bridge. The two bedrooms felt private, with its own entry and bathroom, and they weren't positioned right next to each other. The fully equipped kitchen and dining room rounded it all out and honestly took it to another level. I was thoroughly impressed!
My Honest Thoughts
The VIEWS!!! Simply unbeatable. Watching the Pell Bridge from sunrise to sunset was a highlight of my stay — the golden hour light hit it perfectly, and at night, all lit up, it was truly magical. Having a balcony to take it all in made it even better.
I spent a lot of time by the outdoor pool, which is very spacious with plenty of lounge chairs and an expansive patio. It wasn't quite warm enough to swim during my visit, but I was happy sitting on the patio soaking up the harbor views and even had lunch at one of the tables out there.
The suite itself was wonderful. Having a fully equipped kitchen was a huge bonus, especially since finding gluten-free options when dining out can be a challenge. I did enjoyed dining out in Newport but loved being able to store leftovers in the fridge. The dining room off the kitchen had a direct view of the harbor, and I found myself working at that table most of the time, even though there was a dedicated workspace in the living room — the view was just too good to resist! The weather was gorgeous throughout my entire stay, but honestly, even if it hadn't been, the suite would have been perfect. It has that "home away from home" feeling, with all the space and comfort you could ask for.
Why Should You Stay There?
Location. As mentioned, the resort is just steps from Thames Street shopping, which made it so easy to explore without the hassle of getting in the car and hunting for a parking spot. At the same time, it's set back just enough from the bustle to feel quiet and tucked away — the best of both worlds.
Security. The resort is very well secured. Guests receive a key card at check-in that's required to access any of the buildings, and the entire property is fenced in. I actually got a firsthand lesson in just how secure it is — there's a coastal access path open to the public that's visible from the resort, and as a photographer, I was eager to get out there to capture the harbor. I walked the perimeter looking for a direct way onto the path, but there wasn't one. I ended up having to leave the resort and cut through a baseball field next door to reach it. It sounds like more of an inconvenience than it was but it gave me even more appreciation for how well-protected Wellington is.
Parking. (Free!) My visit fell during the off-season, just before Memorial Day weekend, so parking wasn’t terrible yet — but this is a standout perk during the summer months, when finding a spot in Newport can be a real headache! The resort provides parking passes exclusively for guests.
How to Book A Stay at Wellington Resort
Please book a room at their website here.
A heartfelt thank you to Wellington Resort for the collaboration. The breathtaking harbor views, the spacious suite, and the warm hospitality made this an unforgettable stay. I truly loved my stay in Newport!
Read more from Newport, RI:
USS Texas returned to Groton, CT on Friday May 1, 2026 from a deployment. It was a beautiful spring day with blue sky and clouds to make a dramatic back drop.
There was a LOT of activity on Thames River while waiting for USS Texas. I saw a fishing vessels, many birds, Enviro-Lab (Project Oceanology’s “floating” classroom) and USCG Eagle. The Eagle departure was unexpected for me so it was a nice surprise!
The tug boat is always a sign of submarine coming — still excites me to see it!
The tug helped USCG Eagle to leave the dock near Fort Trumbull in New London, CT so I think USS Texas waited out in the water for the tug boat to be available to assist them. The Eagle departed for their summer tour down south and will make its way back up to New London in August.
There were no families of the sailors waiting for the submarine at Eastern Point Beach so it was quiet. They all waited at the Sub Base. It gave me plenty more angles that I normally wouldn’t been able to capture because of the people standing there. Some people who were enjoying the spring day at the beach were excited to spot the submarine.
USS Texas made it way past the New London Ledge Lighthouse down to the sub base. The last photo is at a different location further down the river — you can see that they put the wreath on. It is a homecoming tradition, the colors of the wreath varies. Also sometimes you would see a specific flag to the submarine’s name.
At the other location, there was a group of few women waiting for their loved ones. I loved the patriotic outfits that they were sporting. They held up a sign to welcome home their sailor.
It truly never gets old to watch the homecomings and I’m so appreciative of the sailors and their families to make the sacrifices for us. Thank you USS Texas!
Mayflower II departed Mystic, CT back to their home port of Plymouth, MA on Friday May 1, 2026. She had been at the Mystic Seaport Shipyard since December for her regular winter maintenance. See the photos: Mayflower II returns to Mystic for the winter.
