If you’re searching for the best things to do in Mystic, CT, you’re in the right place! I’ve done all the research and planning so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy everything this charming coastal town has to offer.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Mystic, CT—from aquariums and museums to national parks and scenic hiking trails.
Mystic truly has something for everyone. So, are you ready to start building your ultimate to-do list? Without further ado, let’s dive in!!
1 Mystic Aquarium
Looking for watery fun without actually getting wet? Mystic Aquarium is a must-visit, especially for families, and one of the best kid-friendly activities in Mystic, CT.
The aquarium is perfect rain or shine, so you can enjoy it regardless of the weather. Inside, you’ll encounter a wide variety of marine life, including sea lions, African penguins, Beluga whales, sharks, stingrays, and many other fascinating creatures.
Many of these animals are rare and not typically found at other aquariums, making it a unique experience. Kids (and adults!) can explore life under the sea while staying entertained for hours. Family fun and education combined—it doesn’t get much better than that!
2 Mystic Museum of Art
For all the creative spirits seeking artsy things to do in Mystic, CT, the Mystic Museum of Art is a must-visit.
The museum showcases over 200 stunning works of art, all created by local artists—some well-known, others emerging talents. Each piece is breathtaking and sure to inspire, making it easy to lose track of time as you explore the galleries.
After immersing yourself in the art, you can head over to S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar for a delicious meal and a refreshing drink.
So, what are you waiting for? Let your imagination run wild and experience the vibrant artistic side of Mystic!
3 Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
If you’re looking to get fit while burning some of those unwanted calories, be sure to head over to Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center.
The center is a non-profit organization that focuses on educating people on the environment and the wildlife that inhabits the area.
There are roughly 10 hiking trails for you to choose from.
Some of these trails are suitable for beginners whereas others are considered to be moderately difficult.
You’ll see all sorts of interesting sights along the way.
You might run into some turtles, owls, bluebirds, bullfrogs, and other wildlife species.
The center also has mediation trails where you can find your zen without being interrupted by too many people.
If you’re looking for adventurous and scenic things to do in Mystic CT, put on your hiking boots and head over to Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center!
4 Sift Bake Shop
Visiting the Sift Bake Shop is probably one of the tastiest things to do in Mystic CT.
This is also one of the best bake shops that you’ll find in the state. You’ll find all sorts of yummy treats at Sift Bake Shop.
You can choose between spongy cakes, french pastries, artisanal bread, cupcakes, macarons, and more.
Yes, whatever sweet treats you are looking for, chances are that you’ll find them at Sift Bake Shop.
The shop is owned by a small family who has been trained in the art of making French pastries.
The family starts baking their goodies at 3 o’clock in the morning to ensure that you get nothing less than the freshest sweet treats.
One thing is certain. Once you taste one of these sweet delights, you’re bound to be running back for more!
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5 Old Lighthouse Museum
If you like stunning architecture, you’re going to love the Old Lighthouse Museum.
The lighthouse was first built in the 1800s to guide ships along the rocky shores and lead them to safety.
It is also a significant, historical landmark in Mystic.
Although the lighthouse was shut down in 1889, you can still visit it to take in the beautiful architecture and ocean views that surround it.
Visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Mystic CT for those who are looking for an adventure with a historical twist.
After your expedition, you might start feeling a bit hungry.
So, don’t forget to stop by Red 36 for some delicious seafood with beautiful ocean views.
Be sure not to miss out on this epic adventure. What have you got to lose?
6 DuBois Beach
Grab your sunglasses and swimsuits. It’s time for an epic day out on DuBois Beach!
This is one of the most stunning beaches that you’ll find in the state.
There are plenty of epic things that you can do on your day out.
For starters, you can splash around in the waves and take a dip in the cool ocean waters.
On top of that, you can stroll along the shoreline and collect some colorful and iconic shells.
You can also put on some tan lotion and catch that perfect, summer tan while reading a book or watching the waves crash in the ocean.
If you have little children, they can build some sandcastles. So, don’t forget to bring buckets and spades.
The beach has lifeguards that are on duty throughout summer which makes it safe for swimming.
So, are you ready for a splashing adventure? I know that I am!
7 Mystic Boat Adventures
Are you looking for adventurous things to do in Mystic CT? If you are, be sure to sign up for one of the Mystic Boat Adventures.
This is an adventure that will simply blow your mind.
The boat rides last for up to 3 hours and take you to all sorts of historical landmarks as well as the seaport.
The most exciting part is that you get to be the driver of the boat. You can explore the ocean and live a day in the life of a sailor.
The boats are engine powered which gives them quite a kick in terms of speed.
You’ll probably have a skipper on the boat with you in case anything goes wrong.
This is an epic adventure that you simply can’t afford to miss out on.
Go ahead and drive, drive, drive your boat gently down the ocean!
