Guidebook for Southeast CT and RI
Popular Family Attractions
Aquarium-marine life, Mystic Seaport Maritime Museum, Nautilus Naval Submarine Museum
Great aquarium for marine natural history and an interesting deep sea exploration wing. The Institute for Deep Sea Exploration was founded by Robert Ballard the well known retired Naval officer who popularized the use of technology for underwater research. Video and exhibits highlight early dive bells, submarines and ROVs to search for ship wrecks, artifacts and marine life never before seen at great depths. Spend about 2.5 hours seeing animal demonstrations in the marine theater, outdoor Alaska Coast exhibits with beluga whales and lots of fun hands-on kids exhibits throughout. Excellent gift shop, snack café, and lots of parking.
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Mystic Aquarium
Great aquarium for marine natural history and an interesting deep sea exploration wing. The Institute for Deep Sea Exploration was founded by Robert Ballard the well known retired Naval officer who popularized the use of technology for underwater research. Video and exhibits highlight early dive bells, submarines and ROVs to search for ship wrecks, artifacts and marine life never before seen at great depths. Spend about 2.5 hours seeing animal demonstrations in the marine theater, outdoor Alaska Coast exhibits with beluga whales and lots of fun hands-on kids exhibits throughout. Excellent gift shop, snack café, and lots of parking.
Featuring wooden ships from around the world, including the Portuguese slave ship Amistad (movie also filmed there on location), a Norwegian replica viking ship, The Charles Morgan - (last operating whaling ship) and many other kinds of schooners and vessels important to the fishing industry, commercial shipping and leisure boating. The Seaport riverfront setting was once a major ship building area during the pinnacle of the whaling industry. The setting is now a Victorian period waterfront town with walk-in exhibits, historic homes, stores and other commercial structures like a blacksmith shop, cooperage, working tavern, rope walk mill, wood carver, print shop, planetarium, seaman's chapel, outdoor theater and event stage and new exhibition hall featuring art and cultural exhibits from around the world.
Most larger ships are now open for walk through viewing and there is also the DuPont dry dock and working restoration yard where wooden ships get hauled out and repaired. Most recently the 1957 replica Mayflower was sailed down from Plymouth, Massachusetts to be overhauled and sailed back to the museum there.
The Museum’s exhibition halls are brimming with permanent and changing exhibits that offer rare glimpses into other eras and cultures, including restored vessels, figureheads, ship carvings, and vintage photography and marine related art. Each exhibit and art gallery at Mystic Seaport Museum offers a unique perspective of our nation’s history with the sea and voyages on the water...a must see!
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Museo Mystic Seaport
75 Greenmanville AveFeaturing wooden ships from around the world, including the Portuguese slave ship Amistad (movie also filmed there on location), a Norwegian replica viking ship, The Charles Morgan - (last operating whaling ship) and many other kinds of schooners and vessels important to the fishing industry, commercial shipping and leisure boating. The Seaport riverfront setting was once a major ship building area during the pinnacle of the whaling industry. The setting is now a Victorian period waterfront town with walk-in exhibits, historic homes, stores and other commercial structures like a blacksmith shop, cooperage, working tavern, rope walk mill, wood carver, print shop, planetarium, seaman's chapel, outdoor theater and event stage and new exhibition hall featuring art and cultural exhibits from around the world.
Most larger ships are now open for walk through viewing and there is also the DuPont dry dock and working restoration yard where wooden ships get hauled out and repaired. Most recently the 1957 replica Mayflower was sailed down from Plymouth, Massachusetts to be overhauled and sailed back to the museum there.
The Museum’s exhibition halls are brimming with permanent and changing exhibits that offer rare glimpses into other eras and cultures, including restored vessels, figureheads, ship carvings, and vintage photography and marine related art. Each exhibit and art gallery at Mystic Seaport Museum offers a unique perspective of our nation’s history with the sea and voyages on the water...a must see!
Historic first nuclear submarine Nautilus, active from 1954-1980, can be toured at Submarine Force Museum. Free admission.
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The Submarine Force Museum
1 Crystal Lake RdHistoric first nuclear submarine Nautilus, active from 1954-1980, can be toured at Submarine Force Museum. Free admission.
Museum History
Tribally owned-and-operated since it opened on Aug. 11, 1998, the Museum brings to life the story of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. It serves as a major resource on the histories and cultures of Native Americans in the northeast and on the region's rich natural history.
The Museum is a 308,000-square-foot complex, consisting of permanent exhibits, the Mashantucket Gallery (a gallery for temporary exhibits), classrooms, a 320-seat auditorium, a restaurant, a museum shop and administrative offices. The Research Center houses collections, archives, and archaeology and conservation laboratories where ongoing work from the field is evaluated and studied.
Multi-sensory dioramas and exhibits introduce visitors to the history of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the natural and cultural history of the eastern woodlands. Films and videos, interactive programs, archival materials, ethnographic and archaeological collections, commissioned art, and traditional crafts by Native artisans are featured in the exhibits.
The building is designed to interact with its surrounding environment while maintaining the ecological integrity of the area. It embraces the tree line and is nestled into the landscape; two of the five levels of the facility are below ground. A 185-foot, stone-and-glass tower provides visitors with sweeping views of the swamp and region. The large, circular, glass-and-steel Gathering Space serves as an arrival area. The restaurant features a variety of Native American cuisines, and the museum shop specializes in contemporary Native American arts and crafts.
