Fun Spots
Mystic Seaport
Take a walk around Historic Mystic Seaport, an authentic seaport village with 19th century whaling ships, maritime exhibits, restaurants, and historic homes on Mystic River in Mystic, CT.
Florence Griswold Museum
Looking for a more cultural activity? The Florence Griswold Museum is an art museum in the historic home of Florence Griswold and the center of the Old Lyme Art Colony, a hub of American Impressionsim. The Museum is noted for its collection of American Impressionist paintings.
Ivoryton Playhouse
Take in a show at this charming, 100-year old playhouse, whose season runs from April-December. The Copper Beech Inn has wonderful packages that make attending very easy.
Gillette Castle State Park
Feeling outdoorsy? Take a relaxing hike on one of the beautiful trails at Gillette Castle State Park. Be sure to check out the castle, former home of William Gillette, renowned for his stage performances of Sherlock Holmes.
The Book Barn
An outdoor used book store with animals? YES! Containing over 500,000 used & rare books, as well as cats, gardens, farm animals, and more, a bibliophile's bliss awaits at the Book Barn in Niantic, about 15 minutes from Essex.
The Trove
Looking to thrift? Poke around in this exactly-what-you-would-expect gem, a fantastic place to find art, books, dishes, and everything in between.
Pandemonium Thrift Shop
By far one of the best places to lose time. Fantastic thrift with clothing, antiques, books, and great coffee. Make sure to say hi to the chickens!
The Nest Coffee House
You'll need a refresher after all the antiquing and book skimming. This place has the best quiche and bagels on the shoreline. A perfect weekend layover.