It was a grey overcast day — perfect typical New England backdrop for the colorful Mayflower II to make her way back home.
I loved the Seaport skyline in the background from this angle.
The tugboats might not get as much love as Mayflower II does — but they definitely work hard to help transport this historical vessel back home safely.
She made it through the drawbridge unscathed (if you know, you know!).
There were a lot of people who came out to watch her departure. A rower on the water sure had a unique viewpoint!
I loved how the grey skies made the colors of all boats really pop out!
At the time of this post, Mayflower II is already back home in Plymouth, MA and is opened to the public for tours. I need to make the drive up to Plymouth to tour the Mayflower. I’ve captured her many times now but never have stepped on her! That’ll have to change soon! She’ll be back to Mystic again in the future and I’ll look forward to watching her again!
The historical retired fireboat, The Firefighter has been docked at Mystic Seaport Museum for few years now. They usually depart during the busy season to various summer destinations. At end of April, it departed from Mystic to their first stop in Greenport, NY. They will be traveling to Boston and New London before returning to Mystic in the fall. Keep updated with their schedule on their Facebook page, America’s Fireboat - FIRE FIGHTER.
I’m in awe that the historical vessel has the ability to be on the move. It doesn’t come easy as The Fire Fighter relies completely on donations. A full tank of gas for them in April 2026 would cost approximately $17 thousand! You can donate through their website or purchase their merchandise.
It was my first time being at the Seaport to watch The Fire Fighter leave. I’ve watched it from various points — Downtown Mystic and Noank. I thought I’d go to the Seaport for more angles to capture like with the Mystic Seaport Lighthouse.
I still had time (just barely!) to run to Downtown Mystic to capture it go through the drawbridge. It’s fun to see other people’s reactions to watching The Fire Fighter move. It always stops everyone in their tracks. They gaze with wonder. People pull out their phones to take photos or videos. The collective excitement for any boat that travels through Mystic is always contagious — and that’s why I love living here.
The Fire Fighter will be missed this summer. If you are in any of towns they visit — it’s highly recommended that you tour the vessel. The guides are always knowledgeable about the history and stories.
More photo stories of The Fire Fighter:
Walking the Decks of the Fire Fighter
Fire Fighter returns to Mystic (October 2024)
When I visit the cherry blossoms at Wooster Square Park, I always make a day out of it — so I visited Yale campus to see all the spring blooms! I’m forever in love with the gothic architecture of Yale. I’ve been there numerous times now and I still see something new each time!
This blue bicycle screamed spring!
I went to heaven when I spotted this magnolia tree. Magnolias are one of my most favorite flowers and this was perfect scene. The flower also was perfect peak! Nothing more dreamier than that spot on the bench under the tree — if I was a student, that would be my spot!
I had no intentions of going in the libraries this time but I never can resist! I went in Beinecke — home to rare books and manuscripts. I’m glad that I did because I was the only one in the entire place (of course, besides the security).
As I mentioned, I'm forever obsessed with the detailing of the Gothic architecture. I’m fascinated. Even the water sprout pole was fancy.
It was the perfect spring day in New Haven — I wish I had the energy to explore more but I was hangry after walking around Wooster Square Park and Yale. I grabbed some delicious pizza from Modern Apizza — only some offer gluten free options but it is GOOD! I love my visits to New Haven and I always look forward to my next day trip there!
More photo stories from New Haven:
It’s that time of year for the cherry blossoms in Wooster Square Park in New Haven, Connecticut! I love how this is becoming a new spring tradition. I decided to go early morning during the weekday since it tends to be least busy.
I love how I captured this man staring at the trees in awe and then eventually take his photos. All kinds of people walk through that park — families, couples, photographers, influencers, dog walkers, kids and many more. We all share that collective excitement for the cherry blossoms. There’s something beautiful about that!
I saw a photographer doing a photo shoot with a couple. I bet those photos will come out beautifully. It reminded me to take a selfie as I rarely take photos of myself.
There were no shortage of dogs in the park. My favorite had to be a basset hound pup who kept watching me photographing. I tried to get one of the cutie but unfortunately I couldn’t get him in focus (I’m sharing the photo anyways so you can see for yourself!).
There are a lot of lamps around the park. There’s only so many angles that I could capture year after year. I’ll have to be honest, I struggled creatively to take different angles and captures from years prior so it wasn’t my best photo walk. I still enjoyed the beauty of the cherry blossoms regardless. The temperature was perfect too — it felt like a summer day!