Accessibility
The Museum & Research Center is accessible to all visitors. Highlights include: an infrared communications system that enables the visually-impaired to navigate through the facility, paired with audio description and interpretation; closed captioning; and replica artifacts for hands-on exploration.
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Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center
110 Pequot TrailMuseum History
Tribally owned-and-operated since it opened on Aug. 11, 1998, the Museum brings to life the story of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. It serves as a major resource on the histories and cultures of Native Americans in the northeast and on the region's rich natural history.
The Museum is a 308,000-square-foot complex, consisting of permanent exhibits, the Mashantucket Gallery (a gallery for temporary exhibits), classrooms, a 320-seat auditorium, a restaurant, a museum shop and administrative offices. The Research Center houses collections, archives, and archaeology and conservation laboratories where ongoing work from the field is evaluated and studied.
Multi-sensory dioramas and exhibits introduce visitors to the history of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the natural and cultural history of the eastern woodlands. Films and videos, interactive programs, archival materials, ethnographic and archaeological collections, commissioned art, and traditional crafts by Native artisans are featured in the exhibits.
The building is designed to interact with its surrounding environment while maintaining the ecological integrity of the area. It embraces the tree line and is nestled into the landscape; two of the five levels of the facility are below ground. A 185-foot, stone-and-glass tower provides visitors with sweeping views of the swamp and region. The large, circular, glass-and-steel Gathering Space serves as an arrival area. The restaurant features a variety of Native American cuisines, and the museum shop specializes in contemporary Native American arts and crafts.
Accessibility
The Museum & Research Center is accessible to all visitors. Highlights include: an infrared communications system that enables the visually-impaired to navigate through the facility, paired with audio description and interpretation; closed captioning; and replica artifacts for hands-on exploration.
Local historic sites to visit
Small museums, colonial and Victorian architecture, historic homes, opera house and more
Beautiful historic home of the Palmer family - well known wealthy ship captain and owners of whaling ships, arctic seal hunting vessels and other maritime business during the Victorian era. Personal tours at specific times.
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Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House
40 Palmer StBeautiful historic home of the Palmer family - well known wealthy ship captain and owners of whaling ships, arctic seal hunting vessels and other maritime business during the Victorian era. Personal tours at specific times.
Located at the end of Stonington Borough near the beach, this stone lighthouse has a wonderful collection of local photos, artifacts from local whaling ships and merchants who traveled the globe during the Victorian era. Revolutionary and War of 1812 weaponry and history also included and other items collected from residents of that period. Lighthouse structure and beacon turret at top fun to climb up to view the surrounding harbor and sound.
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Stonington Lighthouse Museum
7 Water StLocated at the end of Stonington Borough near the beach, this stone lighthouse has a wonderful collection of local photos, artifacts from local whaling ships and merchants who traveled the globe during the Victorian era. Revolutionary and War of 1812 weaponry and history also included and other items collected from residents of that period. Lighthouse structure and beacon turret at top fun to climb up to view the surrounding harbor and sound.
The oldest operating steam powered cider mill in the country established in 1898. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Clydes is the go to spot for great cider, hard cider and fruit wines and a myriad of classic New England food products and baked goods in their store. Don't miss having a cup of warm cider and a fresh sugared cake donut made there to order. Be sure to get some sweet crunchy apples and cider products anytime of year. Parking here is a nightmare on weekends so try midweek visits when traffic is much less. Hard cider in jugs can be purchased behind the actual mill building so you can avoid long lines to the store and tasting stands if you know what to buy! We recommend a growler bottle or half gallon of Blackout, GoodFellas, Lucky Lion, or Clyde's Classic. We save money $2.00 with the refillable glass jugs but they only refill on weekends when it is so overly crowded - so we just dash in for the plastic jugs and dash back out.
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Clyde's Cider Mill (seasonal) opens sept. 1st
129 N Stonington RdThe oldest operating steam powered cider mill in the country established in 1898. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Clydes is the go to spot for great cider, hard cider and fruit wines and a myriad of classic New England food products and baked goods in their store. Don't miss having a cup of warm cider and a fresh sugared cake donut made there to order. Be sure to get some sweet crunchy apples and cider products anytime of year. Parking here is a nightmare on weekends so try midweek visits when traffic is much less. Hard cider in jugs can be purchased behind the actual mill building so you can avoid long lines to the store and tasting stands if you know what to buy! We recommend a growler bottle or half gallon of Blackout, GoodFellas, Lucky Lion, or Clyde's Classic. We save money $2.00 with the refillable glass jugs but they only refill on weekends when it is so overly crowded - so we just dash in for the plastic jugs and dash back out.
Located on Pequotsepos Road across the street from the Nature Center and next to the farmers market, this was originally Captain George Denison's 250 acre farm and homestead house built in the late 1600s after rewarded for his service in the "King Phillip's" Pequot War. The Denison family name is well known and respected since early colonial times in the region. The house was owned by family descendants until 1946 when it was restored and became a historic site and public museum.
Denison Homestead Museum
120 Pequotsepos RdLocated on Pequotsepos Road across the street from the Nature Center and next to the farmers market, this was originally Captain George Denison's 250 acre farm and homestead house built in the late 1600s after rewarded for his service in the "King Phillip's" Pequot War. The Denison family name is well known and respected since early colonial times in the region. The house was owned by family descendants until 1946 when it was restored and became a historic site and public museum.
