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!