8 Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Pardon the pun but you’ll be off the rails with excitement if you visit the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat.
The railroad was first built in 1868 and plays a significant part in the town’s history.
You can sign up for a steam train ride that’ll run directly through the historical railway.
Yes, if you’re looking for historical things to do in Mystic CT, Essex Steam Train & Riverboat is a great place to start.
The train rides last for up to 3 hours and expose you to the spectacular, scenic views that Mystic has to offer.
The train raid is narrated by trained professionals which gives the experience an educational touch as well.
You can also sign up for a riverboat cruise that lasts for 15 minutes and takes you through the river valley.
Talk about a day that’s jam-packed with adventure!
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9 Argia Mystic Cruises
Explore the ocean and meet some fellow adventurers by signing up for one of the Argia Mystic Cruises.
This is one of the things to do in Mystic CT that is bound to blow your mind.
The cruise takes you along the ocean with a group of people who are looking for a similar adventure.
The boat can take up to 49 passengers at a time but don’t worry too much.
Since the boat is quite large there will be plenty of space for everyone to move around freely.
The cruise will take you past the shoreline where your tour guide will tell you more about the history behind the town’s maritime features.
Each cruise lasts roughly 2 hours which gives you plenty of time to take in the scenery that surrounds you.
If you are feeling peckish after your adventure, be sure to stop by Go Fish Restaurant for a delicious seafood dish to top off your ocean adventure!
10 Tree Trails Adventures
You don’t have to be George of the Jungle to swing around in trees.
Especially if you’re looking for epic things to do in Mystic CT.
Tree Trails Adventures is one of the most epic adventures that you’ll find in the state.
The facility has a mind-blowing obstacle course that has been built on top of trees.
You’ll get to climb around the canopies of trees like a modern-day Tarzan.
There is also a zipline for those who would like to glide from tree to tree.
Tree Trails Adventures is perfect for a fun day out but it’s also perfect for corporate events and Birthday parties.
On certain nights, there is an event called a glow night where lights are spread throughout the trees to make them look like a midyear Christmas spectacle.
You simply cannot afford to miss out on this epic adventure.
The facility is open every day of the week. So, be sure to pop by whenever you are ready to start your adventure!
11 Seaside Shadows Haunted Tours
Are you looking for creepy things to do in Mystic CT? If you are, be sure to sign up for the Seaside Shadows Haunted Tours.
This is a spooky adventure that you won’t soon forget.
During the tour, you will be led to old and abandoned buildings, each of which has a scary and grizzly story behind them.
Let’s just hope that you don’t run into any angry ghosts on the way! There are a few tours that you can choose from.
You can explore the eerie history behind Downtown Mystic. Otherwise, you can go on a ghoulish tour of Elm Grove Cemetery.
You can also sign up for haunted boat tours if you think that you’re brave enough.
Regardless of which tour you choose to go on, you’re bound to be scared out of your socks.
So, if fear and chills are what you’re looking for, sign up for the Seaside Shadows Haunted Tours and get ready for a full night of fright!
12 Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra
If you’re a music lover, be sure to book your ticket to see the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra.
This is one of the best things to do in Mystic CT if you’re looking for a relaxing night out with that special someone.
The orchestra first started in 1946 and has grown in size and popularity ever since.
You’ll hear some of the most beautiful classical music that is bound to give you goosebumps.
Once you hear the melodic combination of the various instruments that are playing in unison, you’ll realize that the money you’ve spent on your tickets was worth every dime.
There’s nothing better than having a romantic dinner date after watching the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra.
Take your loved one to Pink Basil for a delicious dish of Asian cuisine to give them the special treatment that they deserve.
It will be the date night of the century!
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13 Barley Head Brewery
Let’s give three cheers for great times and great beers!
If you’re looking to have a few cold ones in a relaxing environment, be sure to stop by Barley Head Brewery.
This is one of the most sophisticated breweries that you’ll find in the state.
For starters, the brewery has a diverse range of beers for you to choose from.
You can order a traditional beer, craft beer, specialty beer, lager, or ale.
Once you taste the bubbly sensation you’re bound to go back for a second round.
All of the beer that you’ll be drinking has been freshly brewed on the premises to ensure that you get nothing less than the highest quality of beer.
Eating isn’t always cheating.
If you’re feeling a bit peckish after your beer, be sure to stop by Pizzetta for a delicious pizza and some live music.
Let the fun begin!
14 Mystic Pizza
Do you enjoy visiting movie destinations? If you do, be sure to make a pit stop at Mystic Pizza.
This isn’t your average pizza restaurant. As a matter of fact, Mystic Pizza is famous all around the world.
This is primarily due to the fact that it appeared in a movie that starred Julia Roberts which immediately made it the most loved pizza restaurant in the country.
Let’s not forget about the fact that Mystic Pizza sells some of the best pizzas that you’ll find in the state.