Located in East Haddam, CT on the Connecticut River, this unique Victorian era building is still a working live theater, features nostalgic famous musicals and broadway productions. Have a nice dinner at the Gelston House restaurant next door and see a show! (approx. 40 minute drive from Mystic)
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Goodspeed Opera House
6 Main StLocated in East Haddam, CT on the Connecticut River, this unique Victorian era building is still a working live theater, features nostalgic famous musicals and broadway productions. Have a nice dinner at the Gelston House restaurant next door and see a show! (approx. 40 minute drive from Mystic)
Amazing stone home built by eccentric actor overlooking the Connecticut River from its beautiful elevated property. Unique interior architectural elements and surprising secret locks, doors and other details all designed by Mr. Gillette himself.
Intriguing, unique architecture and beautiful setting - a must see!
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Gillette Castle State Park
Gillette Castle State ParkAmazing stone home built by eccentric actor overlooking the Connecticut River from its beautiful elevated property. Unique interior architectural elements and surprising secret locks, doors and other details all designed by Mr. Gillette himself.
Intriguing, unique architecture and beautiful setting - a must see!
Nature center, nature walks, hiking, parks
For the outdoor nature lover and active families
Great for families, nature center offers kids programs, rehabilitation of injured animals and birds, displays and woodland walking trails. Popular annual events include Mushroom Festival featuring nature walks, displays and local restaurant recipes and cooked samples of local mushrooms. Members programs and hiking trips available for nature lovers!
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Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
109 Pequotsepos RdGreat for families, nature center offers kids programs, rehabilitation of injured animals and birds, displays and woodland walking trails. Popular annual events include Mushroom Festival featuring nature walks, displays and local restaurant recipes and cooked samples of local mushrooms. Members programs and hiking trips available for nature lovers!
The principle feature of the park, Chapman Falls drops more than sixty feet over a series of steps in a Scotland Schist stone formation. The falls also once powered "Beebe's Mills" which were named after the original owner. The mills operated until the mid 1890's.
The classic New England covered bridge and flowing stream located down below the falls set the mood for this tranquil park. Down in the ravine surrounded by pine forest there are picnic tables and areas to set up your base camp before heading out to explore the many hiking trails and paths around the park. The cool stream water and shady forest setting offers fresh pine-scented air and an ideal cool escape in summer months.
A search for the origin of the name "Devil's Hopyard" reveals a wide variety of different stories; none of them are verifiable and all are likely to be more fiction than fact. One of the most popular of these stories is about a man named Dibble, who had a garden for growing hops used in the brewing of beer. It seems that through usage, Dibble's Hopyard became Devil's Hopyard. There are records of several farmers having hopyards in the area, but there is no mention of a landowner named Dibble. However, Dibble might have been a tenant.
Another tale focuses on the potholes near the falls, which are some of the finest examples of pothole stone formations in this section of the country. Perfectly cylindrical, they range from inches to several feet in diameter and depth. These potholes were formed by stones moved downstream by the current and trapped in an eddy where the stone was spun around and around, wearing a depression in the rock. When the rock wore itself down, another would catch in the same hole and enlarge it. We know this now, but to the early settlers the potholes were a great mystery that they tried to explain with references to the supernatural. They thought that the Devil has passed by the falls, accidentally getting his tail wet. This made him so mad he burned holes in the stones with his hooves as he bounded away.
The park today offers some of the finest birding in the state and fishermen find the clear, cool stream water an excellent source of brook trout.
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Parque Estatal de Devil's Hopyard
366 Hopyard RdThe principle feature of the park, Chapman Falls drops more than sixty feet over a series of steps in a Scotland Schist stone formation. The falls also once powered "Beebe's Mills" which were named after the original owner. The mills operated until the mid 1890's.
The classic New England covered bridge and flowing stream located down below the falls set the mood for this tranquil park. Down in the ravine surrounded by pine forest there are picnic tables and areas to set up your base camp before heading out to explore the many hiking trails and paths around the park. The cool stream water and shady forest setting offers fresh pine-scented air and an ideal cool escape in summer months.
A search for the origin of the name "Devil's Hopyard" reveals a wide variety of different stories; none of them are verifiable and all are likely to be more fiction than fact. One of the most popular of these stories is about a man named Dibble, who had a garden for growing hops used in the brewing of beer. It seems that through usage, Dibble's Hopyard became Devil's Hopyard. There are records of several farmers having hopyards in the area, but there is no mention of a landowner named Dibble. However, Dibble might have been a tenant.
Another tale focuses on the potholes near the falls, which are some of the finest examples of pothole stone formations in this section of the country. Perfectly cylindrical, they range from inches to several feet in diameter and depth. These potholes were formed by stones moved downstream by the current and trapped in an eddy where the stone was spun around and around, wearing a depression in the rock. When the rock wore itself down, another would catch in the same hole and enlarge it. We know this now, but to the early settlers the potholes were a great mystery that they tried to explain with references to the supernatural. They thought that the Devil has passed by the falls, accidentally getting his tail wet. This made him so mad he burned holes in the stones with his hooves as he bounded away.
The park today offers some of the finest birding in the state and fishermen find the clear, cool stream water an excellent source of brook trout.
Lantern Hill is a 491 foot summit in North Stonington, Connecticut. There are a few different trails in the area, with the main two being the Lantern Hill Trail, indicated by the red arrowhead, and the Narragansett Trail, which is marked by the standard Connecticut blue trail marking. Lantern Hill itself is one end point of the 16-mile Narragansett Trail.
