An engineering marvel, the Mystic River Bascule Bridge is a 218-foot-long drawbridge crossing the river. Get a table at the famous Mystic Pizza or one of the many restaurants along the river for photo opportunities of the bridge going up and down. Enjoy watching sailboats and luxury yachts go by. The Mystic Seaport is an impressive 19th-century seafaring village and one of the first living history museums in the country. It has 60 historical buildings, sailing ships and other watercraft. You will feel as if you are strolling through time while touring the magnificent grounds and buildings. Launched in 1841, the Charles W. Morgan is the world's oldest wooden merchant ship and is now a National Historic Landmark. The Morgan's maiden voyage around Cape Horn across the Pacific Ocean took more than three years. During the ship's 37 voyages, it survived not only strong ocean storms, but also a cannibal attack.
Mystic Aquarium's massive 30,000-gallon indoor tank is home to fish of all varieties, sizes and colors, while an outdoor tank holds New England's only beluga whales. Hands-on exhibits include a shark encounter pool and a ray touch pool. The cute African penguins and stellar sea lion show will entertain everyone in your group. Take a break from your busy day and enjoy some freshly pressed cider, homemade apple cider donuts and apple wine from B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill. The mill boasts of being the oldest steam-powered cider mill in the United States. Olde Mistick Village is an 18th-century New England village, recreated with more than 60 quaint and eclectic shops and restaurants. Seasonal festivals with local vendors offer a wide selection of unique items and souvenirs. When the day is over, you will appreciate the amenities Choice Hotels offers. Book today for your next vacation in Mystic, CT.