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When it comes to the East Coast, Florida tends to steal all the shine for beach vacations, followed by the Big Apple for its massive urban sprawl with seemingly every attraction under the sun.
But a neighboring state where many choose to hide and live in peace above Manhattan every morning for an overpriced parking spot is ready to change its reputation as a blissful haven and transit state in favor of a destination in itself.
Perhaps New England’s most underrated state, it is brimming with small-town charm, coastal delicacies, and epic dining options, despite most simply stopping here to fill their tanks and continue on their merry way.
That said, there’s an exception for everything, right?
In this case, there’s one seaside resort that will almost certainly draw a summer crowd, but has remained largely hidden despite Julia Roberts’ best efforts.
They are also not satisfied with a busy summer season: they want that reopen an airport for commercial flights for the first time in decadesaiming to become the next great beach escape on the East Coast.
Discover the mysticism of Mystic
Connecticut has a travel hotspot?
That’s right – and it’s not Hartford or the college town/pizza paradise of New Haven.
Located on the Mystic River and Mystic Harbor, it’s the perfect town of Mystic to round out a full dose of waterfront ‘mysticism’.
Like its New England neighbors like Cape Cod and Kennebunkport, this coastal charm offers similar pleasures in the summer, with stress-free days aboard a river cruise, endless boutique shopping, and ending a sunny day with a glass of wine and incredible fresh seafood whipped up in a quintessentially weathered wooden cabin.
Of course, if you’re a ’90s kid like me, you’re definitely familiar with the movie Mystical pizza.
Long after the credits roll, Mystic remains the kind of timeless seaside escape people flock to for drawbridge views, bobbing boats, breezy, salty air and that almost palpable New England charm that feels tailor-made for summer.
But what about the beaches?
Mystic may be a waterfront beauty, but it’s not exactly known for its beaches, but there is one that’s definitely worth a visit:
Williams Beach Park offers a small but valuable stretch of sand perfect for a relaxing beach day, with family-friendly green space and just enough shoreline to satisfy your summer itch – even if your chances of spotting the Kraken are probably better saved for local lore than the waterline.
New airport in the making
A short drive away in New London, they don’t have to deal with the hustle and bustle of Mystic; they have to deal with the bureaucracy of reopening an airport that hasn’t handled commercial flights since 2004.
Remember what I said about Connecticut as a transit destination? It’s true.
Comedian and podcaster Joe Rogan has reportedly sworn off performing here, claiming Connecticut is “just a highway” and “not a real state.”
Local officials want to reduce congestion, especially on I-95, and perhaps change their reputations as well.
Mystic is Connecticut’s most popular destination, despite the glitz and glamor of Greenwich and the much larger downtown Hartford.
A new airport would connect this blissful region, making it easier for Mystic enthusiasts to reach them more easily and for “Nutmeggers” residents who wouldn’t have to drive to Hartford or one of New York City’s many airports.
From New London to Stonington, there are dozens of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the masses, including unheard of islands like Fisherman’s Islandjust south of Mystic, ready to be developed as “it” destinations.
Without a time frame in mind, the airport remains just an idea, but there is no denying that this region wants more tourists.
In fact, in their own words, they are practically begging for “any airline” to take over Groton New London Airport.
If only Spirit got the memo before dumping Hartford…
Beautiful beaches abound nearby
Speaking of Fishers Island, if you’re up for a grand adventure, it’s a great starting point to explore Connecticut’s unsung beach paradises.
Home to Isabell Beachthat hasn’t received a negative Google review yet, and a time-etched cityscape with ice cream parlors and general stores, you won’t be disappointed.
But if you don’t have a friend with a boat, you can stick to the coastline and find other beach towns that are well worth a visit, like the aforementioned Stonington with beautiful DuBois Beach and Groton with many off-path beach spots far removed from city life, such as Bluff Point Beach deep inland Bluff Point State Park ($10 entrance fee).
Connecticut’s coastline is definitely worth a visit, but still remains under the radar because not every traveler wants to hit the road – even mystical tourists don’t realize what they’re missing.
For what it’s worth, the “Grondstaat” feels very safe to visit, especially as you hop from one beach town to another.
A new one report claims to have seen violent crime double-digit declines statewide.