What Makes It Great
Lantern Hill is best known for the fantastic views from the top of the surrounding greenery of North Stonington. After reaching the summit there are multiple areas on either side of the hill that offer secluded views over Lantern Hill pond and outwards, including a very clear view of Foxwoods Casino. Depending on the day, you may even be able to see the ocean from the south side of the hill. I enjoy Lantern Hill for its short but steep trails, which make for a challenging and, after reaching the top, rewarding hiking experience, while not taking very much time.
There are, unfortunately, a few unavoidable drawbacks to this hiking location: first, there is very limited parking. In the warmer months it may be difficult to find a spot, and you might have to drive down the road a bit and walk back to the entrance. Second, the road can be busy and is also to some degree visible and audible at different points of the hike, which some may find distracting or annoying.
Who is Going to Love It
Climbing to the summit and back does not take long, as the trail itself is fairly short. That being said, reaching the vista is still challenging at times. The trail has points at which it is extremely steep, and at times follows dangerously close to the edge of the cliff. While offering a wonderful view of the pond, it is important to be ever vigilant of loose rocks and leaves that could easily result in a very serious injury if not given the proper respect. Still, hikers like myself, who are especially fond of steep climbs and rewarding views, will love Lantern Hill. If you are looking for a shorter, steeper hike, Lantern Hill is the place for you.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
The main parking area leads directly to all the trails. The parking area is actually not along Lantern Hill Rd, but Wintechog Hill Rd, on the other side of the hill and pond. Coming from Norwich or North Stonington CT, take route 2 down to Foxwoods Blvd, then turn onto Wintechog Hill Rd, parking on the right. From Ledyard, take 214.
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Lantern Hill Trail
215 Wintechog Hill RdLantern Hill is a 491 foot summit in North Stonington, Connecticut. There are a few different trails in the area, with the main two being the Lantern Hill Trail, indicated by the red arrowhead, and the Narragansett Trail, which is marked by the standard Connecticut blue trail marking. Lantern Hill itself is one end point of the 16-mile Narragansett Trail.
What Makes It Great
Lantern Hill is best known for the fantastic views from the top of the surrounding greenery of North Stonington. After reaching the summit there are multiple areas on either side of the hill that offer secluded views over Lantern Hill pond and outwards, including a very clear view of Foxwoods Casino. Depending on the day, you may even be able to see the ocean from the south side of the hill. I enjoy Lantern Hill for its short but steep trails, which make for a challenging and, after reaching the top, rewarding hiking experience, while not taking very much time.
There are, unfortunately, a few unavoidable drawbacks to this hiking location: first, there is very limited parking. In the warmer months it may be difficult to find a spot, and you might have to drive down the road a bit and walk back to the entrance. Second, the road can be busy and is also to some degree visible and audible at different points of the hike, which some may find distracting or annoying.
Who is Going to Love It
Climbing to the summit and back does not take long, as the trail itself is fairly short. That being said, reaching the vista is still challenging at times. The trail has points at which it is extremely steep, and at times follows dangerously close to the edge of the cliff. While offering a wonderful view of the pond, it is important to be ever vigilant of loose rocks and leaves that could easily result in a very serious injury if not given the proper respect. Still, hikers like myself, who are especially fond of steep climbs and rewarding views, will love Lantern Hill. If you are looking for a shorter, steeper hike, Lantern Hill is the place for you.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
The main parking area leads directly to all the trails. The parking area is actually not along Lantern Hill Rd, but Wintechog Hill Rd, on the other side of the hill and pond. Coming from Norwich or North Stonington CT, take route 2 down to Foxwoods Blvd, then turn onto Wintechog Hill Rd, parking on the right. From Ledyard, take 214.
Beaches
In general, beaches in Connecticut are all located on Long Island Sound which is generally calm water, little surf with sandy bottoms - ideal for swimming. Some beaches are in parks-preserve areas and are unattended by lifeguards and have no facilities such as in Bluff Point in Groton, CT. The Ocean Beach facility in New London also features a large public pool, water slides, a boardwalk area and food services. Paid parking is limited.
For those who love a big surf beach, they are largely located in Rhode Island on the open Atlantic Ocean. East Beach in Watch Hill, RI is beautiful and borders many exclusive waterfront homes in that area so there is limited parking and sometimes difficult to access without a long walk. The famous Ocean House Hotel has a great lunch on the deck overlooking the beach and may offer guests and diners discounted parking for a day....call to be sure! East Beach continues further north and connects to Misquamicut State Beach (the largest) which features bathhouses, lifeguards, and parking. There are many businesses along the beaches including restaurants, arcades, water slides, snack bars, motels and retail stores. There is no shade on the beach or in the parking lots so be sure to bring umbrellas, window shades for your car and a good hat!
A private little beach at the end of Stonington Borough, some sandy bottom and some rocky. Requires payment for entry. No amenities except portable toilets.
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DuBois Beach
A private little beach at the end of Stonington Borough, some sandy bottom and some rocky. Requires payment for entry. No amenities except portable toilets.
Located in Westerly, Rhode Island this is the largest open ocean State Beach.
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Playa Estatal de Misquamicut
Located in Westerly, Rhode Island this is the largest open ocean State Beach.
