A wooden whaling ship, a historic farm connected by more than ten miles of trails, and offerings ranging from art to dining give Mystic several distinct facets. When choosing a hotel, you can consider which aspects you want to shape your stay: maritime heritage, nature, wildlife, art, or shopping and dining.

River and townscape

Mystic lies on both banks of the Mystic River and is divided by the Mystic River Bascule Bridge. The river therefore also shapes the town’s geographical layout. The Mystic Museum of Art is by the river, set back from the parking lot and directly across from Factory Square. Its location can be understood in relation to the river and Factory Square; at the same time, alongside its maritime history and nature, Mystic also has a clearly defined focus on art.

Maritime heritage

Mystic Seaport is home to the Charles W. Morgan, the only surviving wooden whaling ship. This remarkable vessel gives the maritime theme a tangible historical connection. The Mystic Seaport Museum offers families opportunities to experience, learn and explore. This cultural focus can be viewed from two perspectives: as maritime heritage centered on the Charles W. Morgan, and as a museum offering shared experiences and learning.

Nature and hiking trails

Coogan Farm is a historic farm in Mystic that is preserved for wildlife conservation and recreation. It is connected to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center by more than ten miles of trails. For anyone looking to include nature and outdoor activity in their stay, two aspects come together here: the farm’s conservation purpose and an extensive trail connection to a named nature center. The trails complement the farm’s role as a place devoted both to wildlife conservation and recreation.

Wildlife at Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium has indoor and outdoor areas featuring beluga whales, African penguins, rescued seals and colorful fish. There are also opportunities to touch a shark, a stingray or an exotic reptile. Opportunities to observe and touch animals appeal to different interests and offer a distinct focus alongside nature trails and maritime history. Since exhibits and animal encounters may change, check which offerings are currently available before your visit.

Shopping and dining

Olde Mistick Village is an open-air shopping and dining destination in Mystic. This offers a different focus from places associated with maritime history, art or nature: here, shopping and dining take center stage. Individual shops and opening hours may change, so check in advance what will be available during your visit. This lets you plan this part of your stay with a clear sense of what it offers, without equating it with a museum or nature experience.

Discover more destinations: Pawcatuck.

Return to the main travel overview: Stonington.