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Top 43 things to do and attractions in Stonington
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedJun 26, 2025
Updated • updatedJun 26, 2025
Many of us love traveling on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to find the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. With favorites like The Stonington Lighthouse Museum, Mystic, and Dubois Beach and more, get ready to experience the best places in Stonington.
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We scoured through the internet and read through 23 reputable sites and blogs like nelights.com and Think Mystic. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place.
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Other best of categories in Stonington
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Bakeries
Family restaurants
Bars
Seafood restaurants
Historical place museum
Sights & Landmarks
Lighthouses
Specialty Museums
The Stonington Lighthouse Museum, a defunct lighthouse built in 1840, is a remarkable piece of history with its notable stonework and collection of artifacts. Despite being decommissioned over a century ago, the granite-built lighthouse remains well-preserved and offers visitors a glimpse into its mid-19th-century heyday. The museum showcases Stonington's rich maritime and agricultural history, allowing guests to climb up to the top for panoramic views across three states.
A cute little lighthouse, small one with only 29 steps. The ladder to the top was kind of sketchy but it was doable. Only a $5 fee, support the lighthouse. View from the top was gorgeous and I was able to see another lighthouse from the top.
Dana B — Google review
We were at the lighthouse after closing, so we were not able to go inside, but the grounds and the structure are lovely, with a great little beach across the street. The whole neighborhood around the he lighthouse is quaint and so pretty.
The lighthouse was closed when we got there, but there is a quite lawn towards the back to which you can go to. Great views of the water and the boats sailing by. There is parking for about 50 cars at the end and a small beach nearby. There are benches in the parking lot along with picnic tables.
We were in Stonington on a short tour of the CT shoreline to visit many places we have been over the years.
Walking down the peninsula to the southern tip, we stopped at the 1840 stone light house. It is a great piece of history and I am thankful they have saved it.
There are a lot of tourists walking around and this is a popular stop.
$10 for seniors to enter.
Very picturesque.
Beautiful little lighthouse with a fantastic view from the top. Parking is free and they have a picnic area by the water. There is also a small beach near the parking lot that is $15 a day for adults.
Cool little site. You can climb to the top of the Lighthouse. You can see NY, RI, and CT. Museum on the ground floor. Beach Parking is free.
Beautiful place to be.. I love lighthouse, and the Stonington Lighthouse is pretty awesome
Mrs. K. and I were not interested in actually going inside the museum or in climbing to the top of this lighthouse. But wow, we were very interested in seeing, walking around it, enjoying the view of the Sound that you can see from here.
This structure was built in 1840 to replace an earlier one from 1823 that succumbed to shoreline erosion, it was crafted from large granite blocks, some salvaged from its predecessor. The tower itself is octagonal and 35 feet tall, attached to a 1 1/2 story keeper's house. Initially lit by an oil lamp and eight parabolic reflectors, it was upgraded to a sixth-order Fresnel lens in 1856 - a leap forward in lighthouse technology. But by 1889, its light was extinguished, replaced by newer beacons on the harbor breakwaters. Its second life began in 1925, when the Stonington Historical Society purchased it for $3,650 and transformed it into what's believed to be the nation's first lighthouse museum. Since then, it's become a repository of local maritime and agricultural history, with exhibits ranging from sea captains' treasures to artifacts from the British bombardment of 1814, including a cannonball embedded in a hearthstone and a rare Congreve rocket.
The museum doesn't have its own parking lot but you can park nearby if it's not too busy. Stonington Point and the Dubois Beach have a small lot and it's nice there. If you're passing by on I-95, this is only 20 minutes off the highway. Take the time to detour and check this out. Even if it's not season and the museum is closed, walking around is free.
7 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Mentioned on
Mystic, located in Groton and Stonington, Connecticut, is a charming village with a rich maritime history. It was once a significant seaport where over 600 ships were constructed during a period of 135 years. Visitors can explore downtown Mystic with its waterfront shops and restaurants or take a short drive to attractions like Mystic Seaport, America's leading maritime museum, Mystic Aquarium, and Olde Mistick Village.
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Beach
Nature & Parks
Dubois Beach is a small, secluded beach located on the west side of Stonington Point. It offers gentle waves, making it perfect for families with children. The beach features a seasonal lifeguard and an anchored dock, as well as a jetty where visitors can try their luck at crabbing. With its light surf and picturesque views of Fishers Island and Stonington Harbor, Dubois Beach is considered one of the best in New England.
Beautiful small beach with a view. Grassy area to sit and a rock wall along the parking lot to sit and enjoy.
Muggas — Google review
This isn’t a large beach, but it’s a lovely small one where kids can enjoy playing in the water and collecting pretty stones for about an hour. I think it’s definitely worth a visit.
There’s plenty of parking, and it’s a great spot to watch the sunset. The beach is also very clean. Highly recommend stopping by for a walk!
A wow spot for ocean view and shore. Beautiful and different. Free parking was a plus.
My husband and I visit often. Today however, you couldn't move there. Several classes going on with Karate class. and, you couldn't move. You could barley park! This went on the whole time we were there. The parking lot was terrible. In all the years we've been going there we have never seen that. They took up the whole area.. AWFUL.
Dubois Beach in Stonington offered a gentle, postcard-perfect escape the day we visited- sunny skies, mild temperatures, and just enough breeze to keep things comfortable. We parked a bit up the street, which gave us a pleasant walk past charming homes and the low hum of weekend life in the borough. The beach itself, tucked at the southern tip of Water Street, was calm and inviting, with its shaded gazebo and views stretching across Fisher's Island Sound.
Don't miss the granite memorial to the 1814 defense of Stonington stood quietly, commemorating the town's defiant stand against the British warship Ramillies. It's a modest but powerful reminder that this peaceful spot once echoed with cannon fire and resolve.
You have to pay but it’s such a cute little beach great for little toddlers..
Small town beach, right next to the Stonington point. Nice clean sandy beach with lifeguard during the summer season. Small day fee to enter for non-resident of the town.
Good beach for families with small children...
A really nice spot to enjoy the water and scenes of the shore. The gravel lot is also a great place to catch the sunset and sunrise. If you just need a therapeutic place to rest and enjoy nature, I recommend this place.
Museum
Art museum
Children's museum
History 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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
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.
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.
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!
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…..
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.
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!
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.
55 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
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Vineyard
Food & Drink
Wedding venue
Winery
Wineries & Vineyards
Saltwater Farm Vineyard, located in Stonington, is a local winery known for producing small-batch wines with unique flavors influenced by the surrounding tidal marshes of Wequetequock Cove. The estate offers a picturesque setting where visitors can enjoy live music, sample estate wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc, and indulge in freshly shucked oysters from Mystic Oyster Co.
My husband and I fell in love with Saltwater Farm Vineyard as our wedding venue the first time we went there together before we were even engaged. Oddly enough I had already been to the venue when I was in my cousin’s wedding here 6 years ago, but when Alex and I went to Saltwater Farm Vineyard for an oyster shucking class we had an awesome experience that cemented it as a part of our own journey. We chatted with Jess and Greg, and the owners Michael and Merrily for hours after the event. The day after we got engaged we went to Saltwater Farm Vineyard to celebrate and booked it as our venue the next day. The space is absolutely gorgeous. I love how intimate the venue feels while also having enough room for all of our guests. The flow of the events at Saltwater is seamless based on the layout. We had the ceremony in the vineyard, the cocktail hour outside/under the tent, and the reception inside. We were able to fit all 124 of our guests on the first floor, but we opened the second floor bar to open up the space even more. My three favorite things about the venue are the space itself, the natural ambiance, and the people. The space makes everything feel together, if you’re upstairs you can still see and hear the dance floor below, if you’re outside under the tent for fresh air or cigars you can still see and hear the dance floor as well. It’s all so connected keeping all of the guests having a similar experience. Additionally, the ambiance is amazing. I described my wedding style as simple but elegant. The lighting in the venue is so unique and is captured beautifully in photos whether the overhead lights are on or off. I also loved getting ready in the bridal suite on site so that I did not have to be transported after I got ready. The space has such incredible natural light which is great for getting ready photos. We also used the bridal suite for the wedding party to wait in while our guests were seated. It was so fun to watch our guests arrive and fill up all of the seats in the vineyard. It was a special moment watching all of our planning come to life. Merrily is very quick to respond and answer any of your questions. Jess and Greg are not only the nicest people and most helpful people, but they also made visiting the venue feel like we were coming home. Very honestly, the first moment I cried at my wedding was when I waved to Jess and Greg before going into the vineyard for my first look. It felt like everything had come full circle since the oyster shucking class all those months ago. I absolutely loved this venue and cannot speak highly enough about it. I cannot wait to go back and visit again. If you choose Saltwater Farm Vineyard for your wedding venue, you will not be disappointed!
Jessica S — Google review
I loved this vineyard so much! The wine was delicious and the views were fantastic. I could have stayed here all day! What a slice of heaven. If I lived in the area I would come here so often, reading my book and sipping wine in their Adirondack chairs. Bliss!
I photographed a wedding at Saltwater Vineyard in Warren, RI, and it was nothing short of magical. The property is surrounded by rolling vineyards, open fields, and beautiful coastal light, making it an incredible location for romantic and timeless wedding photos. The barn-style reception space is warm and inviting, with rustic charm that feels both elegant and relaxed. The outdoor ceremony area is picture-perfect, offering a peaceful and scenic backdrop for exchanging vows. The staff were friendly, helpful, and professional, making sure the day flowed effortlessly. As a professional wedding photographer who has worked at many vineyard and winery venues in New England, I can confidently say Saltwater Vineyard is a dream setting for couples who want a naturally beautiful, intimate, and unforgettable wedding day.
Such a beautiful atmosphere! Love walking down to the water while enjoying a glass of wine!
Absolutely love this place. Greg was great and the wines were wonderful. I Even bought a onzie for my new grandson.
Beautiful Vineyard, awkward hospitality:
I visited this vineyard to meet up with some friends visiting from out of state. The outdoor space is absolutely stunning, the perfect place to catch up and enjoy the view. The vineyard closes at 5, but the bartender was friendly and let us know we could stay until 5:15, which we appreciated.
As we were wrapping up and walking out, we passed an older couple we assumed were the owners. We politely asked if we could linger a bit longer, and were told, “No, but you're welcome to visit another time.” Fair enough, but the tone was unexpectedly cold.
We continued our conversation in the parking lot, admiring the beautiful view before leaving. That's when a man, possibly one of the owners, came out and gave us an intense, uncomfortable stare. We said we were just heading out, but it felt like he couldn’t wait for us to be off the property. It left a bit of a sour note on an otherwise lovely visit.