Located in beautiful Watch Hill, RI where many notable celebrities in the early 1900s built large seaside houses and where the famous Ocean House Hotel is located. Now rebuilt and expanded to include residences, a spectacular restaurant and access to East Beach
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East Beach
East Beach RoadLocated in beautiful Watch Hill, RI where many notable celebrities in the early 1900s built large seaside houses and where the famous Ocean House Hotel is located. Now rebuilt and expanded to include residences, a spectacular restaurant and access to East Beach
Nice calm beach on Long Island Sound is great for families with picnic pavilions, shower house, pool, water slide and food service.
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Parque Ocean Beach
98 Neptune AveNice calm beach on Long Island Sound is great for families with picnic pavilions, shower house, pool, water slide and food service.
Rocky Neck State Park Bathing Beach
Located in Old Lyme, CT.
Hammonasset State Park Beach:
Located in Madison on the shoreline of Long Island Sound, this is Connecticuts largest park featuring a 2.5 mile beach. Amenities include boat ramp, fishing areas, grassy camping sites, hiking paths, state park bathhouse facilities and lots of space to roam. This park is great for families with plenty of pavilions for picnics and barbecues. The Beach is well maintained and has calm Long Island Sound water with no surf or undertow - excellent for little children.
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Parque Estatal de la Playa de Hammonasset
1288 Boston Post RdHammonasset State Park Beach:
Located in Madison on the shoreline of Long Island Sound, this is Connecticuts largest park featuring a 2.5 mile beach. Amenities include boat ramp, fishing areas, grassy camping sites, hiking paths, state park bathhouse facilities and lots of space to roam. This park is great for families with plenty of pavilions for picnics and barbecues. The Beach is well maintained and has calm Long Island Sound water with no surf or undertow - excellent for little children.
The iconic Ocean House is a historic landmark in Watch Hill, RI.
The original Victorian seaside hotel was completely rebuilt and looks nearly the same with additional major improvements such as the restaurant, residences, and up to date amenities one would expect in a new hotel.
Located overlooking adjacent East Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, guests at the hotel have a designated beach area complete with snack shack, chairs, a beach equipment hut and a lifeguard.
Valet park, have lunch on the deck and enjoy a beach walk!
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Ocean House
1 Bluff AveThe iconic Ocean House is a historic landmark in Watch Hill, RI.
The original Victorian seaside hotel was completely rebuilt and looks nearly the same with additional major improvements such as the restaurant, residences, and up to date amenities one would expect in a new hotel.
Located overlooking adjacent East Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, guests at the hotel have a designated beach area complete with snack shack, chairs, a beach equipment hut and a lifeguard.
Valet park, have lunch on the deck and enjoy a beach walk!
Napa tree point barrier beach is also located in Watch Hill, RI and features preserved dunes, and has an inner sheltered harbor side ideal for boaters adjacent the local yacht club-marina.
Once part of Watch Hill’s prestigious residential waterfront, many beautiful seaside homes, roads and structures were completely destroyed by the historic 1938 hurricane. The state later declared such barrier beaches unsuitable for rebuilding and it has been a preserve ever since.
During World War 2 there were some military installations built at the end of the point used for artillery and as a defensive watch station for enemy submarines that frequented the area. Largely overgrown, the original concrete fortifications still stand today.
Parking is always a challenge in Watch Hill, however, paying for parking at the yacht club lot puts you in close proximity to nearby waterfront shops, restaurants, and the historic carousel. Enjoy a picnic, long beach walk, swimming, shellfishing on the sand bars on the sheltered harbor side, and a beautiful sunset to make a great day adventure.
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Napatree Point Conservation Area
Fort RoadNapa tree point barrier beach is also located in Watch Hill, RI and features preserved dunes, and has an inner sheltered harbor side ideal for boaters adjacent the local yacht club-marina.
Once part of Watch Hill’s prestigious residential waterfront, many beautiful seaside homes, roads and structures were completely destroyed by the historic 1938 hurricane. The state later declared such barrier beaches unsuitable for rebuilding and it has been a preserve ever since.
During World War 2 there were some military installations built at the end of the point used for artillery and as a defensive watch station for enemy submarines that frequented the area. Largely overgrown, the original concrete fortifications still stand today.
Parking is always a challenge in Watch Hill, however, paying for parking at the yacht club lot puts you in close proximity to nearby waterfront shops, restaurants, and the historic carousel. Enjoy a picnic, long beach walk, swimming, shellfishing on the sand bars on the sheltered harbor side, and a beautiful sunset to make a great day adventure.
Food Scene in Stonington
Our local go to, never fail favorites!
Waterside at the Dodson's Marina in Stonington Borough.
Great Bar, BBQ, seafood and creative fusion cuisine.
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Dog Watch Cafe
194 Water StWaterside at the Dodson's Marina in Stonington Borough.
Great Bar, BBQ, seafood and creative fusion cuisine.
Similar to the original restaurant but conveniently located across US route 1 from the rental cottage. Great outdoor seating areas and creative menu for all palates. Eat in or take away.
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Dog Watch Mystic
20 Stonington RdSimilar to the original restaurant but conveniently located across US route 1 from the rental cottage. Great outdoor seating areas and creative menu for all palates. Eat in or take away.
Great Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner. Dine in the bar, dining room or out on the sidewalk. Local seafood with a Portugese twist, great comfort foods, soups, salads and incredible desserts.
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Noah's
136 Front StGreat Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner. Dine in the bar, dining room or out on the sidewalk. Local seafood with a Portugese twist, great comfort foods, soups, salads and incredible desserts.
