Some places you visit. Others you remember.
Mystic and Stonington, Connecticut, fall into the second category. Nestled along the southeastern shoreline, these coastal New England gems are packed with things to see, taste, explore, and enjoy—whether you’re here for a weekend or a full-on summer escape.
At Great Gull Island, we’ve welcomed hundreds of guests to this special corner of Connecticut. One of the most common questions we get? “What should we do while we’re here?”
This guide is our answer—packed with local favorites and must-see highlights, all within minutes of where you’ll be staying.
Classic Mystic Favorites
You can’t visit Mystic without diving into its maritime charm. This town is rooted in history but full of life—and there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Mystic Aquarium
Home to beluga whales, penguins, sea lions, and hands-on exhibits, Mystic Aquarium is a perfect outing for families or anyone who loves marine life. The layout makes it easy to enjoy in a few hours, and there’s indoor and outdoor space to explore year-round.
Mystic Seaport Museum
Step back in time at Mystic Seaport Museum, the nation’s leading maritime museum. Tour historic ships, walk through a recreated 19th-century seafaring village, and explore boat-building workshops. It’s just as fun for history buffs as it is for curious kids.
Downtown Mystic & the Bascule Bridge
Lined with locally owned boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants, downtown Mystic is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Don’t miss the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, which still lifts for passing boats multiple times a day—it’s a crowd favorite.
Food & Ice Cream Stops
Some must-tries:
- S&P Oyster for riverfront seafood
- Mystic Pizza (yes, that Mystic Pizza)
- Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream for a cone with a view
Olde Mistick Village: A Local Treasure
Just a few minutes from downtown, Olde Mistick Village is a unique shopping destination designed to look like a Colonial village—complete with duck ponds, gardens, and cobblestone paths.
You’ll find everything from handcrafted goods and quirky gifts to wine tasting rooms and cozy cafés.
Tip: It’s a great rainy day fallback or a post-aquarium stroll!
Stonington’s Peaceful Beauty & Coastal Charm
Just 10 minutes from Mystic, Stonington offers a slower pace and postcard-perfect scenery. It’s a favorite side trip for our guests—and many wish they’d discovered it sooner.
Stonington Borough
A seaside village that looks like a movie set. Stroll Water Street for galleries, antique shops, and seafood shacks. Walk to the end of the peninsula for stunning harbor views. It’s the perfect place to relax and breathe in the salty air.
Stonington Vineyards
Head inland just a bit to Stonington Vineyards, one of Connecticut’s top wineries. Sip estate-grown Chardonnay or Cabernet Franc while overlooking the vines. Most weekends include live music or food trucks—great for couples or small groups.
Stonington Point
Looking for a quiet place to read or watch the waves? Stonington Point offers panoramic ocean views, benches, and a peaceful place to unwind.
Scenic Adventures & Outdoor Fun
Whether you want to be on the water, by the water, or in it—there’s no shortage of fresh-air options in Mystic and Stonington.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Launch from the Mystic River or explore the inlets around Mason’s Island. Rentals are available nearby.
- Hiking at Bluff Point or Haley Farm State Parks: Both located just 15–20 minutes away in Groton.
- Sunset Cruises: Mystic’s harbor and river tours are the perfect way to end a summer evening.
Stay Where the Good Stuff Is
At Great Gull Island, all of our Mystic and Stonington homes are chosen for one key reason: location matters.
We want you to spend more time exploring—and less time driving.
From homes just steps from downtown Mystic to peaceful properties minutes from Stonington Borough, each rental offers easy access to the best of the area.
Enjoy your morning coffee on the porch before walking to breakfast. Head to the vineyards without needing a full itinerary. Or simply unwind in a place that feels like home, just better.
“Our guests don’t just stay near the fun—they live in it, even if it’s just for a few days.”
Ready to Explore Mystic & Stonington?
Browse our current availability and discover why so many guests return to Great Gull Island year after year.
Whether you’re coming for the food, the history, or just the peaceful views—we’ll make sure you’re right where you want to be.