The vineyard itself is gorgeous, but the vibe from the owners felt a bit unwelcoming, which was disappointing given how serene the setting is. I will not consider coming back and will share this uncomfortable experience with my other wine loving friends.
Saltwater Farm Vineyard is absolutely beautiful. I've been here twice now, and both times a wedding rehearsal has been in the works. The natural beauty of the vines and the gorgeous renovated hangar make it the perfect location for a wedding! Because of how pretty Saltwater is, it is a busy place. Last visit they actually had someone directing traffic so everyone could find a spot. Likely that was a result of wedding guests though. The staff here are awesome to talk to and make you feel like they are excited that you're there. In addition to indoor and outdoor patio seating upstairs and down, there is plenty of grassy area with park benches. On top of the reds, whites and rose`s, they also have a healthy selection of craft beers and ciders, and I also noticed on their site that they have a nonalcoholic beer. Our friends purchased a very yummy blueberry cider! Although we brought our own food, you can also purchase an assortment of cheese, crackers and charcuterie. They offer plastic cups free of purchase, or you can pay $3 to keep your logo'd stemless or stemmed glass. The great selection of drinks and the beautiful setting make this winery a must see!
We had our wedding here and would do it all over again! Merrily is super responsive and so kind. We loved the indoor-outdoor feel. My dream wedding would be 100% outdoors but living in New England I just knew that wasn't a realistic plan (even in June!) When it rained on my wedding day I was extremely bummed but thankful the venue still allowed for a beautiful indoor ceremony. It wasn't what I envisioned but was so intimate and romantic (rare for a back-up plan!) and honestly I loved it. Thankfully the sky cleared and we were still able to get some outdoor shots. I will let the photos speak for themselves!
349 Elm St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Park
Nature & Parks
Animal rescue service
Preschool
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.
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!
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!
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.
Amazing camps, super friendly staff, beautiful trails and animals. What's not to love? I would recommend going in the summer.
Great place to bring children to learn about local wildlife and conservation! Several walking paths and a very special presentation inside the main building!
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.
109 Pequotsepos Rd, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
Historical place museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
The Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House Museum, located in Stonington, is a historic house museum that was once the residence of the renowned Antarctic explorer and ship designer, Nathaniel Brown Palmer. This National Historic Landmark, built in 1852 with a blend of Greek revival and Victorian Italianate architecture, offers visitors the opportunity to explore a 16-room Victorian mansion showcasing various artifacts including a model of Palmers sailboat Hero and other model ships, dollhouses, and period textiles.
What an interesting history of the Captain and his family. The stories and artifacts are fascinating. We came on a busy day, but we still had rooms to ourselves. The volunteers are very knowledgeable. The view from the cupola is great. Admission also includes Lighthouse Museum. Free Parking. gift shop.
Donna L — Google review
We went here following our visit to the Stonington Lighthouse Museum which was included in the ticket for there. When we walked up to the house our group, a group of 8, were the only guests. We walked in 10 of 12 and immediately greeted by June! A bright happy friendly face! We began our tour and all of us, ages 18-75 were hooked and so interested in the history June was telling us. June had a great delivery and truly made our visit so nice! Each room we went into we could talking about the details for hours and we all had questions about some random things in each room and June knew it all!! June was amazing and I am so happy we got to have such a dedicated and passionate tour guide! The house itself is warm and welcoming and interesting and everything is so well kept!
Was not able to visit as the hours on Google were wrong. During the winter they are only open on the weekend with limited hours. Giving five stars because I have heard this historic house is pretty incredible. And as a current employee who works in Antarctica it's always fascinating to learn about the original Antarctic explorers.
This was a really neat place to visit! If you’re ever in the area, try and make this place. It is loaded with interesting history, art pieces, and exquisite artifacts. The curator, and staff, are very courteous and insightful.
Aaron was a great host and very knowledgeable, we had no expectations of what we were going to see and learn about and we were pleasantly surprised! Just be ready on a hot day, no air conditioning (obviously) and the house gets very warm 🥵
Our tour guide Nancy made this experience great! She shared Nathaniels life story with us in such a way it was easy to imagine the life within the home. It was a wonderful experience and im glad we went. Thank you Nancy!
Interesting history and the tour guide (June) was great. We climbed up into the copula for a great view. But I wish the kitchen had been restored.
Great tour from a wonderful guide, Mary Pat ! She was a joy to be around and very knowledgeable. She made us feel welcomed when traveling from Washington state.
40 Palmer St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Mentioned on
Watch Hill is an upscale coastal neighborhood located in Westerly, Rhode Island. This charming enclave has gained popularity, partly due to its association with a famous pop star. Nestled between Connecticut and Rhode Island, Watch Hill exudes unassuming elegance with its mix of modern amenities and historic charm. The village features beautiful sandy beaches, a renowned historic hotel atop a hill, and a diverse culinary scene.
affordable
Restaurant
American restaurant
Asian restaurant
Water Street Cafe is a popular New American eatery located in the heart of Stonington. The cafe offers a casually elegant dining experience with a focus on locally sourced seafood and produce. Known for its oyster bar featuring local and international varieties, the cafe also boasts house-made desserts and fresh seafood specials. With a mahogany bar and inviting atmosphere, it's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy creative cuisine and drinks in a relaxed setting.
There’s something unmistakably comforting about the approach to Water Street Café. Tucked into the heart of Stonington, this cozy spot radiates old-school charm before you even step inside. Once through the door, you’re welcomed not just by a gracious host, but by the subtle hum of a place that knows its rhythm. The layout feels effortless—bar to the right, tables and booths to the left—perfectly intimate without trying too hard.
The meal begins humbly with a bread basket—simple, warm, soft butter on the side. It’s not showy, but it does its job exceptionally well. Think understated rather than underwhelming.
Starters here cover the spectrum. The shrimp cocktail stood out for its zippy horseradish-forward cocktail sauce—classic, but not dull. The Caesar salad arrived crisp, with a satisfying crunch from the croutons, while the beet and peach salad brought in a subtle sweetness that played nicely with the earthiness of the greens. The crispy tofu salad was a surprise hit—light, fresh, and punched up with a wasabi-soy vinaigrette that didn’t shy away from flavor.
Among the mains, the shrimp and scallops fra diavolo was a clear highlight. The seafood was tender, the pasta perfectly cooked, and the chili oil gave the tomato sauce a welcome, slow-building heat. For something more casual, the café burger on brioche was hearty and satisfying, especially with the addition of cheese and bacon. The London broil was classic comfort—tender beef, garlic butter, and crisp fries. If you’re leaning toward poultry, the chicken sandwich delivered crunch and tang, thanks to Creole mustard and a crusty roll.
Dessert brought it home. Two ice cream sundaes—one a straightforward vanilla-chocolate combo, the other a raspberry-drenched dream with a wafer base—both executed with care. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that leave the best impression.
If you go, ask for Andy. His easygoing service tied the whole experience together.
Water Street Café has roots that stretch back to 1994, founded by Walter and Stephanie Houlihan after years in the high-paced world of New York hospitality. Walter, a CIA-trained chef, brought a unique blend of French, Asian, and American influences to this coastal hideaway. Stephanie ensured that the front-of-house runs with genuine warmth, anchoring the café firmly in the heart of the community. Decades on, it’s clear why this spot remains a local favorite. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s just making sure it rolls smoothly and tastes great along the way.
Paul M — Google review
For a Tuesday night the place was packed and they didn't have enough waitstaff to meet the demand, we sat for almost 30 minutes before someone took our drink order and over an hour before someone came to take our food order. The food was delicious I got the duck and scallops; the duck was so tender I could easily cut it with a butter knife. They were knowledgeable about the menu and used a soy alternative on my dish because of my Celiac Disease.
My girlfriend got the halibut and while I didn't try it because I wasn't sure of it's contents, it cut through like butter.
My girlfriends cocktail was VERY strong. Mine was delicious.
Came here for dinner while on a quick trip to the ocean. Food was phenomenal! Best salmon I've ever had. Drinks were also great, I got the... twist on an old fashioned? I don't remember what it was called. Excellent though. I will advise that they seem incredibly popular so call in advance to put your name on the list for a table. But I would highly recommend this spot to anyone, great food, drinks and service! If I'm ever back in the area, I will go again!
Food was OK, steak tasted fishy??? RI oysters were awesome, cocktail was good,would of liked a few but our waiter was there but not engaging, place is very nice inside and it was very busy, will try again
Fantastic experience here. Stopped in for the first time for a family member's birthday and had a great dinner. I had an espresso martini (which was super yummy and so smooth) and then the roasted chicken skillet entree which was nicely cooked and very flavorful. Had some delicious bites of cheesecake to share for dessert. The atmosphere was very cozy and the service was extremely friendly. Can't wait to come back soon!
randomly stopped in here on a road trip. on a cool street in a cute town. the town was a little sleepy around 8pm, but this place was not! what a cool spot, great vibes, friendly people and staff! i could feel old ship captains stumbling in here after a few weeks or days at sea, food was pretty good as well but not fantastic. More of a stop for vibes and libations i think, but would definitely recommend and will come here again
Wow. What a great restaurant. Fabulous food, wonderful service, lovely atmosphere, and live music to boot; a guitar player who set the mood perfectly. Four of us had great meals, including two of us who are Vegans, and the vegan entrée was absolutely delicious. We will definitely eat here again when we are in town. Highly recommended.
My other favorite restaurant in Mystic/Stonington. The room management is a mess. The bartender is, quite frankly, one of the best in the business in this area. The service is fun and friendly. And the food is freaking fantastic!
143 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
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Art studio
Shopping
Shopping mall
Farmers Markets
The Velvet Mill is a historic brick factory that used to produce velvets in the late 19th century with 300 broad looms and a staff of 450. Today, it houses a community of small businesses, creating an evocative space for visitors. The area also features two fantastic wineries, Stonington Vineyards and Saltwater Farm Vineyard, offering wine tastings and live music. Additionally, the mill hosts a cute marketplace where vendors sell handmade products.
This is my second time coming here with my friends on Thanksgiving weekend and it’s so much fun. So many local vendors and artisans selling the things they make, it makes for a great day of buying unique gifts for friends and family. Parking is somewhat limited, so prep ahead in advance if you have to do street parking.
Hoosieronthemove — Google review
Great stop! This place is huge with lots of antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, etc. We had a delicious lunch at Masa and many of the shop owners were very nice.
I wish I could’ve checked out more shops, but some were closed (understandable for a Sunday morning) and we had limited time.
This is a very eclectic place that has nice indoor open spaces, many dining and beverage options as well as shopping and a great Indoor Farmers Market. Great for all ages you can spend a few hours a few minutes, there's so many nice shops as well as a great vibe in this place. If you're not local it's also adjacent to Stonington Borough and the point which is a nice place to hang out and watch the waves come in from Long Island Sound and barn Island.
