When it comes to the East Coast, Florida tends to steal all the shine for beach getaways, followed by the Big Apple for its massive urban sprawl with seemingly every attraction under the sun.
But a neighboring state many opt to hide out and live in peace over circling Manhattan for an overpriced parking spot each morning is ready to change its reputation as a blissful hideaway and pass-through state in favor of becoming a destination in its own right.
Arguably New England's most underrated state, it's brimming with small-town charm, coastal delights, and epic eats despite most simply stopping here to fill up their tank and continue on their merry way.
That said, there's an exception for everything, right?
In this case, there's one seaside town all but certain to draw a summer crowd, yet has largely remained under wraps despite Julia Roberts' best efforts.
They're not satisfied settling for a busy summer season either — they want to reopen an airport for commercial flights for the first time in decades, aiming to become the East Coast's next big beach escape.
Discover The Mystique Of Mystic
Connecticut has a travel hotspot?
It does — and it’s not Hartford or the college town/pizza paradise of New Haven.
It’s the postcard-perfect town of Mystic, straddling the Mystic River and Mystic Harbor to round out a full waterfront dose of “Mysticism”.
Like its New England neighbors, such as Cape Cod and Kennebunkport, this coastal charm boasts similar delights come summertime, with stress-free days aboard a river cruise, endless boutique shopping, and capping off a sunny day with a glass of wine and incredible fresh seafood whipped up in a quintessential weathered clapboard shack.
Of course, if you're a 90s kid like me, you surely know the movie Mystic Pizza.
Long after the credits rolled, Mystic has remained the type of timeless seaside escape people flock to for drawbridge views, bobbing boats, breezy, salty air, and that almost-tangible New England charm that feels tailor-made for summer.
But what about the beaches?
Mystic may be a waterfront beaut, but it's not particularly known for its beaches, though there is one for sure worth visiting:
Williams Beach Park offers a small but worthy swath of sand perfect for a laid-back beach day, with family-friendly green space and just enough shoreline to scratch your summertime itch — even if your odds of spotting the Kraken are probably better saved for local lore than the waterline.
New Airport In The Works
A short drive away in New London, they're not dealing with Mystic's crowds — they're dealing with the bureaucracy of reopening an airport that hasn't handled commercial flights since 2004.
Remember what I said about Connecticut being a pass-through destination? It's true.
Famously, comedian and podcaster Joe Rogan has sworn off performing here, stating Connecticut is “just a highway” and “not a real state”.
Local officials want to alleviate congestion, especially on I-95, and perhaps change their reputation too.
Mystic is Connecticut's most popular destination despite the glitz and glamour of Greenwich and the much bigger hub of Hartford.
A new airport would connect this blissful region, making it easier for Mystic lovers to reach more conveniently and for residents “Nutmeggers” not to have to make the drive to Hartford or one of New York City's numerous airports.
Discover Mystic
From New London to Stonington, there are dozens of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the masses, including unheard-of islands like Fishers Island, just south of Mystic, ready to be developed as “it” destinations.
With no timeframe in mind, the airport remains a mere idea, but there's no denying this region wants more tourists.
In fact, in their own words, they're practically begging for “any airline” to take over Groton New London Airport.
If only Spirit got the memo before dumping Hartford…
Beautiful Beaches Galore Nearby
Speaking of Fishers Island, if you're up for a grand adventure, that's a great starting point to discover Connecticut's unsung beach paradises.
Home to Isabell Beach, which has yet to receive a negative Google review, and an etched-in-time townscape of 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 shoreline and find other beach towns well worth your while just as aforementioned Stonington with gorgeous DuBois Beach and Groton with many off-path beach spots far removed from city life, such as Bluff Point Beach deep within Bluff Point State Park ($10 entry fee).
Connecticut’s coastline is definitely worth a visit, but it still flies under the radar since not every traveler wants to hit the road — even Mystic tourists make not realize what they're missing out on.
For what it's worth, the “Constitution State” feels very safe to visit, especially hopping from one beachy town to another.
A new report claims violent crime saw double-digit declines statewide.
