About Mystic

Tucked along Connecticut’s eastern shoreline, Mystic is a laid-back coastal gem where shipbuilding history meets saltwater charm. Its walkable harbourfront, lively dining scene and maritime heritage make it a smart stop between Boston and New York. From romantic heritage homes to family-friendly waterfront cottages and affordable riverside inns, the best places to stay in Mystic reflect the town’s easygoing mix of old and new — perfect for couples, families or anyone craving a breezy, water-view escape.

Mystic is all about the water. Start your day with a stroll along the harbour, where fishing boats, steamboats and shiny yachts bob at anchor — many of which you’ll learn more about at the Mystic Seaport Museum, one of the town’s star attractions. This sprawling open-air museum recreates a 19th-century shipbuilding village with tall ships you can board, historic buildings to explore, and engaging demos that are great for families. Those staying right in town will find shops, cafés and restaurants on the doorstep, as well as easy access to bike-friendly streets and riverfront promenades. Want to get out on the water? Paddleboards and kayaks are a popular choice, especially for guests staying right by the river or Sound, with boat tours also available for a breezy perspective of the coastline.

For nature-lovers, Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center offers trails and birdwatching close to town, while beach fans can strike out to Westerly, Watch Hill or New London. Foodies are in for a treat, too: Mystic has a real knack for seafood, from oysters and lobster rolls to more refined harbourfront dining. There’s a low-key nightlife scene centred on craft cocktails and live music, with plenty of cosy spots to wind down after a day’s exploring. Whether you're after culture, kayaking or a quiet corner to sip wine and watch the sunset, Mystic makes it easy to match your getaway plans with the perfect place to stay.

The Best Places to Stay in Mystic

For an affordable inn

  • The Whaler’s Inn is just steps from the Mystic River in the heart of town. Unwind in traditional, nautically-inspired rooms and suites set across five buildings, and feast at the hotel's farm-to-table restaurant. A charming, affordable waterside pick for couples, friends or families.
  • The Steamboat Inn is a warm and welcoming Mystic property, with 11 elegant rooms promising fabulous river views. Great for exploring the historic downtown area on foot or by bicycle. Also excellent value!

For romance

  • Spicer Mansion has four charming guestrooms in an imposing heritage residence. A boutique bolthole perfect for tranquil, romantic stays, the house is set within 1.5 acres of verdant gardens. Feast on gourmet dishes and admire the property's intriguing art and antiques collection. An intimate choice for couples.

For families or groups

  • Harbor View Landing offers cool, contemporary rooms and cottages with flexible spaces for families and groups. The superb waterfront location is great for boat trips, kayaking or paddle boarding as a family. Spaces come with all the mod-cons, with full-equipped kitchens in the larger cottages. Great for an active, independent getaway.

For an apartment or holiday cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Hartford's Bradley International Airport, 1 hour and 15 minutes's drive from Mystic. Alternatively, travel by road or rail from Boston (1 hour 40 mins) or New York (2.5 hours).
  • Connecticut is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

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The best hotels in Mystic

Whaler's Inn

Mystic

Made up of five charming Victorian buildings in the historic downtown of Mystic. Each individually decorated room features a range of antique touches, the more plush have fireplaces and deep soaking tubs! Which ever building you choose this is the perfect spot to explore Mystic like a local.

  • Sights nearby - Visit the world famous Mystic Seaport Museum of America and the Sea.
  • Fishing - Charter a fishing boat with Blue Venture Fishing.
  • Sailing - Charter a yacht at Argia Mystic Cruises.
  • Restaurant
from AU$163 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

Steamboat Inn

Mystic

An enchanting riverside Inn, located in the heart of Historic Downtown Mystic. The inn features light and spacious rooms commanding spectacular views of the Mystic River. No better place from which to explore this historic town.

  • Sights nearby - Mystic Seaport , The Museum of America and the Sea and Florence Griswold Museum.
  • Sailing - Charter a sailing boat at Argia Mystic Cruises.
  • Boutique
  • Quirky
from AU$192 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Harbor View Landing

Mystic

A collection of modern suites, cottages & captain's homes on the water's edge walking distance from central Mystic. On-trend decor blends a homely style with chic touches. The idyllic location offers river views from decks, grounds & even beds. New England charm with lashings of understated luxury.

  • Weddings - Ideal setting for laid-back New England weddings; think lobster lunches, scenic river backdrop & evenings around the firepit
  • Outstanding location - Property boasts 500 ft of direct waterfront access and 60ft newly built deck yet is walking distance to downtown Mystic
  • Luxury - Rooms and suites are the epitome of modern luxury with Alexa bluetooth speakers, retro fridges & Nespresso machines
  • Groups - Certain room types sleep between 12 people over 6 bedrooms, making this a great choice for friends or family
from AU$575 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

Spicer Mansion

Mystic (Mystic)

This boutique bolt-hole is nestled along the banks of the Mystic River in Connecticut. Guestrooms are individually designed to mirror the unique style of the original house, with traditional slate blue and cream walls and stately four-poster beds. An elegant and refined New England guesthouse.

  • Local exploring - With the city's bars, restaurants and tourist attractions a two-minute drive away, this hotel is great for local exploring
  • Romantic Break - Couples are well-catered to at this stately hotel, with plush linens in the suites and romantic dinners in the restaurant
  • Hideaway - Set in a sleepy, residential area of Mystic, this mansion-turned-hotel makes for an idyllic hideaway holiday
  • Great walks - Discover the Mystic coastline on a long walk, stopping at the Williams Beach Park to catch some rays
from AU$811 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees