Our visit here started out horribly because the parking lot for the museum is across the street, so…read moreafter we parked and walked up to the corner, we pressed the crosswalk button to cross the street. Having just come in from that same direction, I was well aware that the stoplight that we initiated by pressing the crosswalk button is right around a blind curve. I made sure that the first car actually stopped before I started through the crosswalk, but just as we were almost to the other side, I heard a huge crash that shook me to my core. We turned around, still partially in the street to see that a vehicle that had come around the corner was unable to stop in time and smashed into the car that was stopped at the crosswalk. Luckily no one was injured, but the sound and the proximity and the fact that there was some sort of lingering feeling that our crossing the street caused this accident put me in a really bad headspace. We stayed out in front of the museum for a while to make sure everyone was okay and the cars were moved out of the street but there was debris everywhere and I did have to sit down at a picnic table for about 5 minutes to calm down. All that being said, we actually enjoyed this Museum quite a bit once we got past what had happened. We have visited multiple Maritime museums in the last month and I can honestly say this was probably the best one. If you're at all interested in Maritime history, or just history even, sailing or boat craftsmanship, anything like that really, you will enjoy your visit here. This is not really a museum in the traditional sense. It's kind of like walking through a village in time. You can wander through historic buildings and watch live demonstrations of traditional skills like blacksmithing or rope making or sail stitching. Don't be afraid to go inside the buildings and interact with the employees. The immersive parts of this Museum are the best because they help you to feel like you're really experiencing what it was like instead of just reading about it. I think my favorite part was getting too board and tour a historical boat that was moored in the river. I don't recall what it is named, but you can board and walk around and even go down below deck. You can really get a feel for what life was like on one of these boats. I'm 5'7 and I had to duck the entire time. The beds were so tiny it was as if they were for children. It's crazy to think of grown men being packed down there like sardines. We also enjoyed checking out the lighthouse. They show a little movie inside but you can't actually go up. That was a quick stop and a little photo op but fun nevertheless. We ended up spending a lot longer here than we had anticipated because we really enjoyed the demonstrations and the historical feel of it all. It was dog friendly which is important to us but we also found a little reading room and a nice playground area so I know it would be great for children as well. Even after such a rocky start, I was really glad that we visited here and I highly recommend a stop if you can. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here and wear comfortable shoes because the ground is gravelly and you will cover more of it than you think.

Mystic Seaport continues to be one of the most thoughtfully run and genuinely enjoyable attractions…read morein New England. Every visit feels like stepping into a living, breathing piece of history, and the amount of effort that goes into maintaining that experience is impossible to miss. The staffing is exceptional. Everyone--from the interpreters in period dress to the shipyard craftsmen to the folks running the exhibits--brings an energy that makes the place feel alive. They're knowledgeable without being overwhelming, friendly without being scripted, and clearly passionate about what they do. It's rare to find a team that consistently elevates an entire visit, but Mystic Seaport pulls it off. The shops are charming and well-curated, offering everything from nautical gifts to handcrafted items to books you won't find anywhere else. They strike a great balance between being tourist-friendly and genuinely interesting, and it's easy to lose track of time browsing. As for the overall experience, it's simply entertaining from start to finish. Whether you're wandering through the recreated 19th‑century village, stepping aboard historic vessels, watching demonstrations, or exploring the rotating exhibits, there's always something engaging to see or do. It's the kind of place where you can spend hours without realizing it, and every corner feels like it has a story waiting to be discovered. Mystic Seaport remains a standout destination--beautifully maintained, thoughtfully staffed, and endlessly enjoyable. A true 5‑star experience. Enjoy

Completed in 1922, it was designed by Thomas Ellis Brown, a former chief engineer at Otis Elevator…read moreCompany, 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. [Review 1069 of 2025 - 122 in Connecticut - 24623 overall]

This is a moveable bridge that goes over the Mystic River. It opens for the boats to float on by; I…read morewas lucky enough to see it in action while waiting in line for ice cream. It opened in 1922 and serves pedestrians as well as vehicles. This bridge was built to replace the 1866 bridge that used to be there. I am a fan of bridges and historic landmarks, so of course I had to review it! I enjoyed walking on it, driving on it, and seeing it open/close. It's definitely an iconic landmark in Mystic, you can't miss it!

This is a must stop for the holidays. The 30 foot high tree is made from lobster traps that are…read morewrapped with colorful lights and hand painted buoys of all creations that are wonderful to see. you can even go inside the tree. Very simple and fun to see what the artists created on the round buoys

We went after Christmas and it was a nice way to enjoy without the crowds. The buoys are…read morebeautifully painted and each very different and unique in its own way. Definitely a must if you are in the area.

