If you are looking for a unique and memorable experience that combines history, culture, and adventure, then you should visit the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut.
Whether you are looking for a fun family outing, a romantic getaway, or an educational experience, Mystic Seaport Museum has something for everyone.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Mystic Seaport Museum.
What is the history of Mystic Seaport Museum?
Mystic Seaport Museum is the largest maritime museum in the United States and a must-see attraction for anyone who loves history, culture, and adventure.
Located in Mystic, Connecticut, the museum showcases the rich and diverse heritage of America’s seafaring past.
The museum was founded in 1929 by three Mystic residents who wanted to preserve the seafaring traditions and artifacts of the past.
The museum has grown to include a collection of historic ships, buildings, exhibits, and programs that educate and inspire visitors about the American maritime experience.
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How to get there and when to go?
Mystic Seaport Museum is located at 75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT, 06355. You can easily reach the museum by car, train, or boat.
If you are driving, you can take exit 90 off I-95 and follow the signs to the museum. There is plenty of free parking available on site.
If you are taking the train, you can take Amtrak or Shore Line East to Mystic Station, which is about a mile away from the museum. You can either walk or take a taxi from there.
If you are arriving by boat, you can dock at Mystic Seaport Marina, which offers easy access to the museum and the beautiful Mystic River.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from April 6 to October 29, and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from October 30 to December 31.
The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. The best time to visit the museum depends on your preferences and interests.
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cooler weather, you may want to visit in the spring or fall.
If you want to experience the full range of activities and events that the museum offers, you may want to visit in the summer or during the holidays.
What to see and do at Mystic Seaport Museum?
You can explore the historic ships, exhibits, gardens, and workshops that showcase the life and work of sailors and shipbuilders.
You can also enjoy various activities and events that the museum offers throughout the year, such as sailing, boatbuilding, art classes, concerts, festivals, and more.
Charles W. Morgan: The Charles W. Morgan is the world’s last surviving wooden whaling ship and a National Historic Landmark. You can climb aboard this magnificent vessel and learn about its history and significance in American maritime culture.
You can also see how the crew lived and worked on board, as well as some of the artifacts and tools they used.
Seaport Village: The Seaport Village is a recreated 19th-century coastal village that features dozens of real New England buildings staffed with historians, musicians, storytellers, and craftspeople who bring the seafaring past to life.
Henry B. DuPont Preservation Shipyard: The Henry B. DuPont Preservation Shipyard is where historic ships are restored and maintained using authentic methods and materials.
You can see skilled shipwrights and artisans at work on various projects and learn about their techniques and tools.
How to book your tickets and save money
You can book your tickets for Mystic Seaport Museum online through their official website1 or by calling their phone number (860) 572-07111.
The ticket prices are $23 for adults, $17 for youth (4-17), and free for children under 42.
You can also purchase a membership package starting from $74 that gives you unlimited admission and other benefits.
If you want to save money on your tickets, here are some tips:
- Book your tickets online and save $2 per ticket.
- Visit on weekdays or off-season to avoid peak prices.
- Check out the special offers and discounts that the museum offers for seniors, students, military, AAA members, and more.
- Consider buying a combo ticket that includes admission to other nearby attractions, such as Mystic Aquarium or Old Sturbridge Village.
- Look for coupons and deals on websites such as Groupon or LivingSocial.
How to make your visit special and memorable
Mystic Seaport Museum is more than just a museum. It is a place where you can create lasting memories with your family and friends.
Here are some ways to make your visit special and memorable:
Take a sail on the Mystic River: You can experience the thrill of sailing on a historic vessel on the Mystic River.
You can choose from several options, such as the Sabino steamboat, the Brilliant schooner, or the Breck Marshall catboat. You can also rent a rowboat or a sailboat if you prefer to go on your own.
Build your own boat: You can learn how to build your own boat at the Boat Shed. You can choose from different types of boats, such as skiffs, kayaks, or model boats. You can also customize your boat with paint, decals, or accessories.
Final Thoughts
Mystic Seaport Museum is a place where you can explore the rich and diverse maritime heritage of America.
It is the largest maritime museum in the United States, with a collection of more than 500 historic watercraft, including the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan, the oldest commercial ship still in existence.
You can also visit formal exhibit halls, the majestic tall ships, graceful schooners, and mighty whaling boats.
Embark on this enchanting journey, and allow yourself to be transported to a world of wonder.