History Comes Alive at the Mystic Seaport Museum
Experience where history comes alive at Mystic Seaport Museum. Explore this charming seaport village and discover maritime wonders for all ages.
When you walk in to the Mystic Seaport Museum, you are truly transported back in time. As you cross the threshold, the air is infused with the scent of saltwater and aged wood, instantly transporting you to a bygone era of seafaring adventures and bustling shipyards. The meticulously preserved vessels, each with its own story etched into the weathered planks, beckon visitors to explore the rich tapestry of New England's maritime heritage. Walking the cobblestone paths, you encounter skilled artisans demonstrating traditional crafts, their hands deftly working with materials that have been used for centuries. The museum's immersive exhibits, featuring everything from whaling artifacts to the intricacies of shipbuilding, invite you to engage with the past in a way that is both educational and enchanting. In this enchanting setting, time seems to stand still, allowing you to fully appreciate the legacy of those who navigated the vast oceans and shaped the very fabric of American history. The Mystic Seaport is one of the major historic ports of Connecticut and has existed long before the establishment of the United States. Let’s walk through the Mystic Seaport Museum to explore how this museum is unlike any other history museum you will see.
Start Your Experience With A Cruise
The Mystic Seaport Museum is located on the eastern bank of the Thames River, providing visitors with the opportunity to embark on a river cruise to view the town of Mystic from a new perspective. Indeed, during the summer season, the museum features a variety of cruises of varying durations. On my visit, right at the museum’s opening for the day, I opted for a 30-minute narrated cruise aboard the Sabine cruise vessel, which travels up the Mystic River. This specific cruise departs every half hour starting at 10:30 am, just after the museum opens, making it ideal for those seeking a cruise experience while being pressed for time or visiting for just half a day. Additionally, they offer longer cruises in the afternoon and early evening at higher price points, alongside the museum admission fee.
For the 10:30am cruise I reserved, the vessel was quite small, accommodating only a handful of passengers, myself included. Boarding took place roughly 5 minutes prior to departure. You have the option to choose between the upper or lower deck; I happened to be one of just two passengers on the upper deck, where we were guided by a young man who was exceptionally well-informed about the seaport. He shared various interesting facts about the port and the boats docked in the harbor. The cruise operates at a leisurely pace, allowing you to stroll on the deck and snap photos if you wish. Overall, it was a truly delightful experience.
Each Building Tells a Story in this Seaport Village
This unique museum isn’t just a single structure; rather, it comprises multiple buildings that together form a preserved and repurposed seaport, recognized as a historical landmark. Each building within this seaport represents a vital piece of a grand mosaic. When you spot a vibrant flag outside any of the buildings, it indicates that a volunteer is present inside, ready to engage and answer your questions.
My first building was the Geo H Stone and Co building where a volunteer was inside, stood up as I entered, and we engaged in a short conversation about the items available in the general store, many of which date back to the 1800s. This collection featured tobacco boxes, tin lunch boxes, rapid washing machines, and a price list that illustrates the extent of inflation the U.S. Dollar has experienced over the years. Wanna know how much? $1 in the 1800’s is equivalent to $30 in 2024!
The next building that was open was the Druggers and Chemists building. Inside you will see various artifacts including various bottles of tonic, scalpels, and a drugstore on the opposite side. I was amazed at how different this drugstore looked compared to the modern drugstores we see today.
In addition, there is a schoolhouse and a church. The church caught my attention because it included audio from a sermon delivered during that period, which brings a dynamic aspect to history and enhances the overall ambiance. During my visit, the sermon focused on “intemperance.” If you turned around to look out at the street, it felt as though the sermon was taking place just behind you.
Other structures included a residence constructed in the late 1600s, with the front section built in the 1720s featuring very creaky wooden floors upstairs (and I thought my floors were noisy!). This specific house mirrored everyday life during that era. With a fire crackling, the scent of smoke wafted through the house; while it was a pleasant aroma, I wouldn’t want it all the time! The ceilings were notably low, and you could observe many artifacts from family life back then. A volunteer staff member was diligently preparing “rusks,” the forerunner to the English Muffin, just as it was made in the 1800s, complete with a pot and the fire in the hearth.
Additional structures of interest on the premises comprise a bank building featuring a granite vault and strongboxes, designed not just to deter theft but primarily to safeguard against fire, as this bank was regarded as the most fire-resistant building of its era. Also present are Mystic Press, a shop for nautical instruments, ship smith workshops, and boat houses. Among these is a small boat exhibit showcasing a variety of ‘catboats’ on display.
