While it’s only three hours away by train, Mystic, Connecticut feels a world away from Hudson County. The charming coastal town is best known for its cameo in one of Julia Roberts’ first films, Mystic Pizza, but it’s much more than a chick flick set. Mystic is a quiet, walkable village with fresh seafood, upscale {yet affordable} shopping, and scenic trails along the water and through the woods. For those planning a pals’ weekend getaway from Hoboken, read on for everything you need to know for the perfect Mystic weekend trip.
Where to Stay
For cozy lodging with a chic, nautical flair, book a room at The Whaler’s Inn. This female-owned business is in the heart of downtown Mystic, overlooks the drawbridge and the waterfront, and is a quick, 10-minute walk from the train station.
While free breakfast and a jacuzzi tub are definite perks, the star of The Whaler’s Inn show is the fireplace. The gas fireplace pairs perfectly with in-room coffee or a glass of wine {available at the front desk}.
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Where to Eat
Vault Coffee
Located in Old Mistick Village, a recreated 18th-century village, Vault Coffee blends coastal charm with hipster vibes. The small roasting company and café has a variety of java brews; the coffee shop also sells local sweets like the hand-crafted Deviant Donuts.
If you’d prefer to grab your coffee in downtown Mystic, stop by Bartleby’s Cafe. This local establishment is right on Main Street and just minutes walking from The Whaler’s Inn.
Jealous Monk
Beer lovers flock to Old Mistick Village’s indoor beer garden, Jealous Monk, which offers dozens of craft beers with a creative comfort-food menu. Seating is plentiful in this bustling hangout; when you visit, make sure to order the Griddled Corn Bread — a homemade dish with honey and whipped butter.
Oyster Club
This farm-to-table Mystic staple is perfect for a big night out. The menu — which includes coastal must-try dishes like oysters and scallops — is particularly affordable come happy hour; oysters can dip as low as $1. Ingredients are sourced from farms all over Connecticut and come spring, patrons can enjoy these fresh eats outside at The Treehouse, the Oyster Club’s rooftop terrace.
Mystic Pizza
When in Mystic, visitors must try the ‘za that made the town famous. Mystic Pizza was a central focus of the 1988 coming-of-age film featuring Julia Roberts; today, travelers can dine in the original digs with top-notch pizza and movie-based souvenirs.
Things To Do
Hiking at Bluff Point State Park
Located beside the Long Island Sound, Bluff Point State Park is a scenic hub for coastal trails and rocky shorelines. The four-mile loop in Stonington — just 15-minutes by Uber from Mystic —takes hikers by the beach and through the woods, offering some of the best waterfront vistas near Mystic.
Shopping at Rochelle’s Boutiques
Free People and BB Dakota fill the racks of this upscale boutique in downtown Mystic. Whether you’re on the hunt for chic weekend wear or one-of-a-kind jewelry, this locally owned shop —nestled on Main Street among a dozen other local shops from bookstores to souvenir spots — is a must-visit on a trip to Mystic.
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Getting There
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Mystic is a three-hour drive from Hoboken; alternatively, it’s easily accessible — and under three hours — by train. Take the Northeast Regional train from New York Penn Station to the Mystic stop, which lets you out just 10 minutes from downtown.
Getting Around
Downtown Mystic is pedestrian friendly, and visitors can also walk up to Old Mistick Village {about 1.5 miles} for a pretty, scenic stroll. To go beyond downtown Mystic, Uber is fast and reliable with loads of friendly and resourceful drivers.
Have you been to Mystic, CT before? Have a favorite spot to visit? Let us know in the comments!