I’ll always suggest to walk down the side streets surrounding Wooster Square Park — you’ll find many beautiful homes and even more trees.
The residents of New Haven are so fortunate to have this beautiful park to enjoy on a daily basis while the cherry blossoms are around. The cherry blossoms are gorgeous and I'm always in awe of them every time.
See more photo stories from New Haven:
Wickford, Rhode Island is a perfect day trip from Mystic — just under an hour's drive away. I discovered Wickford a few years ago and have never stopped coming back. It is an adorable village lined with historic homes and shops.
The charm of small-town life is definitely felt every time I visit. I spend a lot of time photographing, and the people are very friendly. I've had them suggest coming back to photograph a specific event or during a different season. I've now seen Wickford through all four seasons and it's hard to pick a favorite!
I went for the Daffodil Days that happen annually during April. It's a great kick-off spring event where decorated shops are opened, a walking tour with the local historian, horse-drawn carriage rides, music, fun activities for kids (petting zoo & sidewalk chalk art), and the best part… THE DAFFY DOG PARADE!
It was a small but absolutely adorable parade! Some dogs were decked out in yellow daffodil costumes or other spring-themed outfits. It lasted all of five minutes, but it left a smile on my face!
I walked around the village to admire the beautiful homes. Many owners had decorated their doorsteps with wreaths and flowers. I loved how one home was flying an Earth flag — it was the day after Artemis II splashed down from its moon mission. I’m sure the flag was up for upcoming Earth Day but the timing lined up perfectly.
At the end of Main Street, you'll find yourself at the docks among the fishing vessels. Most of the fleet was out for the day, though a couple of boats were working at the docks. One crew was busy sorting bait — yuck, I didn't photograph that one! I always find it fascinating to capture the details of fishing equipment up close.
There is no shortage of weathervanes in Wickford so remember to look up sometimes! I spotted a couple nautical ones that I loved! The sailboat one was very beautiful and I wanted to get one myself.
Wickford is always worth that day trip! I could easily spend the entire day there photographing all kinds of scenes, and I always make sure to grab a sandwich and coffee at Shayna's Place — it's so good! Best of all, several nearby towns like Newport, Narragansett, Wakefield, Point Judith make it easy to extend the adventure if you're not ready to head home.
One day in April, I decided to tour The Fire Fighter fire boat docked at Mystic Seaport Museum. It wasn’t my first time but it never gets old to tour this amazing historical vessel. I’ve visited and photographed The Fire Fighter for years — from when she moved from Greenport, NY to New London then Mystic Seaport Museum.
I captured The Fire Fighter on the move in Noank, CT in September 2025.
The fire boat is currently docked at Mystic Seaport Museum until May 1, 2026. They are opened on the weekends for timed tours. It’s worth the tour as every guide I've had was very knowledgeable about the boat. The stories and history is fascinating. If you plan to tour — it is best to keep updated with their Facebook page, America’s Fireboat - FIRE FIGHTER for their hours and location. After May 1, they will be traveling to few destinations during the summer and return back to Mystic in the fall.
The plaque found inside of the fire boat.
I can’t describe the feeling I have when I walk around on The Fire Fighter. Walking the very same decks where history happened.
The bell used to be mounted on the front of The Fire Fighter but has been moved inside.
The bottom level of The Fire Fighter — the engine room. Everything that makes her run!
The cross on the pilot house door is a piece from World Trade Center. The Fire Fighter helped with recovery efforts during September 11th. It has the ability to pump 20,000+ gallons a minute, which made her the most powerful fireboat in the world. The Fire Fighter was the longest serving fireboat for New York, decommissioned in 2010. Only if the walls could talk, right?!
I loved the view of Charles W. Morgan ship from the bunker room. The journal log is a history artifact — very neat to see. At the end of the tour, you’ll see the Ship’s Store where you can purchase t-shirts, sweatshirts, and objects. All proceeds go back to the fund to maintain The Fire Fighter and keep her going.
I’ve admired The Fire Fighter from first day that I saw her. I have a personal connection with firefighting so my appreciation probably runs high because of that. Still, it’s amazing to see a piece of history in my daily life of living in Mystic.
