Mystic

Mystic is a village and census-designated place in Groton and Stonington, Connecticut, United States. Mystic was a significant Connecticut seaport with more than 600 ships built over 135 years starting in 1784. Wikipedia.
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Top places to visit

4.5
(17294)
4.1
(2965)
Mentioned on 
Aquarium
Zoos & Aquariums
Non-profit organization
Mystic Aquarium is a popular interactive aquarium featuring a variety of marine life, including beluga whales, African penguins, sea lions, and sharks. The aquarium offers unique exhibits such as Steller sea lions and beluga whales that are rarely seen in other parts of the country. Visitors can also explore the Olde Mistick Village in Stonington for dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
It was a fantastic experience. It's a bit pricey, but when you consider the amount of animals they take care of, you get it. It was $82 just for my child and I to get in, to give you a perspective. I loved the Beluga whales, the seal show was adorable and the indoor gallery area was a fun experience. The keepers located throughout were very informative and gladly answered any and all questions. I highly recommend this aquarium.
Naughty L — Google review
Mystic Aquarium is an excellent spot for children, especially between the ages of 4 and early teens. The exhibits are engaging, and the attractions they do have are very well done. The sea lion show is free, fun, and worth planning around—just make sure to check the schedule ahead of time. Since it’s outdoors, you’ll also want to be mindful of the weather. While I was a little disappointed with the overall size of the aquarium, what’s here is high quality. Be prepared though—most extras cost money, so definitely bring your wallet. With more funding and awareness, this place has the potential to grow into an even larger attraction. Overall, it’s still a great family experience and well worth a visit.
Thomas E — Google review
Fantastic experience at the Mystic Aquarium. It is a lot smaller than I expected and the majority of the exhibitions are outdoors so thankfully, we choose the perfect sunny day to visit. Our highlights were seeing the Beluga whales swimming about outside and seeing the sea turtle inside. We also loved that they had a Del's Lemonade stand by the gift shop. A lovely little treat on our way out. Definitely a fantastic experience with the family. Now for my standard comments. Parking is plentiful out front and free. Location is well kept and clean. Very comfortable walking outside assuming the weather is good. Indoor exhibits never got too crazy, at least during the time that we were there.
Christine L — Google review
Where do I begin, this Aquarium is the best I've been to. The staff are all so friendly, and care so much about each and every animal in the facility. They have staff stationed at the enclosures in case you have any questions on a particular animal or exhibit, and they are so knowlegable. The Beluga whales are so cool, and almost seem like they interact with anyone who's at the glass and seeing everything they do for them is a bonus! The Main gallery has so many different tanks with all kinds of aquatic life and detailed plaques on each one, with any information you might want to know about a specific species. They even have not one.. but two touch tanks! This Aquarium is the perfect spot for a family day trip, the staff at the touch tanks were so friendly making sure any kid that wanted to participate was allowed the opportunity to do so and the layout was so cool to walk through. The pricing is extremely fair for what you get to do and see. The photo you they take when you enter of you and your family is 100% worth the 35 dollars to have it as a memento. Parking is a breeze and highway access is easy as well. I would give this aquarium 6 stars if I could, and my family and myself cannot wait to go back!
Jason J — Google review
I had the opportunity to visit this famous aquarium last Friday, and the pictures do not do it justice….it was an incredible experience! I saw the Beluga whales, along with so many fish and other animals, including a turtle. I learned lots about the Amazon rainforest, too. I also highly recommend going to the sea lion show; it was awesome! The show is included with your admission, so make sure you check the times so you don’t miss out. I recommend heading over to the show early so you get good seats. Not to mention that all of the staff were so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. You can tell how much they love their job, and they really go above and beyond to make sure everyone has a great experience! This aquarium is the best one I have been to by far and definitely a must do if you’re in the area! If only I could give it ten stars…..
Laura H — Google review
Sad to say we feel like it wasn't what we were expecting.The tour of the whole place took us under an hour.And it was fifty one dollars per person. We do understand it's a research facility. But I think they should update their exhibits. And maybe offer a few more attractions without the extra cost. I had my first virtual reality experience, it was pretty cool. But it was at a $9 extra fee per person. The beluga whales are cool, and so are the african penguins.And the sea lion seals, but I feel like those are the only three real attractions that they had.
Royden G — Google review
This aquarium is so nice, not too big to navigate and the staff is really super friendly. I only gave 4 stars because we went during the start of the NorEaster last weekend and it was not enjoyable for my kids, unfortunately. I must add that the food at their cafe was very good - was impressed with the quality, actually. Better weather def would have made for a better experience, but a nice place to go with the fam for sure!
Jessica S — Google review
Been here twice, a great aquarium around the area. Well organized and entertaining shows for the children. The exhibit is quite extensive. I would say it is smaller compared to the Camden Aquarium or Atlanta Aquarium.
Joshua V — Google review
4.6
(4261)
4.5
(3570)
Mentioned on 
Museum
Art museum
Mystic Seaport Museum is a reimagined waterfront settlement that offers a glimpse into America's maritime past. With over 60 historic structures and a recreated 19th-century village, visitors can step back in time and experience life in a shipping town from over a century ago. The museum features over a dozen ships from the 19th and 20th centuries, some of which can be boarded and explored.
