Connecticut College is surrounded by three quaint little towns — New London, Mystic, and East Lyme. There is so much to see and do in these delightful towns, beyond living our college party fantasies, and they all make these places worth visiting.
From incredible restaurants to delightful shopping and nautical museums, there are plenty of spots to look into during your stay this year at college. Here are a few of my favorite hidden gems:
Garde Arts Center
The Garde Arts Center in New London is a historic performing arts venue and cultural center. It hosts a wide variety of events, such as concerts, theater performances, film screenings, and much more. The center is known for its beautiful architecture and plays a significant role in promoting arts and culture in New London.
B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill
B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill in Mystic is one of the oldest operating cider mills in the United States, known for its infamous apple cider and other apple-based products. Visitors can typically enjoy various jams, apple cider donuts, and other sweet treats. The mill often opens during the autumn when apples are in season.
Sift Bake Shop
Sift Bake Shop in Mystic is a popular bakery known for its artisanal bread, pastries, and a wide variety of baked goods. Head Pastry Chef Adam Young is particularly known for his cupcakes and has won multiple awards for his creative and delicious baked goods.
Mystic Seaport Museum
Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic is one of the leading maritime museums in the United States. It is dedicated to preserving and celebrating American marine history. A few key features of the Mystic Seaport are the historic ships, exhibits, preservation shipyard, and the Treworgy Planetarium.
The Book Barn
The Book Barn in East Lyme is a well-known and beloved destination for book lovers. It’s a complex of multiple book stores located in a rural setting, offering a selection of new, used, and rare books. This location is famous for its charming and rustic setting, with books housed in various barns and outdoor spaces, making it unique and delightful to explore.
These towns are filled with captivating places to visit, each offering their own unique blend of adventure and culture. The possibilities are endless, and the experiences are limitless, so make sure to get out around your town and make the journey rewarding.