How to Plan a Trip to Mystic, Connecticut

Mild weather and gorgeous autumn scenery make October a great time to visit this southeast Connecticut coastal area. The first thing you'll notice about the region bounded by Long Island Sound to the south and the Connecticut River to the west is how pretty it is. The natural beauty up and down the coast combined with luscious food and just the right mix of seasonal recreational activities make Mystic a fun place for a fall getaway. Get on historic wooden ships, visit galleries full of nautical artifacts, and step back in time in the charming village.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Comfortable walking shoes A jacket for cool evenings

How to Plan a Trip to Mystic, Connecticut

1. Explore the beautiful vineyards along the Connecticut Wine Trail and sample some delicious wines, or just take in the scenery. From Mystic, you can catch the trail's eastern section and enjoy a drive along highways that wind through some of the area's most scenic towns under brilliantly colored trees. You'll find some cozy countryside restaurants along the way, and many restaurants feature delicious catch-of-the-day seafood.

2. Experience Mystic Seaport. It's a living-history site called the "Museum of America and the Sea." Here, you'll get a glance at life in the tall-ships era. You'll have a great time watching shipbuilders and sailmakers working. Board historic wooden ships, and don't miss a visit to the maritime museum filled with nautical artifacts. Visit in mid-October, and you'll enjoy the annual parades, productions and festivals. Sample some great New England-style clam chowder during Chowder-Fest.

3. Visit Old Mystic Village situated along the Mystic River. Once an important seaport, you'll find a variety of quaint shops and charming restaurants in the historic downtown area. With the duck pond and water wheel, this outdoor shopping complex gives you the feeling of a 17th century village. For some seasonal fun, don't miss the annual Halloween Parade held on October 31. Consider dressing up in your favorite costume and joining the crowd.

4. Discover a blend of treasures old and new in the historic 17th-century riverfront village of Old Lyme. Visit the Florence Griswold Museum and enjoy its collection of American Impressionist paintings. Take a tour of the home that is filled with art and antiques, and then go for a relaxing stroll in the gardens.

5. Check out the casinos. You can spend the night trying your luck at the gaming tables and slots at Foxwoods Resort Casino or the Mohegan Sun, two of North America's largest. Here, you'll also find some great entertainment and nightlife. The complexes also have restaurants, spas, sporting events and wonderful shops.

Tips & Warnings

• For more information, call the Mystic Country Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-863-6569.