🌊 The Ultimate Day Trip to Mystic, Connecticut: A 1-Day Itinerary + Cost Breakdown
Mystic, CT Travel Deals
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Keywords: Mystic CT itinerary, day trip to Mystic Connecticut, Mystic Seaport tickets, Mystic Aquarium admission, things to do in Mystic CT
Looking for a perfect New England escape? Whether you're coming from Boston, Providence, or NYC, Mystic, Connecticut offers a unique blend of history, waterfront charm, and amazing food — all in one walkable town. This complete itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable day trip with full pricing and booking options via Viator.
🕗 8:00 AM – Depart for Mystic, CT
- From Providence: 1 hour
- From Boston: 2 hours
- Train Option: Amtrak Northeast Regional to Mystic Station
☕ 9:00 AM – Breakfast at Mystic Depot Roasters
📍 Address: 2 Roosevelt Ave, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: $12–$15
🕐 Duration: 45 minutes
This cozy café inside a restored train station offers house-brewed coffee and tasty breakfast sandwiches — the perfect fuel to kick off your Mystic experience.
⚓ 10:00 AM – Mystic Seaport Museum
📍 Address: 75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: $32 per adult
🕐 Duration: 2–2.5 hours
Explore the largest maritime museum in the U.S. Climb aboard historic ships, walk through a recreated 19th-century village, and watch traditional shipbuilding demonstrations.
🍽️ 1:00 PM – Lunch at The Shipwright's Daughter
📍 Address: 20 East Main St, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: $25–$30
🕐 Duration: 1 hour
Enjoy a sustainable, farm-to-table lunch at one of Mystic's top-rated restaurants. Expect coastal flavors, elegant plating, and locally sourced ingredients.
🐳 2:30 PM – Mystic Aquarium
📍 Address: 55 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: ~$40 (dynamic pricing)
🕐 Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Visit beluga whales, African penguins, and sea lions at one of New England's most iconic aquariums. Educational and fun for all ages.
🛍️ 4:30 PM – Shop Olde Mistick Village
📍 Address: 27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: Free (plan $10–$30 for purchases)
🕐 Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Explore 40+ quaint shops in this open-air village. Pick up local gifts, enjoy fudge samples, and grab a coffee while taking in colonial-style architecture.
🍷 6:00 PM – Dinner at Engine Room
📍 Address: 14 Holmes St, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: $25–$35
🕐 Duration: 1 hour
A rustic industrial-style restaurant known for dry-aged burgers, smoked meats, and craft cocktails. Don't miss their famous Mac & Cheese or bourbon list.
🌅 7:30 PM – Sunset Walk at Mystic River Park
📍 Address: Cottrell St, Mystic, CT
💰 Cost: Free
🕐 Duration: 30 minutes
Enjoy views of the Mystic River and Drawbridge as the sun sets over the marina. A perfect way to reflect on your adventure.
💸 Total Estimated Budget (Per Adult)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | $15 |
| Mystic Seaport Admission | $32 |
| Lunch | $25 |
| Aquarium Admission | $40 |
| Shopping | $15 |
| Dinner | $30 |
| Total | $157 |
✅ Travel Tips for Mystic, CT
- Best time to visit: May–October
- Parking: Free/metered parking available near most attractions
- Bring: Walking shoes, sunscreen, water, layered clothing, and a camera
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