Spring Gardens

It’s officially springtime in Mystic, which means warmer weather is on the way, farmers markets, walks by the beach, and spring gardens! April is the perfect time to embrace nature and explore the beauty of local gardens, bursting with fresh flowers and blooming trees. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Mystic’s spring gardens offer the ideal setting to enjoy the season’s best, capture stunning photos, and create lasting memories while soaking in the outdoors.

Mystic Seaport Gardens 

Home to a diverse collection of gardens spread across its 19-acre campus. The Mystic Seaport Gardens showcase hundreds of plant varieties, with each one labeled with both its common and botanical name, allowing visitors to learn more about horticulture. The gardens not only showcase the beauty of the Mystic River, ships, and village but also serve to educate others in gardening and New England’s horticultural history. The museum offers two re-created 19th-century gardens, the Burrows House garden and the Buckingham-Hall House garden, which reflect the social, economic, and cultural changes of the Industrial Age. Many of the plants featured in these gardens are heirloom varieties that were popular during that time.

Plants by the Village 

For those looking to start their own garden, Plants by the Village in Olde Mistick Village is a great place to acquire your new plant collection. They are a family-owned small business,  dedicated to providing affordable plants to expert and beginner gardeners. Each week, they hand-select plants to ensure the highest quality possible.

Craig Floyd Giving Garden at Coogan Farm 

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center, home to The Giving Garden, has a mission to celebrate and educate the local community on the history of agriculture in the area while promoting the future health of the environment. Since 2017, the volunteer team at The Giving Garden has implemented sustainable gardening practices into farming practices, growing fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

As spring blooms across the Mystic area, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. Whether you’re strolling through the historic gardens of Mystic Seaport, picking up plants at Plants by the Village to start your own garden, or exploring sustainable farming at the Craig Floyd Giving Garden at Coogan Farm, Mystic’s spring gardens offer something for everyone. Embrace spring and take time to learn about the horticultural history of New England!

Brunch in Mystic 

Whether you are out for a simple brunch date with friends and family this spring or looking for the perfect spot for Easter Sunday brunch, Mystic is the perfect location to start the day off right! From classic brunch staples like fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict to creative twists on your favorite dishes, there is something for every palate. With the refreshing spring air, beautiful river views, and a laid-back vibe, Mystic offers the ideal setting for making memories over a delicious brunch with loved ones.

The Irons Restaurant and Bar

Located in The Hilton Mystic, The Irons Restaurant and Bar features American cuisine, craft beers, whiskey, and cocktails. Perfect for brunch or an evening out! The locally-sourced seafood makes this dining experience worthwhile, bringing the freshest flavors of New England directly to your plate.  

Toast and Tonic

Located in Olde Mistick Village, this cute cafe offers a creative dining experience with fresh ingredients, craft cocktails, and in-house baked goods. Founded by Chef Aimee Filippetti in 2023, the restaurant combines Aimee’s culinary expertise with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for brunch or any meal. Afterwards, take a stroll through the village to see what the stores have to offer this spring!

Engine Room 

Exclusively on Sundays, enjoy brunch at the Engine Room! Featuring a mix of breakfast and lunch items such as breakfast sandwiches, chicken and waffles, pancakes, burgers, and salads. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail, build your own blood mary, or freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate brunch experience.

Chapter One 

In the heart of downtown Mystic, Chapter One is serving up New England classics such as lobster rolls, lobster benedict, and pastrami and egg sandwich. If you’re not into seafood, they also have classic scrambled eggs, pancakes, and avocado toast with toppings galore! 

Pop Over Eatery 

This trendy cafe offers local and organic ingredients along with gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options. Known for its all-day breakfast, the menu features a variety of options such as breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast, french toast, and healthy bowls.

Rainy Day in Mystic

Mystic Seaport Museum

A must see when visiting Mystic, the Mystic Seaport Museum is the perfect place to spend the afternoon with the family learning about New England’s rich maritime history! Explore indoor exhibits and galleries that display boats, historic artifacts, and insight into Mystic’s historic pastime. Brave the weather under your umbrella and stroll the Seaport Village and immerse yourself in the life of a 19th century New Englander. Take a peek at trade shops, businesses, and homes as they would appear in the 19th century. Venture out to the Henry B. du Pont Preservation Shipyard, the first shipyard built specifically for preservation in the US.

Mystic Aquarium

Possibly one of the best ways to spend a rainy day is at the aquarium! The Mystic Aquarium is home to over 300 species of marine mammals, fish, birds, invertebrates, and reptiles. With plenty of interactive and educational experiences for all ages such as the dino seas, main gallery, ocean solutions, and undersea explorer VR. Whether you’re exploring the underwater worlds or learning about conservation, the Mystic Aquarium provides a memorable experience for all!

