A DAY TRIP TO STONINGTON AND MYSTIC

Stonington and Mystic are two charming destinations in southeastern Connecticut, each offering a unique blend of history, maritime culture, and scenic beauty. 

                                      

Mystic is renowned for its maritime heritage. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a highlight, showcasing historic ships like the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship in the world. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge is another iconic feature, connecting the village and offering picturesque views. Mystic also boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and the Mystic Aquarium, which is perfect for marine life enthusiasts. Stonington, on the other hand, is a quintessential New England town with a rich maritime past. Stonington Borough, located on a narrow peninsula, is known for its historic charm, featuring clapboard houses, local shops, and the Stonington Lighthouse Museum. The borough offers stunning views of the harbor, especially at Stonington Point. 

Both towns are steeped in history and offer a mix of cultural and natural attractions. This is how you can do a day trip to Stonington and Mystic in a day.

Stonington History

Stonington's history is deeply rooted in its maritime and colonial past. The area was originally inhabited by the Pequot people, who referred to it as Paquatuck and Mistack. European settlers arrived in the mid-1600s, with Thomas Stanton establishing a trading post in 1649. The town was initially called "Southerton" by Massachusetts before becoming part of Connecticut in 1662 and renamed "Stonington" in 1666, meaning "stony town". 

Stonington played a significant role during the War of 1812. In 1814, British forces bombarded the town, but the resilient residents defended it with just two cannons. This event is commemorated at Cannon Square in Stonington Borough. The town's maritime heritage flourished in the 19th century, with shipbuilding and fishing becoming central to its economy. Today, Stonington preserves its historical charm through landmarks like the Stonington Lighthouse Museum and restored colonial-era homes.

Stonington Point of Interests

Stonington, Connecticut, is a picturesque coastal town with a rich maritime history and charming New England character. Here are some highlights:

Stonington Borough: This historic area is nestled on a narrow peninsula and features quaint streets lined with clapboard houses, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll. 

Stonington Borough is a charming and historic village located on a narrow peninsula in southeastern Connecticut. It offers a quintessential New England experience with its blend of maritime heritage, preserved architecture, and scenic beauty. The borough features beautifully preserved homes and buildings, reflecting its rich history.

Water Street is the heart of the borough, lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll.

                              

Stonington Lighthouse Museum: Located at Stonington Point, this granite lighthouse offers stunning views of the harbor and a glimpse into the town's nautical past. The Stonington Lighthouse Museum, also known as the Old Lighthouse Museum, is a historic gem located at Stonington Point. Built in 1840, it was the first lighthouse in the United States to be converted into a museum, opening its doors in 1927. 

The museum is managed by the Stonington Historical Society and showcases the town's rich maritime and agricultural history. The lighthouse is notable for its granite construction and unique design, including a gabled roof added in 1842 to address leaks. Visitors can climb the 29 stone steps to the tower for breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and the surrounding states.

                               

Stonington Point is a scenic and historic location at the southern tip of Stonington Borough. It offers panoramic views of Fisher's Island Sound, Little Narragansett Bay, and even glimpses of three states: Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New York. Stonington Point is home to Connecticut's last remaining commercial fishing and lobstering fleets, adding to its authentic coastal charm.

                              

DuBois Beach: A serene spot at Stonington Point, ideal for families with its calm waters and scenic views of Fisher's Island and Long Island Sound. This beach is perfect for families with its gentle surf and shaded gazebo.

Stonington is a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Have you explored any of these spots, or are you planning a visit?

Mystic History

Mystic, Connecticut, is a village steeped in history, with its roots tracing back to the Pequot people, who originally inhabited the area. The name "Mystic" comes from the Pequot term missi-tuk, meaning "a large river whose waters are driven into waves by tides or wind". In the 17th century, Mystic became a focal point during the Pequot War (1636–1638), culminating in the tragic Mystic Massacre. Following the war, English settlers established the area, and by the late 18th century, Mystic emerged as a significant seaport. 

                                    

Over 600 ships were built here between 1784 and 1919, solidifying its reputation as a hub for shipbuilding and maritime trade. Today, Mystic's history is preserved and celebrated at landmarks like the Mystic Seaport Museum, which houses historic vessels like the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship in the world. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge, built in 1922, is another iconic piece of its heritage, connecting the village and serving as a reminder of its maritime past. Mystic's transformation from a bustling seaport to a beloved tourist destination reflects its enduring charm and historical significance.

