Mystic, Connecticut, on Long Island Sound, makes a lovely day's visit, especially for families. There's plenty for the kids to see. Topping the list is the Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium.
Other sights in town include Olde Mistick Village (shops and restaurants) and two historic houses, Whitehall Mansion (now a bed-and-breakfast) and the Denison Homestead (now a museum). Several companies run sightseeing and dinner cruises out of the Mystic harbor.
Nearby Stonington has preserved its close connections with the sea. Narrow one-way streets, sea captains' homes and a protected harbor for small fishing boats maintain the feel of a whaling and sealing hub of the 1800s. It also served as a secluded vacation spot for writers, including Truman Capote—whose risque swimwear caused a ruckus in the 1950s.
You can drive or walk through the village to Stonington Point (it juts out into the harbor and is accessible to the public). Visit the Stonington Lighthouse Museum, an 1840 lighthouse that houses nautical artifacts and has a commanding view of three states from the top of the circular staircase. Take some time to watch the boats going out into Long Island Sound and to swim at the small public beach. A visit to this unspoiled village is a relaxing way to cap a day spent at the busy attractions of nearby Mystic. Be sure to dine at one of the seafood restaurants in the area.
Among the notable events on Mystic's calendar are the Antique & Classic Boat Rendezvous (July), the Outdoor Art Festival (August) and Chowderfest (food and entertainment—October).
Casino gambling, fine dining and entertainment are available at Foxwoods Resort Casino (toll-free 800-369-9663; https://www.foxwoods.com/casino) in Mashantucket and Mohegan Sun (toll-free 888-226-7711; http://www.mohegansun.com) in Uncasville.
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