Mystic Museum of Art

If you’re looking for a more affordable option to spend a rainy day, the Mystic Museum of Art offers free admission year round. The museum rotates exhibits of regional artists, allowing visitors exposure to different expressions of art. The museum also offers monthly classes and workshops. These sessions provide opportunities for individuals of all skill levels to explore their creativity through various mediums and techniques. Whether you’re interested in painting, sculpture, or photography, there’s something for everyone! Rain or shine, it’s a wonderful way to escape and channel your creativity.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Mystic: Parades, Pubs, and More

From the iconic Irish parade to the festive food and drink, Mystic knows how to celebrate St.Patrick’s Day in style. Whether you’re a local enjoying the annual tradition or visiting Mystic for the first time to take part in the festivities, there’s something special for everyone to experience during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations!

Start your weekend at the local pubs and bars in downtown Mystic, grabbing a festive drink or bite! Friar Tuck’s Tavern is a local favorite irish pub with a great selection of irish beers, food, and extremely vibrant atmosphere especially on St.Patrick’s Day weekend. Be sure to grab their corned beef and cabbage special, made in house! Bank & Bridge Brewing, another great pub to visit downtown, will be offering not only a great beer selection and food but a front row seat to the Irish Parade the following Sunday, March 23rd. The Harp and Hound, on Pearl St.,  will be serving traditional Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie and corned beef. Sip on a wide selection of beers and whiskeys while you listen to live music, making it a festive spot to enjoy the holiday!  Don’t forget to stop by The Engine Room and enjoy their spin on corned beef and cabbage, alongside mashed potatoes and freshly baked bread.

The following weekend, gear up Saturday morning March 22nd from 10am-11am for the Mystic Irish 5K! Race Day registration on Pearl Street opens at 8:30 a.m. and closes 15 minutes prior to the start of the race. We recommend parking at the Mystic Arts Center lot at 9 Water Street in Mystic for easy access to the race and to limit traffic downtown. The 20th Annual Mystic Irish Parade will begin on Sunday March 23rd at 1:00 p.m. The parade will feature 90 units and nearly 2,000 participants, celebrating Irish culture with floats, music, and more. Be sure to wear plenty of green and bring your festive spirit, celebrating with the City of Mystic alongside friends and family!

Mystic certainly knows how to celebrate St.Patrick’s Day, providing entertainment for all! Whether you plan on enjoying the pub and bar scene or putting on your favorite sneakers to compete in the 5k, this year’s St.Patrick’s Day celebration will be one to remember!

A Behind-the-Scenes Look: Kitch’s Appearance on Hell’s Kitchen

On January 16th, Kitch, located in the center of Olde Mistick Village, made a memorable appearance on the hit show, Hell’s Kitchen! Now in its 23rd season, the popular Hell’s Kitchen filmed two seasons, 23 and 24, at Foxwoods Resort Casino, as well as in and around the Mystic area.  The show’s production team approached Kitch to film a reward segment for part of the show’s competition for both seasons.

The store was closed for shooting, and the Kitch team worked closely with the Hell’s Kitchen production crew to ensure everything was just right for the cameras. The episode showed off the store’s unique vibe and beautiful displays as contestants were given a one-of-a-kind shopping spree at Kitch! That episode’s winning contestant, Whit, and her guest, Kyle, were each given a $1,000 shopping spree to explore the store and pick out some new kitchen gear—an exciting reward for their hard work on the show. From their reactions, these contestants were in paradise as they shopped! Kitch managers Winnie and Michael took center stage as they interacted with the contestants at the checkout counter. While Gordon Ramsay himself didn’t make it to the store, the contestants were thrilled with their shopping experience and excited to get back to work in the restaurant kitchen using their new treasures!

All in all, Kitch’s appearance on Hell’s Kitchen was a fun and memorable experience not only for the contestants but also the Kitch family. Customers and fans alike were able to see Kitch’s great selection, and it was the perfect chance to showcase the store, Olde Mistic Village, and the town of Mystic on one of the most popular shows on national television!

If you missed the episode, you can watch the full clip on Kitch’s website at www.kitchmystic.com or their social media pages. Keep an eye out for more Kitch moments, and more exciting moments ahead in Olde Mistick Village!

Winter Events in Mysti

Free Wedding Ceremonies in The Village

Looking to tie the knot or renew your vows? For one day only on February 14, Valentine’s Day, from 10am-2pm tie the knot for free at Olde Mistick Village! Marie Tyler Wiley, Wedding Officiant, will be performing the ceremonies inside the village chapel. Be sure to obtain your wedding license from the Stonington Town Hall before the big day!

Ice in The Village

Ice in The Village returns to Olde Mistick Village this year on February 15th-17th! Celebrate President’s day weekend at the village with ice sculptures on display throughout and don’t miss the live ice carving demo on Sunday February 16th at 12pm inside the gazebo. Test your knowledge as you stroll the village with an interactive scavenger hunt, identifying 24 of our nation’s presidents. Prizes for winners will be announced the following Tuesday!

Wintertide

The Mystic Seaport Museum presents, Wintertide, February 15th-17th. A family friendly event full of crafts, live animals, ice sculpture demos, educational talks, planetarium shows and more! Purchase your tickets online for the President’s Day weekend event.

Cabin Fever – Charity Chowder Cook Off

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Olde Mistick Village’s Charity Chowder Cook Off on February 22nd from 12pm-4pm. Enjoy hearty chowder inside the shops at Olde Mistick Village served from the best caterers in the Mystic area and vote on your favorite! All proceeds will benefit Always Home, a non-profit dedicated to preventing homelessness in Mystic for over 25 years.

