New Behind-the-Scenes Video Series about Mystic Aquarium!
DID YOU KNOW our team collects samples from beluga blowholes to unlock facts about their health?
Or that we take a close-up look at African penguin poop for clues on how to help this critically endangered species?
Head behind the scenes with Field Notes, Mystic Aquarium’s new YouTube show!
Our Animal Rescue Team, scientists, and volunteers will show you how our research and conservation methods help animals and their environment thrive.
From rescuing seals on Block Island to beach cleanups and more, discover how science, conservation, and community can all come together to protect our ocean planet.
(And see some adorable animals along the way!)
Dr. Sue tests a sample of penguin guano in the lab.
Mystic Aquarium research technician, Danielle Lavoie collects blowhole and mouth samples from a beluga whale.
Timothy
860-701-4379
Laura
860-701-4304 l.giannelli@theday.com
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Welcome
Welcome to the 2025-26 Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce membership guide. In my fifth year as President, I continue to focus on providing benefits for our members, understanding the impact of Mystic as a tourist destination on the entire southeastern Connecticut region, and developing a blueprint to ensure success into the foreseeable future.
It’s an age-old question that we are asked weekly by local businesses and community members: Why join the Mystic Chamber? First and foremost, we support and promote the region and its businesses through our events, which draw over 100,000 people annually. This gives our audience the opportunity to attend great events, visit the area, and schedule a return trip to see more. In addition, we have created resources that keep people engaged, including the Go Mystic App, which has seen over 17,000 downloads in the past three and a half years.
We respect that not every business that joins the chamber is connected to tourism. That is why, over the past four years, we have developed programs and focused on ways to provide benefits to our local businesses. That includes “Five Things to Do in Mystic,” a professionally produced reel that has accumulated over a million views, reaching more than half a million people; “Community Proud,” a Facebook and Instagram series that has engaged with over 50,000 people, and offered free seminars featuring relevant topics helpful to small businesses. In 2025, we held an AI Workshop for our members, and we will be having another one this fall, as the response was overwhelmingly positive.
I understand that the Chamber should be continually evolving, and that means not standing still. If you are interested in sharing ideas or discussing the Chamber, I encourage you to reach out to me at bruceflax@mysticchamber.org or stop by our office at 14 Holmes Street in Mystic.
CHAMBER STAFF
Bruce Flax - President
Megan Yardis - Membership Manager
Isiah Allgood - Event Coordinator
Kaylee Wright - Social Media
Deb McGugan - Bookkeeper
TRAVELING VISITOR
CENTER COORDINATOR
Mary Jane Cassidy
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIRMAN - Amanda Arling, The Whaler’s Inn
VICE CHAIRMAN - David Labbe, Bridge Marketing
TREASURER - Jeff Anderson, Kelley’s Pace
SECRETARY - Nicole DiMattei, The Granite Theatre
Matt Beaudoin - Mystic Knotworks
Blair Bendel - Foxwoods Resort Casino
Dan Bouges - Groton Utilities
Francisca Secor - Secor Auto Group
Jennifer Obrey - Westerly Sun
Bonnie Pollard-Johnson - Academy Point
Melinda Burridge - Chelsea Groton Bank
David Preka - Advanced Group LLC
Annemarie Seifert - UConn Avery Point
Lydia Shell - Mystic Aquarium
Shannon McKenzie - Mystic Seaport Museum
Johan Liebenberg - Hilton Mystic
Nautical charm, coastal elegance, and sweeping panoramic views. The Mystic Yachting Club provides a stunning backdrop for any type of celebration, from bridal shower brunches and intimate weddings to corporate happy hours and holiday soirees. Exclusive Catering by Constellation Culinary Group.
Chamber Membership
In 2025, the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce welcomed new businesses, celebrated milestones, and deepened our connections with the community.
The Mystic Chamber has continued to modernize what it means to be a Chamber of Commerce. Our members’ best interests guide every decision—whether that’s brainstorming marketing strategies, helping a business find its first brick-and-mortar location, or making meaningful connections with other members.
We listen to our members, and that’s how new programs are created. For example, when members shared curiosity and concern about artificial intelligence, we brought in an expert to host an AI Workshop. Members left with tools to safely and effectively apply AI in their businesses. It’s just one way we turn feedback into action.
Our Community and Tourism Awards end-of-year event is another example of this approach. The event now features over a dozen local restaurants, breweries, wineries, and live entertainment—all while honoring businesses and individuals who strengthen our region.