Cozy New England style oyster bar featuring a wide variety of seafood, steaks, pork and poultry. The seared sea scallops and crispy duck breast on garlic mashed potatoes is hard to beat!
Call in advance - local favorite for happy hour and is always full on weekends.
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Water Street Cafe
143 Water StCozy New England style oyster bar featuring a wide variety of seafood, steaks, pork and poultry. The seared sea scallops and crispy duck breast on garlic mashed potatoes is hard to beat!
Call in advance - local favorite for happy hour and is always full on weekends.
Formerly Skippers Dock, Breakwater is located on the harbor and features great seafood dishes and a whole lot more. Recommended for lunch on a sunny day for a perfect afternoon watching locals sail and fishing trawlers go out to sea. Try the classic sailor's Dark n Stormy cocktail (Black rum, ginger beer and lime).
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BREAKWATER
66 Water StFormerly Skippers Dock, Breakwater is located on the harbor and features great seafood dishes and a whole lot more. Recommended for lunch on a sunny day for a perfect afternoon watching locals sail and fishing trawlers go out to sea. Try the classic sailor's Dark n Stormy cocktail (Black rum, ginger beer and lime).
If you want to avoid the crowds in Mystic and want a no-nonsense meal with large portions and great pizza this is the place. A friendly Greek family-owned business that has grown into a nice, clean, spacious restaurant. Try the oven toasted meatball grinder, calamari with peppers, mousaka eggplant pizza - its all good and you will be stuffed!
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Stonington Pizza Palace
530 Stonington RdIf you want to avoid the crowds in Mystic and want a no-nonsense meal with large portions and great pizza this is the place. A friendly Greek family-owned business that has grown into a nice, clean, spacious restaurant. Try the oven toasted meatball grinder, calamari with peppers, mousaka eggplant pizza - its all good and you will be stuffed!
Breakfast Favs in Mystic
Great big breakfasts for the hungry and hung-over. Enjoy large omelets, blueberry pancakes, waffles, steak and eggs and my favorite Eggs Benedict. Great for families and fast service.
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The Mystic Diner & Restaurant
253 Greenmanville AveGreat big breakfasts for the hungry and hung-over. Enjoy large omelets, blueberry pancakes, waffles, steak and eggs and my favorite Eggs Benedict. Great for families and fast service.
Kitchen Little has been serving up comfort food breakfasts for 30 years and is consistently good. My personal favorite is the crab, cream cheese, asparagus omelet served with raisin-cinnamon toast and a big mug of rich black coffee. Easy to get to - just minutes from our rental cottage on Mason's Island up the road.
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Kitchen Little
36 Quarry RdKitchen Little has been serving up comfort food breakfasts for 30 years and is consistently good. My personal favorite is the crab, cream cheese, asparagus omelet served with raisin-cinnamon toast and a big mug of rich black coffee. Easy to get to - just minutes from our rental cottage on Mason's Island up the road.
Located in the old train depot in Mystic featuring great varietal coffees and nice homemade breakfast sandwiches, omelets, scrambles, fresh bakery items, pancakes and combo plates. Small and intimate space with outdoor seating - eat breakfast and catch a train to Boston or NYC!
9 personas locales recomiendan
Mystic Depot Roasters
2 Roosevelt AveLocated in the old train depot in Mystic featuring great varietal coffees and nice homemade breakfast sandwiches, omelets, scrambles, fresh bakery items, pancakes and combo plates. Small and intimate space with outdoor seating - eat breakfast and catch a train to Boston or NYC!
Food scene
In Mystic, "DPI" is an authentic restored colonial inn featuring several formal dining rooms and a downstairs pub. Popular for its great comfort food and colonial ambience, the pub downstairs also features a more casual menu and atmosphere. Acoustic musicians play in the pub a few nights a week and is a lively popular late night watering hole with locals.
76 personas locales recomiendan
Captain Daniel Packer Inne
32 Water StIn Mystic, "DPI" is an authentic restored colonial inn featuring several formal dining rooms and a downstairs pub. Popular for its great comfort food and colonial ambience, the pub downstairs also features a more casual menu and atmosphere. Acoustic musicians play in the pub a few nights a week and is a lively popular late night watering hole with locals.
Nice New England atmosphere, located on the Mystic River next to the downtown drawbridge. S&P has a large indoor dining hall, upstairs pub and additional dining with lovely views of the Mystic River. In season there is also a great outdoor eating area riverside in a nicely landscaped setting. Specializes in Seafood and a good variety of other meats, appetizers and salads for all including a children's menu - a good spot for families.
81 personas locales recomiendan
S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar
1 Holmes StNice New England atmosphere, located on the Mystic River next to the downtown drawbridge. S&P has a large indoor dining hall, upstairs pub and additional dining with lovely views of the Mystic River. In season there is also a great outdoor eating area riverside in a nicely landscaped setting. Specializes in Seafood and a good variety of other meats, appetizers and salads for all including a children's menu - a good spot for families.
This award winning farm-to-table restaurant has expanded its rustic barroom and dining room to include an outdoor patio area built above on the stone ledge behind the building. Known for its creative fish dishes, shellfish, fresh produce and organic free range meats, Oyster Club is pricey but worth treating yourself to for a special night out. Popular and frequently full, try to plan ahead for this experience. The barroom has plenty of tables and space for waiting and some amazingly potent pre-dinner cocktails that will keep you in good spirits.
