Old Mystic is a picturesque town near the Mystic River in Connecticut, known for its New England charm and historic feel. It's home to Mystic Seaport, a 19th-century historic village with tall ships and a planetarium, plus Mystic Aquarium, filled with marine life. A boardwalk allows access to shops, restaurants and galleries. Shops selling unique items line the main street, along with restaurants and bars.
1. Old Mystic Parks and places for a walk on a first date
There are a number of parks and open spaces around Old Mystic that make for great walking dates. Start off with a stroll around Mystic Seaport, an idyllic 19th-century village with tall ships, an interactive planetarium and beautiful gardens. From there, head down to Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center and walk through its lovely woodlands, meadows and wetlands. Once you've worked up a hunger, head up to Mystic River Park for a picnic or a lazy day by the river. For a more romantic experience, explore parts of the Micalijah Basin and Chime's Cove, two secluded coves where you can take a leisurely stroll and take in the breathtaking views of the Mystic River.
2. Places for a coffee date in Old Mystic
Coffee dates are always great for a first date, and Old Mystic has plenty of places to enjoy a hot drink and a chat. Make a beeline for Mystic Coffee Roasters for some of the best coffee in town, along with delicious pastries and cakes. The cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a first date. Another great coffee spot is Mystic Grind, with its selection of coffee and teas, plus a variety of snacks. For a more unique coffee experience, try Mana Café, a coffee shop specializing in Indian street food, teas and desserts.
3. Old Mystic Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
No date in Old Mystic would be complete without a visit to one of its many galleries, museums, and exhibitions. The Mystic Arts Center features a range of creative and inspiring exhibitions, perfect for a day of culture and conversation. The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is also home to an array of interactive exhibits that explore the area’s natural history. For a more unusual experience, take a trip to the Submarine Force Museum, where you can learn about the history of submarines and see a variety of artifacts from throughout the ages.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in Old Mystic
When it comes to live music and entertainment, Old Mystic has plenty to offer. The Mystic Theater is a popular venue, with regular concerts and performances from a variety of local and national acts. The Mystic Ballet is another great choice, with multiple performances each week, ranging from classic ballets to more modern works. For a more casual night out, head to Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, an American-themed venue with live music, karaoke and a happening bar and restaurant.
5. Old Mystic Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Old Mystic is home to numerous pubs, bars and restaurants, making it a great place to share a drink or a meal on a first date. Start off with a cocktail or two at Mystic Wine Shoppe and then move on to Joy’s Oyster Bar for some fresh and delicious seafood. For a more intimate experience, head over to Groton Social for craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere. For something a bit more adventurous, try The Black Sheep, an underground bar serving up craft beer, cocktails and plenty of good conversation.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Old Mystic
Old Mystic has a lot of other ideas for dates, from active pursuits to relaxing escapes. For something active and fun, try Mystic Boats for a relaxing cruise down the Mystic River or head to the Mystic Sports Dome for a game of laser tag or mini golf. For something more relaxing, visit the Olde Mistick Village, which is home to shops, restaurants, a movie theater and a spa. For a uniquely Mystic experience, take a ride on the Captain John E. Mossman paddlewheeler and take in the beautiful scenery of the Mystic River. No matter what your preferences, Old Mystic has plenty of great date ideas to suit every taste.