At its core, Chamber membership is about more than just business promotion. It’s about being part of something bigger— a community.
“Being part of a modern Chamber that blends community and marketing has been so rewarding. The work we’re doing to support the region is truly special and helps elevate our members in meaningful ways. Getting to know our members and learning about their passions and work is the best part of what I do.”—
Megan Yardis, Membership Manager
INCREASED EXPOSURE
Members gain visibility through the Go Mystic app, our website, newsletters, and social media channels, reaching over 20,000 followers. This added exposure builds credibility and helps attract new customers.
RESOURCES & SUPPORT
From marketing guidance and branding help to training sessions on business development, financial management, and technology, members have access to expertise that small businesses often don’t have the budget to secure independently.
ADVOCACY
The Chamber also serves as a voice for local businesses. We monitor legislative issues, engage with policymakers, and ensure the concerns of our members are heard.
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Chamber events—such as Business Before Hours, Business After Hours, Ribbon Cuttings, Grand Openings, and Open Houses—bring together business owners, professionals, and community leaders. These connections often lead to partnerships, collaborations, and new customers.
Chamber Benefits
The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce serves as the collective business voice for Greater Mystic and beyond. We sponsor and facilitate community events that not only promote local businesses but also boost the regional tourism industry. We are a resource for small business owners and advocate on behalf of the entire community to create opportunities for economic growth.
Joining the Chamber is more than just a way to promote your business; it’s about becoming part of a community. Membership doesn’t automatically translate to success—you have to put in the effort—but if you do, the rewards are significant. There’s a deeper, intrinsic value in being part of this community. The collective work of the Chamber elevates the entire community, and we are dedicated to lifting our members along with it.
The Mystic Chamber offers the most comprehensive event listing in southeastern Connecticut. In 2025, our event calendar received over 50,000 views and our “5 Things to Do in Mystic” videos continue to go viral. Mystic remains the number-one tourism destination in the state. Our commitment lies in providing tangible benefits to our members while supporting the community as a thriving place to work and live.
Go Mystic App
The Go Mystic App is the premier resource for everything Mystic, for tourists and locals alike. With super attractive screens, the easy-tonavigate app has been downloaded over 17,000 times since its launch in 2023. The Chamber created a QR-coded rack card that is distributed at several hotels, visitor centers on I-95, and our downtown Traveling Visitor Center. It continues to serve as a go-to resource for everyone.
We continue our efforts to get the public acclimated and engaged with the app, and in that spirit, we now have all of our event details there. For the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival, the app provided direct access to the artist list, event map, award winners, and sponsors. The same applies to the Groton City Brew Run, where participants can register for the race through the app, view the participating breweries, and check the results. You will find the remaining Chamber events for 2025 and 2026 there, including Santa Arrives by Tugboat, the Lighted Boat Parade, and our year-end Community and Tourism Awards.
Download the app for all the information, including where to park in Mystic. If you are interested in listing your business on the Go Mystic App, please feel free to call the office and speak with Bruce.
Chamber Events
The Chamber’s events enhance community spirit and support local commerce and tourism, ensuring Mystic remains a unique and welcoming destination for all. We host events of all sizes, ranging from 500 to 30,000 attendees.
FLOATSWELLA
Every summer since 2020, the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce teams up with the Mystic Seaport Museum and Northswell to present Floatswella, a paddle-craft only rally featuring live music that takes place on the Mystic River. This community event is open to the public and free to attend.
GROTON CITY BREW RUN
The Chamber and Groton Utilities host the Annual Groton City Brew Run at Eastern Point Beach in Groton, benefiting The Riverfront Children’s Center. Participants enjoy a 5K run or walk, followed by a lively brewfest featuring local craft breweries, live music, and delicious local food vendors. This is a fun, family friendly event combining fitness, socializing, and craft beer.
TARZAN BROWN RUN
The Tarzan Brown Run is a popular road race held in November in Downtown Mystic. Named in honor of local hero and Native American marathon runner Tarzan Brown, who competed in the 1930s and 1940s, the event pays tribute to his athletic achievements and legacy. The race typically features various distances, including a 5K, 10K, and sometimes a half-marathon, catering to runners of all levels. This annual event not only promotes physical fitness but also supports local charities and community causes.