We (2 adults) visited on a very hot day at the beginning of the summer. I absolutely loved the feel of walking around a replica of a 19th-century fishing village. There were so many storefronts to check out and the ships were beautiful, too. This is a gem of a place and we are fortunate to have it continuing to operate after nearly a century. There was an incredible exhibit in the gallery while we were there. I truly appreciated becoming more informed about the experience of African-Americans from a 21st-century perspective. It was hot enough that day that we unfortunately didn't get to explore as much as I wanted. This is definitely a place I would love to return to, perhaps on a fall weekend.
Jackie A — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A must-stop while visiting Mystic! I was completely surprised by how good this experience was. The museum is very kid-friendly and perfect for families. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes — it’s definitely a minimum 3-hour tour with so much to see and do. I highly recommend staying with the guides, as they make the history come alive and really enhance the experience. An unforgettable stop that I’ll be telling others about!
Thomas E — Google review
With something for everyone, Mystic Seaport Museum is a must-do vacation stop. One can see skill craftspersons in the process of restoring historic sea craft or recreating life in a seaside town in the early 1800s. Great for the whole family. Kids will especially love going on board the last wooden whaling ship the children's museum. Not into ships, history, or old architecture? Then visit in the spring and summer and see some of the most beautiful floral arrangements Ive seen in a long time.
Debra F — Google review
What a great experience for the whole family! Lots to learn! You can see ships being refurbished. And you can go onto Schooners! The historic buildings are amazing! Teaches you all about Ship Life! Places to eat and also a great gift shop!
Tara P — Google review
We had an incredible day with family at Mystic Seaport Museum and honestly did almost everything there was to do. The whole place is such a vibe, full of history, craftsmanship, and surprises around every corner. One of the highlights was catching the fireboat with its hoses on full blast—something we learned doesn’t happen very often. We watched the blacksmith at work, explored the cooperage, wandered through the historic ships, and soaked in the magic of this living museum by the water. We spent way more time there than planned and still didn’t see it all. Mystic Seaport is truly one of those places that keeps you discovering more at every turn.
Marisa B — Google review
Visited in Early October and there were quite a few tour buses, but after you were through the entrance it did not feel crowded at all. We thought it was a little pricey at first, but it's pretty good value for what you experience. Both my wife and I have mobility challenges, and the only drawback to an otherwise wonderful experience was that the walkways were gravel, which made getting around difficult. There's a lot to see and experience it offers visitors an immersive experience into the nation’s maritime heritage, featuring historic ships, a recreated 19th-century seafaring village, engaging exhibits, and beautiful waterfront scenes. Definitely worth the visit.
Chris L — Google review
Really nice museum with outdoor and indoor exhibits. We paid $44/adult and $22/youth. We had an amazing time. The museum was nice, not too crowded and with nice live explanations when needed. Learning was also pleasant. Easy with kids. The outdoor area was pet friendly except inside the boats.
Lac M — Google review
This was such a fun experience! perfect for all ages and an ideal way to spend a cozy fall evening. The ambiance felt straight out of a PG-13 Halloween movie from the '90s, full of nostalgia and charm. It had that warm, festive energy of a small-town holiday market, bringing a real sense of community. Will visit again!
Jen A — Google review
4.6
(6508)
4.1
(1770)
Mentioned on 
Shopping mall
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Olde Mistick Village in Stonington is a charming outdoor venue designed as a reconstructed 1720s-style Colonial village. It offers a picturesque setting with shops, boutiques, eateries, and seasonal events. Visitors can enjoy unique shopping, delicious dining options, and even catch a film. The village features bungalow-type buildings with colorful facades and colonial-style business signs, along with attractions like a water wheel in a duck-filled pond and a gazebo.
I love this place and always enjoy visiting. They have a few new stores. The location is family-friendly, quiet, and clean. You can find many unique and special items in the stores. For me, it is magical. I always bring something home that I won't find in the city. Mystic Village is a local place that brings happiness to my family.
VICTOR R — Google review
Really cute shopping area. I like to walking around the area. It has a little park combination with the art, unique style, and vintage shop. You could spend the day here. Also it’s close next to the Mystic Aquarium.
Tammy T — Google review
This little village has been around for so many years. And every time I come visit, I’m never disappointed. The little shops are great and there are so many things to see. They have a wide variety of restaurants and dessert spots as well. They have some boutiques as well and there are places for the children to see things they like too.
Andres G — Google review
Old Mystic village is a lot of cute specialtie shops in a old type setting. It's a nice place to spend a day. But I'm myself wouldn't waste a vacation day on it.The better shops are at the bottom and there quite a few empty shops. The prices sadly are double what you would pay on Amazon on eBay..
Allan S — Google review
This open aired shopping plaza is a gem. Even though it looks like it's from the 18th century, it's actually more modern than that (built in the 1970s). It's on 19 acres; there is a duck pond, gazebo, shops, cinema, and restaurants. The walking paths are easy to navigate and pet friendly. Here are some shops that cross my mind: - Alice's Haunted Little Book Shop -Pepper Palace - Becca Rose -Cloak and Wand Restaurants: -Mango's Wood Fired Pizza -Jealous Monk We liked it so much, we went 3 times during our weekend staycation. Once was in the evening right after they closed, just to get our steps in. I love that they extended their hours during the summer. They also host events, have free parking, and restrooms throughout. We enjoyed walking through and shopping there. It's worth a visit!
