Knowing what to do when visiting Niantic, Connecticut, can be the difference between having an unforgettable vacation and a mediocre vacation. Niantic is part of East Lyme, which is about two hours from either Boston or New York, and overlooks Long Island Sound, an estuary of the Atlantic Ocean. This village has something for everyone, and whether you're a beach or outdoor fanatic, a history buff or a bookworm, Niantic won't disappoint.
About 2 miles from Niantic, you can find the 710 acres that make up Rocky Neck State Park. In addition to daily visitors, this park has 160 wooded and open campsites to accommodate campers from May through September. Camping and parking fees do apply. In addition to hiking, picnicking, crabbing, and saltwater fishing and swimming, frolicking on the sandy beach that's housed in this park is also an option. If the beach is crowded, consider driving less than 3 miles east to McCook Point Beach and Park, as well as the Hole-in-the-Wall Beach. Both are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Before visiting, make sure to go to the community center on Society Road to buy a season or day pass at the East Lyme Parks & Recreation office.
During a visit to the Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut on Main Street, kids can enjoy imaginative and interactive play. The 5,000-square-foot museum houses various exhibits that are based on science, art, health, and world culture. Kids can pretend to be the captain of a fishing boat or mimic an architect while building with blocks. The museum has two outdoor playgrounds that feature a tree house, a climbing wall and a zip line. Parents can also get involved and solve puzzles and clues while participating in one of the organized scavenger hunts.
If you're a history buff, a four-minute drive south of Niantic's center will bring you to the Smith-Harris House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Thomas Avery House. Avery was the original owner of this Greek revival house that was built in 1845. He passed it along to family members, and eventually, it got sold to to the Town of East Lyme. During the months of June, July and August, you can take a self-guided tour of this rare piece of architecture and its gardens free of charge.
With three locations within a mile of each other, The Book Barn in Niantic is a must-see. Whether you're looking for a recent bestseller or a classic, with up to 500,000 used books that are spread among the three locations, it's likely that you'll find what you're looking for. Even if you don't fancy books, the company of the cats and goat that call the Book Barn on West Main home, and the welcoming picnic tables that allow you to enjoy the beautiful surrounding gardens while sipping a cup of complimentary coffee or tea, are well worth a visit.