See more photos of The Fire Fighter:
After fifteen years of calling Mystic home, getting a membership at Mystic Seaport was a no-brainer. It's one of those places I never tire of — whether I'm wandering the historic grounds, watching the ships, or just soaking in the views along the water. Over the past few years I've photographed countless scenes here, and somehow every visit still manages to surprise me with something new to capture. The 2026 season opener (it is opened year-round but full grounds opened on the first day of spring) was no exception. It was the dramatic sky that made me grab my camera and go. A windy welcome back but so worth the visit!
Plan your visit with my local guide to Mystic Seaport Museum.
This sailboat weathervane welcomes me every time I walk into the Seaport.
One of my favorite things about the Seaport is that you can actually see Downtown Mystic from the grounds. It’s great to admire the views without the summer traffic that clogs the drawbridge and beyond. With the dramatic sky, the buildings of downtown practically jumped out against the clouds. It made for some of the most striking views.
And there was the Mayflower II. She's been docked at the Seaport this past winter for some touch-up work before heading back to Massachusetts later this spring — and it’s always a treat to see her. She's such a colorful, striking vessel, and against that dramatic sky she looked absolutely incredible.
I also made a point to pop into the shipyard to see if any work was going on. There's something truly admirable about the people here — the dedication it takes to preserve and restore the historical vessels that pass through the Seaport is remarkable. Unfortunately it seemed like I'd caught the lunch hour, because the yard was quiet.
The moment I opened the door, that smell — fresh cut wood — hit me instantly and transported me somewhere I hadn't been in a long time. Growing up, my grandfather had a wood shop. I'd wander in to visit him, and that warm, familiar scent was always there. I hadn't realized how much I'd missed it until that very moment. That alone made the visit worth it.
I couldn't choose just one photo of Sabino so here’s two! She won't be cruising until around Memorial Day, and right now she's stripped down, benches gone, everything pulled away for her off-season work. It was a little strange to see her so bare, but also a reminder of just how much effort goes into keeping these vessels looking their best year after year. As a photographer, I greatly appreciate that! It’s easy to photograph when those vessels look amazing as they do.
I spotted the row boats belonging to Stonington Crew, and it was bittersweet. For the past few years they've been rowing out of the Seaport while their boathouse has been under construction — and now that construction is nearly complete. It's wonderful news for them, but there's something quietly sentimental about knowing this chapter at the Seaport is drawing to a close. Wishing Stonington Crew all the best as they move into the new boathouse.
Dinghy galore. I rounded a corner and there they were, everywhere I looked. Many of them were mid-repaint, fresh color being laid on in preparation for the season ahead. Navigating through them was its own little adventure, carefully stepping and dodging to avoid brushing up against wet paint. Dinghies are one of my absolute favorite subjects to photograph — the shapes, the colors, the way they sit so simply and yet say so much.
The Dyer Dhows sat quietly near the sailing school, patiently waiting for the season to begin. Before long, those bright and colorful sails will be back out on the Mystic River, dotting the water with life and movement. I'm already looking forward to capturing it.
Mystic Seaport never runs out of stories to tell. Every corner holds something worth pausing for — that's the magic of this place. The seaport has been part of my life for fifteen years and somehow it still finds new ways to inspire me. I can't wait to see what the rest of the 2026 season brings!
More stories from Mystic Seaport:
Just before spring arrived, Mystic gave us a preview — a day swallowed almost entirely by fog. It settled in thick and stayed. Driving along the river and around every bend, there were a few scenes worth stopping for.
At Mystic River Park, I caught the bridge disappearing into the fog — very dreamlike! What made the shot even better was a lone figure on the bridge photographing the same fog I was. Besides the two of us, the park was completely empty. The temperature cooperated perfectly too.
By evening, the fog had finally burned off and blue skies peeked through the clouds. Foggy days are a great reminder for me to slow down and sit with the stillness, especially living in a town that rarely stops moving!
There is something uniquely captivating about college campuses — the architecture, the history, the sense that something important has happened here and continues to happen. It's why I always make a point to seek them out on my travels. During a recent stay in Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire, I had to drive up to Dartmouth College in Hanover and stumbled across the charming Colby-Sawyer College in nearby New London. I'm endlessly drawn to the diversity of architectural styles at college campuses.
