Discover Mystic History Landmarks 1. Mystic Seaport Museum Mystic Seaport Museum has the largest collection of watercraft in the United States, including four national landmark vessels, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in New England, bringing visitors from far and wide. Set on 19 acres along the […]
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Mystic Seaport Museum has the largest collection of watercraft in the United States, including four national landmark vessels, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in New England, bringing visitors from far and wide.
Set on 19 acres along the Mystic River, climb aboard historic boats as you take a dive deep into maritime history, including the last whaling vessel, the Charles W Morgan. You can also take a boat ride or charter a boat, imagining what it was like to captain a ship along the Mystic River.
If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, you can take a stroll around the meticulously recreated seaport village where the buildings aren’t replicas. They are authentic trading stores that date back to the 1800s.
The Mystic Seaport Museum is a full-day visit with so much to see and do for kids and adults. A trip to Mystic wouldn’t be the same without spending the day here.
[caption id="attachment_197712" align="alignright" width="225"] Stonington Lighthouse Museum exterior[/caption]
2. Stonington Lighthouse Museum
This isn’t just any lighthouse museum. This is “America’s first lighthouse museum built”! Built in 1840, Stonington Lighthouse Museum houses 7 exhibition rooms that house permanent displays of maritime artifacts. Head up the 29 circular steps and a ladder to reach the lookout at the top of the tower with views over three states.
3. Denison Homestead
Nestled just five minutes from downtown Mystic, the Denison Homestead spans 160 acres of privately owned land. Also known as Pequotsepos Manor, this three-century-old family farm has a wonderful history spanning five different periods in American history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Operating year-round, the museum offers guided tours (booked in advance) by family descendants who recount their fascinating history during the tour. The beautiful grounds are filled with daffodils in the Springtime, and the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is opposite, which means you can combine a historical tour with a glorious walk through Mystic woodland.
4. Elm Grove Cemetery
Elm Grove Cemetery is a Victoria-era cemetery nestled on the Mystic River. The paths that cut through create the shape of an elm tree from the sky. During the early 1890s, many of the Elm trees were cut down to build the memorial arch and stonecutters from Italy were brought to work on the arch. The gateway spans 54 feet and is 32 feet high and 6 feet thick.
The beautiful cemetery is still home to many mature trees. The park setting is a delightful and peaceful place for a stroll.
5. Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
A lesser known, historic location just 10 minutes from Mystic, which marks the infamous event of September 6, 1781, when British Forces, led by the notorious Benedict Arnold, seized the Fort and perpetrated a tragic battle that claimed the lives of 88 out of the 165 defenders stationed there.
Dating back to 1775, Fort Griswold retains its original ravelin, ramparts, and stonework. The Ebenezer Avery House is located on the grounds of Fort Griswold and served as a refuge for the wounded following the battle. The Monument House Museum showcases exhibits detailing Groton’s history, while the 135-foot-tall Groton Monument provides panoramic views of the fort and its surroundings.
Within the park, there is a delightful picnic area where you can complete a morning’s visit with a relaxed lunch enjoying the fabulous views.
"This was our second time staying at this home, in a different room, and we loved it even more! The decor and ambiance are so thoughtfully put together and beautiful, and it’s very comfortable. Deb is a warm and wonderful host, and we highly recommend a visit." Jessica R.
by Deborah Bied
Mystic Seaport row houses[/caption]
Stonington Lighthouse Museum exterior[/caption]
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Debbie :-)[/caption]