Unique environment with great food/ drink options. Fun place with a special atmosphere.
This place has really grown up. It's better than ever. So maybe great shops and local folks seeking their wares. Awesome restaurants, too! Loved Dock 9!
The atmosphere is a world of its own, like entering a time capsule without leaving the comforts of now. Lovely shops, eateries, art studios, and unique offerings. Even if you dont want to buy anything, just wandering around is fun. My favorite Art Studio is Spirit Wind, second floor, but they are all awesome!
Zest is one of best bakeries I have ever visited. Balè Homewares offers furniture that Frank Lloyd Wright would covet.
Unexpected hidden gem. Great place to kill some time and browse local shops. Really unique place. Everyone was friendly.
22 Bayview Ave, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
affordable
Restaurant
Dog Watch Cafe, located in Stonington Borough, was established by husband and wife David and Wendy Eck, along with Wendy's brother Clay Burkhalter. The cafe offers a relaxed dining experience with BBQ fare, sandwiches, and seafood. In addition to indoor seating, the establishment also provides outdoor seating and lawn games for patrons to enjoy. The venue boasts stunning views of Stonington Harbor and features an outdoor space called the Dog Pound for dockside cocktails and dining.
A lovely spot right near the water and marina, this longstanding institution serves up delicious seafood! My NE clam chowder was excellent, as were the fish tacos. My kids had the fried calamari and the brisket cheese sandwich, all very good. And if their seasonal special blueberry crisp is on the menu, don’t miss it! From the woman who showed us to our table to the waitress, service was friendly and helpful. Reservations during peak summer season, even at off-peak hours, are recommended. Abundant parking right nearby, kid and dog friendly.
Mark D — Google review
We got seated outside and had beautiful views of the boats. Our meal was enjoyed by all, especially the salmon sandwiches (bread was fresh, salmon was cooked perfectly). Overall it was a great lunch.
Came in from NJ for a 4 day getaway. Wanted to eat close to where we are staying (THE STONINGTON INN). Made 6:45 reservations and got seated right away. Service was friendly and prompt and my husband said his beer was ice cold, just the way he likes it! For APPS we had the clams casino and bang bang shrimp. FRESH AND FLAVORFUL are 2 words that come to mind...they BOTH were DELICIOUS! Hubby had the fish and chips and I had the smoked brisket grilled cheese sandwich. Both were plentiful and very tasty. HIGHLY RECOMMEND !
Second time at the Dog Watch and will definately repeat.
It was a hot day the beginning of the month, so indoor seating suited us best, but while we waited we had a drink on the back patio where another bar is located. The food was great as well as the staff. Calamari and Bang Bang shrimp as starters. I had the seared fish tacos which where a nice retreat from the original fried [no photo included].
This was my 5th time here and between the consistency and fresh food you can't go wrong. If you can go on a nice day and sit in the back section by the water I highly recommend it. The ambience provides for a great experience for you and your guest. I'd suggest getting a reservation though as this place a well known local spot.
Food was amazing! I can't wait to go back and try more menu items. Cool space with a bar top, indoor seating, and outdoor seating on the water.
Great service as well!
I’m starting to find when I travel that I don’t discover hidden gems; it’s more that I search for the already reviewed gems and reinforce them. Like this one. Google maps wins again. Loved the location and the atmosphere. And the food. And the customer service. All spectacular. Wish I lived closer!
Great place on the water! Had the French Onion Soup and Brisket Grilled Cheese. Both delish! Service was good. Would definitely recommend.
194 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Winery
Shopping
Gift shop
Vineyard
Stonington Vineyards, a charming family-owned winery located on the Connecticut Wine Trail, has been delighting visitors since 1987. Known for its barrel-fermented Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc, as well as proprietary blends like Seaport White and Triad Rose, this picturesque estate produces 6,000-7000 cases of wine annually. The modern tasting room welcomes guests year-round to sample and purchase their wines.
Wonderful afternoon of amazing friends, wine and music! Beautiful property and extra friendly staff. Highly recommend the Triad Rose. We will be back!
C D — Google review
We had such an enjoyable experience today doing a Wine Tasting. Matthew was fantastic. So knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to make sure we were having a nice few hours at the Winery. I’d love to go back! All the wines we tasted were so good! I had a hard time deciding which one to purchase to take home. I highly recommend this place, you will not be disappointed!! They also have events there. The setting is beautiful, the outdoor area is so pretty. Such a lovely place to visit, the items for sale are very nice as well, such as shirts, wine cooler bags, glasses, marble charcuterie boards, wooden cutting boards, signs, wine of course, other trinkets.
Awesome setup, excellent wines. Five stars for ambiance and music. Perfect place to slow down and sip some wine.
We visited this week and had Seaport White Wine which we enjoyed. Beautiful scenery on the porch overlooking the vineyard. The staff were very helpful. They also suggested visiting the cider mill located a few miles away.
My husband TJ and I had an absolute blast at the Summer Music Party at Stonington Vineyards! Sipping on some Seaport White, our favorite, and indulging in a Brick&Basil Wood Fired Pizza Co. Tomato, Basil, & Bacon Pizza (which was aahmaazing 10/10!), we jammed out to the tunes of The Fake Experience. The weather was perfect, the crowd was lively, and we snagged the ideal picnic bench to chill and cheer on pizza pickups. As our wine-induced hunger kicked in, we ventured to the Curb Your Appetite Food Truck. TJ returned with Southwest Eggrolls w/avocado ranch (7/10) and loaded fries w/cheddar, sour cream, bacon, and scallions (1000/10 - seriously, the best fries EVER). Good times were had by all!
-Marisa Balletti-Lavoie
Amazing wines, very friendly staff and the views are great. Plenty of seating inside and outside.
So it was my 1st time here, my first time at a Vinyard and my first time doing a wine tasting. Nice elegant facility. We were a small group celebrating a Birthday. We were greeted right away by a friendly and comedic man. After reading the reviews I see now why he apologized for the outdated kitchen he led us through to get to the back room where we'd have our wine tasting and LOL it was not even that bad sheesh. We tasted 6 wines & bought a few bottles after. They had a live band outside off the patio. Patio area was accessible but seating was not permitted. The view of the vineyard was beautiful although it was fenced off with an electric fence. My only complaint or point of confusion is the group tasting being $22 per person when a bottle is about $20 each, almost makes more sense for each of us to just buy a bottle and taste it amongst ourselves? I also expected a little more formality with info/education about each wine. We did bring our cheese platter as it was encouraged but for some reason I thought they would have some cheese to offer, for free or purchase but there was none offered to us. They did have lots of crackers for sale as well as a little gift shop. Overall it was a nice and enjoyable experience.
Really nice property. great for families and pet friendly. Wine tasting is reasonably priced, tho the pours were slightly smaller than what we have had in the past and the information on the wine was a bit vague. The four gentlemen operating the vineyard were very friendly and gave our kids freeze pops! Would definitely recommend!
523 Taugwonk Rd, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Brewery
Food & Drink
Beer'd Brewing Co. - The Mill is an independent microbrewery located in the historic American Velvet Mill, offering a diverse selection of handcrafted beers. Their 217-gallon brewhouse produces seasonal brews such as New England Style IPA, Imperial Stouts, India Pale Ales, Trappist Ales, and Double IPA. Visitors can bring their own food to enjoy in the laid-back tasting room while sampling small-batch beers.
Very nice selection of local brews and a very knowledgeable team always. Casual and carefree. Get a pizza next door and have lunch or dinner here … convenient and welcoming.
F D — Google review
The beer is absolutely fantastic! I love it so much i bought a shirt from their online store. My credit card was charged but never received the shirt. I have reached out and no response. So, definitely go and enjoy their beer but my suggestion don't buy anything at their store!
If I could give no stars I would. We were looking forward to a pint, drove an hour to find the brewery doors at the mill site closed. We were there from 12-2. We walked inside and out to ensure we weren't missing something. Everything online noted open and open at 11. Nothing on the website or FB page indicating closed. No signage outside or inside the mill indicating closed. Things happen beyond everyone's control. Most people have social media so a post to say Sorry for the Inconvenience like the other posts from weeks prior or even a sign outside the brewery would have gone a long way instead of waiting for something that wasn't happening during our time at the mill.
Good beer in a cool space ( Velvet Mill)
IPA heavy but had a tasty Pilsner and dark lager. Took some 4-packs to go. Great merch too.
You see dogs and boats everywhere so nice to try something different. Good stuff!
Another great brewery in an old warehouse/mill complex. Love what the whole space is evolving into....various shops, restaurants, and a brewery! Small but potent, and definitely crazy warm on a late July day, it reminds me of Tilted Barn inside. Staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. Beer selection is vast and obviously delicious. So glad I stopped by unplanned after spending the morning in Westerly/Watch Hill. And Stonington is a cool historic town, as well.
Checked out Beer'd Brewing Company this evening while traveling to Maine. This is a great craft brewery. While there my wife had a full pour of their Whisker'd Wit, the breweries take on a Belgian wit. Beer'd knows their styles well and provides full flavor beers. I had a flight that included a fruity double IPA, oatmeal stout, a German pilsner and a traditional brown ale. All of the beers had great depth of flavor and were solid representations of the styles of beers. I finished out the evening with "After Dinner Sandwich" an incredibly impressive imperial stout. The staff at Beer'd were awesome. I was incredibly impressed with the customer service provided by Sarah, Jaimie and Bill. Even though Bill wasn't working this evening he provided amazing insight into the beers. This is a great establishment. They obviously know their beers well and have deep respect for the styles they make. I wish I lived nearby. I know that I will return them if I'm ever in the area again. Keep up the good work Beer'd. And if you're ever in the area of Stonington or Groton Connecticut check out beard Brewing company. You will not regret this!
Fell in love with Dogs and Boats over the late summer, and have to say I've been a fan of Beer'd ever since.
Really sad I missed you guys on Tuesday, as you dropped off some items I ordered, but I was out with my dog on a short hike, which I hope is an acceptable excuse :)
Seriously, though, I figured you'd probably want to see what I did with the sign, which I just hung up this afternoon and before you ask, yes... this place is all about the great outdoors, be it on the water or in the woods, or just kicking back and enjoying a few brews with a small fire going....
You guys are the best !!
Cheers, and Season's Greetings !!!
Big George + Loki the dog
Solid brewery with a very IPA heavy beer list, which is not a bad thing as each one is varied from the other. Plenty of IPAs, Double IPAs, and New England IPAs. Good selection of beer goods and glassware. Excited to see their 2nd location scheduled to open soon in Groton.
