Mystic, Connecticut is a coastal town, near Rhode Island that is full of history and much charm. It is a quintessential Connecticut coastal town that is a perfect place to spend a summer day.

To begin your day in Mystic, stop by Sift Bake Shop located on Water Street and enjoy a number of delicious French pastries, such as croissants, along with scones, sticky buns, and muffins. They also have amazing fresh bread that is made every morning, in house.

There is a large glass window that costumers can watch the bakers through as well. Also, enjoy your morning coffee or tea while you’re here. Sift Bake Shop opens at 7:00 AM, seven days a week and has extended summer hours as well.

After enjoying your morning pastry and coffee, stroll through the town of Mystic and the many shops it has to offer on West Main Street and the following side streets.

Bank Square Books is a great independent book store that you can spend much time in strolling around and browsing for your new beach/summer book.

Some other stores to stop by that are unique or special to Mystic include Tidal River Clothing Company, Mystic Knotwork, Sea Bags Mystic, and The Space and Tea Exchange.

For lunch, try Mystic Soup Company, a great place for soups (of course), salads, and paninis. Check their Facebook page daily for their soups that they are serving that day. This is a place that locals love and is located on Williams Avenue. The hours are small, just from 11am-3pm, but that’s the perfect time for lunch.

Then spend your afternoon at the amazing Mystic Aquarium. Explore the large tanks of many different types of fish, turtles, jelly fish, and more. Then travel outside to see the penguins and visit the largest beluga whale in the United States. Don’t forget to catch a sea lion show in the Foxwoods Marine Theater which is included in your admission ticket cost.

The perfect end to your day in Mystic includes enjoying your favorite ice cream at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream on West Main Street.

Soak in the views and the charm of Mystic off the Drawbridge, while you enjoy your ice cream!