We were a group of four. One person was mid-tour when we arrived. As there is only one docent, she…read morebegan the tour over. We were 3/4 way through our first floor tour when another party arrived. Instead of adding them to the tour, and then covering what they missed, she asked them to wait. The living room is beautiful. Plaster work, beautifully hand painted walls (by a modern artist), elegant furnishings. Photos of the home pre-restoration are showed and discussed in this room. So much work has been done! There are also photos of the family and you learn a bit about them here. We also had the opportunity to ask questions about the home and family. Through this Q&A we discovered in what types of 'shipping' the family were involved. The dining room table displays a variety of period china. The fireplaces on this floor are marble. The dining room light fixture is very interesting, and although not original fits very well and makes a statement. Sadly, the kitchen is not restored for guests to view. There is however a butlers pantry in the dining room displaying more serve ware. An Antarctic research station is named after Captain Palmer and a live feed is shown in the next room as well as several ship models including the one Capt. Palmer was on when he discovered the continent. Information on the gentleman who created these models is also presented. There is a variety of information in this room about Capt. Palmers Antarctic discovery and one of his shipping trades: seal pelts. The short hallway between dining room and this include other items of trade such as Palmer tea and jade. The upper floors are self toured and there are three of them. Stair cases narrow as you ascend. The highest point is a small cupola surrounded by windows with a small bench seat that fits about three. There was a nice breeze with the windows open and long views. The two floors between include bedrooms, 'toilet' rooms, children's play room, fire alarm display, sewing room, office space and storage. Plenty of old furnishings, linens, toys etc. I particularly love the sewing box. Beautiful, intricate work. The price for the two locations is very reasonable and if you have time, are looking for an air conditioned space, love history/architecture/home décor, then this is going to be a nice stop. Free parking is available at the side of the house. Enter at the grand front door. A gift shop is located just inside to the left of the entrance. A restored ice house, storage and out houses are behind the home. I saw no public facilities (but didn't ask). There is a fair amount of land with the home including a small pathway with bench seating along the water on the other side of parking. In July there were plenty of mosquitos. Picnic tables are located behind the research library next to parking. Tickets may be purchased on line through their website as well as at the Stonington light house museum. Stonington residents and historical society member admission is free. Military, senior and first responder discounts are available. July and August the museum is open daily 10am - 4pm. The rest of the year hours are limited - check the website for information.

We visited after being informed that our Stonington lighthouse entrance fee also included entrance…read morehere. It's right down the street Who was Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer? He was credited with discovering Antarctica (whilst hunting for seals) in 1820 at the young age of 21 with a minimal crew. He grew rich and built a stately home in his birthplace of Stonington, CT. After his brothers wife died, Nathaniel and his wife (who were childless) shared the home with his widowed brother and his 4 children. It was great to learn the history of this family and home, feeling transported to another time and imaging what it must have been like. I want to know more. Beautiful furnishings, interesting history and a beautiful setting. Parking is free and plentiful and the grounds are serene and quiet. A great way to spend an hour or so in this quaint town.

Stonington Point is one of those rare places that reminds you just how lucky we are to live in New…read moreEngland. Approaching it by boat is hands‑down the best way to experience it--the harbor opens up into a postcard‑perfect view, with calm water, historic homes, and that unmistakable coastal charm that feels both timeless and effortless. The natural beauty here is stunning. On a clear day, the water glows, the sky stretches wide, and the shoreline looks like something out of a painting. Whether you're cruising in, dropping anchor nearby, or just drifting past, it's the kind of spot that instantly slows you down and makes you appreciate where you are. There's a peacefulness to Stonington Point that's hard to describe until you've seen it from the water. It's serene, scenic, and uniquely New England in all the best ways. For locals, it's a reminder of how spoiled we truly are. For visitors, it's a must‑see glimpse into the coastal beauty we get to enjoy every day. A 5‑star destination for anyone who loves the ocean, the shoreline, and those perfect quiet moments that make this corner of the world so special. Enjoy

This little peninsula juts out into the ocean: If you look to your left (SSE) you may be able to…read moresee the tip of Watch Hill, RI (or due east, all the way right, Sandy Point Island, CT) and if you look kind of straight out (SSW), slightly right, you'll see the tip of Fisher Island, NY. Big, open, lovely views of the water. It is often windy here. Basically, Stonington Point is a sandy lot where you can park your car. There is a sea wall around the point to prevent further erosion (light house used to be closer to this location), a flag pole with memorial and a cute little beach area with stone jetties on either side to the west side of the point. This is where we park when visiting the Stonington Light house which is just past the beach on the right hand side (walking north). Water Street is the only access to Stonington Point, and although a two-way thoroughfare, cars are allowed to park along the curb, making it one-car wide in many places. Be prepared to 'pull over' temporarily where possible to allow cars to pass. There is not too much traffic this far away from the main town areas but enough to use caution. If you are a walker, Cannon Square is a five minute walk north (0.3miles). There you will find two cannons and memorials to the soldiers who defended Stonington from the British in 1814. This area is mostly homes, no little shops or cafes and the sidewalks are not shaded. Enjoy!