80 personas locales recomiendan
Oyster Club
13 Water StThis award winning farm-to-table restaurant has expanded its rustic barroom and dining room to include an outdoor patio area built above on the stone ledge behind the building. Known for its creative fish dishes, shellfish, fresh produce and organic free range meats, Oyster Club is pricey but worth treating yourself to for a special night out. Popular and frequently full, try to plan ahead for this experience. The barroom has plenty of tables and space for waiting and some amazingly potent pre-dinner cocktails that will keep you in good spirits.
If you like Italian this cozy little place has popular dishes like sizzling seafood hot rocks, custom pastas dishes, sautés, flatbread pizzas and incredible desserts. You can smell the garlic before you get there! Some outdoor seating also available.
32 personas locales recomiendan
Anthony J's Bistro
6 Holmes StIf you like Italian this cozy little place has popular dishes like sizzling seafood hot rocks, custom pastas dishes, sautés, flatbread pizzas and incredible desserts. You can smell the garlic before you get there! Some outdoor seating also available.
Like crispy, wood fired, custom ingredient pizza? Who doesn't right? If you want a yummy streamlined crust pizza this is your best bet. Quick take out and lots of indoor and outdoor seating...good reputation, quality and a nice change from the doughy, thick over cheesy pizzas found elsewhere locally!
37 personas locales recomiendan
Pizzetta
7 Water StLike crispy, wood fired, custom ingredient pizza? Who doesn't right? If you want a yummy streamlined crust pizza this is your best bet. Quick take out and lots of indoor and outdoor seating...good reputation, quality and a nice change from the doughy, thick over cheesy pizzas found elsewhere locally!
Made very popular by the Julia Roberts movie Mystic Pizza, a great pizza experience for families and large groups hungry for a nice heavy cheese laden pizza in a relaxed, roomy entertaining setting. Mystic Pizza plays the movie continuously and has lot of merchandise and offers great piles of comfort food one would expect in family pizza venue!
63 personas locales recomiendan
Mystic Pizza
56 W Main StMade very popular by the Julia Roberts movie Mystic Pizza, a great pizza experience for families and large groups hungry for a nice heavy cheese laden pizza in a relaxed, roomy entertaining setting. Mystic Pizza plays the movie continuously and has lot of merchandise and offers great piles of comfort food one would expect in family pizza venue!
Angies Pizza has been a Mystic mainstay for decades and offers great Greek style pan pizzas and everything else you can crave. The bar (Pier 27 Lounge) is a popular local watering hole. A great venue for watching sports, enjoying all kinds of appetizers, pizza and local musical entertainment. Lots of parking available and plenty of seating for families and groups inside and out.
16 personas locales recomiendan
Angie's & Pier 27 of Mystic
25 Roosevelt AveAngies Pizza has been a Mystic mainstay for decades and offers great Greek style pan pizzas and everything else you can crave. The bar (Pier 27 Lounge) is a popular local watering hole. A great venue for watching sports, enjoying all kinds of appetizers, pizza and local musical entertainment. Lots of parking available and plenty of seating for families and groups inside and out.
Take a break from the seafood and fancy fusion cuisine here where big plates of familiar Mexican fare are served in a casual spacious dining room. Anyone who is craving Mexican classics at affordable prices and great Margaritas are going to leave full and happy. Great for families and groups.
13 personas locales recomiendan
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
12 Water StTake a break from the seafood and fancy fusion cuisine here where big plates of familiar Mexican fare are served in a casual spacious dining room. Anyone who is craving Mexican classics at affordable prices and great Margaritas are going to leave full and happy. Great for families and groups.
Our pick for the "best lobster roll in town" hands down and some really great clam rolls and clam chowder! Casual picnic table dining by the river overlooking the best view of the serene Mystic River and the historic ships at the Mystic Seaport Museum.
May-November is very popular with locals and tourists but there is not much parking and located on busy Greenmanville Avenue so plan your snack time early or later than primetime
9 personas locales recomiendan
Sea View Snack Bar
145 Greenmanville AvenueOur pick for the "best lobster roll in town" hands down and some really great clam rolls and clam chowder! Casual picnic table dining by the river overlooking the best view of the serene Mystic River and the historic ships at the Mystic Seaport Museum.
May-November is very popular with locals and tourists but there is not much parking and located on busy Greenmanville Avenue so plan your snack time early or later than primetime
Bravo Bravo was an early trend-setter in Mystic with its New York style bistro ambience, sautéed fusion dishes, amazing pastas, creative flavors and presentations. The bartending is also top notch with creative infusions and a step above the expected. Some outdoor seating now available in season due to pandemic protocols.
67 personas locales recomiendan
Bravo Bravo
19 E Main StBravo Bravo was an early trend-setter in Mystic with its New York style bistro ambience, sautéed fusion dishes, amazing pastas, creative flavors and presentations. The bartending is also top notch with creative infusions and a step above the expected. Some outdoor seating now available in season due to pandemic protocols.
Beer, BBQ, Burgers, Bourbon and a lot of other comfort food with a southern twist. Great casual cuisine for all palates, nice ambience and great bar. Another local establishment that focuses on using farm-to-table produce and meats in its menu.
112 personas locales recomiendan
Engine Room
14 Holmes StBeer, BBQ, Burgers, Bourbon and a lot of other comfort food with a southern twist. Great casual cuisine for all palates, nice ambience and great bar. Another local establishment that focuses on using farm-to-table produce and meats in its menu.
