*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.
The following list of things to do in Long Island is brought to you by New Yorker, Aurie Ceylon from hey, it’s aurie! Read on for some of her top Mystic must-dos.
If you’ve ever seen the movie Mystic Pizza, you know that Mystic, Connecticut is a nautical New England gem and home of the cult classic pizza franchise. But, there’s a lot more to this riverside town than Lobster and clam pies (which, by the way, are delicious!).
Located in Southern Connecticut on the Mystic River, Mystic is just 90 minutes north of New York City. Cutesy shops and cafes line the main road, with marinas and waterfront views on both sides.
And, I know what you’re probably thinking. Pizza? Lobster? That’s it?
That is not it… Not even close. The history, the cuisine, the views, the ghosts (yes, ghosts)! Mystic is chock full of things to do for the excitable wanderer, whether you’re traveling with a group, as a duo, or as a traveling single.
Feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin? Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through it.
Stick with me to discover the most unique and fun things to do in Mystic, Connecticut.
Save this List of Things to do in Mystic for Later!
You’ll be very glad you did.
1. Mystic Pizza
You cannot visit Mystic without stopping for a slice at this must-see (and must-eat!) staple. The Original Mystic Pizza has been in business since 1973 and boasts a top-secret recipe that merits their well-known slogan, “a slice of heaven”. Stop by for a mysteriously mouthwatering slice (the clam pie is their specialty!), while taking in tons of nostalgia from the 1988 movie.
If you don’t leave with a T-shirt and a pie to go, you’re doing it all wrong.
P.S. – You can also order Mystic Pizza online!
2. Olde Mistick Village
On top of being adorable, this recreated 18th century village is adorned like a giant New England doll house. Wander about the grounds, taking in picturesque views of mature trees, flowers, brightly colored shops, and a view of worlds gone by.
Brief History Lesson: In 1963, Martin Olsen bought the land where the Mistick Village currently sits, in the hopes of building a mall. However, after being advised that a mall was not a sustainable endeavor, Olsen decided to pivot and create a 1720-style Colonial village, inspired by the Peddlers Village in Pennsylvania. The village officially opening in 1973 and has been a quaint tourism hotspot ever since.
Spend the day tooling around this idyllic lakeside delight, popping in and out of boutiques and sweets shops, followed by dinner at one of the classic Olde Mistick restaurants. Don’t forget to feed the ducks!
Click to learn more about Olde Mistick Village!
3. Mystic Seaport Village
You’ve probably heard of the Mystic Seaport Museum (the largest maritime museum in the United States!), but have you heard of the Mystic Seaport Village? If you haven’t, you must check it out immediately.
Brief History Lesson: An under-the-radar extension of the maritime museum, the village is an actual 19th-century recreation! No, the buildings aren’t set pieces, they’re real 19th century relics that were preserved and transported to the museum from locations all around New England.
All in all, there’s plenty of hoop skirts and haberdashery to go around!
Click to learn more about Mystic Seaport Village
4. Elm Grove Cemetery
For a spooky evening adventure, walk through the Elm Grove Cemetery, which sits directly on the Mystic River.
Brief History Lesson: Elm Grove Cemetery was part of a very trendy Victorian movement in the mid-nineteenth century and represents a “Victorian approach to eternal rest”. The ornate monuments are complete with Greek, Egyptian, and Gothic architecture, and are surrounded by flowers and mature trees.
Take in ominous waterfront views as you brush up on the history of Mystic’s original residents. The ornate headstones and mausoleums date back as far as the early 1600s, so get ready for a fascinating – albeit morbid – stroll through years gone by. And, with over 13,000 interments, there’s plenty of exploring to do.
Stick around after dusk, if you dare!
5. B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill
Riddle me this, Mystic wanderer: Have you ever wanted to check out the oldest steam-powered cider mill in the United States? Of course, you have.
Family-owned and operated since 1881, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill is a museum and a National Historic Landmark! A huge tourist attraction, this mill offers residents and tourists sweet cider, hard cider, cider donuts, and more seasonal goods. Check it out each fall, starting in September!
Click to learn more about B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill
Did I mention the cider is gluten free?
6. Seaside Shadows Haunted Tours
Cemeteries not your thing, but still hoping for some haunted thrills? Seaside Shadows Haunted History Tours are definitely for you. Choose between various walking ghost tours of Mystic including Historic Downtown, Paranormal Pub Crawl, and even seasonal delights including My Bloody Valentine and Ghosts of Christmas Past. With a unique blend of hauntings and history, Seaside Shadows is the perfect mix for historians and paranormal investigators, alike. There’s even a swag shop!
Click to learn more about Seaside Shadows Ghost Tours
7. Enders Island
Looking for a bit of mystery and metaphysical intrigue? You must check out the oh-so-secluded Enders Island.
Brief History Lesson: In 1954, Alys E. Enders donated her estate to The Society of St. Edmund, a Roman Catholic community dating back to 19th-century France. Today, this tucked away 11-acre gem is the home of St. Edmund’s Retreat, a Catholic community offering welcoming and hospitality to all who seek it. St. Edmund’s activities include art exhibitions, seminars, and even a silent retreat for those looking for a distraction-free getaway.
Not seeking healing? No worries, friends. Enders Island is a publicly-accessible space, open year round for visitors and wanderers from all walks of life.
Click to learn more about Enders Island
8. The Steamboat Inn
Ever wanted to visit a houseboat? Look no further than The Steamboat Inn. Located directly on the Mystic River in downtown Mystic, this historic hotel definitely gives off those nautical, houseboat vibes you’ve been craving. Pop in for a quick visit before continuing your downtown Mystic adventures. Enjoy a beautiful view while curling up next to your wood burning fireplace. Wait, a fireplace in your room? Absolutely.
Click to learn more about The Steamboat Inn
Boats not your ‘thing’? Pop across the street in downtown Mystic and spend a night at the oh-so-historic Whaler’s Inn.
9. S&P Oyster Bar and Restaurant
All of this exploring would make any wanderer ravenous. And, if gorgeous waterfront views are not enough to make it worth the reservation, the oysters and butternut squash risotto certainly make up the difference!
Open since 1993 and located in downtown Mystic, S&P Oyster Bar and Restaurant is an absolute must for the food-loving wanderer.
With specifically curated seasonal specialties, S&P’s menu is always varied and mouthwatering. Take in the downtown riverfront views as you sip your favorite beverage. But, watch out for the seagulls! They love oysters as much as you do.
Click to learn about S&P Oyster Bar and Restaurant
P.S. – They even have a gluten free menu!
10. Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream
What best accompanies dinner at S&P Oyster Bar and Restaurant? Ice cream next to a drawbridge, of course. If you’re looking for a local staple rich with history (and flavor!), Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream is integral to your visit. Aptly named for its location, directly next to the Mystic River Drawbridge, it’s a must-do for any wanderer with a sweet tooth.
Brief History Lesson: In the 1800s, Randall Brown Jr. served ice cream from the very same downtown location that serves Mystic tourists and residents today. In the early 1900s, new owners changed the name to The Riverside Ice Cream Garden. By the middle of the 20th century, the name was changed once again to Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream and has become the most well-known ice cream establishment in Mystic!
Click to learn more about Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream
Did I miss any of your favorite Things to Do in Mystic?
Let me know in the comments!