We saw Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport, and Olde Mistick Village in one day and my personal favorite was the Planetarium at the Seaport. I have always been fascinated by the stars, and since my husband and I were the only ones in the audience, we got an extra-long (about an hour or so) explanation and demonstration. The guide told us all about the various constellations and took special care to explain how the stars look differently depending upon where you live and the time of the season. There is an extra $3 charge for this building, but we certainly got our money’s worth.
We also received a special tour of the Charles Morgan, the "last remaining wooden whaling ship". I think there were four of us listening to all of the information. Each of the guides in every building we visited seemed genuinely in love with the sea and the heritage the museum was portraying. A special exhibit on display at the time we visited was the Sea Dogs exhibit – about how dogs have been involved in sea events. I also enjoyed the large building of figureheads. Quite a variety – of sizes, shapes, and details!
Two comments about the Seaport – not all buildings are open in the winter. In fact, I am sure we would have a different experience if we went during the summer. You would have more to see and more of the "hustle and bustle" feeling. According to the website, "You don't just view our exhibits. You live and breathe them." Secondly, Mystic Seaport has a policy of returning the next day for free so it is best to visit this "attraction" before the end of your vacation.
Click here for lots of facts about the Seaport.
I had several favorites at the Aquarium. As expected, the sea lion show was very entertaining. I also was very impressed with seeing the beluga whales and the penguins, since they are not the normal "animals" you see in other aquariums. In fact the whole Alaskan Coast exhibit area was very nicely laid out for maximum enjoyment. Finally the aquarium has various special exhibits that change during the year. The "PT 109, Courage under Fire" exhibit was also different from past experiences. I believe we spent much more time at the Aquarium than we expected.
Click here for lots of facts about the Aquarium.