Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration


This state-of-the-art aquarium boasts more than 6000 species of sea creatures, as well as an outdoor viewing area for watching seals and sea lions below the waterline and a penguin pavilion. The aquarium's most famous (and controversial) residents are the three beluga whales, who reside in the Arctic Coast exhibit. Animal-welfare groups claim it is debilitating to keep whales in enclosed containers.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Coogan Farm

0.63 MILES

Opened in September 2014, this public-access, 45-acre historic farm and nature center affords sweeping views of the Mystic River. Maintained by volunteers…

2. Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

0.84 MILES

Linked by walking trails to Coogan Farm, this nature center and natural history museum has more than 10 miles of walking trails and an animal…

3. Mystic Seaport Museum

1.03 MILES

More than a museum, Mystic Seaport is a re-creation of an entire New England whaling village spread over 17 acres of the former George Greenman & Co…

4. Stonington Vineyards

2.87 MILES

This vineyard, the state's third-oldest, is open year-round and offers tastings and tours through the picturesque facility, which on occasion has food…

5. Captain Nathaniel Palmer House

3.19 MILES

The 16-room Captain Nathaniel Palmer House is one of the finest houses in town and the former home of the first American to see the continent of…

6. Saltwater Farm Vineyard

3.51 MILES

Housed in a striking 1930s aluminum airport hangar, Saltwater Farm is one of the newest vineyards in Connecticut. Surrounded by tidal marshes and cooled…

7. Velvet Mill

3.78 MILES

This community arts center hosts a weekend farmers market (10am to 1pm Saturday, October to May) and an artisan/vendor market (10am to 4pm Saturday and…

8. Portuguese Holy Ghost Society Building

3.79 MILES

Built in 1836, the club building of the Portuguese Holy Ghost Society is a reminder of the contributions Portuguese whalers have made to Stonington since…