A place you absolutely must visit is the Mystic River Scale House. Inside this structure, you can view a meticulously crafted scale model depicting one mile of the Mystic River as it looked between the 1850s and 1870s. Personally, I found the arrangement of the houses and the dirt roads from that era particularly fascinating. This village captures the essence of life during that period. Even though Mystic has evolved into a modern town, not much has altered. In fact, many of the original homes still line the waterfront.
The village also features modern exhibition buildings that showcase contemporary exhibits. One notable exhibit is titled “entwined,” highlighting the contributions of African and Native Indigenous peoples and their cultures. Additionally, there was another exhibit on the second floor called “From Clippers to Containers,” which explored the intriguing history of cargo ships from the past to the present.
Why You Should Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum
This museum is truly one of the Crown Jewels of Connecticut and it shows. This is not just a museum, it’s truly an experience. You are transported back to a completely different time and it’s preservation is remarkable. As you walk through the seaport, make sure to stop for a moment to take in your surroundings and observe how each structure reflects the lifestyle of the people from that era. This will give you a clear understanding as you observe it all from ground level. While visiting in the winter months is certainly an option, the ideal time is after the snow has melted, from mid-Spring to early Fall. During the summer, you can also enjoy various amenities, including the many cruises available along the Mystic River. I visited during the shoulder season in early June on a weekday, and aside from a few elementary and middle school field trips, it was quite uncrowded. I highly recommend planning your visit during the shoulder seasons of late May to late June or September to early October to fully appreciate the experience.
The Mystic Seaport Museum is located on 75 Greenmanville Ave in Mystic, CT. Parking is abundant, free of charge, and located across the street. It is a 15 minute walk from the Mystic River Historic District, and the Mystic Amtrak station if you’re not driving. Admission price varies depending on the time of year, but also depends on how much time you want to spend at the museum. It is open year round, though it has extended closings during November and December. Check the website for details. You can order tickets in advance through this link (and I receive a commission if you do!)
Where to Eat in Mystic
Mystic Pizza: Not Just A Movie, It Really Exists!
If you’ve seen the movie of the same name featuring a pre-fame Julia Roberts (I have not), this iconic pizza restaurant actually does exist and still to this day. While I was in town, I felt like I had to visit to see what the fuss was about. I was prepared to order a full pie but to my delight and surprise, I could actually order slices. All you have to do is enter on the left side, and you will see some bar seating with the sign “a slice of heaven” above. This area allows you to take out and dine in. I sat at the bar, ordered a Coors Light and my slices. I went with the “pizza of the day”, which was a “spaghetti and meatball pizza”, along with a pepperoni and cheese slice (what can I say, I was hungry). The slices are actually pretty small, around 10 inches to be exact so it’s close to a “personal pan pizza” that Pizza Hut made famous.
As for the quality, it was good but my personal preference is more of the coal fired oven pizza with the char on the crust, and the crunchy but chewy crust. This was good as the slices were smaller, and priced well at $3-$4 a slice, and the crust was small and resembled more of a pan pizza but had a nice olive oil brushing which kept the crust crunchy but chewy as well. Sauce didn’t have much flavor to it though. My advice would be to go with the special pizza of the day as that was the best one. Mine was a spaghetti and meatball pizza with cooked spaghetti as part of the base with the sauce, along with fresh basil and the meatball blended with the cheese layer as the topping. That was quite good. While I’ve had better pizza, I’d stop here again, especially with the ability to buy slices as opposed to just the entire pie. Service was excellent, and fast.
Mystic Pizza is located on 56 W Main St in Mystic, CT, and is open daily. There’s also a location in nearby North Stonington, CT. Check the website for the menu and hours.
Noble Smokehouse
Once upon a time, finding excellent barbecue outside the renowned barbecue cities was nearly impossible. As someone who constantly seeks out great barbecue during my travels, I discovered this gem one evening. Situated right next to the Mystic Amtrak station, it offers a delightful variety of smoked meats, ranging from zesty smoked sausage to Texas-style pulled pork, and my absolute favorite - the slow-smoked brisket. After a long day of walking, I was quite famished, so I opted for the Smokehouse Combination, which includes two meats, two sides, and cornbread. Naturally, I paired it with a superb Old Fashioned cocktail. The meats were delicious and didn’t need much sauce (which I always appreciate) - particularly the slow-smoked brisket. The sides were equally impressive. Although I couldn’t finish the entire platter, I came very close! Though it was a slow night (as you can probably see in the photo of the restaurant!), service was excellent and fast.