Kim V — Google review
Lots of shops set in an outside mini village type atmosphere. Many restaurants for food choices, and a nice little pond in the center with water fowl. In the warmer months, there's live music in the gazebo too. Ample parking, with restrooms in a few areas.
B. C — Google review
Fun stop in Mystic! We went during the Apple Festival, which was even better! Filled with all sorts of Vendors! But lots of shops and eateries! Definitely a place to check out!
Tara P — Google review
This place has a lot of nice shops but the area is very expensive. Some shops were reasonable, others weren't. I am not paying thirty-five dollars for a t-shirt, sorry. Even teenty-five dollars is a lot, but reasonable. There are a lot of ducks at the duck pond and I always remember to see them.
Adam P — Google review
4.5
(215)
4.4
(83)
Mentioned on 
Art museum
Museums
The Mystic Museum of Art is a delightful waterfront destination that beautifully marries art with the stunning coastal scenery of Mystic Harbor. Housed in a charming seaside cottage, this cultural gem features four galleries showcasing both permanent and rotating exhibitions that highlight contemporary works from New England artists. With over a century of history, it began as the Mystic Art Colony founded by impressionist painter Charles H Davies and has since evolved into a vibrant community hub for art enthusiasts.
“Mystic Museum of Art” - this place is wonderful. Just further up from Sift Bakery store. Online it says it’s free, it’s not you have to pay $10 to enter (admission fee). I’d say it’s worth it. I had a wonderful time when I visited here. There is outdoor parking, the parking monitor person very chatty. I walked in. You have the beautiful river views of Mystic River and the Mystic River Bascule Bridge from the outside. I sat there outdoors in the sun sketching. The museum doesn’t open till 11:00am. (Don’t come too early, like I did.) If you’re an art enthusiast, you will love this. I was so excited to see cubism and fauvism paintings by famous artists in the flesh. It’s nice and quiet, you can admire the stories behind the paintings. Many floors. I loved the red, yellow, blue room where you can add your own paper sculpture. It’s just so cool. If you haven’t been, just go! 💚🎨🖌️🖼️
Jos M — Google review
The Mystic Museum of Art, nestled along the scenic banks of the Mystic River, is a cultural gem that offers a delightful experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Its charming location in downtown Mystic makes it easily accessible, and the museum’s commitment to showcasing both historical and contemporary art is evident throughout its well-curated galleries. One of the standout features of the museum is its diverse collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Robert Brackman, Yngve Edward Soderberg, and J. Alden Weir. The rotating exhibitions ensure that there’s always something new to discover, reflecting the museum’s dedication to celebrating American art in its many forms.  Beyond the exhibitions, the Mystic Museum of Art serves as a vibrant community hub. It offers a range of educational programs, including art classes and workshops for both children and adults, fostering creativity and engagement among visitors. Events like the “Artini Hour” and “Art After Dark” provide unique opportunities to experience art in a lively, social setting.    Visitors often praise the museum for its welcoming atmosphere and the quality of its displays. One reviewer noted, “The Mystic Museum of Art is a real find: located in the heart of Mystic… it contains several small halls of extraordinary art that are extremely well-maintained.” The museum’s free admission policy, with donations encouraged, makes it an accessible destination for all.  In summary, the Mystic Museum of Art offers a rich and engaging experience that combines impressive art collections with community-oriented programs. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or simply exploring Mystic, this museum is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of the region’s artistic spirit. 
Arjun S — Google review
Very nice museum that offers a good collection of art from various artists. I enjoyed the room in the back that allowed you to create art of your own (and the view from the window was great). The gift shop has some cool things for you to grab as souvenirs. I wish there was more to look at though. Also the staff was very much huddled in the office most of the time, would've been nice if they could've come out to engage, but maybe that's just me. Definitely recommend and would be open to going back.
W.E. R — Google review
Its a small sometimes free museum. There is a ticket price depending on certain exhibits. Right now its free at least until April 20th. The museum is pretty cool and worth the visit. Parking is 10 bucks but the parking lot is a two minute walk into downtown Mistic so definitely worth it. Also a two minute walk to the popular sift bakery!
Kailah O — Google review
This is such a pretty art gallery that is free to the public, unless you park your car in the parking area, then you have to pay a small fee. It doesn't really have a feel of a "museum" since a lot of the pieces are for sale. There are however several pieces that are permanent (NFS) and some that are on loan. A staff member who was very friendly and helpful said that the gallery changes the exhibit every six months. My favorite piece was the polar bear sculpture and that unfortunately is one of the permanent pieces in the gallery. I would come here again in the future to see what other kind of art is put on display.
Lisa S — Google review
Quaint little museum. Three gallery spaces and a gift shop. $3 suggested donation to enter. Lovely atmosphere. There is a paid parking lot right out front of the museum.
Bebe F — Google review
Beautiful exhibitions, including children's art work. Friendly staff, you donate money for admission. Highly recommended. I suggest placing a trash bin outside at the river, as some people unfortunately act like animals.
Fahrvergnügen — Google review
First, scale: This is a pint-sized museum; think less the Louvre and more your aunt's house ... if your aunt had a gorgeous ocean-front property and filled it with tasteful, thoughtfully curated art. When I visited, the whole place was given over to a special exhibit with the Mashantucket Pequot Nation highlighting Indigenous history and artwork including wampum, a dugout canoe, a display of old maps, and more. I found it fascinating and the staff person friendly and welcoming.