HALLOWEEN PARADE
Families travel from near and far dressed up in their favorite Halloween costumes to parade through Downtown Mystic, over the Mystic Drawbridge, and down side streets leading to the Mystic Fire Department. Halloweeninspired activities at the fire department include a Trunk-or-Treat event featuring local members and special vendors, as well as crafts, held indoors. The Chamber partners with the Mystic Fire Department, Stonington Police Department, Groton Town Police Department, Stonington High School, and Fitch High School to deliver this community-oriented Halloween event that brings locals, guests, and businesses together for a fun-filled day.
PARTY OF 12 AND COMMUNITY & TOURISM AWARDS’
“Party of 12” is the Chamber’s annual celebration honoring local business leaders and celebrating the passion of the Mystic community! Held this year in November, for the first time at the United Theater in Westerly, the event features a wide array of dishes and refreshments served by top local restaurants along with live entertainment and dancing. Awards such as the Joyce Olson Resnikoff Tourism Award and the Keel Award are presented to business owners who have made significant contributions to tourism and the local economy. The Ballast Award is given to a local who is leading the charge for the future of the Connecticut area. The Just One Chance Award is presented to a community member or organization that has fostered an inclusive environment for Stonington Public School students with disabilities.
Chamber Events
MYSTIC OUTDOOR ART FESTIVAL
The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival (MOAF) is the oldest art show of its kind in the Northeast region. Every August, this two-day, juried event attracts tens of thousands of art enthusiasts. The festival showcases over 250 artists from around the country with over a mile of fine arts and crafts including oils, watercolors, photography, textiles, sculpture, jewelry, woodwork, acrylics, and more. The trail of artists follows the Mystic River into the Mystic Seaport Museum. The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival includes a Children’s Art Park and a Performing Arts Stage in Mystic River Park highlighting local theater productions, performances, and musicians from around the community.
SANTA ARRIVES BY TUGBOAT AND THE LIGHTED BOAT PARADE
Santa Arrives by Tugboat and the Lighted Boat Parade are beloved traditions that take place in late November to kick off the holiday season. Santa makes his grand entrance from the North Pole into Mystic River Park aboard a tugboat, greeted by a crowd awaiting his arrival. Later in the evening, the Christmas Tree in Mystic River Park is lit, and immediately after, the Lighted Boat Parade starts. The Lighted Boat Parade takes place on the Mystic River. It features a parade of festively decorated vessels competing for prizes in categories such as “Most Creative” and “Best Holiday Spirit.” This unique combination of maritime tradition and holiday cheer draws families and visitors to Mystic for a magical start to the holidays.
CELEBRATION OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce partners with the Mystic Noank Library and Kevin Booker for an annual celebration of Black History Month. The event is held indoors at the Union Baptist Church, and hundreds of people attend to show their support. This celebration features singing, African drumming, guest speakers, students, and locals from the surrounding area who share a reading, poem, or their story.
EASTER TRUNK HOP
Celebrate spring with the family-friendly Easter Trunk Hop, a colorful new community event that started in 2025. Local organizations, businesses, and neighbors come together to decorate their car trunks in creative Easter and springtime themes, transforming the space into a festive wonderland. Kids are invited to hop from trunk to trunk collecting candy, small prizes, and seasonal treats while parents enjoy the cheerful atmosphere and community spirit.
The event also features photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, plenty of interactive fun, and a safe environment for families to enjoy. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the holiday weekend, the Easter Trunk Hop is a lighthearted celebration of spring that’s sure to create lasting memories for all ages.
MYSTIC PRIDE
Celebrate love, inclusivity, and community spirit at Mystic Pride, a vibrant event that fills downtown Mystic with color, music, and joy. Hosted by the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce in partnership with local organizations, Mystic Pride features a lively main stage event, performances, and family-friendly activities that highlight the diversity and strength of the LGBTQ+ community.
Visitors can enjoy live music, drag performances, local food, and craft vendors, as well as interactive art, while connecting with community partners and allies. The event creates a welcoming space where everyone can celebrate authenticity and unity, making Mystic Pride both a meaningful cultural experience and an unforgettable day of celebration.
STATE OF MYSTIC
In late March and early April, the Chamber partners with the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut for a year-in-review and an overview of what to expect this year, featuring the Groton Town Manager and the First Selectman of Stonington. It’s an excellent community update and networking event that brings together local town leaders, business leaders, and the community.
Chamber Programs
@mysticchamber ON SOCIAL MEDIA
The Chamber and our social following is growing at a rapid rate. Through innovative campaigns such as the 5 Things to Do in Mystic videos or the Community Proud series, we are catapulting the Chamber and its members to new heights.
