There are so many fun things to do in our charming seaside town, and one of those great date spots is the Mystic Aquarium. Imagine spending a relaxing day strolling under the aquatic displays, meeting the resident beluga whales and African penguins, and watching the intelligent California sea lions working with their trainers.
The Mystic Aquarium, founded in 1973 by Dr. Kelvin Smith, is a cornerstone of maritime research and ocean conservation. The aquarium is renowned for its innovative and interactive exhibits, including the impressive Ocean Exploration Center, which showcases the technology and findings of Dr. Robert Ballard, who is famous for discovering the wrecks of the Titanic and the Bismarck. If you’re a maritime enthusiast, you’ll want to head to the Mystic Seaport Museum as well!
Before you start filling up your itinerary with the best attractions in downtown Mystic, you’ll want to secure your overnight lodging, and our historic bed and breakfast is such a lovely place to stay. Our 6.5 acre country estate is only five miles from downtown Mystic but set back on our pasortal property for one of the most restful and relaxing retreats in New England. Couples on a romantic getaway will love our elegant accommodations. Book your lodging today!
Visit the Mystic Aquarium & the Mystic Seaport Museum
Downtown Mystic is such a great vacation destination for those looking to reconnect and slow down. The Mystic Seaport Museum and the Mystic Aquarium give visitors an inside look into the history of the maritime industry and an immersive look into what lies below the surface, too!
Here’s what to expect at the Mystic Aquarium:
- Interactive Experiences: Engaging together in interactive exhibits, such as touching a stingray or watching a sea lion show, makes for one fun date! The aquarium’s encounter programs, where guests can meet beluga whales or feed stingrays, offer memorable experiences.
- Meet the Whales: One of the key highlights of Mystic Aquarium is its Beluga Whale exhibit. It is one of the few places in the United States where visitors can see these majestic creatures up close. The exhibit is specially designed to provide an expansive and enriching environment for the whales—it’s the largest zoo habitat in the US.
- African Penguins: This penguin species is at a critical status in terms of its chance of becoming extinct. You’ll see a large community of these adorable birds that call the aquarium home.
- Stellar Sea Lions: The Mystic Aquarium is one of only two US facilities holding these large and intelligent creatures.
- Educational Opportunities: There are plenty of ways to gain new knowledge about marine ecosystems, conservation, and the science of the ocean, sparking meaningful conversations that can enhance mutual understanding and connection—a great way to enjoy the perfect date with your partner!
Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum:
The Mystic Seaport Museum boasts over 60 historic buildings, a state-of-the-art exhibition space, four ancient sailing vessels, and an active recreation seaport village that guests can tour and experience firsthand. Hop aboard the old Tall Ships for a tour or head out on the water with an experienced captain.
The Best Bed and Breakfast Near Mystic
As Select Registry property—a prestigious collection of Inns and B&Bs across the country—we’re held to a higher standard regarding cleanliness, amenities, and service. Once you’ve stayed at our bed and breakfast in Mystic, CT, you’ll immediately see the difference. Starting with the welcoming smiles and warm hospitality from our innkeepers and staff.
We offer a unique selection of lodging accommodations at the Inn. The ten guest rooms are split between our historic 1807 House and our renovated Yellow Barn building. Each room offers a subdued elegance—the historic rooms have original flooring and charming architectural details. At the same time, the suites in the newer structure are a mix of modern and classic appointments.
Each morning, you’ll be treated to a wonderful breakfast, homemade and creative, with classic entrees, baked goods, and beverages. We offer sweet and savory dishes made with care and seasonal ingredients (local and organic whenever possible!) It’s the perfect way to start your day before heading out to the Mystic Aquarium and all the other fantastic things to do in downtown Mystic. Book your lodging today!