Owen C — Google review
4.7
(178)
4.2
(68)
Mentioned on 
Park
Nature & Parks
Nestled in the countryside of Mystic, Connecticut, the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center spans 350 acres and offers over 10 miles of scenic hiking trails. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature by birdwatching, identifying wild plants, and exploring diverse habitats like wetlands, woodlands, and meadows. The sanctuary also houses a wildlife rehabilitation center where animals are nursed back to health for release into the wild.
Cool nature center including Live animals in big cages outside, including owls, Hawks and ospreys. Along with the great selection of animals inside between live. And taxidermy really good activity 4 adults and children alike. After you see the exhibit, you can choose to hike one of the many trails around the nature center
Mohamed N — Google review
My wife and I visited here while on vacation. This place was awesome. The numerous trails are beautiful and well kept. They have a number of resident animals all of whom are stunning. All of the residents are well taken care of and, while they cannot be released due to permanent injury, help with their education programs. Great place to support, donated in addition to the entry fee. Well worth it to be able to get that close to so amazing animals such as their two resident Great Horned Owls. If you are in the area, check out this Nature Center and help support them and their work.
Ryan B — Google review
There is so much to see and do here! We easily spent a couple hours here while visiting Mystic on a chilly day. There are a lot of exhibits for kids to interact with indoors, a listening room that tells the story of nighttime and helps kids learn about different animal sounds, live turtles, a snake, and frogs, all inside. Everything is very educational and well-thought out. Outside there are some gorgeous birds that have disabilities, so they are living their best lives here. There are beautiful walking trails with ponds and creeks, giant boulders, and a beautiful meadow. The staff is very helpful and friendly. This place is affordable and definitely worth a visit!
Em R — Google review
Wow! We saw no other guests and wandered all over. Lovely animals and interactive displays inside, a few raptors outside. The 4 yr old loved the bunny hopping freely inside. They honor blue star families, but regular admission is $8 for adults, less for kids. Picnic area at entry, inside, and benches scattered along paths. You could managed a wheeled chair, but some paths are heavily root-filled. Board walks, swamps, ponds, forest...we have to go back when the kids can walk longer on a hot hot day. Mosquitoes can be pesky. Loved it!
Barbara B — Google review
Very interesting nature area with great volunteers helping out. Mushroom festival was very busy, but it was a fun enjoyable and learning day. Food options were interesting and dealt with the crowd admirably.
Gordon K — Google review
Amazing camps, super friendly staff, beautiful trails and animals. What's not to love? I would recommend going in the summer.
Chase L — Google review
Great place to bring children to learn about local wildlife and conservation! Several walking paths and a very special presentation inside the main building!
Patrick C — Google review
We love visiting here! Many interactive exhibits which educate visitors about wildlife and habitats in Connecticut. They've added an Early Childhood learning room, perfect for littles! We saw lots of frogs, fish and turtles in the pond outside. Hiking trails are easy, especially the ones around the pond. The trails connect with the trails at Coogan Farm. The Farm Trail was quite overgrown. Be mindful of poison ivy as well as ticks.
Alisa R — Google review

Top places to eat

4.5
(1407)
4.3
(888)
Mentioned on 
expensive
New American restaurant
Oyster Club is a rustic-chic seafood restaurant located in Mystic, Connecticut. It offers creative boat-to-table New England seafood in a charming space with a zinc bar and roomy deck. The restaurant is part of the 85th Day Food Collective, which also operates Engine Room in Mystic and Harings in Noank.
Oyster Club is a restaurant and raw bar. Their style cuisine is farm and sea to table; the menu is seasonal and changes often. The ingredients are fresh and local. The chef is a James Beard semifinalist. They also serve brunch on the weekends. In the warmer months, there is a treetop dining upstairs. It's on a deck with beautiful views of the water. It is self serve, you have to order at the counter and pick up your food. The menu is Mexican food inspired. We were going to do this option but it was a very hot day. We had a great experience inside the restaurant. The service was attentive. We started off with some margaritas, half a dozen of fresh oysters, and I had the oyster Rockefeller (baked oysters with creamy spinach, bread crumbs, and cheese) for my meal. The food was fresh and tasty. I look forward to going back and also checking out their treetop dining!
Kim V — Google review
I saw this place on TikTok and wanted to give it a try and it definitely did not disappoint. We were sat on the bar side right in front of the cooks which I actually enjoyed! I ordered Oysters and Will the person that was chucking the oyster gave us a presentation and a demonstration on everything which I truly enjoy. Shout to Will for that. Colleen. She was an exceptional waitress! She handled everything with professionalism and integrity and I truly appreciate that. She was so sweet and caring she made the experience worth giving this place a try. If you’re ever in the area. Please give this place a try. I’ll definitely be back! Thank you so much!!
Daniel L — Google review
The place is bigger than it appears from the outside. There is an upstairs. The interior is very cozy and cute. The food was delicious. We got the sourdough which was ok. The kale salad was good. The harissa dressing gave it a little kick. The beets were delicious. The tagliatelle was very good, pasta cooked to perfection. The steak frites, the steak was flavorful and the fries were a little too soft for my taste.