Perched atop a modest rise off I-95, the Hoxie Scenic Overlook offers panoramic vistas of Long…read moreIsland Sound and Mystic Harbor. Historically, the overlook's name traces back to the Hoxie family, whose legacy is woven into the fabric of Mystic and the greater New London area. Benjamin Franklin Hoxie, a prominent 19th-century businessman and civic leader, helped shape Mystic's development through shipbuilding, commerce, and public service. He founded the downtown fire department and built several notable structures, including the original Hoxie House in 1861. Though the overlook itself wasn't part of his holdings, its name honors the family's enduring imprint on the region. On a clear day, it's the kind of view you would expect to see painted and hanging in a museum. And since it's free, I'm a fan. One tip - be aware of your surroundings and question anyone walking towards you. [Review 1067 of 2025 - 120 in Connecticut - 24621 overall]

This overlook is located on 95 North right before the Mystic exit, exit 90. Theres about 6-8…read moreparking spots here. You can see Mystic Village from this overlook. Wouldn't make a special trip to see it but if you are driving by and have 3 minutes, then I would stop and check it out.

To live in a…read morelighthouse Latimer Reef Lighthouse is a 49 foot tall, brick lined, cast iron light that was build back in 1884. It is the oldest cast iron lighthouse that is still operational in the east and his area was so important and treacherous that reports indicate that the first small tower was place here back in 1804. This is a typical spark plug type of light that became popular at the time because of it's relatively inexpensive construction costs and durability. The light and surrounding reef was named after James Latimore, the revolutionary war hero. It originally had a 4th order Fresnel lens but the lens was moved to another lighthouse in Delaware when Latimer was modernized. In a bid to say money on maintenance costs the light recently went up for sale. Private bids that started at 10,000 were accepted. Sounds like a pretty cool idea to buy a lighthouse and my first thoughts were that it would make a great little place to entertain, relax and enjoy the water. However there is a catch and a rather big catch at that. The interior of the light of these spark plugs is actually tiny and Latimer will remain an active light. That means the lights stays on and the horn keeps blasting twice every 15 seconds day and night. The horn almost blows me off my kayak from hundred feet away so I suspect that actually being on the light isn't exactly relaxing. Plus the all maintenance must be keep up and paid for by the new owner and the light must keep all historically features. Not an insignificant cost but the light did finally sell for 225,000 dollars a short time ago. No word about why the new owner bought the light or what he or she is going to do with it. There are still several lights for sale in the area but the maintenance arrangements are the same. You aren't just buying the light, but also the responsibilities of maintaining it. Owning a lighthouse would be cool but for now it's enough just to admire them from a distance.

The pretty quaint Old Mystic offers shopping, galleries and restaurants. A sweet looking town that…read moreis quiet and peaceful.

Now an Airbnb - this rental is lovely, we rented part of the carriage house too. Perfect for a…read morelarge group with lots of separation between the rooms but great central gathering rooms. The main Denison red home is just charming with boating theme, filled with antiques and each of us getting a bedroom bath suite. The town of Mystic is just charming and highly recommend for a getaway.

I want to express my gratitude for the wonderful experience we had during our Mother's Day cruise…read more As visitors from the Hudson Valley, we were unfamiliar with the area and found Mystic quite crowded. We initially struggled to find parking, which was a significant concern as my wife has disabilities. We were worried we would miss our departure, but the gentleman in your office was exceptionally helpful and kind. He assured us that he had coordinated with the captain to hold the boat, and he even ran out of the office to personally guide us to the dock. The captain and crew on the schooner were professional, friendly, and very knowledgeable about the sights around Mystic Harbor. I was a beautiful sunny day and, despite the wind picking up, it was a very relaxing, smooth and enjoyable sail. Thank you for your outstanding professionalism and for making sure we didn't miss the boat. We had a great time and highly recommend your cruises.

We took a sunset cruise on the Argia, which is the last commercial sailing ship left in Mystic,…read morewhen we were visiting Mystic with a couple of friends on the Fourth of July. The boat has different seating options - wooden benches and cushion seats without backrests. We reserved two of the cushioned areas and showed up ready to check in on time (they ask you to show up about 30 minutes before boarding to check in). You board at the dock just next to the bridge in Mystic, so it couldn't be more convenient if you're exploring Mystic for a day or a weekend. The Argia allows you to bring alcohol (wine and beer) on board (although they ask that you not bring large coolers - there's no room for them), so we brought a couple of bottles of wine bought from the great wine shop down the street. The sail is partly narrated. Our sail was two hours long, and the staff narrated for some of the sailing time - pointing out historic and interesting sites along the sail (islands with an interesting history, homes with interesting architecture, etc.). Between the gorgeous scenery, some narration of fun and interesting facts about Mystic and its harbor, the great wine we'd brought aboard, and great company - it was the perfect way to spend a couple of hours in Mystic. What a beautiful way to enjoy Mystic and its harbor!