22 Bayview Ave, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Cultural center
Arts organization
La Grua Center, also known as the Maurice C. La Grua Center, is a charming community cultural hub in Stonington Borough. Since its establishment in 2007, it has been a venue for various events such as art exhibitions, lectures, concerts, symposiums, and musical recitals. The center's intimate historical space boasts acoustically distinctive features with vaulted ceilings and natural light that create an ideal setting for performances and concerts.
What a lovely venue to perform a recital! Great audience, beautiful piano, awesome acoustics, nit to mention the kindness and perfec organisation of the team. Thank you so much to Lori, Kelly and Christopher!
Diana H — Google review
The ambiance is very nice and I also enjoyed the gallery that was there. The exhibitions cover Jim Crow and the struggle people of color have had in America and I really found great insight and information through each of the art pieces. Not only were they insightful, they were captivating and well put together which enhanced my experience.
The gallery is somewhat small but I highly recommend going there and leaving a donation if you can.
Wonderful acoustics and "Big Luxe" was a fantastic show! A beautiful venue, for sure🙂
Very nice place but in dire need of acoustic treatment to much reverb for a music venue.
LaGrua Center in Stonington Borough just presented excellent evening with the sold out performance by Christopher Marshall Faison. A Norwich Free Academy graduate, now worldwide performer-Japan,France, Belgium, & Austria as well as most of the USA, his powerful passionate tenor voice sweeps his audience to another level. Mr Faison obviously loves working with people as much as we loved being his audience. The top notch accompanying pianist Dan Brandl is the executive director of LaGrua. Thank you again LaGrua staff.
Beautiful setting for any event
Great space for art, music, culture, kids work shops. They have it all! What a gem to have in our community ! World class talent.
Very nice venue, seats about 100 people total between the ground level and balcony.
32 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
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16Westerly
Mentioned on
Westerly, located in Washington County, Rhode Island, is a charming beachfront town settled by English colonists in the 17th century. With a population of over 23,000 people, it offers a relaxed riverside community perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, diverse bird-filled landscapes, and various outdoor activities. The town boasts an array of accommodation options including cozy B&Bs and stylish boutique beach hotels to suit different preferences and budgets.
17Noah's
affordable
American restaurant
Noah's is a charming New England restaurant located in Stonington, offering a cozy atmosphere with its tin ceilings, wooden bar, and inviting decor. Since 1979, it has been serving up delicious comfort food using slow scratch cooking techniques. The menu features a variety of dishes that change with the seasons, ensuring fresh and flavorful options for both locals and visitors. With daily lunch and dinner specials based on seasonal ingredients, Noah's keeps its offerings interesting and diverse.
What a charming little place to sit and enjoy freshly made food. We were out yesterday in Stonington, CT. a a mini snow squall kicked up with a brisk cold wind which made our trip to Stonington even better. Driving on Water St. we saw Noah's on the corner flying the American flag at lunchtime. we stopped in . We were greeted by Meghan and seated in a cozy dining area with a few booths and tables spaced nicely. Old building so all the old floors and metal ceiling sheets and a bump out window table caught my eye. This place is a great place to warm the bones and sit and enjoy the atmosphere, there was party of 4 sitting and just enjoying each others company and the comfortable and cozy feel , nobody was rushing them out. We were seated and first thing you notice are the great photographs on the walls. A local artist John Papp, beautiful photography and neatly matted and framed. Colorful exotic birds and some local pictures all for sale. Onto the food, we were there for lunch, breakfast is served until 11:30 then they switch over to lunch. My wife ordered a Awesome Sauce Burger that comes with lettuce, tomato, cheese and smoked applewood bacon, I ordered a Boro Bowl, comes with rice and quinoa.You get 2 choices of sauces along with 4 standards, spicy sesame and ranch dressings I chose tomato, edamame, raw red onion and raw spinach. I added a protein Bulgogi steak. EXCELLENT bowl !!!!! My wife said her burger was great. Meghan provided excellent service with a smile. This small restaurant was a great stop for us, we will definitely be back again. Their menus offer something for everyone, breakfast, lunch or dinner you can't go wrong Top the experience off with beautiful Stonington, CT.
James F — Google review
Neat outside that draws you in and it seemed like a good option! We are glad we came! The staff was immediately friendly and sat us, took our drink order and got things started! All the way from beginning to end they took good care of us! One employee was even sweeping and the owner or manager even thanked her, that’s good management! The beer options were good, the local ones I tried were excellent! The food is made with high quality ingredients as well and even the vegetables that made up the salad were so fresh and delicious! Very refreshing starting with the salad here! The oyster chowder were amazing, had plenty of oysters in it and had good flavor and was made from scratch as well! The mussels were good and came with some excellent toasted bread! Our entrees were very satisfying as well and we had a good experience here! Very neat place too from stamped ceiling to neat wooden decor and paintings!
While looking for a place to eat lunch, we saw Noah’s. It was a very cozy and nice restaurant. There was local art for sale that were on the walls, the staff were friendly, and the food was delicious. We ordered mussels and shared a salad, and we had a really great experience. This is definitely a wonderful place to stop.
Wanted to share my experience with Noah's restaurant today! I took my dad here today for breakfast and the service was impeccable:)
We both had omelets that were so amazing and with fresh veggies...:)
I also ordered a side piece of French toast...it was outstanding...our server was friendly, outgoing upbeat and gave us exceptional quality service;)
I highly appreciate and recommend this quaint restaurant in historic stonington boro:)
William 😊
It may sound like hyperbole, but it’s not- it’s just a fact: Noah’s has it all. This charming, quaint gem has fabulous food and attentive friendly service.
Incredible menu. Rotating specials. Everything tasted like it was from someone’s garden. Made with love. Not overdoing it with spices or anything either. Scallops were excellent. Desserts 10/10. Deborah gives incredible service !!! AMAZING cute little place I can’t wait to come back
Noah’s is a reliable and always good choice in the borough. The food, drink, and service are excellent and free of unnecessary fuss. It’s smallish and cozy — a welcoming atmosphere. The menu focuses on what they’re good at, therefore it’s all good.
Noah’s a restaurant located in historic Stonington Village. We had lunch on a Wednesday. Itwas a rainy, cold winter day and was very busy. Not surprising. The food is cooked fresh with fresh ingredients and very generous portions. Our server was a gentleman who was very friendly and attentive. They are open for breakfast, lunch and diner. A must try when in the area.
113 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Farm
Nestled in the charming coastal town of Stonington, Connecticut, Stone Acres Farm is a sprawling 63-acre property that operates as a fully functional farm. Visitors are invited to wander through its expansive fields, gardens, and extensive vegetable patches. The farm is committed to preserving natural habitats and historic structures while also offering culinary education and open spaces. Just a short distance from Stonington Borough, this centuries-old family farm provides an array of freshly harvested vegetables and handpicked flowers each morning.
A truly beautiful setting with a romantic vibe. The food is top notch and well sourced, executed on the plate in a perfect manner. The staff is professional and attentive and knows the product well enough to answer most questions and requests. Being bug spray as the mosquitos get busy later in the evenings.
Jonas G — Google review
We stopped here to get an ice cream and we were not disappointed . The ice cream was good. We tried pumpkin cheesecake, black raspberry with chocolate and Oreo. Also the place is very cute. They have a little store as well. Definitely recommend it:)
Lovely, fun place to visit. The stand has great fresh produce and local wares and they have a sweet little fresh ice cream stand in the summer as well. They do lots of programs for all ages and the place is just gorgeous as well. Worth a visit!
Stone Acres was the venue for our wedding, and it was absolutely extraordinary. 85th Day (affiliated with Stone Acres) did our catering, and we were very surprised by the quality of the food and drinks--in a positive direction. The food was every bit as good as our tasting and was exactly the same quality as the summer nights food at Stone Acres. We were super impressed because cooking food for that many people with fast turnaround times seems extremely difficult--but they pulled it off! That included incredibly sensitive dishes like scallops, which are temperamental and have to be cooked for a very exact time period--but they totally nailed the cook on the scallops for every guest. A number of folks told us it was the best food they'd had at a wedding. They went above and beyond at every turn--for example, we asked if they could serve a very specific hibiscus and gin cocktail that we made for friends from time to time, and they replicated it perfectly (even making homemade hibiscus syrup and edible flowers to add to the drinks). We cannot sing their praises enough!!
Stone Acres Farm’s Farm Dinners offer a memorable escape—a night of gentle conversations, inspired farm-to-table cuisine, and an idyllic outdoor setting that feels plucked from a dream. While the price point might inspire a moment of pause, the overall experience—a soul-soothing combination of nature, nourishment, and night sky—left me feeling quietly content. If you go, remember: come hungry for ambiance, savor each elegant bite, and bring along the kind of company you want to linger with under the stars.
As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I'm especially partial to the beautiful venues in my own area of the southeastern part of the state. Stone Acres Farm is one of them; "elegant" is the word that comes to mind.
So far in my career, I haven't seen another northeastern venue like Stone Acres. On your wedding day, you'll see how well the staff takes care of you in the manor house, gardens, and tent, like a well-oiled operation. But all the while, you've got small-town vibes in Stonington Borough. Its culinary roots only add to the experience, as the food options are well curated.
Stone Acres Farm is definitely one of my favorites and I highly recommend it!
This place is awesome! Jane is great, we got tastey treats, fun pictures and sent on our way w a full day of local fun!
Extremely accommodating for gluten free and allergies. Stunning, rustic, warm and cozy feel. The aroma upon arrival was intoxicating. We loved it!
393 N Main St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
affordable
Pizza restaurant
Mystic Pizza, located in Mystic, Connecticut, is a nostalgic spot that inspired the 1988 film of the same name. The restaurant is filled with memorabilia from the movie and vintage pictures from showbiz. It's a must-visit for fans of the cult classic film and those looking to reminisce about seaside holidays. While they embrace their tourist-fueled experience, their pizza is definitely worth trying.
Loved getting to visit Mystic Pizza in person! The staff is lovely and the decor is fabulous. The special pizza is pricey at almost forty dollars for a pie but absolutely delicious. Perfect crust and perfectly tasting ingredients. Definitely would recommend stopping by, even if you have not seen the movie!
Now for my standard comments. Parking is a little tough. Can get crowded but we managed to snag a spot in the back or side lot and they said we could park there for a few minutes as we picked up our pizza. There seemed to be some comfortable indoor seating. Location is clean and well kept.
Christine L — Google review
The movie “Mystic Pizza,” gave this Pizzeria a lot of fame. Unfortunately the prices reflect that the place is for tourist$. Pizza was good, and their beer own was excellent. Service was very, very attentive and the staff is probably the best part of the experience. Lots of fun movie and celebrity stuff hanging on the walls.