Missing S — Google review
We had an incredible experience at The Oyster Club! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming and the service was top-notch. Huge shoutout to Zachary M.—his service was outstanding. Friendly, attentive, and full of excellent food recommendations that did not disappoint. Everything we ordered was absolutely delicious—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. We were so satisfied with our meal that, unfortunately, we didn’t have room for dessert… but that just gives us the perfect excuse to come back! Highly recommend this spot for anyone who loves great seafood and equally great service. Can’t wait for our next visit! #datenightdoneright This review was originally posted 8 days ago. It went up on Yelp without any issues, but unfortunately didn’t make it to Google.
Mia T — Google review
I recently discovered a must-visit restaurant in Mystic during the summer. After camping in Mystic, my husband and I were craving a delightful dining experience with our furry friend. Coincidentally, they had opened up the Treehouse, a charming establishment serving Mexican cuisine. The food was exceptional, and the cocktails were equally delectable. Despite being a first-come, first-served place, we were fortunate enough to secure a lovely table. I can’t wait to return next year and savor their oysters again.
Jinhee S — Google review
After reading the other reviews on goggle I had very high expectations, but it was underwhelming to say the least. We started off with a dozen of their HH oysters and their HH cocktail which were very good. We later ordered their NE clam chowder, mussels with sourdough bread, and steak frites. The mussels were quite good but the $8 sourdough bread add-on for 4 pieces of bread and butter felt sparse. The butter was barely touched as the sauce from the mussels was plenty. The calm chowder was refreshing but not as thick as a typical chowder. The dish that really ruined the experience were the steak frites. We ordered the steak medium rare and it came to us well-done. For the price point of the food and the quality that was received it was quite disappointing. I would recommend coming here for the oysters but avoid the steak frites.
Felipe L — Google review
This was kind of a last minute thing because a friend heard we were in this area and recommended it. It was about an hour before they closed, so there was no wait for the two of us. Everyone was super nice and helpful. Someone else in the reviews mentioned that there’s street parking (very little, don’t rely on finding any) and there’s also a public lot about a block away (short walk slightly uphill to the restaurant). The restaurant validates an hour, which turned out to be a $5 credit, we stayed a little over an hour and a half and ended up paying like $10 still if I remember correctly. My husband and I are NOT seafood people, which makes this restaurant an unusual choice for us. They do have non-seafood options but we both had a fairly heavy lunch so decided to try their fish dishes. The native catch that day was swordfish which my husband got, and I had the monkfish katsu (don’t look up what a monkfish looks like if you don’t already know 😅). Both were absolutely delicious. Dessert was an almond brown butter cake that was to die for. I’d love to return to try their other menu items someday.
Em C — Google review
This restaurant is absolutely incredible. I have to say this is one of my top dining experiences I have ever had in my life. The service was great. Friendly and incredibly informative about the sourcing of their product as well as giving detailed descriptions of all the different items I was interested in. The food was also absolutely incredible. All locally sourced, and robust with flavor. I had a Carrot Curry Soup that had me instantly elevated to nirvana. My girlfriend had a delicious Tuna Burger that I repeatedly stole bites from because it had such a tantalizing taste. To start the meal we had a variety of Oysters and their different descriptive flavors. As well as a delectable horseradish Bloody Mary and Mimosa. The atmosphere was very welcoming and family friendly. Every foot of the building was put together, clean, ornate, and fitted to the theme of the restaurant. The only thing I was not an incredible fan of was today’s specialty sorbet flavor which I had for dessert. Don’t get me wrong it was quite good, and the waitress told me beforehand a detailed description of what the flavor would be. (It was a peach and licorice mixture.) I had to try it because I was so curious to see what it tasted like. And even though I do not like licorice at all, I found the flavor wonderfully refreshing and intriguing. I know that my grandmother who loved licorice would have been over the moon to enjoy such a dessert to end such a perfectly delicious meal at such a wonderful location. I am very happy that I chose to bring my girlfriend here for our 1-year-anniversary.
Declan G — Google review
4.5
(693)
4.2
(105)
Mentioned on 
New American restaurant
Nestled within The Whalers Inn in downtown Mystic, The Shipwright's Daughter is a culinary gem that celebrates the rich bounty of coastal Connecticut. Under the creative guidance of newly awarded James Beard chef David Standridge, this restaurant emphasizes sustainability by collaborating with local fishermen to offer an impressive variety of seafood. Standridge’s innovative menu features unique dishes like Fishers Island oysters prepared in various styles and organic chicken drizzled with vibrant salsa verde.
We stopped in for breakfast and were pleasantly surprised by how wonderful everything was. The menu has plenty of choices, but what really stood out were the morning cocktails — perfectly balanced, refreshing, and a great way to start the day. The breakfast itself was just as impressive, with fresh ingredients and generous portions that left us more than satisfied. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a spot where you can easily linger a little longer than planned. Definitely we are coming back for dinner someday!
Natalia M — Google review
Went to celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary. They put together an incredible menu, so it was hard to pick what to order. Super friendly staff! We enjoyed the experience immensely and would definitely come back. The house made sourdough bread was solid and came with an incredible sweet potato & rosemary butter. The bucatini was life-changingly good. So many complex flavors; ultra creamy; lots of umami from the mushrooms and cheese (Mystic Cheese Finback). The Painted Hills Beef Strip Steak was an excellent dish overall. The steak itself was cooked perfectly medium rare, but given the cut of beef wasn’t anything super special. However, it was perfectly paired with a meaty seacoast mushroom, shishito peppers, and delightful potato mille feuille with bearnaise espuma. The Big Gurl burger was massive and served with a giant portion of crispy onions. The burger had an excellent crust and was thick and juicy on the inside. The “thicc” tomato certainly was thick, and it was perfectly ripe and delicious. The shallot bacon jam, blue cheese, and dijonaise all added nice flavors and complexity. The flourless chocolate cake was a perfect end to the meal. The cake was rich and fudgey. The chocolate caramel ice cream butterscotch espuma, and caramel & chocolate crunchies were perfect accompaniments to add contrasting textures.