The Chamber’s social media presence continues to grow at a fast pace. Through creative campaigns like “5 Things to Do in Mystic” and the “Community Proud” series, we’re showcasing our members and the region in powerful new ways.
The 5 Things to Do in Mystic videos began in August 2023 and since have seen a viral uptick in popularity garnering 20,000-25,000 views per weekend! Each week, with Chamber President Bruce Flax as the host, we film at a local business and promote 5 things happening in the area for the upcoming weekend. Since its inception, the Chamber has featured over 150 local businesses in the videos and over 170 member events. Locals and tourists use the series as a guide for what to do on the weekends. It’s reaching people in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and beyond. We’ve filmed with local businesses such as Shane’s Barbershop, Captain’s Mansion, Connecticut Sun WNBA team, Haring’s, Mystic Museum of Art, and more.
Launched in August 2023, “5 Things to Do in Mystic” has become a weekend guide for locals and visitors alike, generating an average of 25,000 to 70,000 views each weekend. Hosted by Chamber President Bruce Flax, the series spotlights local businesses while highlighting five things to do in the area. Since its launch, we’ve featured more than 250 local businesses and over 300 member events, with a reach extending to New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and beyond. Featured businesses include Tiki Bar Cruise, Mateo House of Beauty, Nailed It Mystic, Milestone, Mystic Seaport Museum, and many others.
COMMUNITY PROUD: CELEBRATING THOSE WHO LIVE & WORK AMONG US
The Chamber is always working for ways to meaningfully promote members of the community and in doing so, we created a social media series called ‘Community Proud, Celebrating Those That Live and Work Among Us!’, presented by CorePlus Federal Credit Union. Since the series started in April 2024, it has reached over 170,000 and engaged over 10,000 with our posts and featured 20+ local community members.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media!
The Chamber continually finds meaningful ways to shine a light on the people who make our region special. In 2024, we launched the series “Community Proud: Celebrating Those Who Live and Work Among Us,” presented by CorePlus Credit Union. The goal is simple: to recognize the neighbors, leaders, and unsung heroes whose stories capture the heartbeat of our community.
Whether it’s a Stonington lifer, a third-generation tradesman carrying on a family name, or someone who has built deep connections through work and service, these individuals reflect the resilience and spirit of our towns. Since its launch, “Community Proud” has featured over 70 people and reached more than one million viewers, bringing authentic stories to life and humanizing the businesses that make Mystic and the surrounding area special. Stay connected— follow us on Facebook & Instagram!
16,000
21 k 15 k
12,000
Each story is a reminder that community is about more than just place — it’s about the people. If you know someone who should be featured, please nominate them by emailing meganyardis@mysticchamber.org.
COMMUNITY PROUD FEATURES
Heather & Dale: Built a real estate legacy rooted in trust, resilience, and community spirit. Always family-first and active philanthropists. Jerrica Watrous: Owner of The Music Studio in Mystic and Niantic. Passionate about building musicians. Also, a phenomenal baker and host.
Abbie Park: Blends New York City publishing experience with coastal Connecticut creativity. Artistic talent with marketing savvy.
Keith Fields: Branch Manager at CorePlus Credit Union. Known for his positivity and dedication to the community.
Kerri Harrington: Executive Sous Chef at Sift Bake Shop. A behind-the-scenes problem solver and skilled baker.
David Standridge: James Beard Award–winning chef at The Shipwright’s Daughter and Mystic Fish Camp. Dedicated to sustainability and community.
Renee Touponce: Chef at Oyster Club and The Port of Call. Creative, passionate about local ingredients, and equality in the kitchen.
Judi Caracausa: Beloved Mystic resident and real estate broker. Decades of service with energy and kindness.
Rachel Lenda: Connecticut Tourism Director. Skilled connector who cares deeply about people and the great state of Connecticut.
Erin Shea: Creator of Poppi’s Planet. Inspires children to spark creativity through storytelling.
Chamber Programs
TRAVELING VISITOR CENTER
The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce created the Traveling Visitor Center—a one-of-a-kind mobile hub designed to welcome visitors, promote our region, and represent the charm of Mystic wherever it goes.
When parked in Downtown Mystic, outside Mystic Knotwork by the flagpole, it greets visitors with maps, information, and friendly volunteers from Chamber member organizations. These volunteers not only help guests explore the region but also gain exposure for their own businesses.