Travelling to 10 states in 14 days we diverted to Mystic because of the movie Mystic Pizza but mostly because of the movie Mystic Christmas which showed Mystic off in a great light. We weren’t disappointed on a beautifully sunny day… great Main Street with interesting shops, the pizza, the bascule bridge, the river, the houses and at that time of year the Halloween decorations. Bliss 🥰
We ordered the Mystic Pizza lager, cheese bread and a small pepperoni pizza. I am spoiled living in Detroit so this pizza was just alright for me and let's be real - we came for the experience! The service was great, even at the gift shop. This restaurant is adorable and their menu provides a great story of how they have expanded because of the film. If I'm ever in town again, I would definitely come back!
Great gluten free dough and regular dough!! We stopped in around 6pm and were quickly seated upstairs. The atmosphere was very pizza shop—-large wooden tables, Mystic Pizza playing on the TV and photos of the movie and celebrities.
We ordered the garden salad. It was plenty big enough to split for 2-3 people. We each got the small pizza in pepperoni. The gluten free crust was tasty, it had a nice buttery flavor and good texture. The regular pizza I asked for it to be well done so that it had crispy pepperoni, which it did. It was oozing with cheese, but wasn’t super heavy and a perfect amount of sauce with a nice flavor. We each had a glass of wine, which was priced from $8-10 each. The server was really friendly and stopped by several times to check on us. Overall a lovely experience! We would definitely return.
Last Friday I finally got to cross this legendary restaurant off my bucket list! After my busy morning at the Mystic Aquarium, I had worked up an appetite, so I stopped at Mystic Pizza for lunch, where I sat by the window and enjoyed two plain slices.
The pizza was pretty good-maybe not the best pizza I’ve ever eaten, but still very tasty. I would go back for another couple of slices.
And what’s more, the young ladies behind the counter were so sweet and friendly. I had a minor issue (not related to the restaurant), and they went the extra mile to help me.
I definitely recommend coming here, even if you just try it once. I am so glad I got to experience this restaurant, and I will always remember Mystic Pizza!
There was a wait to get a table but we snagged two seats at the upstairs bar right away. Bartender was friendly and took our order right away. We ordered a large pizza with mushrooms and pepperoni. Perfect amount of sauce, cheese and toppings. The sauce had a unique taste. It wasn’t like regular pizza sauce had more flavor. Can’t really describe There was two of us so we couldn’t finish the entire pizza would definitely come back.
Since we were in Mystic for one night it felt like we had to go to Mystic Pizza for dinner. The food was good. The only issue I had was the fans upstairs made the lights seem almost strobe like. It gave me a bit of a headache. That said it was still great food and the service was excellent.
56 W Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
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.
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.
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..
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!
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.
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!
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.
27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
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affordable
Restaurant
Bar
Breakfast restaurant
Nestled along the picturesque Stonington Harbor, Breakwater is a contemporary waterfront restaurant that promises an unforgettable dining experience. With its airy ambiance and stunning views of Fishers Island Sound, it's the perfect spot to indulge in fresh seafood and New American cuisine while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails. Imagine savoring delectable dishes like tempura fried shishito peppers or fish tacos after a refreshing swim at Whalens Wharf, all while watching sailboats glide by against a backdrop of vibrant sunset hues.
Food was phenomenal! From service to view, everything was perfect. I know reviews talk about a long wait but it was nice waiting with a drink by the water. I definitely recommended these drinks: Aperol Sprits frozen and the bloody Mary. For for food: the hot lobster roll, blackened chicken tacos, fried fish tacos, the burrito, and the shrimp and fries.
Jennifer M — Google review
Great location with good food. Lobster roll was amazing. Seafood medley was good. Gluten free kids pasta could’ve been better—especially with the almost $dollar upcharge just for the gluten free option which is a little absurd for the quality. Other than that, we would love coming back.
First off, make sure you get a reservation here! It gets busy! Our waitress was fantastic , extremely kind and helpful. The view and ambiance are just perfect, I don’t think there’s a bad seat in the house. In regard to the food, the fried calamari was good but pretty heavy on the batter and it was more garnish than actual calamari on the plate,The seafood pasta was delicious and filling, however I wasn’t super impressed by the salmon. It had a great crispy exterior, however it lacked in flavor and the inside was a bit tough, I think it maybe could have used a sauce or just some extra salt and pepper!Overall, If you are in the area it’s not a bad option at all but I wouldn’t say it’s a must try.
We were on a short tour of the CT shoreline to revisit the many places we have been to many times over the years. We stopped in Stonington to see the sights and have lunch at Breakwater. It is a great casual restaurant built on a pier out in the bay. Seating inside and out but when weather is nice like today, outside is the best.
We had fish & chips and fish tacos. Both were excellent. Add a beer and it was perfect!
Views of the water and boats are really spectacular.
We enjoyed a lovely dinner here at BREAKWATER. The views were beautiful, service was friendly, and food was delicious. The fried calamari was fine but had a lot more fried peppers and other veggies vs. calamari. The lobster roll was not bad especially with a side of sweet potato fries. The seafood pasta was phenomenal with shrimp, scallops, lobster, crab, julienne vegetables, garlic-parmesan cream sauce, and parmesan. The Blackened Mahi Mahi and Pan Seared Faroe Island Salmon were also pretty good. I liked the firmness of the Mahi Mahi but the Seared Salmon was so tender and delicious. It had a sweet corn puree, summer succotash, Matunuck Microgreens pea shoots and strawberry salsa.
Now for my standard comments. Parking is an open parking lot right in front of the restaurant but it is easy to miss the entrance if you are not familiar with the town or roads. Location is well kept and clean. Indoor dining was comfortable.
The deck is so nice and the view is incredible. It’s one of those places where you almost don’t even care if the food is just mediocre, luckily for us it was good :)
Our server was super sweet and added to an already great experience.
Went here with a big group of ladies and it was a lovely lunch experience. Lobster Loves Lobster. Little cup of bisque and a little roll with house made chips. Delicious. Excellent service.
We really enjoyed our meal and sitting out on the deck next to the water. It's a beautiful location, and the service was excellent. Our server Trina was great, made some good suggestions and made us feel like long-time friends.
The only thing this place needs to work on are the bathrooms. Both my wife and I were a bit surprised by the gross conditions of the men's and women's bathrooms. You can't help but wonder if this is carrying over to the kitchen.
66 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
affordable
American restaurant
Brewpub
Brunch restaurant
Located in Olde Mystic Village, Jealous Monk is a popular European beer hall and social club offering a convivial atmosphere and a diverse menu. With over 30 beers on draft, this spot is perfect for beer enthusiasts. The open brewery-style space features a huge outdoor patio that is kid-friendly, making it an ideal destination for families.
Stopped in at Jealous Monk for breakfast, which is not something you normally think of here since it’s better known as a German-style beer hall. The menu was definitely different than your usual breakfast spot—and it worked. The eggs with hash came out in a skillet and were excellent, hearty, and flavorful. The bangers with pancakes were also spot on, a great mix of traditional and nontraditional.
What makes it stand out is how they take classic breakfast dishes and put their own spin on them. Everything we ordered was really well done, and it felt like a fresh take on the usual breakfast routine. Between the food and the atmosphere, it’s an all-around nice place to go for breakfast in Mystic.
Highly recommend giving it a try if you want something a little different from the standard diner-style breakfast.
Mike B — Google review
Beautiful place and ambiance. Excellent service by all staff who are constantly checking on you and helping each other. Coffee was perfectly made to my requests. Corned beef Benny was bland, even after copious amounts of salt and pepper, though that is a matter of personal taste. The food used quality ingredients and had an inviting presentation. A delicious (and complementary) old fashioned bottle of water made the perfect compliment to my brunch! Finally, the lime raspberry cake tasted good, though not moist and somewhat of a Little Debbie cake consistency, which was the only part of the meal I wouldn't recommend. Overall a pleasant experience I'd highly recommend if you're in the neighborhood, as I happened to drive by.
We’ve been to Mystic before, but hadn’t tried this restaurant. We were looking for something local and with good food. This place popped up for us on social media, and we decided to give it a try. They have a wide variety of food and lots to choose from. We got the Buffalo Chicken Rangoon, a 1/2 rack of ribs, the Chicken Schnitzel, and of course the New England Clam Chowder. Everything was absolutely delicious! We enjoyed the flavor and everything was made fresh. We will definitely have to stop by again when we’re back in the area!
Jealous Monk is a beer hall and garden located in the Olde Mistick Village. The interior is spacious with high ceilings and long tables. The outside patio is also spacious with plenty of seating. There are dozens of rotating draft beers, cocktails, and wine. They also have a good selection of food; from pretzels, burgers, wings, and more.
I'm a fan of craft beer so I had to stop in. I love that it is kid friendly too. We ate outside on a beautiful summer evening. Our server was friendly and attentive. I had the red sangria which was good. We started off with the buffalo chicken crab rangoons which were decent. They had lobster rolls on the menu so I had to order it. I love the cold style; it's mixed with mayo on lettuce and a buttered bun. They loaded it with lobster meat. Overall, my family and I enjoyed our meals and drinks! I highly recommend!
From out of state. So good we ate here twice while in Mystic. Tried the clam chowder, wings, buffalo chicken Rangoon, fried cod sandwich & pulled pork sandwich. Every bite was delicious! Loved that there was outdoor seating which we opted for both times.
Awesome experience especially during Octoberfest. 30 plus beers on tab with a great selection of food. The vegetarian wrap is fantastic. Huge bar, tons of tables, and if it's nice out, check out the patio. There ar TVs all over inside and outside. Excellent service
Wish we had found this building at the beginning of our visit to the Olde Mistick Village... the cocktails were amazing, if you're into beer they have a huge lineup of taps. The Waitresses were wearing German type outfits, very cute!
Classic bier garden. I ate the Jager Schnitzel off of the Oktoberfest menu. Also had a couple Oktoberfest marzen beers. Brings me back to when I was stationed in Germany in the 1990s. Would go back, highly recommend.
27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
Hunting area
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Parks
Barn Island Wildlife Management Area is a 1,013-acre wildlife conservation site that offers opportunities for bird-watching, hiking, deer hunting, and fishing. This stunning location features a beautiful hike through the marsh, showcasing an abundance of wildlife and lovely wildflowers during a mid-June visit. The trail to the cemetery dating back to the 1600s is worth exploring as well. Additionally, there is a shaded wooded trail called the red blaze trail that contrasts with the marsh area's beauty.
Beautiful easy hike. The loop we did was 2.9 miles. It was very pretty near the water, and we saw a lot of dragonflies day we went. When going through the woods, the trees provided nice shade on a hot day. Don't forget bug spray very buggy in the woods.