Justin W — Google review
This is by far one of my favorite experiences dining out. The atmosphere is cozy, not pretentious. The service is top notch. And the food is incredible. My server (sorry I didn't remember her name) asked what I looked for in a good wine and suggested the perfect one. Maybe a bit too perfect because it went down too smoothly! I ordered the Local Black Sea Bass Crudo as an appetizer, it was beautiful to look at and each bite was better than the first. I had the Roasted Seacoast Mushroom as my entree. The flavor was superb. I didn't leave anything behind. For dessert I had the Concord Grape Sorbet and an espresso martini which they subbed the cream with oat milk since I cannot have dairy. The restaurant and the service made my birthday celebration an amazing experience! I highly recommend dining here for any special occasion!
Fit G — Google review
Fantastic restaurant! Came here for happy hour with one of my friends and we loved it! This place has been on our list since one of the chefs is a James Beard Award winner. And let me tell you, this place did not disappoint! We made reservations for a Thursday evening at 5:30pm. As the first people there is was fairly empty, but during our 2 hour stay it got busy. I recommend making a reservation. The space has ample seating and the decor is very nice. We decided to participate in happy hour which means all the appetizers and oysters were 50% off! Such a good deal, everything we got was less than $75 total. The crispy oysters was too die for! I would definitely get those again along with the deviled eggs. In addition, we got the shishito peppers, duck pate, sourdough bread w/ miso butter, 2 cocktails of the day, and mushroom buccinti. Everything was so wonderfully crafted and all the flavors blended well together. I would definitely go back.
Chassidie L — Google review
Went on a Sunday evening to celebrate our anniversary and it was absolutely fabulous. Alex our server and Ryan the somm were so hospitable and determined to make us feel special. The tasting menu and wine pairing was amazing, one of the best I’ve had in recent memory. We’ll definitely be back!
Matt M — Google review
My husband and I went for brunch on my birthday, as sort of a capstone for a decadent weekend of good eats. I didn’t want anything too heavy and just got their poached chicken Cobb salad with a side of the housemade hash brown, husband got their benedict. I didn’t try his, but he said it was delicious. Mine was too - they used a vinaigrette type of dressing that was perfectly light, with super fresh greens and perfectly cooked chicken. The hash brown was beautifully crispy on the outside but soft on the inside and tasted divine. I did also get a flat white - note they can do decaf espresso drinks and have oatmilk as their nondairy option. It wasn’t the best but also not the worst flat white I’ve ever had. I didn’t taste the oatmilk the first few sips, mentioned it to my server, and they were kind enough to replace the drink just in case - it turned out the oatmilk they use has a surprisingly subtle taste. 🤷🏻‍♀️ We’d come across this place via a YouTuber who did their tasting menu. We’ll definitely come back to try their dinner menu the next time we’re in the area but also do more of their brunch (hello French toast? Maple brandy cinnamon bun?? House made biscuits???? Swoon.) We got super lucky with street parking. The Whaler’s Inn, which this restaurant is attached to, has its own parking lot but we weren’t sure if we could park there since we weren’t guests of the inn.
Em C — Google review
So this review is going to a little longer than most I post. This restaurant has a lot of press about it and boasts a beautiful setting. It was very busy when we came in and we waited to sit at the bar. The menu is very pretentious and so are the prices- but I knew that going in. The oysters were nice but pairing it with a $22 small pour of wine was tough to deal with. The pasta was a huge miss. Lots of places in CT make pasta and do it better. There was zero marriage of the ingredients in the sauce. I enjoyed the tuna tartar but the best part of it was the crispy potato it sat on. I looked over the very sparse dessert options and settled on a lovely Reposado Tequila that our awesome bartender suggested. Way too pricey to walk out the door still hungry. I didn't hate it but not worth the hype. The people watching was fun however.
Sharie — Google review
If I could give 6 stars, I certainly would. The experience we had here was absolutely incredible. This place came highly recommend by various members of our hotel staff. Although the restaurant appears elite and high end, they’re incredibly family friendly. The atmosphere is spectacular with the dim lighting in conjunction with the candlelight. The duck toast was an amazing appetizer. The spiced tuna was absolutely spectacular. The restaurant has an excellent kid’s menu, great drink selection, and good value for the amount of money we spent. This was easily one of the best family dining experiences we’ve had. If you venture to downtown Mystic, the Shipwright’s Daughter is a must to visit.
Joseph D — Google review
4.3
(3807)
4.1
(899)
Mentioned on 
affordable
American restaurant
Bar
Engine Room is a charming restaurant in Mystic, CT that serves New American comfort food along with a wide selection of craft beers and bourbons. The eatery is part of the 85th Day Food Collective, which also operates Oyster Club in Mystic and Harings in Noank.
Came here for a lunch after spending a few hours at the maritime museum. We sat outside because it was a beautiful August day in the mid-70s. Wife and I both enjoyed the Meza NEIPA from Fox Farm brewery. I had the summer burger with fries and wife enjoyed the fish sandwich with potato salad. Food was delicious. I ordered the burger bloody but got medium which often happens with burgers but the flavor was good. The potato salad was delicious. Service was decent enough, professional and measured. When we are next in Mystic I'd like to try dinner here.