There's another reason I keep finding myself on college campuses: my love for the libraries. They are almost always stunning — grand, quietly dramatic spaces that seem to take their purpose seriously in the best possible way. I'll admit I tend to stick out, wandering through the stacks with a camera in hand and occasionally earning a puzzled look or two from students buried in their books. But it's always worth it. The captures I walk away with never disappoint.
My visit to Dartmouth College began with a striking first impression: the Baker-Berry Library, framed perfectly from The Green. Standing there taking it all in, I found myself imagining how breathtaking the view will be once the trees burst into bloom this spring.
Inside, the library's charm! The rich dark woodwork and walls lined with aging books gave the space a timeless, scholarly vibes. A moment of serendipity came when a book with the Dartmouth logo happened to be jutting out from the shelf right in front of me — as if placed there just for the photo.
What surprised me most was the quiet. For a Friday, the library was empty. As I am Connecticut-based who frequents Yale, I'm used to its libraries buzzing with activity at all hours. It was only later that I learned just how much smaller Dartmouth's student population is compared to Yale's.
Dartmouth had been on my list for a long time — along with every other Ivy League campus — but I hadn't done much research before arriving, still half-unsure whether I'd actually make it there at all.
One of the highlights was stumbling upon the Rauner Library, Dartmouth's special collections home to rare and historic books — think Beinecke at Yale, but with its own distinct character. What struck me most were the ceiling details and the wonderful brightness of the space.
Of all the buildings I encountered on campus, this one captivated me the most. I found myself puzzling over its purpose the entire time — was it a dormitory, or an academic building? It wasn't until I got home and did a little digging that I had my answer: it houses Dartmouth's foreign languages departments.
These were just a few of the beautiful buildings I managed to capture during my time on campus. One detail that particularly caught my eye was the recurring use of dark green shutters against the brick facades — a simple but distinctive touch that gives Dartmouth its cohesive, classic New England character.
I have no doubt I missed plenty more, between not knowing my way around and being pressed for time. It only leaves me with more reason to return. A visit during the height of spring blooms or peak fall foliage is already on my mind — this will certainly not be my last time at Dartmouth.
Just a short walk from campus, there was a charming little Main Street, lined with restaurants, shops, and local businesses. Along the way, I popped into a bookstore and a couple of gift shops before making my way to the Dartmouth College store — where a mug seemed like the perfect memento to bring home.
Another college campus I visited was Colby-Sawyer College in New London, NH. My stay was only twenty minutes away and I took an impulsive drive through the town. I had no idea what to expect but the college caught my eyes. The brick buildings, crisp navy blue shutters, and a classic steeple made for exactly the kind of picturesque New England scene I can never resist. It is a small liberal arts and sciences college, enrolling somewhere between 900 and 1,200 students, which gave the campus a quiet, intimate feel.
But the best part? The trees dotting the campus were hung with sap buckets — countless ones at that. It just so happened to be New Hampshire Maple Weekend, and the timing could not have been more perfect. It was one of those small, serendipitous details.
What made this trip so special was the unknown. I am usually a planner, but sometimes stepping away from the itinerary and embracing the unexpected gives you a new kind of appreciation. I left New Hampshire with a full camera roll, a new Dartmouth mug, and a deep appreciation for a corner of New England I had long overlooked.
More stories from my trip to Lake Sunapee, NH:
There's something magical about having a place to yourself in the off-season. Staying at Hideaway Inn at Mt. Sunapee, I spent my days exploring the lakes nearby. On my first evening in town, I set out to find somewhere along the water to shoot the sunset. I was drawn to a dock that opened up to a view of a small lighthouse — one I hadn't expected to find there. I hit the brakes the moment I spotted it. A handful of beautiful lake houses lined the shore, and the whole scene had that calmness.
On my way to Mt. Sunapee, I passed Newbury Beach in Newbury Harbor. There was a small beach but covered in snow and ice. I enjoyed the scenery from here despite the cold and overcast skies. The highlight? Spotting a river otter running across the ice then diving into the water!
My favorite spot was probably Lake Sunapee Beach. I came back a couple of times before finally capturing a good sunrise. The view of the lake houses was lovely, and the lake was still frozen solid — enough that a man ventured out to ice fish. It was something to watch. I even braved the ice myself (only about 50 feet from shore, if I'm being honest) and found myself suddenly wishing I'd brought skates.