Nicole C — Google review
Wonderful spot for wildlife watching and pretty cool mountain bike trails for novice riders!
It is a peaceful outdoor hiking destination. If you are planning to navigate here, definitely DON’T use the Apple Maps app. I was twice taken to an unknown location that was a 10-minute drive away.
Beautiful hike through the marsh. We saw a lot of wildlife and pretty wildflowers during our mid-June visit. We saw hardly any other people during our hike. Recommend doing the offshoot trail to the cemetery dating from the 1600's. We continued on the red blaze trail which is wooded and shaded (unlike the marsh). The hike through the woods was nice but not as exciting as the marsh area, which is beautiful. There is also a path from the west side if the parking lot to a pretty, small beach, that was not in alltrails or our guidebook. There are interpretive signs about marsh ecosystems. Great place for kids.
What a beautiful place to go for a walk. I only discovered this place this winter so I have not had an opportunity to visit in the spring and summer when I'm sure the wildlife is plentiful. Even in winter I've enjoyed the many paths and trails that meander past lovely views of reeds, marshes and ocean beyond and the wooded paths that take you past dotted stone walls and ruins of long forgotten structures.
Only hiked about 4 miles worth of the trails today, but it was absolutely gorgeous. Fragrant wildflowers throughout the walk and birds everywhere. Bring you camera or binoculars. Definitely going back to explore more of the trails and hopefully make it out to the actual barn island.
What a gorgeous and serene place, it was exactly what I was hoping for. I stuck to the trails that ran closest to the LI Sound for my first trek. Took many photos. I wish I had brought binoculars as there were many birds to be seen along the way. Such beautiful scenery.
Great walk with lots to see and spectacular views that you must see. Can be a little buggy so bring some bug spray. Also keep your gps device to stay on track.
Palmer Neck Rd, Pawcatuck, CT 06379, USA•
Antique store
Shopping
Nestled in the picturesque town of Stonington, Grand & Water Antiques is a delightful haven for antique lovers. Established in 1994 by Deborah Norman, who brings her passion and expertise in American history to the forefront, this charming shop has been a go-to destination for over two decades.
Gorgeous pieces, really good taste.
Jillian G — Google review
Gorgeous furniture and antiques! So beautifully decorated and arranged. It was a pleasure to visit and the woman was extremely friendly and kind!
This store has been a favorite for years. I have purchased many things for my house. Very nice owner always makes you feel welcome.
Deborah Norman is a life-long antiques expert with a wonderful eye for beautiful pieces. Her antiques shop in Stonington Borough is a gorgeous and welcoming place to furnish and accessorize your home.
This is a high-end antique shop. If you want to furnish your home in elegance, this is the place to go! The owner is very pleasant too!
Always beautifully curated antiques at reasonable prices...I have been dealing with Deb for 20+ years and will do so for the next 20!
Vice nice small antique store. They have a variety of stuff, not just furniture.
I've been buying furniture here for 25 years... a gem in Stonington Borough!
135 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Golf course
Nestled on Wheeler Road, Pequot Golf Club is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable and scenic experience. The 18-hole course boasts a unique par 70 layout suitable for all skill levels, offering both challenge and enjoyment. Just minutes from historic Mystic, this club provides one of southeastern Connecticut's most delightful golfing experiences. Visitors praise the well-maintained greens, soft bunkers, and friendly staff.
Great course, little busy. Some of the fairways could use a little help, but it's been dry.
Edward G — Google review
This course is always a great go-to when you need 9 or 18! Accessible, friendly staff, good pricing!
Green are in great condition, and the fairways are nice in the spring and summer!
Wish I could rate 4.5 instead of 4.
Course was alright, staff was completely incompetent and rude… took my group 7 hours to golf 18 because they scheduled an unannounced tournament that was very poorly scheduled. I had to to clean all the trash out of my cart that was left by a previous golfer, ranger was very hostile and aggressive yelling at my group and the group behind us, we explained that we were waiting on 2 groups ahead of us and he just continued to yell at us WHILE ADMITTING THAT THE TOURNAMENT WAS POORLY SCHEDULED. Place is a dump don’t recommend to anyone trying to play a relaxing game of golf. I’ve golfed many clubs in the country and this was by far my worst experience. Hot dogs were great though
I had a great time playing this course, fairway grass is cut a little tall could use a tighter mow on them but didn't really impact play. Bunkers are nice and soft, greens were in immaculate condition.
Staff was extremely friendly and helpful. I will absolutely be back to play here. It is a shorter course, so I recommend stretching those legs out and walking it! Plus it's only 23 bucks walking after 2pm, that's a deal you can't turn down.
The fairways were in terrible shape the tee boxes were not well manicured. The price was high for the type of course that it was. The staff was really nice and the greens were nice.
This by far the worst conditioned golf course I have ever played. The course is totally burnt out. The greens were maintained ok, but slower than the “fairways”. The fairways are basically dirt paths.
Staff was friendly. What I find interesting is that they advertise this as a golf course. It’s a weird cow pasture with circles of grass that roll at a 7 on the stimp. In all honesty, I’ve never played a more sorry excuse for a “golf course” in my life.
The bad: Fairways and tee boxes were in horrible shape.
The good: Probably the nicest greens I've ever played on though. Staff was great.
127 Wheeler Rd, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
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Bridge
The Mystic River Bascule Bridge is a charming attraction that connects the Stonington and Groton sides of the river. From May 1 to October 31, it operates hourly to accommodate passing boats. Witnessing this bridge in action, halting downtown traffic and lifting for boats, is an impressive sight. The town exudes an authentic New England ambiance with its quaintness and friendly locals. Visitors can enjoy fine dining, shopping, and iconic landmarks like the drawbridge and Mystic Pizza.
It is fun to watch the bridge go up and down. It reminds me of the East Haddam Swimg Bridge, only smaller. I like how they have the caution stop. I visited the ice cream shop right at the bridge site.
Adam P — Google review
I’ve come to Mystic ever since I was a little kid. And one of my favorite things to see was the bridge. Watching it go up and down is so cool! There were lots of children watching and they enjoyed seeing it. Even now as an adult, it’s pretty cool to watch. The boats go through and wave to the people as they pass by. It’s definitely something unique about this town that many people love
Such a fun sight to see in a charming little town! During our short road trip, we spent some time in Mystic, CT, and really enjoyed the drawbridge. It’s operated with these massive concrete counterweights, which makes it a fascinating piece of engineering to watch in action. Mystic itself isn’t flashy, but it’s a pleasant, welcoming place. A bonus near the bridge is a great ice cream shop that makes the stop even better. Definitely a nice spot to check out while strolling through town!
Nicely located in the heart of historic Mystic, it opens and closes several times per day. It is sort of fun watching it operate once, with boats rushing through the canal, comfortably sitting on a bench in the waterfront park next to it, possibly with an ice cream - if you have nothing more exciting to do.
Very different feeling when I watch the bridge opens and closes. No noise at all when it's in motion during the winter or summer. It makes the Mystic more special.
Completed in 1922, it was designed by Thomas Ellis Brown, a former chief engineer at Otis Elevator Company, and built by the J. E. FitzGerald Construction Company of New London. What sets it apart is its rare implementation of the Brown Balance Beam Bascule, a patented design that was revolutionary for its time.
Brown's design makes use of a multi-link counterweight system, in contrast to conventional bascule bridges, which pivot on permanent axles. This enables the bridge's enormous concrete counterweights to rotate only 69 degrees, but its 85-foot movable span spins a full 90 degrees. The key to a smoother, quieter functioning is a double-pivot hanger linkage that moves the effective lever arm while in motion. The bridge uses a self-locking worm gear system and its own imbalanced mass to maintain position instead of toe locks.
The bridge's architecture is simple yet attractive. The bridge is framed like bookends by squat concrete towers that hold its exposed mechanical components, which include driving motors, bull wheels, and counterweights. Even though these towers aren't decorative, they have an air of industrial elegance, particularly when the bridge raises to allow sailboats to pass across.
There was way too much traffic and zero parking nearby so we were not able to stick around to see the bridge open today.
Such a nostalgic place. This place holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been visiting this place since my college days in the 90’s and I usually make a stop here on my way to Foxwoods. Mystic is a seaport town and the draw bridge is the main attraction of this quaint village.
It was fun seeing the bridge go up and down
E Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
Island
Enders Island, an 11-acre island near Mason's Island in Mystic, is a serene retreat with stunning walking gardens and historic landmarks. The island features the Enders House, an arts and crafts style mansion, as well as the Seaside Chapel and the Catholic Chapel of Lady of the Assumption, which houses the incorrupt arm of St. Edmund of Canterbury.
This retreat was very spiritually energized! Lots of Christian statues. The marble cross, not yet erected is beautiful. I was able to light a candle in the chapel for my family members who are no longer with me. The chapel brought me great peace and serenity. Having this retreat right near the water is also a pleasant experience. There were several visitors despite the cool, cloudy day. I left there feeling renewed.
Kathy N — Google review
Beautiful and serene! A perfect place for a retreat. Enjoyed exploring the grounds and finding a peaceful place for reflection!
Aug.2024 First time here and I use to live in Connecticut for years and worked on Mason’s Island(medical)and I’m back in town to visit Enders.
Nicely kept ground, lots of volunteers helping on the grounds. Beautiful gardens, so many beautiful flowers, and great views of the water at every angle.
Nice place to hangout and relax in evening. Good garden, nice view to sea. It is an Island have enough parking
Absolutely beautiful. Serene and peaceful. Great place to reflect on loved ones who've passed, gather your inner peace, meditate, and pray. The grounds are well kept, flower gardens throughout, areas to pray, reflect and think. Many memorials there. The chapels are stunning, the ocean view magical, and the quiet is great to hear the water, the birds...nature. tourists welcome, and you don't have to be a " religious" person to visit there. I highly recommend a tour or a self walking experience to get your mental health soothed.
Relaxing beautiful tranquil these words describe every single experience I have ever had here. My friend & I walk our dogs here, very friendly environment very welcoming while walking the premises the beautiful flowers on their gardens is just so peaceful. Promise to take pics next time !!!!
Absolutely stunningly beautiful and peaceful. Outstanding photography location. So many beautiful locations on this island you need to experience it for yourself. Ocean views, religious shrines, magnificent gardens, seascapes, Rockwalls, statues' grapevines, outdoor areas, Amazing Dahlia gardens, beautiful architecture. Make some time you'll be glad you did.
