Sailing back in time to Mystic Seaport
Last week, I mentioned the Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration but that’s not all that Mystic, Connecticut has to offer. Located only minutes away is Mystic Seaport, the Museum of America and the Sea. We love visiting the Seaport in the fall, as the season brings a brisk breeze off the water and a warm cup of coffee keeps the chill from settling in. Mystic Seaport provides the right amount of history, shopping, and beauty.
Mystic Village
My favorite spot to stroll, Mystic Village is a recreated 19th century village complete with a drugstore, reading room, chapel, school and more. Each building was transported from its original location in New England to help create an authentic 1800s experience. Along the streets, you’ll pass storytellers and role players and have the opportunity to ride on the horse-drawn carriages. The village is also punctuated with beautiful gardens open to exploration and designed to be indicative of the time period.
The tall ships and other historic craft
Mystic Seaport has several landmark vessels and another 500 vessels in its stable. One of the most standout ships is the last existing wooden whaleship, Charles W. Morgan. There are also fishing vessels, steamships, schooners, sailboats, sloops and more. Some are open for visitors to climb aboard, others can be traveled upon, and, for the ready-to-work sailor, there are ships open to willing crews.
The Mystic Seaport Preservation Shipyard
The shipyard gives visitors the view of what goes into preserving some of the best examples and, in some cases, the only existing vessels from periods in our nation’s history. The neatest element is that historic shipbuilding methods are being used to restore these historic ships.
The Children’s Museum
Younger sailors will enjoy visiting the Children’s Museum and practicing their seafaring skills. The museum is perfect for children between the ages of four and seven and has exhibits for all areas of sailing. Little visitors can pretend to cook in the galley, dress like sailors, or take a “nap” in the bunks.
Visiting the Seaport
With a little planning, a trip to Mystic can be an easy step into the past. Plenty of walking ahead means you’ll want to have comfy shoes and don’t forget to dress for the weather. Take time to visit the calendar of events and you’ll be able to plan your visit around one of the many special events held at the seaport. You can purchase tickets online or learn more about the seaport at mysticseaport.org.
Chris Flynn is mom to two rambunctious boys. A homebody at heart, Chris fell in love and found herself moving around like a gypsy. When she isn’t packing, on a plane, or in a car, you can find her at Mom’s Favorite Stuff or on Twitter.
Image of Old Seaport, Mystic, Connecticut courtesy of Global Jet.