Mystic Irish Parade

Head downtown for the 20th annual Mystic Irish Parade Sunday March 23rd, at 1pm. Celebrate with your friends and family in your green as you watch the parade start at the Mystic Seaport Museum and venture into downtown!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Mystic

Mystic is the perfect destination for couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a charming and dreamy setting. With its cozy restaurants, scenic views, and unique experiences, Mystic has everything you need to make your day or weekend trip unforgettable. Here are some of the best ways to celebrate love in Mystic this Valentine’s Day.

A romantic dinner is a must for a Valentine’s Day celebration, and Mystic has no shortage of options. With an array of Valentine’s Day themed menus and couples packages, the cuisine downtown has something everyone will enjoy! Port of Call and Oyster Club are offering specialty cocktails, wine pairings, and dinner specials. Engine Room has created a sweet and sour menu featuring asian cuisine, much different from their regular menu. Enjoy the 5 or 3 – course menus from The Shipwright’s Daughter featuring fresh seafood and delectable desserts for two.

Bundle up to snap a photo along the Mystic Drawbridge, pop into Mystic Sweets & Ice Cream Shop for handmade chocolates or take some home to enjoy later! You can’t miss Sift Bake Shop’s Valentine’s Day treats launching February 13th – 16th including heart shaped macarons, mixed berry cheesecake, flourless chocolate bavarian mousse cake, and passion fruit tart!

Whether before or after your meal, exploring the shops and boutiques of downtown Mystic is a must and if you are ready to tie the knot or renew your vows this Valentine’s Day, Olde Mistick Village is hosting free wedding ceremonies in the chapel from 10am-2pm. Afterwards, celebrate at Trattoria Amalfi and order off of their Valentine’s Day inspired menu including a 3 – course meal and dessert! Big day or not, you’re sure to have a memorable time!

Wellness Retreats in Mystic

As the new year begins, Mystic offers the perfect sanctuary for resetting your mind and body. With its serene natural beauty, holistic activities, and healthy dining options, Mystic is an ideal destination for embracing wellness and starting the year refreshed.

Start your journey with a yoga session at one of Mystic’s welcoming studios. Mystic Yoga Shala provides a variety of classes, including vinyasa flow and restorative yoga, perfect for reconnecting with your inner peace. For a more intimate setting, Empower Yoga Mystic offers small-group sessions focused on mindfulness and movement, ideal for deep relaxation.

Reconnect with nature by exploring Mystic’s tranquil outdoor spaces. The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center features over 10 miles of trails through forests and wetlands, offering a peaceful escape for winter hikes and birdwatching. For a scenic stroll, head to Haley Farm State Park or take in the beauty of the Mystic River Walks, where the quiet winter landscape fosters calm and clarity. Salt of the Earth Spa, a short drive from Mystic, features Himalayan salt therapies and restorative saunas for total relaxation.

Mystic also nurtures creative wellness. Attend a pottery or painting class, or visit the Mystic Museum of Art to spark inspiration and mindfulness. Creativity is a wonderful way to relax and bring balance to your life.

Whether you’re practicing yoga or enjoying a snowy hike, Mystic provides countless ways to focus on self-care. This January, embrace a healthier, happier you in the peaceful charm of Mystic.

A Perfect Christmas Weekend Getaway in Mystic

Start your weekend by arriving in Mystic and checking into a cozy inn or bed-and-breakfast. Many local accommodations, such as the Mystic Hilton or The Whaler’s Inn, are decorated for the holidays and offer a warm, inviting atmosphere with plenty of family activities throughout the holiday season! Once you’ve settled in, take a stroll down the historic Main Street, where you’ll find shops like The Bee’s Knees and Queenie’s Gift Emporium, offering unique, locally made gifts, perfect for last-minute holiday shopping.

A trip to Mystic wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Mystic Seaport Museum. During the holiday season, the museum transforms into a winter wonderland, with historic ships decked out in Christmas lights and special exhibits celebrating the season including the Lantern Light Tours. Two other, must-see attractions are the Mystic Aquarium’s “Home for the Holidays” Lights Extravaganza and the Olde Mistick Village Holiday Lights Spectacular!

The Engine Room, where you can savor classic New England cuisine while overlooking the river, is great for an afternoon bite! For a sweet treat, stop by Kenzie’s Fudge & Chocolate Shop to indulge in delicious handmade fudge and holiday chocolates. Don’t forget to grab a box for the road or as a special gift for a loved one! For a festive holiday meal to end the night, head to Oyster Club or S&P Oyster Co., where you can enjoy fresh seafood in a cozy, seasonal setting. End your day with a cup of hot chocolate at one of the local cafés or unwind with a cocktail to end the night at The Port of Call, Friar Tuck’s Tavern, or Mix Restaurant Rooftop and Bar!

Whether you’re enjoying the lights at Olde Mistick Village, shopping for unique gifts, or relaxing at a charming inn, Mystic offers the perfect blend of holiday magic for a weekend getaway. From local boutiques to waterfront dining, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season in this historic coastal town.