Mystic Point of Interests

Mystic, Connecticut, is a delightful village known for its maritime heritage, scenic beauty, and vibrant community. Here are some highlights:                          

Mystic Seaport Museum: A must-visit destination for maritime enthusiasts and history buffs. Located in Mystic, Connecticut, it is the largest maritime museum in the United States and offers a fascinating glimpse into America's seafaring past. 

                               

The museum is home to the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship in the world, as well as other historic vessels. The museum also features engaging exhibits, including figureheads, shipcarvings, and the impact of whaling on American history. The museum is open daily, and its interactive and educational experiences make it a great destination for visitors of all ages. 

19th-Century Village: Visitors can explore a recreated seaport village, complete with demonstrations of maritime trades like shipcarving and printing.

                              

Henry B. DuPont Preservation Shipyard: This shipyard is renowned for restoring historic wooden vessels, showcasing traditional shipbuilding techniques.

On-the-Water Experiences: Guests can enjoy maritime adventures, such as rowing or sailing in the harbor.

Downtown Mystic is a vibrant and charming area that perfectly captures the essence of New England. Nestled along the Mystic River, it offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. The district boasts over 80 independently-owned shops and galleries, offering everything from clothing and jewelry to art and books. Downtown Mystic is a foodie's paradise, with diverse culinary options including farm-to-table restaurants, seafood shacks, and sweet shops. 

                                

Mystic River Park is a scenic spot for relaxation, featuring a waterfront area and free summer concerts. You can explore the Mystic River on a cruise, kayak, or paddleboard, or attend annual events that celebrate the community spirit.

Mystic River Bascule Bridge: An iconic drawbridge built in 1922, it connects the village and offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century engineering. 

The Mystic River Bascule Bridge is an iconic drawbridge in Mystic, Connecticut, connecting the Groton and Stonington sides of the village via Main Street (U.S. Route 1). Built in 1922, it is a bascule bridge, meaning it uses counterweights to lift its movable span, allowing boats to pass underneath. The bridge was designed by Thomas Ellis Brown, a former chief engineer at Otis Elevator Company. Its counterweights are filled with concrete and weigh 230 tons each. It opens approximately 2,200 times a year, primarily during the boating season from May to October. It operates on a schedule, opening hourly during daylight at 40 minutes past the hour. The bridge is 218 feet long and 85 feet wide, carrying both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. It once carried streetcars of the Groton and Stonington Street Railway until 1928. 

Today, it remains a vital part of Mystic's charm and functionality. Watching the bridge in action is a popular attraction, as it showcases early 20th-century engineering at its finest. 

Mystic Aquarium: The Mystic Aquarium is a renowned marine life center located in Mystic, Connecticut. It's not just an aquarium—it's a hub for conservation, education, and research, making it a must-visit destination for ocean enthusiasts. 

                                         

The aquarium is home to thousands of species, including beluga whales, African penguins, and California sea lions. Interactive exhibits like touch tanks allow visitors to connect with marine creatures. Mystic Aquarium is a leader in marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, contributing to the care and conservation of endangered species. From hands-on learning experiences to conservation initiatives, the aquarium inspires visitors to protect our ocean planet. The aquarium is open daily, and you must purchase tickets for admission. If you can't afford to purchase admission tickets, you can skip this attraction.

Mystic's charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

Stonington/Mystic Day Trip

Start the Day with Breakfast in Stonington Borough, there are many restaurants on Water Street 

                               

Then explore the Historic homes in Stonington Borough, and a historic part of the town known as Cannon Square 

Visit Stonington Lighthouse Museum, Stonington Point, and Dubois Beach.

Drive over to Mystic for Lunch

After Lunch, visit the Mystic Seaport Museum.

If you have time and the budget, swing by the 

After visiting the Seaport Museum, drive over to Downtown Mystic, where you can explore the Mystic River Bascule Bridge and Mystic River Park

Eat Dinner in Downtown Mystic

                             

Why Do a Day Trip to Stonington/Mystic

Stonington and Mystic are two captivating destinations in southeastern Connecticut that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stonington Borough is a quintessential New England village with clapboard houses, boutique shops, and the Stonington Lighthouse Museum at Stonington Point. The Mystic Seaport Museum showcases historic ships like the Charles W. Morgan and a recreated 19th-century seaport village. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge and Mystic Aquarium are must-see landmarks. Explore unique shops, restaurants, and the scenic Mystic River Park. Both towns are easily accessible and offer a variety of activities for history buffs, nature lovers, and families. Whether you're looking to delve into maritime history, enjoy coastal views, or simply unwind, Stonington and Mystic have something special to offer.