You can get plain, cheesy pizzas if you want to stick to the classics.
Otherwise, you can step things up a notch by ordering a juicy chicken pizza.
You can also order a meaty pizza if you want a variety of meat toppings on your pizza.
The options are endless.
I mean, if the restaurant specializes in pizza, it would naturally have a wide variety of pizzas to choose from.
Are you hungry yet? Let’s go get some pizza!
15 Mystified Escape Rooms
Do you have what it takes to survive eerie and gruesome situations?
Why not put your survival skills to the test at Mystified Escape Rooms.
This is one of the things to do in Mystic CT that players of all ages can enjoy.
You will be placed into an escape room that has a grizzly scenario.
In order to survive and escape, you will need to solve a series of puzzles and riddles as well as follow the clues that you’ve been provided with.
Keeper of the Light is one of my personal favorite escape rooms at Mystified Escape Rooms.
However, there is a Cabaret room and plenty of other rooms to choose from.
Don’t forget to sign up for one of the adult scavenger hunts if you’re looking for epic team-building exercises.
It’s time to put your thinking caps on!
16 Bluff Point State Park
This one is for all of the nature lovers out there.
If you’re looking for things to do in Mystic CT that come with beautiful views, Bluff Point State Park should jump straight to the top of your bucket list.
The park is absolutely breathtaking, to say the least. There are also quite a few things that you can do to stay entertained.
For starters, you can go on a lovely hike if you’re looking to burn some extra calories.
The hiking trails are moderately easy which means that they’re suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Another popular activity is mountain biking. So, if you don’t feel like walking, be sure to bring your bike along for an equally epic adventure.
The park also has a lovely picnic area. Don’t forget to bring along a picnic basket filled with your favorite snacks in case you get peckish.
Adventures in Mystic don’t get much better than this.
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17 Haley Farm State Park
For fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Haley Farm State Park is the perfect place to challenge yourself while enjoying the great outdoors.
The park features one of the best biking trails in the state, stretching over 7 miles—ideal for advanced cyclists. Don’t worry if you don’t have a bike; the trail is also perfect for hiking, offering breathtaking views along the way.
In addition to trails, the park is home to lush forests and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing. Keep an eye out for Caleb Haley’s unique rock creation, a quirky landmark adding to the park’s adventurous charm. Whether you’re cycling, hiking, or enjoying a picnic, Haley Farm State Park is a top pick for active visitors in Mystic.
18 Olde Mistick Village
If shopping is more your style, Olde Mistick Village is a must-visit destination in Mystic, CT. This charming shopping complex offers a wide range of stores and experiences, making it one of the most exciting shopping spots in the area.
Here, you can:
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Update your wardrobe with fashionable clothing and accessories
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Browse antiques and collectibles
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Find garden tools, electronics, and hardware
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Hunt for the perfect gift for any occasion
With its variety of shops, Olde Mistick Village promises a shopping adventure like no other. Whether you’re treating yourself or picking up a special present, it’s a destination where you can shop to your heart’s content!
19 Williams Beach Park
Here’s another one of the best family-friendly things to do in Mystic CT.
Williams Beach Park is the perfect place to take your family on an epic adventure. Do you enjoy going to the beach?
Or would you rather have a picnic in the park?
The great news is that you can get the best of both worlds at Williams Beach Park.
Pick up some seashells or take a dip in the cool, ocean waters.
Go for a sunset stroll on the beach or watch your little ones run around in the park.
Also, don’t forget to pack your picnic baskets filled with your favorite snacks to enjoy on the park’s grass patch with your family.
Williams Beach Park is absolutely breathtaking and full of entertainment options.
If you don’t feel like packing your own picnic baskets, you could always take your family to Rocks 21 for some mouthwatering seafood.
Family fun, here we come!
20 Mystic Seaport Museum
If you’re looking for an experience that blends fun and education, the Mystic Seaport Museum is a must-visit. Perfect for anyone who loves the beach and maritime history, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Mystic’s seafaring past.
During your visit, you’ll encounter historic ships of all kinds, some of which you can even climb aboard to explore their rooms, decks, and facilities. It’s an interactive experience that goes far beyond simply strolling past old vessels.
Best of all, a trip to Mystic Seaport Museum is budget-friendly, making it accessible for families, students, and solo travelers alike. So, what are you waiting for? Climb aboard and set sail on a maritime adventure!
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Conclusion: Things to Do in Mystic, CT
That wraps up our list of the best things to do in Mystic, CT. With so many options, it might be hard to choose just one activity—but that’s a good problem to have!
If you can’t decide, why not create a bucket list of a few activities and enjoy them all? From family-friendly aquariums and interactive museums to scenic parks, shopping, and nature trails, Mystic truly has something for everyone.
Did you enjoy this guide? Be sure to check out our other articles for more amazing things to do around the world!