Kitchen B — Google review
Engine Room is a gastro pub located in a old engine factory. It has a rustic look and it's a cool spot. We sat outside on the patio during brunch. Service was efficient and friendly. There's a large selection of craft beers, cocktails, and wine. The cuisine is American; there were burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more. They also give you the option to make your own bloody Marys. I had the Express Yourself cocktail which is like an espresso martini; that was good. For my meal, I had the Engine Room breakfast sandwich, it had bacon, eggs, cheese, on a bun with fries. The food was really good. Overall, we had a good experience. The food and drinks were delicious and would definitely return.
Kim V — Google review
Visited the Engine Room while in Mystic,CT. it was very crowded, but we were able to get seated quickly. My husband ordered from the happy hour menu the cheeseburger, hot dog and the hush puppies. The best burger we’ve eaten in a long while. The bun to meat ratio was perfect. Also the hush puppies had a nice texture. The hot dog honestly was ok. I ordered the fish sandwich and potato salad. The fish needed a little more seasoning (just added hot sauce to jazz it up). The potato salad was good. I love red potatoes so it was perfect for me. Would visit again.
X L — Google review
This not your average diner, I would call it brewery restaurant that has distinct style. Plase has relaxed yet stylish atmosphere and creative menue. They have their own salmon jerky which is basically a piece of salmon that is particularly smoked and particularly dried, we ended up having two orders of this. Also whipped ricotta was very good and unorthodox. Ceasar salad has hefty amount of grilled chicken and burgers were very good too.
Alex S — Google review
We were in Mystic and decided to check the Engine Room. We sat near the bar and made Happy Hour! The bar tender/waitress was friendly. I like the atmosphere of an old machine shop (place made marine engines). We had a happy hour chess urger and hush puppies! The cheeseburger was great. The Hush Puppies were hot and the maple butter added a little sweetness to the hush puppy. I would come again to try the main menu. I'm sure the summer is jamming. It was November, so happy hour crowd was light at 3:45pm.
Chris O — Google review
The Engine Room was great, a small close restaurant with great food. The staff here was some of the friendliest with everyone being very helpful. I had the veggie burger and it was loaded with avocado and so much great sauce (I had to eat it with a knife and fork);
William C — Google review
This was a nice restaurant. Atmosphere is a little loud as we went on a Saturday night. The waitress was very nice and the food was good as seen in the pictures. Restaurant is very reasonably prices as of August 2025.
Dailyshoefrenzy — Google review
Really good service from Kate. Great atmosphere/ambiance, and it was really cool we could literally see right into the very clean and well-run kitchen directly from our seats. Insanely fast service for a decently packed house. App was out in just a few minutes followed by the entrees before we could even finish the app Reasonably priced and good food. Wings were small quantity (6) but absolutely massive and flavorful. Pulled pork sandwich and fries were solid as well. Really happy with our choice during our trip. Full bill with an app two entrees and shared dessert came to only ~60
Greg G — Google review
4.7
(2522)
4.6
(488)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Bakery
Breakfast restaurant
Sift Bake Shop Mystic is a family-owned bakery with a French accent, offering an array of delectable treats. From elegant seasonal sandwiches to buttery quiche slices, the shop has something for everyone. However, it's the sweet indulgences that steal the show, including papery-flaky croissants filled with dark chocolate and lemon meringue tarts. Visitors can even watch the bakers in action through glass windows as they create their masterpieces.
This place absolutely rocks. I was pleasantly surprised by very reasonably priced coffee and the incredible presentation of all the pastries. There’s lots of options so if you don’t have a sweet tooth, you can grab a savory quiche or a sandwich on a fresh baked croissant. There’s usually a line out the door but it’s definitely worth the wait and there’s plenty of seating indoors and outdoors.
Sarah G — Google review
This place was great! They are right in downtown mystic, and within walking distance from a public parking lot. The line was out the door but moved pretty quickly. The staff were friendly here. The food displayed was amazing just to look at. It was an organized, and perfectly laid out in the cases. So appealing to the eye that you wanted one of everything. The sticky bun was my favorite item I Tate’s but everything we tried was fantastic. The latte I had to compliment it was just as good. I can see why the line here is long, all day long. If you are in Mystic, you need to come here. If you are inside looking, get the sticky bun lol. Your welcome.
Kyle P — Google review
This place is worthy of the hype. We had the blueberry cheesecake dessert and our friend's had the vanilla cake. Delicious on all accounts and the straight black coffee was perfection as a strong and flavorful coffee. Everyone should go to Sift, and order one of everything...okay...just order something and you will see why the place constantly has a line out the door, down the street. Our dogs loved it too because a staff member walked by us on the patio area and gave them tiny dog treats. BRAVO to the chefs, owner, and wait staff. You are worthy of the highest praise.