Driving around Lake Sunapee gave me some beautiful homes to admire. I loved the stone barn-style residence crowned with a chicken weathervane, a classic red barn with a cow weathervane, and one property with a charming collection of retro gas pumps. A few roadside waterfalls broke up the drive, especially cool with the rocks around them glazed in ice.
March may be the off-season, but my Lake Sunapee adventure was very peaceful. It was beautiful and left me curious about what this corner of New Hampshire looks like when the whole area comes back to life in summer.
More stories from nearby Lake Sunapee, NH:
I didn’t choose Hideaway Inn Mt. Sunapee — it chose me! I tend to gravitate towards the shoreline, but a retreat to New Hampshire sounded appealing. Sometimes the fun experiences are the ones you never thought to plan. Tucked away near Mt. Sunapee, it was a gentle reminder that New England isn’t limited to the coast. I ended up having a slow-paced staycation that turned out to be exactly what I needed.
Hideaway Inns
Nestled at the base of Mt. Sunapee, the hotel sits steps from both the ski resort and Lake Sunapee. The decor celebrates the best of both worlds — a playful blend of ski lodge and lakeside camp, brought to life through retro touches and a bold palette of orange and green. Choose from a range of accommodations: 1-king rooms, double queen rooms, a king-plus-two-twins layout perfect for families, and spacious two-bedroom suites. Beyond the room, unwind in the cozy living room by the toasty fireplace, splash around in the indoor heated pool, have fun in the game room, or let the little ones loose in the dedicated kids' playroom.
My Stay Experience
I stayed in a king room on the third floor, and the cleanliness of the room impressed me. My window looked out over a large space behind the hotel. During one afternoon, I saw a woman playing with her dog on the lawn, which was a lovely scene. One of the hotel's standout features is its direct-to-door check-in. Before arrival, I received a room code by text — no front desk, no waiting, no fuss. I pulled up, went straight to my room, and was settled within minutes. As someone who is Deaf, this was particularly meaningful. Not having to navigate an interaction with someone unfamiliar with Deaf communication made the arrival experience seamless and welcoming.
My Honest Thoughts
Hideaway Inn was the first hotel where I didn't feel the need to stay in my room. It was fun to wander around. I kept finding myself in the living room by the fireplace or in the game room playing the Pac-Man machine. The arcade games carried a wonderful sense of nostalgia.
I loved how the hotel had vending machines stocked with drinks and snacks, plus a machine dispensing coffee and hot cocoa. With the living room just steps away, it was easy to grab a cup of hot cocoa and sink into the couch by the fire.
Since sunrises and sunsets are my thing. I found myself at Lake Sunapee Beach which practically was in the backyard of Hideaway Inns. Despite the off-season, there were still views to admire. One morning I spotted a man ice-fishing out on the frozen lake. It was neat to watch!
Why Should You Stay There?
I’ll be upfront — I’ve never skied a day in my life. I didn’t feel out of place being at Hideaway Inns. I loved the ability to move around the hotel. There are plenty of spaces, including those for work-from-home. I even spotted a man quietly working one day while his family went skiing. It didn’t feel claustrophobic and the other guests were friendly.
Did I mention it’s dog friendly? That alone earns high marks in my book. I brought along my 13 years old Dalmatian and this trip was perfectly suited to her pace. She’s slowing down on adventures these days, so a relaxed staycation surrounded by the beauty of New Hampshire’s landscape was just right. Traveling with my doghter meant all of my meals were take outs. The hotel’s many common spaces made for lovely impromptu dining spots.
For skiers, the location is unbeatable with it being right by Mt. Sunapee Ski Resort. I discovered a perk by accident when I was sitting by the front entrance, a bus pulled up and the driver came in to ask if I was waiting for a lift to the mountain. I had no idea that shuttle service was an option but it’s thoughtful for the skiers. Lake Sunapee Beach is equally close — cut through the lawn, follow the road and you’re there at the beach. For meals, the Irish pub sharing the hotel’s parking lot meant good food is always within reach.
How to Book A Stay at Hideaway Inns
Please book a room at their website here.
More stories from around Hideaway Inn Mt. Sunapee:
For full transparency, this was a collaboration. When I agree to do collaborations, I base my decisions on places the same way I would for my own stay. I was gifted a stay at Hideaway Inns in exchange for an authentic account of my experience. Thank you to Hideaways Inn for this opportunity.