Beyond Mystic, the Traveling Visitor Center takes our story on the road, showcasing the best of southeastern Connecticut and Rhode Island. From the beaches of Misquamicut, New London, and Niantic, to Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, the Mystic Seaport Museum, and Mystic Aquarium, the Traveling Visitor Center promotes all that our region has to offer.
The vehicle has already made appearances at events like the Misquamicut Drive-In’s “Mystic Night,” where we handed out Chamber member materials and swag, and at the Big E on Connecticut Day, bringing Mystic to one of New England’s largest audiences.
Quirky and eye-catching, the Traveling Visitor Center is a mobile showcase of Mystic’s unique character, drawing visitors for longer stays and more experiences.
Law Office of Richard D. Dixon
15 Holmes Street, Mystic, CT 06355
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Your World-Class Getaway is Closer Than You Think
IT’S EASY TO IMAGINE
that a true getaway filled with world-class amenities, unforgettable dining, and non-stop entertainment requires boarding a plane or planning a long trip. But one of the Northeast’s premier destinations is right in your backyard. Owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods Resort Casino delivers an extraordinary resort experience that rivals any far-flung getaway—all within a convenient drive.
For more than three decades, Foxwoods has set the standard for excitement and hospitality. What began as a gaming destination has evolved into a full-scale resort with something for everyone. Here, it’s not just about rolling the dice or spinning the reels—it’s about savoring every moment. From luxury hotel stays and indulgent spa treatments to high-energy nightlife and exclusive shopping, Foxwoods is where you can turn a spontaneous weekend into a world-class escape.
The offerings are as diverse as they are exceptional. Test your luck on expansive gaming floors. Indulge in award-winning cuisine—from bold ramen creations at
GRAND PEQUOT TOWER
Foxwoods by Morimoto to the fiery thrills of Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen. Catch every big play surrounded by energy at DraftKings Sportsbook. Or discover the latest styles at Tanger Outlets, featuring top brands in one stylish setting.
But what truly sets Foxwoods apart is how it brings people together. It’s the perfect spot for a date night, a getaway with friends, or even a family adventure. The addition of Great Wolf Lodge makes Foxwoods a true family-friendly destination, while the Premier Theater and Great Cedar Showroom keep the excitement going with must-see performances by world-renowned artists.
Supporting local institutions that drive our regional economy is more important than ever. Foxwoods is not just a resort; it is a vital community partner.
And the best part? All of this is closer than you think. When it’s time to recharge, reconnect, or celebrate, remember a world-class getaway is just a short drive away.
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FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO
GORDON RAMSAY HELL'S KITCHEN
Member Spotlight
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GREAT WOLF LODGE
Bringing joy to families is our mission—and the adventure starts at Great Wolf Lodge in Mashantucket, Connecticut, just steps from Foxwoods. Splash into our 84-degree indoor water park for year-round fun or enjoy sunshine at the outdoor pool during warmer months. The fun continues with dry play attractions like Oliver’s Mining Co., MagiQuest, Howler’s Peak Ropes Course, Northern Lights Arcade, and “The Virtual Frontier.”
Stay in our spacious, Northwoods-inspired suites—each of which includes water park passes and free daily activities. Locals can also enjoy a day visit with a water park pass. Need to mix work and play? Our conference center hosts everything from galas to family reunions.
When hunger strikes, choose from delicious dining options: start your day with a full breakfast buffet at Timbers Table & Kitchen, grab coffee and donuts at Dunkin’, enjoy a cozy meal at Fireside, or visit the Hungry Wolf Food Hall for pizza, burgers, and more. Don’t forget a sweet treat from Woods End Creamery.
With endless fun for all ages, Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect place to make unforgettable family memories. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight, you’re sure to have a howling good time!
Chelsea Groton Bank helps individuals, families, and businesses succeed in big ways and small by putting more effort into everything we do. We’re focused on bringing together the best in digital, remote, and in-person capabilities — an approach designed around the lives of our customers, so they can manage their finances when, where,
and how they want. We proudly put time, energy, and money into our local communities to make them stronger. Because when we do, everyone succeeds.
We’ve long believed the more people know, the better decisions they can make for themselves, their families, and their businesses. It’s why we conduct over 250 educational classes each year, discussing topics like how to tighten your budget, grow your business, buy a house, pay for college, and many other financial programs. We also host crafting classes, book clubs, and other events to help you connect with new friends.
