Connecticut Shoreline
Date: 2004-11-14
The sights on this drive have more to do with culture and history than vistas viewed from winding roads on mountaintops or coastline drives. And if you are checking out some of the fine wines at vineyards en route, please assign a designated driver. The Connecticut shoreline is best reached by driving I-95 with stops at various Points of Interest. The drive begins in the town of Clinton (Exit 63 on I-95), home to antique stores and the Clinton Crossings outlet shopping center. The Clinton Historical Society in the Capt. Elisha White House on East Main Street is known locally as the "Old Brick." Other historic sites in Clinton include the cannon at Waterside Lane that was used in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, and the Stanton House, now a museum of American antiques.
Just outside town on Walnut Hill Road is Chamard Winery, which offers tours and wine tastings. Return to I-95 north to Exit 90 and the seaport town of Mystic. Known for its well-preserved historic houses and tall ships, Mystic also has fine shops, antique stores and restaurants. Mystic Seaport, a maritime museum with exhibition galleries and a working shipyard, is a great way to learn about the region's seagoing past. Better yet, take a cruise on the Steamship S.S. Sabino, the last coal-fired passenger steamer in operation. The Portersville Academy, a restored 1839 school with authentic classrooms, is open to the public.
The Haight Vineyard Winery, near the aquarium, is also open for tours. For the last leg of the trip, return to I-95 north to Exit 91 at Stonington, another town steeped in New England history. Stonington Borough, off Rte. 1, is a tiny village with many carefully preserved 18th and 19th Century houses and a busy village center. The Capt. Nathaniel B. Palmer House has exhibits detailing the life and times of the Antarctic explorer. Climb the tower of the Old Stonington Lighthouse for some wonderful views of the village and harbor. Built in 1823, the lighthouse was dismantled and moved to its present location so it would not be washed into the sea as the shore was eroding. The structure was sold to the Stonington Historical Society in 1925 and converted to a maritime museum.
Starting Point:
Clinton, CT
Distance of Drive:
36 miles
Must Eat:
Abbott's Lobster in the Rough
117 Pearl Street, Mystic, CT 06355
Phone:860-536-7719
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Good Stop For:Seafood
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Early spring to late fall
Points of Interest on Drive:
Mystic Seaport--a maritime museum
Capt. Nathaniel B. Palmer House
Chamard winery
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