Mary C — Google review
My daughter and I drove an hour due to a friend's recommendation. We enjoyed everything, especially the spinach and artichoke croissant and chocolate chip cookie. The key lime croissant was really good but too tart for me but daughter said it was out of this world. Quick moving line, tables inside and out were available. It was worth the drive. Ohhhh and the prices were good for the quality 👌🏾
Tanya C — Google review
Very good bakeshop in Mystic! Lines are long but if you have the time to wait, it’s worth trying something. We had the chocolate chip cookie, guava cheese danish, and chocolate croissant. The chocolate croissant was most notable because it has chocolate on both the inside and outside!! 😋
Tay J — Google review
We planned to visit the bakery many months ago due to the rave reviews. We were there on the morning on a weekend during rain, but there was still a big line for dine in, which is the same for pickup as well. Apparently you can only pick up without the line for bulk orders. The line moved fast so it was good. I was able to order based on the items on display. All croissants were tasty and a single croissant is very filling, vegetable croissant was savoury and tasty, pecan bun is very sweet and yum, only one type of brownie was available which was extremely fudgy and tasty, blueberry scone was dry and wished they served it with butter, and the macarons were out of this world. It is a quick service restaurant and you grab the order to dine on your own. There was good number of seats to dine in but it is also very convenient to dine in your car. I loved everything and would love to visit again! Strongly recommend!
Mrinalini B — Google review
Sift Bake Shop was incredible! Everything looked and tasted amazing — their pastries and desserts are truly next level. You can tell they use high-quality ingredients and put a lot of care into every detail. Easily one of the best bakeries I’ve been to. Highly recommend stopping by.
Marc N — Google review
We are from PA and I am so glad we stopped in! We grabbed a few pastries for the road and it was well worth it 👌 Highly recommend their savory pastry with the spinach, strawberry rhubarb cheese Danish, and their chocolate croissant! Their brownie was a bit too sweet for me..so I would recommend you take it home and eat it warm with some ice cream! We look forward to visiting this bakery again in the future ❤️
Allie — Google review
4.5
(1741)
4.3
(1346)
Mentioned on 
affordable
American restaurant
The Captain Daniel Packer Inne is a historic colonial building that houses an English pub with a lively bar area and an elegant upstairs dining room. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience, serving contemporary cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients such as fresh seafood, prime beef, imported pasta, and fresh salads. The bar provides a wide selection of wines, craft beers, and classic cocktails while featuring live music every night.
I will tell you, right on the marina and having so much history, this restaurant does not disappoint. We decided on sandwiches and nachos for an appetizer. The burger was amazing, with aged cheddar, bacon crumbles, and cooked to perfection. The Ruben was packed with deliciousness and cooked perfectly. The nachos with the chili on top were some of the best I have ever had. The service was top-notch, and the atmosphere was quaint and inviting.
Dana — Google review
Lobster roll was delicious!! We went for dinner around 5 pm so we were one of the only few tables which was nice. The atmosphere in the restaurant is very classy and quiet.
Tanyi T — Google review
It's a lovely spot in Mystic, CT, with a lot of history and decent food. The salmon tacos (I subbed the fries for the almond goat cheese salad, which was okay) were great (and wild), along with Cod and chips. The service takes the cake. Thank you, Gigi and Sarah. We will be back.
Le C — Google review
This restaurant just outside of the downtown area provided a great dining experience for us in Mystic. Our waitress was phenomenal and made the night for us. She was very attentive, offering to take photos and bringing a side of extra sauce for my dish when she thought it might have needed a little more than what was served. The old restored building was quaint and charming, the food was great, the view of the harbor from our table was perfect, and the parking was easy. The bread service (for a small charge) was served with a head of warm roasted garlic. I tried their famous roasted cod, a dish I hadn't had before. I really enjoyed it and the sauce was deliciously rich. The clam chowder was perfect and my husband enjoyed his scallops dish.
Dagny M — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Charming pub with unforgettable food and friendly service! Daniel Packer Inn is a quaint, cozy little pub right in the heart of Mystic, and it absolutely delivered on charm and flavor. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by the bartender, who was incredibly friendly and helpful with recommendations throughout our visit. We started with two American light lagers on draft, a cup of creamy clam chowder, and six of the most delicate, fresh oysters I’ve ever had. For dinner, I had the hot lobster roll with fries—loaded with tender lobster meat and packed with flavor. My husband ordered the DPI skewers with steak, scallops, and shrimp, plus a Caesar salad and perfectly roasted potatoes. Everything was fresh, cooked to perfection, and reasonably priced for the quality. The atmosphere, food, and service made this an absolute must-visit spot in Mystic. We’ll definitely be back!
Ashley — Google review
We were recommended to come here from our boat captain and thank goodness we did! The atmosphere is cozy and slightly chaotic in the best way. John, our server, was the type of server every restaurant wants. He handled every table with grace despite being very busy. He took the time to give us recommendations and they were great recommendations. We had the espresso martini with coconut tequila and trust me, get it. The oysters were fresh and delicious, the scallops melted in your mouth. 10/10 recommend this restaurant and John!
Siobhan L — Google review
This place is amazing. These scallops were the best I ever ate. The atmosphere is nice and cozy and the staff so friendly. We've also heard it may be haunted! How cool is that. You can come for the food and spirits. :)
Carolan P — Google review
This is a hidden gem. The main room dinner service does not start until 5pm. We ate in the Tavern which opens earlier. The waiter John was awesome. Very attentive and got everything right. We tried the Nachos, Roasted Garlic and butter bread, Grilled Tuna Steak Sandwich, Salad with Blackened Salmon, a Burger and the Falafel Wrap. All were great. Very cool vibe in the Tavern. It's like stepping back in time.
Drew T — Google review

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