Noble Smokehouse is located on 4 Roosevelt Ave, Mystic, CT, and is open daily. Check the website for menu and hours.
Walk the Mystic River Historic District
After you get some pizza at Mystic Pizza or get barbecue at Noble Smokehouse, take a walk around The Mystic River Historic District. You will see that it is home to a variety of quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants, each contributing to the vibrant atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals alike. The scenic views of the Mystic River, coupled with the sounds of the bustling harbor, create an enchanting backdrop that invites exploration and appreciation of the area's storied past. I would have an ice cream scoop along the Mystic River at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream - with a little show as the drawbridge itself would go up during my visit!
Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Mystic
A truly nice, relaxed hotel situated right off Interstate 95, and between the Mystic Aquarium and the Mystic Seaport Museum is a perfect hotel for just about any traveler, whether you’re traveling with the family or friends, or visiting on your own. Rooms are spacious, with wood floors (which is something I wish more hotels would invest in), a comfortable bed, a sofa bed and mini fridge. There is a hotel bar on site that offers cocktails, beers and wines with a terrific front desk staff that doubles as bartenders. The hotel also features a fitness center and pool, and offers an extensive breakfast buffet every day that is available for free for Discoverist members and above on the World of Hyatt Rewards program, otherwise it is an additional fee for other guests. This hotel is constantly booked, and for good reason. Book your stay with my link, and I get a nice commission!
Hyatt Place is located on 224 Greenmanville Ave in Mystic, CT, just up the road from the Mystic Seaport Museum, and around the corner from Mystic Aquarium.
There are numerous other hotels in the area as well, including Mystic Marriott, Hilton Mystic, Holiday Inn Express Mystic, Hilton Garden Inn Mystic, and the Delamar Mystic - all of which have strong reviews. Numerous locally owned hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals are also available in the area.
Things to Do in Mystic
Given Mystic’s shoreline location, there are numerous activities you can do while visiting. Here are my picks based on personal experience, and Google reviews:
Mystic Aquarium: This legendary aquarium offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse aquatic life through interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs. Visitors can observe a variety of species, including beluga whales, sea lions, and vibrant tropical fish, all while learning about marine conservation efforts. The aquarium's commitment to research and education makes it a valuable resource for understanding and protecting our oceans. Located just up the road from the Mystic Seaport Museum, on 55 Coogan Blvd in Mystic, CT. Open daily, check the website for hours and admission fees.
Fort Trumbull State Park: This charming state park is home to the historic Fort Trumbull, which dates back to the early 19th century and played a crucial role in the region's defense during various conflicts. As you wander through the park, you can explore the well-preserved fortifications, enjoy breathtaking views of the Thames River, and a fishing pier that extends out from the park's grounds The park also offers walking trails, picnic spots, and educational programs that highlight the fort's fascinating history and its strategic significance. Located at 90 Walbach Street in New London, CT, the park grounds are free to visit year round and is open sunrise to sunset. If you're interested in a deeper experience and can visit during the summer months, the Visitor Center Museum is open Wednesday-Sunday during the day between Memorial Day (late May) and Labor Day (early September), admission for the visitor center museum is available for a small fee.
Harkness Memorial State Park: Spanning over 230 acres, this lovely state park features beautifully manicured gardens, walking trails, and stunning views of Long Island Sound, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the picturesque 1906 mansion, Eolia, which stands as a testament to the estate’s luxurious past and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Harkness family. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers, with diverse habitats that support a variety of species. Families can enjoy picnicking on the expansive lawns, engaging in beach activities, or simply relaxing while soaking in the enchanting surroundings. Each season brings its own charm, transforming the landscape with vivid autumn colors or the delicate blooms of spring, ensuring that there is always something new to discover and appreciate. Located at 275 Great Neck Rd, Waterford, CT. Residents of Connecticut can visit free of charge with a Connecticut registered motor vehicle. Non-residents should expect a small fee, but only during the summer months from late-May to early-September. Best times to visit are from mid-Spring to mid-Fall.
Connecticut Wine Trail: Six of the wineries on this extensive statewide wine trail are within a short drive from Mystic, all of which are renowned for its diverse selection of wines, ranging from crisp whites to robust reds, all crafted with care by passionate vintners. Visitors can embark on a scenic drive that meanders through rolling hills and charming small towns, stopping at various wineries that each boast their unique character and offerings. Many of these establishments provide guided tours, tastings, and even events that celebrate local food pairings, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the full experience of Connecticut's burgeoning wine culture.