One of the best tourist attractions in the state, the USS Nautilus is the world's first nuclear powered submarine and the sub is open for visitors to explore the nooks and crannies of a 1950s sub docked along the Thames River. Marvel at the re-creation of David Bushnell's Turtle, a one-man, torpedo-launching submarine invented during the Revolutionary War; the inventor was from the nearby town of Westbrook. The Submarine Force Museum houses over 30,000 pieces of nautical memorabilia and the museum is actively maintained by the Navy.
Established in 1926, this community art museum is a resourceful center to learn about the local culture and art. It was founded by shipping merchant Lyman Allyn's daughter Harriet Upson Allyn. The museum features an extensive collection of paintings, decorative art, and prints spanning a time frame of 5000 years, as well as some contemporary artworks. Its campus is also home to the Deshon-Allyn House, a 19th-century Federal-style listed building that was purchased by Lyman Allyn.
This tribal-owned and operated museum is housed in a striking building designed by famed architect James Stewart Polshek. Permanent and temporary exhibits focus on 300 years of Native American artistry and history. Don't miss the replica of an ancient Pequot village, replete with life-sized models and sound effects. The gift shop carries splendors from all Native American tribes. Expect at least an hour drive from New Haven and call the toll free number or check the Web site for directions. There is a shuttle to the museum from the Foxwoods Casino.
The Sunbeam Fleet sails from Waterford where you can plan your next family or corporate outing on Long Island Sound. There are even public fishing day trips and overnight trips out on the water to the best spots for your big catch. If fishing isn't you thing, there are tours that you can participate in, such as the Lighthouse tour that takes you to Old Saybrook, Long Island and Cape Cod to see some of New England's finest lighthouses. Fans of sealife can enjoy the Harbor Seal Cruises, which offers three hours out on the water to see the creatures that inhabit the Sound. Or, climb aboard for a Fireworks Cruise to see some spectacular fireworks on one of the Sunbeam Fleet.
The Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut is located close to Mystic in the nearby town of Niantic. This local favorite is a great place to take the kids on a lazy summer afternoon or during the weekend for an educational, yet fun-filled outing. The museum features several learning and play areas where children can learn a range of science-based activities through interactive displays. There is also a sand pit and a tree-house on site for younger kids.
The Florence Griswold Museum spawned from the home of Florence Griswold, whose residence was the center of the Lyme Art Colony. The colony of American Impressionists used this home as their base as it was a boarding house for the region's budding artist community. Today, the house has been restored to how it appeared in 1910 and is one of the region's best-loved museums. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for books on local art and images of Long Island Sound.