For those who can’t make it in
person, we offer many online resources, including countless articles, videos, and mini-courses, so you can learn at a pace, time, and place that is most convenient for you.
For Chelsea Groton, it’s all about bringing people together to learn from one another and to provide hands-on support to both new community members and long-time customers alike. Visit chelseagroton.com/learninghub for access to the Bank’s online learning hub, event registration page, blog articles, news stories, videos, and more. We hope you’ll join us soon!
Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Member Spotlight
THE NIANTIC CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
A must-see stop in southeastern Connecticut for parents, the Niantic Children’s Museum is the perfect place for children aged nine and under to let their imaginations soar! Located at 409 Main Street in downtown Niantic, the museum has three areas of hands-on learning fun.
Visit the museum’s Imagination Room to become a sea captain, firefighter, master chef, farmer, and more, all in one day! Even the littlest visitors can join in with the Toddler Area, built just for them. Explore the Discovery Room for science-based activities and to meet the museum’s resident animals. A bearded dragon, tortoise, leopard gecko, frog, hermit crabs, and an observation hive of bees all call the museum home! The Outdoor Playspace delights youngsters with a real treehouse, a music garden, water tables, a playhouse, a kid-sized zipline, and a new Buccaneer boat.
Be sure to visit niantickids.org to learn more about the Museum’s many other offers, including party rentals, classes, outreach programs, and special events.
STONE ACRES FARM & YELLOW FARMHOUSE EDUCATION CENTER
Discover the charm of coastal New England at Stone Acres Farm and the Yellow Farmhouse Education Center, located in beautiful Stonington. Stone Acres, a 63-acre working farm, is a perfect family-friendly destination, offering something for visitors of all ages. Stroll through flower-filled gardens, visit the Farmstand for fresh produce, eggs, honey, and local goods, or join one of the farm’s seasonal events—from farm dinners to outdoor concerts.
Right on the farm, the Yellow Farmhouse Education Center brings food and farming to life through fun, hands-on learning experiences. Kids and adults can enjoy cooking classes, food education programs, and special farm activities that connect people to where their food comes from. Whether you’re planting seeds, exploring the gardens, or learning a new recipe, it’s a great place to get inspired and engaged.
Together, Stone Acres Farm and Yellow Farmhouse offer a unique, family-friendly experience that blends nature, food, and education in a welcoming environment. Stop by, dig in, and make delicious memories!
THE MUSIC STUDIO
Locations in Mystic and Niantic offer a warm and professional environment for music education tailored to learners of all ages and abilities. With an award-winning curriculum, highly skilled instructors, and personalized lessons, the studio places a strong emphasis on nurturing each student’s artistic development and potential.
Students can learn a wide range of instruments, including piano, voice, guitar, violin, flute, saxophone, cello, harp, and ukulele, within comfortable and supportive facilities. Their mission centers around inspiring musicians “one note at a time,” capturing the studio’s commitment to both technical growth and creative expression.
Testimonials from parents reflect a highly personalized and engaging approach. One parent shared, “Miss Jerrica has a way about her that brings the best out in your child.” Another noted how well instructors work with young students: “...instructors are very friendly, knowledgeable, and patient with the younger children. The kids always have fun during the hour lesson.”
The studio operates from two convenient locations: the Mystic Studio at 80 Stonington Road in Mystic, and the Niantic Studio at 179 Flanders Road in Niantic. Hours vary by location, and prospective students are encouraged to contact the studio to schedule a tour at 860-389-2589 or by visiting themusicstudiomystic.com.
POP OVER EATERY
Brunch isn’t just a meal—it’s a lifestyle, and at Pop Over Eatery in downtown Mystic, we do it all day, every day. Located at 24 East Main Street, Pop Over Eatery is your go-to destination for overstuffed popovers, cheeky cocktails, and seriously crave-worthy comfort food with a modern twist. From gluten-free Belgian waffles and loaded breakfast bowls to vegan power plates and fried chicken sandwiches, our bold, flavor-packed menu brings the brunch heat seven days a week. Whether you’re fueling up for a day on the coast or curing last night’s “fun,” Pop Over Eatery is the brunch spot Mystic didn’t know it needed—but definitely can’t live without.
Shoreline Sanitation specializes in waste management, septic tank, and portable toilet services for customers in Rhode Island and Connecticut.
