This is not only the largest maritime museum in the United States, it is also the site of Harrison's proposal to Cat. Come enjoy some historical exhibits set in a recreation of a 19th-century seafaring village. You can even see a collection of original boat designs by Harrison's great-grandfather. Our wedding also falls on the weekend of the annual WoodenBoat Show, where you can see more than 100 different types of traditional and classic wooden boats.
In the late 1700s the Inne was a welcome landmark for weary travelers between New York and Boston who stopped for the night to rest. While they dined, Captain Packer would entertain his guest with thrilling tales of his adventures on the high seas. Step back in time with travelers near and far, and experience the fine fare and hospitality guests at the Daniel Packer Inne experienced over 200 years ago. Great for late night drinks and music, in a cozy, historic atmosphere.
Lake of Isles, a 36-hole Rees Jones-designed golf club located in North Stonington, Connecticut, opened in May 2005. The award winning North Course offers daily-fee golfers and Foxwoods Resort Casino guests the ultimate upscale golf experience. While the championship tees stretch more than 7,300 yards, multiple tee locations offer a fair and varied test for golfers of every skill levels. The all inclusive golf fee includes 18 holes with a cart, range balls, yardage card and bottled water.
A stone's throw from where Harrison grew up, stop by Blue Gene's Pub at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, and unwind over some evening (and late night) drinks, and enjoy live performances from budding Broadway stars. This historic gem is the site of the National Theater Institute's Summer program, with notable alums such as Meryl Streep, Michael Douglas, Jennifer Garner, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and John Krasinski. Check back on the website for upcoming showtimes at the theater, as well!
Harkness Memorial State Park is a historic preservation area with botanical garden and recreational features located on Long Island Sound. The state park's 304 waterfront acres center around Eolia, a 42-room Renaissance Revival mansion with formal gardens and greenhouses. Harrison grew up a half-mile down the street, and both Cat and Harrison spent summers working at neighboring Camp Harkness, one of the few state parks in the country dedicated for exclusive use by citizens with disabilities.
Bluff Point State Park is a public recreation area and nature preserve on an undeveloped peninsula located between the Poquonnock River and Mumford Cove on Long Island Sound. The state park's 806 acres encompass a barrier beach, steep cliffs, forested sections, and tidal wetlands; 778 acres are designated as a coastal reserve. Recreational opportunities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, boating, saltwater fishing, and shell fishing.
Waterford Beach Park offers nearly 1/4 mile long stretch of sandy beach and an extensive tidal marsh. Visitors have the rare opportunity to experience an unmodified natural beach with outstanding views of Long Island Sound. Follow signs to the adjacent Eugene O'Neil Theater to reach the beach. Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early on the weekends. A great spot for when the weather is beautiful. Ocean Beach Park is just around the corner for another beach experience, although that location can be more susceptible to crowds.
Misquamicut State Beach is a seaside public recreation area just over the border in the town of Westerly, Rhode Island. It occupies a portion of Misquamicut Beach, a 3-mile-long barrier island that extends westward from Weekapaug to Watch Hill. The village of Watch Hill has numerous attractions as well, and you may even run into local citizen Taylor Swift.
The United States Navy Submarine Force Library and Museum is located on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut, the Submarine Capital of the World. It is the only submarine museum managed exclusively by the Naval History & Heritage Command division of the Navy, and this makes it a repository for many special submarine items of national significance, including USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world's first operational nuclear-powered submarine and the first submarine to complete a submerged transit of the North Pole. Numerous submarines are made in Groton to this day. Great rainy day activity.
For those who always imagined themselves sailing in New England, but don't know their port from their starboard. Explore the seafaring village of Mystic CT, so rich in maritime history, and the surrounding islands from the spacious wooden deck of the sailing ship, ARGIA. Relax as you sail by scenic coastlines and lighthouses or help the crew hoist and trim the sails aboard this elegant schooner. Each cruise includes complimentary snacks and lemonade. You may also bring your own beverages and food – coolers and cups are available.
Get a new perspective on the history of Southern New England and Long Island when you do your sightseeing from the water – aboard comfortable, climate-controlled high-speed vessels. The lighthouses in New London County have a rich history, including some that are supposedly haunted. The Stonington Lighthouse Museum is a similar option and is also located near the wedding ceremony.