Things To Do
Florence Griswold Museum
The Florence Griswold Museum, situated along the picturesque Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, Connecticut, is the historic home of the Lyme Art Colony and a cornerstone of American Impressionism. From the elegant Georgian-style home of Florence Griswold to the light-filled Krieble Gallery and surrounding 12-acre landscape, the museum offers a uniquely beautiful and meaningful setting that celebrates its rich artistic legacy.
The Griswold Inn
The “Gris” has been welcoming travelers and seafarers alike for nearly 250 years. Born during the Revolutionary era in 1776, it has long been a centerpiece of Essex’s historic waterfront community. Today, it continues to offer a warm, timeless atmosphere and a unique connection to the town’s rich maritime past. We recommend stopping in for a drink and soaking up its classic New England charm. It is also within walking distance of the Welcome Party at the Essex Yacht Club.
Hallmark Drive In
Hallmark Drive-In offers fresh seafood, ice cream, breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the beautiful Connecticut shoreline. Stop by to enjoy classic coastal fare (we highly recommend the "lobstah" roll) with scenic views of the Connecticut River.
Ashlawn Farm Coffee
Ashlawn is a warm, welcoming rustic café offering fresh specialty coffees roasted on site, along with breakfast treats and lunch options. Everything is made in-house and available for easy grab-and-go service or to enjoy onsite.
Lyme Street
Take a stroll down historic Lyme Street, surrounded by beautiful colonial homes and classic New England scenery. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely morning or afternoon walk. A few of our favorites: The Chocolate Shell; Vitality Spa; Cooley Gallery, Lyme Art Academy, and The Florence Griswold Museum; Nightingale Cafe for breakfast, lunch, and live music; Congregational Church.
Essex Village
Essex is made up of three charming villages along the Connecticut River, just a few miles from Long Island Sound. It’s a classic New England town known for its scenic waterfront, historic character, and small-town charm. Essex is also where we will host our Welcome Party at the Essex Yacht Club, with nearby restaurants and shops to enjoy throughout the weekend.
Mystic
Mystic is a historic Connecticut seaport known for its maritime heritage and charming waterfront village. Once home to more than 600 ship launches beginning in 1784, it is now home to Mystic Seaport Museum, the largest maritime museum in the United States, where historic vessels like the Charles W. Morgan are preserved. Set along the Mystic River and crossed by the iconic Bascule Bridge, the village offers a quintessential New England coastal experience rooted in its rich nautical past.
Black Hall Marina
Black Hall Marina offers a safe and scenic on-water experience in pristine Old Lyme. Located on the 500-acre Great Island Estuary and the Connecticut River Canoe and Kayak Trail, it’s a full-service paddle sports center with miles of open water, natural beauty, and peaceful exploration.