Originally the Fisherman first made its mark in the 1980s as the popular “Yankee Fisherman” a bustling seafood restaurant run by the gregarious restauranteur James P. Woviotis - founder and chef of the historic steak house Ye Olde Tavern on Bank Street in New London, CT.
This lively seafood house has catered to the local shoreline residents of Noank, Groton Long Point and Summer renters and tourists in the area for 40 years.
Idyllically located on Palmer cove and Fishers Island Sound, the views and food are guaranteed to make your experience special. Featuring local and global cuisines such as local farm raised oysters, chowders, baked fish dishes, fish and chips, crab cakes, buttered hot lobster rolls, and a variety of yummy fusion items like Lobster Cannelloni, Basil Pesto Shrimp Pizzetta, Thai Red Curry and Coconut Sea Scallops, Veal Ragout Bolognese, Grill Seared Ahi Tuna salad and more.
The new Fisherman has brightened up its menu and decor with large, well lit, airy dining rooms and a bar room with water views, including an outdoor deck overlooking the cove - a perfect tranquil location away from the Mystic tourist crowds. Try it for lunch, happy hours and dinner.
The Fisherman is accessible for elderly and wheelchair friendly.
14 personas locales recomiendan
The Fisherman
937 Groton Long Point RdOriginally the Fisherman first made its mark in the 1980s as the popular “Yankee Fisherman” a bustling seafood restaurant run by the gregarious restauranteur James P. Woviotis - founder and chef of the historic steak house Ye Olde Tavern on Bank Street in New London, CT.
This lively seafood house has catered to the local shoreline residents of Noank, Groton Long Point and Summer renters and tourists in the area for 40 years.
Idyllically located on Palmer cove and Fishers Island Sound, the views and food are guaranteed to make your experience special. Featuring local and global cuisines such as local farm raised oysters, chowders, baked fish dishes, fish and chips, crab cakes, buttered hot lobster rolls, and a variety of yummy fusion items like Lobster Cannelloni, Basil Pesto Shrimp Pizzetta, Thai Red Curry and Coconut Sea Scallops, Veal Ragout Bolognese, Grill Seared Ahi Tuna salad and more.
The new Fisherman has brightened up its menu and decor with large, well lit, airy dining rooms and a bar room with water views, including an outdoor deck overlooking the cove - a perfect tranquil location away from the Mystic tourist crowds. Try it for lunch, happy hours and dinner.
The Fisherman is accessible for elderly and wheelchair friendly.
Just a short 10 minute drive from Mystic, Ford's lobster shack is in the quaint borough of Noank and sits at the mouth of the Mystic River. Ford's has evolved from a live lobster pound shack into a popular humble venue featuring all kinds of yummy seafood dishes done with flair. Yes, lobster is still on the menu!
42 personas locales recomiendan
Ford's Lobsters
15 Riverview AveJust a short 10 minute drive from Mystic, Ford's lobster shack is in the quaint borough of Noank and sits at the mouth of the Mystic River. Ford's has evolved from a live lobster pound shack into a popular humble venue featuring all kinds of yummy seafood dishes done with flair. Yes, lobster is still on the menu!
Since 1947 folks have gone to Abbotts in the borough of Noank for steamed local seafood, clam chowder and live lobsters. The menu has changed a little bit over the years to include shrimp cocktails, chowders, lobster rolls and other tasty steamed New England classics. Traditionally they have never fried anything and there’s a basic menu for kids . The place next door is a sister restaurant which is an option in busy summer months called Costello's. Casual picnic table dining located on the Mystic River great for families.
51 personas locales recomiendan
Abbott's Lobster In the Rough
117 Pearl StSince 1947 folks have gone to Abbotts in the borough of Noank for steamed local seafood, clam chowder and live lobsters. The menu has changed a little bit over the years to include shrimp cocktails, chowders, lobster rolls and other tasty steamed New England classics. Traditionally they have never fried anything and there’s a basic menu for kids . The place next door is a sister restaurant which is an option in busy summer months called Costello's. Casual picnic table dining located on the Mystic River great for families.
Under new ownership the former and widely loved “Sea Horse” has been renovated and updated to its present comfortable pub and restaurant. Largely focused on seafood, the Black and Blue has delicious fresh local seafood items including a very tasty broth clam chowder that I had recently and rated it a 10!
The once humble local eatery and bar nestled into the marina-boatyard setting in Noank, CT on 65 Marsh Road is worth exploring. The service and food was way above average and the local crowd still loves it after all the transitions over the last 30 years! Try it and explore quaint Noank at the mouth of the beautiful Mystic River.
Fords Black & Blue
Under new ownership the former and widely loved “Sea Horse” has been renovated and updated to its present comfortable pub and restaurant. Largely focused on seafood, the Black and Blue has delicious fresh local seafood items including a very tasty broth clam chowder that I had recently and rated it a 10!
The once humble local eatery and bar nestled into the marina-boatyard setting in Noank, CT on 65 Marsh Road is worth exploring. The service and food was way above average and the local crowd still loves it after all the transitions over the last 30 years! Try it and explore quaint Noank at the mouth of the beautiful Mystic River.
Award winning bakery, breakfast sandwiches, sweets and coffee shop
106 personas locales recomiendan
Sift Bake Shop Mystic
5 Water StAward winning bakery, breakfast sandwiches, sweets and coffee shop