Old Lyme is a town in New London County, Connecticut, USA. It has a population of around 6,000 people and is known as a charming, quaint and beautiful place. The town is full of nature, culture and history. It's home to the Florence Griswold Museum, a 19th century art museum set on a picturesque estate, the Lyme Art Association, and numerous parks and scenic trails. The coastal town is full of small shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs to explore.
1. Old Lyme parks and places for a walk on a first date
A walk in Old Lyme is one of the best ways to get to know your date. Some of the best parks and places for a walk in Old Lyme include Old Lyme Town Beach, which overlooks the Long Island Sound, and nearby McCook Point Park, where there are numerous trails to explore. You can also take a walk to the local historical sites, such as the Flanders Mansion, which is a beautifully preserved 18th century house, and the Bridge Street Cemetery, which includes gravestones dating back to the 1600s. There are also the community gardens, which include flower beds, a pond and a boardwalk, and the Whalebone Cove Nature Preserve, where you can take a peaceful, scenic stroll.
2. Places for a coffee date in Old Lyme
Coffee is always a great way to get to know someone on a first date. Some of the best coffee shops in Old Lyme are The Caffeinated Muse and Kafa Coffee. The Caffeinated Muse serves up specialty coffee, tea, pastries and homemade soups. Kafa Coffee is a cozy spot that offers great coffee, tea, sandwiches and treats. On warmer days, you can also visit The Hidden Spot Café, which offers outdoor seating, or the Lyme Coffee Company, where you can sit on their patio and enjoy the view of the harbor.
3. Old Lyme galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you are looking for a unique and educational date idea, then a visit to one of Old Lyme's many galleries, museums or exhibitions is the perfect choice. The Florence Griswold Museum is a great option, with its impressive collection of American Impressionist paintings, sculpture and period rooms. The Lyme Art Association is also a great destination, where you can explore the works of more than 500 contemporary and traditional artists. There is also a rotating exhibition of artworks at the Lyme Free Library.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Old Lyme
Old Lyme has some great live music and entertainment venues for a first date. The Live Cafe is an intimate venue that hosts live music and comedy acts, plus an array of craft beers and wines. The Old Lyme Inn often has jazz performances and DJs, along with delicious pizza and craft beer. The Lymes' Senior Center also offers live music and dancing on the first Saturday of every month.
5. Old Lyme pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you are looking for a more casual first date, then you can try one of the many pubs, bars or restaurants in Old Lyme. The Saybrook Fish House is a local favorite, with a vibrant bar, great happy hour specials, and delicious seafood dishes. The Old Lyme Tavern offers classic pub food and a lively atmosphere, while the Big Sip is a great spot for craft beers and cocktails. The Beer'd Brewing Company is also a great choice, with an extensive beer list and delicious small plates.
6. Other date ideas to try in Old Lyme
If you want to try something different for your first date, then there are plenty of other activities in Old Lyme to do. You can take a cruise in the Lymes' High Speed Ferry and watch the sunset over the Long Island Sound. You could also try your hand at paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing at Old Lyme Town Beach or one of the nearby rivers. For a more active date, you can rent a bike and explore the many trails around Old Lyme. You can also visit some of the town's small shops and boutiques, visit a farmer's market, or take a cooking class together.
