Find More Than Mystic Pizza In This Connecticut Town
In 1988, Julia Roberts served pizzas in the quiet little seaside town of Mystic, Connecticut, starring in one of her very first movies, Mystic Pizza. Although the movie premiered more than 20 years ago, tourists continue to visit Mystic to sample a slice from the famous pizza place. But what they don’t realize is Mystic is so much more than a film location. It’s truly “a slice of heaven.”
Mystic is a picturesque seaport town that lies on the Mystic River. While strolling down the boardwalk, you can see sailboats dating back to the 1800s cruising down the river and mega yachts docking at the Mystic Seaport Museum. If you’re not on the boardwalk, you’ll walk past small mom and pop shops that offer unique New England pieces.
Mystic is known for its fresh local seafood. The biggest debate you’ll hear around town is if a hot or cold lobster roll is better. Luckily, you will get to decide whether you’re on team hot or cold because many local restaurants are known for their lobster rolls.
Although Mystic is not the first town tourists think to travel to on vacation, celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Meryl Streep, and even the Kardashians have made the trip to explore its scenery and restaurants.
What to Do in Mystic
- The Mystic Seaport Museum – For visitors interested in the history and culture of Mystic, visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, a recreated 19th century sailing village. While walking through, you’ll see vessel restoration in action at the preservation shipyard. The Charles W. Morgan is the latest ship being remodeled. The Charles W. Morgan is the oldest surviving wooden sailing whale ship in the country. The Seaport also offers more than 60 original historical buildings like an old pharmacy and grocery store.
- The Mystic Aquarium – A fan favorite for the kids, the Mystic Aquarium offers hands-on experience. It’s home to the only beluga whale exhibit in New England and African penguins, seals and sea lions. There are numerous touch tanks with a variety of species. Other unique exhibits are “Return to the Titanic” and the Deep Sea 3D theater ride.
- Argia Mystic Cruises – If you want to earn your sea legs, take a ride on the Argia schooner. The Argia is a traditional 81’ sailboat offering cruises throughout the day departing from Steamboat Wharf in downtown Mystic. On the cruise, you’ll see Morgan Point Lighthouse at the mouth of the Mystic River, which can only be viewed from the water, North Dumpling Island Lighthouse and/or Latimer Reef Lighthouse. While on the cruise in the far distance, you’ll see Watch Hill Lighthouse, Race Rock Lighthouse, and New London Ledge Lighthouse.
What to Eat in Mystic
- Ford’s Lobster – Nestled in the village of Noank right outside of Mystic lies Ford’s Lobster. With seating on the water, sit back and enjoy the view while sampling their famous lobster bomb, a twist on a traditional lobster roll. The lobster bomb is a toasted bread bowl filled with half a pound of buttered lobster meat. Some even request a scoop of creamy lobster bisque on top. While Ford’s is known for the lobster bomb, they have plenty of other incredible seafood dishes. Ford’s is always my go-to for a lobster roll. I worked at the local seafood restaurant for a few years and loved every moment of it.
- Dog Watch Mystic – If you’re looking for the perfect place to bring the kids Dog Watch Mystic offers a wide variety of food, from barbecue to seafood, and activities for the kids. The restaurant has patio seating, a fire pit area, an outdoor bar, and a tented area with picnic tables and seating inside. To keep the kids busy, Dog Watch Mystic offers a cornhole and life-size Jenga game.
- Sift Bake Shop – A family bakery owned by local resident Adam Young. Young recently won Best Baker in America on a hit Food Network show. The bakery is French focused bake goods like artisan bread, pastries, macaroons, and more. The chocolate croissant is a local favorite. Make sure to asked for it warmed up.