Beautiful island to check out with a Retreat at end of island that has beautiful scenery and flower gardens
River
Mystic River is a renowned destination celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and rich historical significance. The area meticulously preserves and replicates the 1800s ambiance, with impeccably maintained houses, shops, and historical sites lining the riverbanks. The history of Mystic River is truly captivating, featuring elements such as whaling ships, a museum, and a drawbridge that contribute to its allure. This location serves as an invaluable resource for educational endeavors and offers an immersive experience into the past.
Cute little town. Clean. Public restrooms available at each end of town. Nice shops. Nice area to stroll. Would definitely return.
Celene S — Google review
The Mystic river is not only well know for the scenic views but the history the preservation and replication of the 1800's. All the houses, shops, and historical society along the Mystic river are well kept and immaculate at all times. The history that surrounds the Mystic river is incredible, from the whaling ships,the museum, the drawbridge and more. 5 🌟's for sure.
it helped me with school project very much appreciated
Harbor
Stonington Harbor is a charming destination that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. At the harbor's end, you'll find the quaint duBois Beach, where you can stroll along a scenic seaside trail leading to the iconic lighthouse. A leisurely walk up Water Street reveals historic homes, unique boutiques, and inviting restaurants.
Beautiful harbor and cute city. Dog Watch Cafe was fabulous! Mainly wanted to do this review to say how helpful, Eric Donch, the harbormaster is! He helped us figure out where to anchor and also gave us guidance on how to get around Sandy Point due to shoaling. He even followed up with us to make sure we did it! We will be back! Such a welcoming atmosphere created by Eric and others!
L B — Google review
We love the old quaint buildings and Mathew at Breakwater restaurant was great .
Always good to meet good people that care about you and the restaurant.
He made our day better with his good personality .
Thanks for helping .
Great scenic views ! Small beach area but clean .
Lovely protected harbor with lots of georgous Wooden classic boats and access to the beautiful town of Stonington.
Beautiful
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.
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.
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 👌🏾
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!! 😋
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!
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.
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 ❤️
5 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
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Exhibit
Sights & Landmarks
Ships
The Charles W. Morgan, the oldest surviving American commercial vessel and the only wooden whaling ship still in existence, is a key attraction at the Marine Historical Association. This living history museum offers visitors the chance to interact with docents demonstrating various trades from the past. In addition to boarding the Charles W. Morgan, guests can also explore other historic vessels such as the LA Dunton and Joseph Conrad.
Excellent!
So much history preserved in this wooden ship. Something other than a warship saved for future generations to tour and understand.
The staff are friendly and informed. A demonstration of launching a whale boat from the ship is performed, and visitors are encouraged to "man the ropes" in pulling it back onboard.
The ship ties into the other building on the seaport. A barrel maker (cooper) and blacksmith work in the local building and their efforts support the restoration of the ship and the historically restored buildings.
Wade H — Google review
A National Historic Landmark! A lucky ship with adventures and stories for days. A tangible historical work of art
Well worth the trip to Mystic, CT from anywhere in Massachusetts, Connecticut or Rhode Island, the Mystic Seaport Maritime Museum is a full day adventure at a multiple national historic site. (The many-acre museum is not only one, but contains three ships that are, individually, national historic sites themselves. The Charles W. Morgan is the last wooden whaling ship in the world that is not only magnificently restored, but well staffed by highly knowledgeable docents that bring its history and functions to life. On the opposite side of the grounds, be sure to take at least a 30 minute ride on the Mystic River on the S.S. Sabino steam ship, another national historic site. (Rides vary between 30 minutes and 2-1/2 hours, depending upon time of day; the Sabino is quickly reached through the Seaport's south entrance.) Docents can be found throughout the grounds, sharing oral histories in the recreated whaling village buildings and businesses. Visits can take between 2-1/2 to 6 hours, so reserving a room in one of the nearby hotels is recommended.
We saw part of the Morgan's restoration. Fascinating!!! So thankful the restoration was able to be completed. We are from the West Coast. A friend was working on a restoration of a lumber ship. Our nation has excting
This place was super awesome I went during there Halloween event and had a lot of fun definitely recommend it
The Museum closes early and there is no access to the port when it is closed. The area is fenced.
History was made during the summer of 2014 when Mystic Seaport Museum took the last remaining wooden whaleship in the world back to sea. Following a five-year restoration, the Charles W. Morgan sailed on her 38th Voyage to New England ports-of-call, raising awareness of America’s maritime heritage and calling attention to issues of ocean sustainability and conservation.
How often do you see a current inspection certificate for a vessel built in 1841? Love this ship.
75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
Public beach
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Watch Hill Beach, also known as Carousel Beach, is a family-friendly destination located in the southwestern Rhode Island area. It offers a seasonal "flying horse" carousel where riders can catch rings as it spins. The beach is centrally located near downtown and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing on its soft sand shore.
Absolutely love this beach ⛱️!! We've been going here for over 30 yrs and I still love it just as much. I enjoy the 2 hrs of free parking ;) on the street. It could cost up to 50-60$ dollars to park for the day. Beautiful harbor . Just a dream
Lacie W — Google review
Peaceful beach and very clean and quiet. Great place to bring the kids. Be prepared to pay to park and to enter the beach. Well worth it!
One of the best beaches! Bay side for toddlers and ocean side for bigger waves. Parking in Watch Hill is a challenge so be prepared to pay or walk. Or find a friend with a boat!
I have been visiting Watch Hill Beach for seven years, and when my family and I first discovered it, we felt we had found a true treasure.
Before I proceed with my review, I want to address some negative comments I’ve encountered regarding the locals. In my experience over the years, I have never encountered any rude locals; they have always been warm and welcoming. Like any destination, if you behave loudly and disruptively, you may not be welcomed.
Now, regarding my review: We have always enjoyed our time there because of the friendly locals, delicious food and coffee, and the ability to relax while listening to the waves and watching families and friends enjoy themselves.
I’ve always been very hesitant to go to the beach on July 4th because of how busy it can get. My best friend and I decided to go on July 4th 2025 and it did not disappoint us at all!!! We had such a great time, we found a great spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy.
There is no beach like Watch Hill. I’ve traveled to many of them, but none compare to this one. Also, shout out to the parking attendants who do a phenomenal job ensuring all the cars are parked correctly and the ease of leaving the parking lot. Thank you!!
I’m in love with this awesome little town.
Beaches are beautiful, the lighthouse museum is pretty cool.
Best sport ever. Paid $50 for parking for 4 hours and it fills up quickly. The beach itself was beautiful, clean, and not overly crowded.
Enjoyed the 2 days
Sunrise and sunset both wonderful
Like there for a good walk around to see the local stores.
Amusement park ride
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
The Flying Horse Carousel at Watch Hill Beach is a historic attraction, dating back to 1883 and considered one of the oldest continuously operating carousels in the United States. This classic carousel features hand-carved wooden steeds suspended from a center frame, allowing them to "fly" as the ride turns. While only children under 12 can enjoy the carousel, visitors of all ages can appreciate its artisanship and unique design.
A family tradition, always followed by a hot dog from The Annex. Don't forget to peek at T-Swift's place near Watch Hill (which is the house/story told about in her song "The Last Great American Dynasty").
Emily K — Google review
$4 per ride for the “outer” horses and $1 per ride for the interior horses. The outer horses allow you to reach out and snag a metal ring from the metal ramp. If you get the golden ring you earn a free ride. You have to reach quite far and it’s probably best for ages 6+, in my experience. We had a 5 yo and a 7 yo and the 5 yo missed the majority of the rings but did get 2-3.
Parking is a nightmare! Carousel is fun, and prices are very good, but was disappointing that the carousel was playing modern pop music, instead of traditional carousel calliope music.
$1 horse rides ! $4 on the outside so you can get the “golden ring” for a free ride. Kids enjoyed it. Parking might be tough… but went on the way out after the beach.
Ahhhhh nostalgia!! Went on this as a small child, took my kids, & can't wait to take my granddaughter and future grandkids some day.🥰 No long wait the day we went. There can be a wait depending on how busy.
I put 4 years of my time into lifeguarding for the Merry-Go-Round beach here, and the owner still tried to charge me the standard rate to come onto the beach when I came back the next summer as a visitor. LOL. I convinced him (Jim & Deedee Buffum are the owners btw) to let me on for free.
Personal reasons aside: coming here is not worth the price unless you taking your (very) young kids for a beach day or you’re an elderly person. East Beach is just up the hill for FREE FYI! If you have capable walking legs you can save upwards of $50 you might’ve spent here for entry, umbrellas, chairs….
Worth the trip, simply for the historical aspect. Watch Hill is nice little spot for dining and shopping.
Always a great time for the kids!
Bay St, Westerly, RI 02891, USA•
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. 
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
9 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
Museum
Specialty Museums
Discover the rich history of Mystic at Denison Homestead Museum, located just five minutes from downtown. Set in a 17th-century former home, this museum showcases the story of Captain George Denison and his family over multiple generations. The house is divided into sections representing different periods, offering visitors a journey through time in just one visit.
Really great visit. The guide was so informative and helpful. She gave us a very interesting and informative tour. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed it
Colin Y — Google review
The tour was nice. We were instructed multiple times nothing is up on the third floor which seemed amusing. Nice ladies. Good snacks. Strange but pleasant experience.
The place said it was open week days. There was a sign on door saying open come on in but it was locked up. Not open.
Very disappointed!
No on-site parking.. Not open when the website says they are open. Pretty grounds.
The house was lots of History the guide was very knowledgeable and across the street the trails were pretty and very peaceful
Wonderful museum and a pleasant, well-informed guide. Five rooms from different eras of Denisons going back hundreds of years. Well worth the price of admission.
Great place, with lots of history. It is interesting -- and manageable -- enough for all ages, including small kids. There's also a nice little nature center across the street and hiking nearby.
The first time I went, I came with several family members when we were all visiting out of state -- only to be disappointed to see that it was closed that day. However, the Office Manager saw us peeking through the windows, came out and kindly gave us a detailed, private tour!
I stayed at Denison house the weekend of Nov 5 2021 with my family. We never experienced such a warm and and inviting feeling when we walked into the beautiful Denison House. The way the house is decorated is amazing and also extremely clean. It’s so relaxing there, no matter which room you choose to sit in.
The beds were the most comfortable beds we have ever slept in.
The hosts thought of everything from raining day games to sunny day picnic baskets.
We were fortunate enough to have a gorgeous weekend.
Going to Clydes Cider mill was a fun outing and it’s very close to the inn. We also made our way to the shops in the village, that’s always a treat.
Every time we went out to do something, we all had the same feeling and that was we wanted to get back to the Denison Home that made us all feel so relaxed and cozy.
If I can manage to get my family together again for a weekend, we will be going back there.