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Themed exhibitions and permanent collection include oil, acrylic, watercolor, photography, sculpture, carvings, stained glass, and more
Representational and impressionistic art
Experienced, friendly curators available for consultation and sourcing art, as well as discussing consignment opportunities
Historical art from owner’s private collection
Active participant in New London Arts & Culture District for over 16 years
Convenient hours – open every day except Sunday
Warm and inviting gallery with unique pieces from local and international artists
Thames River Gallery is a proud supporter of the CT Tourism Council, CT Port Authority, CT Marine Trades Association (CMTA), OpSail CT, Coast Guard Athletic Association Corporation (CGAAC), Coast Guard Foundation, and the National Coast Guard Museum Association.
Gallery Hours: M-F: 10 AM - 5 PM • Sat: 10 AM - 3 PM Gallery available for special events. Call for details.
The Greater Mystic Region: From Niantic to Misquamicut
Mystic is the number-one tourist destination in the state, and we recognized that with all that Mystic has to offer, it lacks beaches, a great place to watch a sunset, or theaters. When we secured the Traveling Visitors Center and were reviewing the map that we would create on the side of the truck, it was decided to take Greater Mystic and define us as Niantic to Misquamicut, spanning exits 74 to 92 on I-95.
We needed a resource to bring the region to life, so we took the map and color-coded the exits on Interstate 95. Our regional map and brochure, launched with advertising opportunities for local businesses, sold out almost immediately. This map is now distributed through our Visitor Center at 14 Holmes Street, our Traveling Visitor Center, businesses
along I-95, and throughout the community. It serves as a tool to inspire visitors to extend their stay, encouraging weekend travelers to spend a whole week enjoying all that our region has to offer.
The brochure highlights the area’s incredible food scene, local theaters and museums, and vibrant shopping. A second edition will be published in 2026, and we encourage businesses to watch for advertising opportunities.
This project was a true collaboration, and we’re especially grateful to Abbie Park Designs, the local illustrator behind both our Traveling Visitor Center and the regional map.
ACCOMMODATIONS
100 Acre Wood
222 Northwest Corner Rd., North Stonington (772) 388-7213 100acreinn.com
Amber Crossing PO Box 1518, RSVP Holdings I, LLC, Greenwich
Bed and Breakfasts of the Mystic Coast (860) 303-8748 thebbmc.com
Best Western Niantic 265 Flanders Rd., Niantic bestwestern.com
Breezeway Boutique Hotel
70 Winnapaug Rd., Westerly, RI (401) 348-8953 breezewayresort.com
Stone Acres Farm 393 North Main St., Stonington (860) 245-5127 stoneacresfarm.com
Mystic Yachting Center 100 Essex St., Mystic (860) 980-4092 mysticyachtingclub.com
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The Birth of Thames River Gallery
Located on Bank Street in the heart of downtown New London, Thames River Gallery has proudly served as the city’s premier art gallery since 2010. Founded by businessman and nautical aficionado John Johnson, the Gallery was born from a passion for maritime heritage and a commitment to showcasing the rich artistic talent of southeastern Connecticut.
For over 16 years, Thames River Gallery has built a strong reputation for supporting local, emerging, and established artists, with a particular focus on representational and impressionist maritime art. From seascapes to harbor scenes to wildlife sculpture, our permanent collection reflects a unique saltwater flair that honors the region’s deep connection to the sea.
Thames River Gallery is more than an exhibition space; it’s a celebration of New London’s cultural and historical identity. Our current exhibition, New London - The Past is Present…, is a collaborative tribute to the city we love. In partnership with Shaw Mansion and the Custom House, and with the generous support of the New London Historical Society and the New London Maritime Society, the Gallery is honored to present rare historical artifacts alongside stunning contemporary artwork.
This special exhibition features works by 19 local artists who have captured the essence of New London’s landmarks, maritime spirit, and enduring charm. The exhibition opens with a public reception on Saturday, September 27, from 4 to 7 pm, featuring a historical presentation at 6 pm with guest speakers Susan Tamulevich, Director of the New London Maritime Society, Steve Manuel, Executive Director of the New London County Historical Society, and John Johnson, Thames River Gallery Proprietor and thalassophile.
Whether you’re an art collector or a local history enthusiast, a local resident, a military member, or someone who just loves New London, Thames River Gallery invites you to experience the vibrant artistic and historical legacy of New London, where the past truly is present.
Celebrity patron LISA CARBERG from WTNH petting our BARKING GULL!
