Brilliant is a schooner located at the Mystic Port in Connecticut. It was built in the year 1932 on City Island, Bronx. It was originally built as an ocean racing yacht. It crossed the Atlantic Ocean within 15 days on its maiden voyage. It was later acquired by the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, when two machine guns were loaded on the yacht. After being sold to a sailor post the war, it is currently owned by the Mystic Port since 1957, and used as a classroom and part of watercraft collection.

Formerly known as the Mystic Arts Center, the Mystic Museum of Art is a beautiful art gallery overlooking the Mystic River. It provides a base for upcoming artists to showcase their works. Ranging from paintings and photography exhibits to fine art and sculptures, excellent works of art are on display here. In addition to an art gallery, the museum functions as a venue for events. The center also conducts art classes for children and adults alike, with a focus on the basics of painting, photography, and drawing. Drop by to see works by talented artists or enroll in one of the classes to learn more about art.

The Museum of America and the Sea is a great place to take the kids to teach them about the importance and effects of the whaling industry on the towns dotting the Connecticut shoreline. America's last wooden whaling ship, the Charles W. Morgan, resides at this fascinating living history museum in Mystic, a quaint seaside town about an hour outside of New Haven. Learn about the steps involved in making the perilous trip out to sea for fishing or whaling, admire the historic vessels on display here, and walk down memory lane as you explore a historic seafaring village. Scenes from Steven Spielberg's 1997 film Amistad were filmed here. Visitors can also participate in numerous hands-on activities, making a trip here an incredibly memorable one. The nation's leading maritime museum, Mystic Seaport is a must-see if visiting Connecticut.

Launched in 1841 from New Bedford, Massachusetts, the Morgan is considered to be the last surviving commercial ship made of wood still afloat. The ship undertook 37 whaling voyages across its 80-year career with a 38th being launched in 2014 after complete restoration. This 'lucky ship' is a surviving relic of a bygone era and offers unique insight into one of New England's most common economic enterprises. A National Historic Landmark, the ship is today docked at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Tours are available on site.

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is a 300-acre (120-hectare) wildlife sanctuary, which serves as a refuge for numerous species. It's a place full of adventure, with several hiking trails beckoning to explorers and picturesque environs inviting quiet contemplation. Families can enjoy a picnic in the company of nature at the picnic tables. The Center comprises a natural history museum, a storehouse of information on natural phenomena and wildlife, and a nature shop where visitors can buy nature guides, bird feeders and other useful articles. Events and summer camps for kids are also organized.

Hands-on underwater exploration is a key feature of the Mystic Aquarium. Come see beluga whales in a lovely outdoor area, along with African Penguins, sea lions and much more. You can also participate in special Animal Encounter Programs where you get an hour to interact with sea lions, penguins, seals and stingrays. In addition to exhilarating interactive experiences, visitors can survey marine exhibits on display at the on-site gallery. Marvel at the Giant Japanese Spider Crabs or admire sharks and pufferfish in their natural habitats. The Mystic Aquarium also features an expansive Jurassic exhibit that delights kids and adults alike.

Enjoying the distinction of being the oldest mill of its kind in the country, B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill catapults visitors to the past and offers a glimpse of life as it prevailed in the 1880s. Located just north of Olde Mistick Village, this popular attraction is best to visit during the beginning of fall when the apples are at their peak and the leaves are turning. Free tours are available and demonstrations are carried out on weekends during the mill's operational season. The facility also offers wine tastings. Drop by this quaint mill and soak in the historic atmosphere while you sip on their renowned cider and munch on savory doughnuts.

This lovely vineyard is located in the southeastern corner of the state, as part of Connecticut's Wine Trail. Stonington Vineyards is close to the picturesque village of Mystic, so for the parents this is a great getaway and experience if in the area. There are free, 25-minute tours of the vineyards every day at 2p as well as tastings of their red and white wines. The gift shop sells every variety of their special wines, not to mention handmade gift baskets with goodies for all occasions.

The historic nucleus of Groton, this legendary state park lends deep insights into the nuances of the American Revolutionary War. The site is situated along the meandering Thames River, which is the primary waterway in eastern Connecticut. Fort Griswold was a key landmark during the 1781 Battle of Groton Heights, when Benedict Arnold and British troops invaded and burned New London, including what is today Groton; however the Fort was spared when the British took control of it. The historic state park shelters a troupe of many significant monuments, like the Ebenezer Avery House, the Fort Griswold State Park Shot Furnace, the Monument House Museum which interprets the war through exhibits, and the solemn Groton Monument, which is a stirring tribute to those who died guarding the premise. An august reminder of the valiant stride of the Americans, the indelible fort grounds have left a soul-stirring mark on the pages of American history.

The off-shore New London Ledge Light was built in 1909 and has been operated by the United States Coast Guard since 1939. This little brick lighthouse is one of the most iconic structures in Connecticut, sitting at the mouth of the Thames River. Many are aware of the lighthouse thanks to paranormal television programs, like Most Haunted and Ghost Hunters, who have traveled to this outpost in search of the building's most famous tenant, "Ernie." Whether or not Ernie exists is up to you, but you might not want to be out at the lighthouse by yourself after dark.

Hygienic Art Galleries aim is to provide a platform for new as well as established and resident artists. The present location at Bank Street earlier housed Hygienic Restaurant, which shut in 1985. After a lot of community activism, the historic building that was scheduled to be demolished, was saved. Finally, the same opened in the year 2000 and stands as a testimony of successful community development projects and amazing venue for arts. An extended gallery of Hygienic Art called the Carriage House on 35 Golden Street, also showcases some interesting artwork.

The Customs House in New London was constructed in 1833 and is the oldest continuously-operated customs office in the United States. This building is still a functioning customs building for the city of New London. Another notable feature of this building is that it was designed by Robert Mills, architect of the Washington Monument. The Customs House is today home to the Maritime Museum that offers a glimpse into the town's fascinating history and culture as well as the famous story of La Amistad, a historic schooner. The museum also offers special lighthouse and boat trips, a museum shop, and interesting temporary exhibitions.