Thank you for hosting my family
120 Pequotsepos Rd, Mystic, CT 06355, USA•
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Art gallery
Museums
The Artists' Cooperative Gallery of Westerly (ACGOW) is a prestigious fine arts gallery that showcases a fresh exhibition monthly, featuring artwork from both its members and visiting artists. ACGOW exhibits are free to the public and can be enjoyed during the Westerly-Pawcatuck Art Stroll, which takes place on the first Wednesday of every month from 5-8 pm.
Lovely gallery space with wide variety of talented artists’ work.
Judy H — Google review
BEST place to view and buy really fantastic original art at affordable prices in a lovely setting--Westerly's old train station! All media, all styles, and fun opening receptions on the first Friday of the month all year long!
Love this space, and such a nice, informative person staffing it! The building still says "Westerly Amtrak" outside, but there is no longer an Amtrak office at Westerly. I browsed through the many paintings, but the one which I wanted to buy was one of the few marked not for sale. Instead I bought a pair of beautiful handmade blown glass earrings on sterling silver wire. It's worth a stop if you're vacationing in the area, or a regular visit if you live nearby.
Lovely art gallery near the Amtrak Station. A great collection that changes every month.
Repurposing the Westerly train station by incorporating the Artist Coop was brilliant. The space is beautiful and echos of the past are still reverberating within its architecture. The one thing I would suggest is that the Coop incorporate more avant garde and possibly include an installation piece or two.
Absolutely lovely! The art was fascinating, and what a beautiful building the retired train station is.
The Artists' Cooperative Gallery of Westerly, ACGOW, is a fine arts gallery exhibiting a new show every month with work from member and visiting artists. ACGOW shows are free and open to the public. Openings are held from 5-8 pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month during the Westerly-Pawcatuck Art Stroll. Browse the show, meet the artists and enjoy a glass of wine and tasty refreshments. The Art Stroll is an opportunity for art lovers to stroll through town and be welcomed at the many art venues in town.
Great place to enjoy the local art scene. Cool building. Well run.
14 Railroad Ave, Westerly, RI 02891, USA•
Yacht club
The wedding held at Stonington Harbor Yacht Club was a desirable event, satisfying all the expectations of the hosts. The cuisine served was exceptional and everything proceeded smoothly as planned. Diane exhibited commendable professionalism both before and during the wedding, ensuring that every detail matched the desired outcome. Dwayne and his team were diligent in executing their responsibilities, resulting in a well-coordinated occasion. This venue is highly recommended for intimate weddings or other gatherings.
Had my wedding here last month. Everything was exactly what I wanted. The food was amazing, everything was exactly on schedule. Diane was great to work with before the wedding and during to make sure everything was exactly how I wanted it. Dwayne and the rest of the staff also made sure that things all went according to plan. Highly recommend for a small wedding or event ❤
Taylor W — Google review
Attended a professional function / meeting. The atmosphere was very bright and welcoming. Great location for a meeting. Service was excellent and dinner was delicious
Chef Jamie Fowler was the chef that cook our meal.
We haven't had dinning like this in a long time .
The bartender Aly was great and our server Morgan
(Not spelling his name correctly)
Manager Christine was wonderful and also helpful.
We bought our tickets from a charity.
Great location. Restaurant was very good with excellent service.
Nice spot. Good facility. Beautiful location.
Very nice place brought one of my individuals here for an event.
Beautiful location excellent food the server was very good
Great place, the staff was awesome. The food was ehh ok. Didn't care for the burgers every year we go the burgers are not cooked all the way.
32 Water St #9, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
Park
Mystic River Park is a charming spot offering various activities and events for visitors. It's located near the Bascule Bridge, providing picturesque views of the river. The park hosts outdoor concerts, free movies, and live music throughout the summer, making it a lively hub for entertainment. Additionally, visitors can relax on benches or enjoy picnics while taking in the scenic surroundings.
The Mystic River Park is a gorgeous park and a must see attraction when visiting Mystic, Connecticut. The park is free and open to the public, and conveniently located alongside the Mystic River.
On a beautiful sunny day in September in 2024, and when celebrating my wife’s birthday in Mystic, Connecticut, I brought my wife, myself and our pet for a visit to the Mystic River Park and we very much enjoyed our visit there!!!
What my wife and I love about the park is that it’s perfect place to relax, take a stroll with your family or pets, and also its access to view the beauty of the Mystic River which can be easily seen along the park’s boardwalk.
My wife and I also enjoyed viewing the boats that were traveling up and down the river as well as seeing the upward and downward movements of the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge.
The Mystic River Park is also used for hosting concerts and musical performances, contains an ice cream and candy shop, and is closely located to Mystic’s shopping district and many other popular attractions.
When visiting Mystic, Connecticut, both my wife and I highly recommend that you take the time to visit and explore this outstanding destination!!!
Greg H — Google review
Mystic River Park is a green space right on the Mystic River; it has lovely views of the Mystic Bascule Bridge. The dock is a nice spot to take a stroll on the boardwalk; there is a playground, benches, and an ice cream shop right nearby. It's also a short distance from the main downtown hub.
There are many events, festivals, and concerts hosted there. We saw people picnicing, relaxing, walking their pups, eating ice cream on a beautiful, hot Saturday. It's a great spot to watch the boats go by and see the drawbridge go up. There is a small parking lot but we parked on street because it was full.
Beautiful & charming historic area located right along the Mystic River! Loved the boardwalk walking set up right along the river. Enjoy the walk & make sure to cross the famous drawbridge over to the charming shopping street right across.
We went to the outdoor summer series concert with the Westerly Band. It was wonderful and relaxing. Great music and fantastic atmosphere! Thank you Westerly Band. Great job! 👏
Great place to hang out and walk the shops. The draw bridge is the main attraction. Pretty impressive engineering.
Thoroughly enjoyed Mystic River Park just southeast of the Bascule Bridge in the cozy village of Mystic, CT. Wonderful boardwalk, seating areas, watercraft viewing, people watching and summer concerts. A great place to explore the river and center of town from. Great shopping, restaurants, ice cream, coffee shops and historic buildings within walking distance. Check it out. You won't be disappointed.
Great spot with views. Not many seatings are available. Parking was extremely difficult on Friday afternoon.
Must visit in Mystic! Beautiful views of the Mystic River, the bascule bridge is right around the corner. The cute little shops and Sift bakery are all less than a 5 minute walk from here. This place is a vibe!
Park
Donahue Park is a charming little oasis nestled on the border of Connecticut and Rhode Island, offering visitors a delightful escape. The park features the serene Pawcatuck River, where fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the scenic walkway. A beautifully designed gazebo adorned with flowering plants provides ample seating for those looking to unwind or enjoy a peaceful moment while taking in stunning river views.
I really liked this park back in the day it was just a board walk dock waisting away, i cant say i dont love it even more now normally im not one for change of sentimentals but this park rocks compared to what it was before. Ps i dropped some og photos of what is left of what it once was.
Ken — Google review
A small park that sits on the border of Connecticut and Rhode Island. The Pawcatuck River runs through it and fishing is allowed from the walkway. A gazebo with several benches and 2 xylophones are available for entertainment. This is a great spot for early morning coffee or quiet reflective time
A pleasant riverside park. Nice place to stop and sit for a bit. Faces a restaurant across the river in Westerly. A good amount of parking. A small rocky kayak launch at the south end.
Lovely place went for the annual duck race and it was wonderful!
Gazebo is gorgeous with flowering plants, cool view of Pawcatuck River to enjoy a peaceful few minutes.
Nice place to sit at the gazebo and enjoy the Pawcatuck River
Cute park! Loved annual duck race!
There is homeless,drunk people there all the time. There are leaches in the water and it illegal to swim ... It's also behind a druggie apartment building a bar and a smoke shop ... But otherwise it's great.
3.9
(192)
3.5
(11)
Golf course
Outdoor Activities
Lovely experience playing White 9 and Blue 9 on a Friday morning at Elmridge. A great rate for a varied and fun course with a relaxed atmosphere. I misplaced a club cover and one of the grounds managers didn't hesitate to take me around in search of it on a golf cart. Staff was friendly all around. Would recommend and return.
James Z — Google review
Good course. 27 challenging holes. Played the red and white courses. The grounds were clean and the holes were maintained well. Overall a great golf course. Only draw back is you can’t bring a small cooler with you in the cart.
If you’re looking for fun, avoid this dump. The course itself is a joke, and the staff act like they’re running Augusta when really it’s a glorified cow pasture. The marshal was beyond rude, more worried about power-tripping than pace of play, and completely ruined the vibe. I wouldn’t play here again if it were free — and honestly, I hope they go under so someone decent can take it over.
It’s one thing to have brown spots here and there, but that’s not what’s going on at Elmridge. This is greed and not giving a damn about customers. Greens fees are comparable to fenner, Richmond, Beaver River, etc, but Elmridge isn’t close in quality. Eventually the owners will get it when there are no more leagues or members and the tourists learn it’s the worst course in the state. Awful experience.
This course is a mess. Played the red course today. The greens were watered and in decent shape. The fairways and tees are just dry dirt. It’s really a shame, this course was a great place to play years ago. Now, my advice is to stay away and spend your money elsewhere.
Place was in really nice shape. Ranger was on course making sure everyone was moving along which definitely helped!
Our cart lost its belt on the second hole. Contacted the clubhouse and they came right out with a new cart. Didn't miss a beat and kept pace!
Nice, straightforward course (Red) even though it was a little brown.
Great golf course and nice venue for all occasions
229 Elmridge Rd, Pawcatuck, CT 06379, USA•
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4.7
(3)
4.5
(5)
Art gallery
Shopping
The most unique gallery for original artwork, coastal decor and custom designed furniture.
Sharon W — Google review
4.5
(5)
Permanently Closed
Art gallery
Shopping
Art dealer
Art school
22 Bayview Ave #68d, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
5.0
(2)
Art gallery
J Russell Jinishian's Gallery is absolutely incredible. There are other nautical galleries scattered around various ports, but this is the best that I know of in all the world. Mr. Jinishian's knowledge and experience with nautical art is incredible, he is very friendly, and I am glad that he stayed around after moving out from the Post Rd gallery to the one here in Greenfield Hill. It is an additional treat when one of his featured artists are around. This place glows with the love for the sea...
Miranda M — Google review
The JRJ Gallery is chock-a-block with paintings, castings, carvings and related nautical items that would please the modern ocean racing sailor to the Napoleonic and Revolutionary Wars history buffs. The friendly and easy going manner of Russell and his in-depth knowledge of maritime art and Naval history is supported by an extensive selection of paintings, prints, half-hulls, dioramas and scrimshaw. A visit just to look at Russell's extensive collection is time well spent.
152 Water St, Stonington, CT 06378, USA•
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