Within walking distance from The Whaler's Inn and the wedding reception you'll find a street with more than 80 independently owned charming local shops and galleries. This is a great place to spend some time in between the ceremony and reception while the bride and groom take photos.
Mystic Seaport Museum is the largest maritime museum in the United States. It is notable for its collection of sailing ships and boats and for the re-creation of the crafts and fabric of an entire 19th-century seaport village. It consists of more than 60 meticulously restored historic buildings. If you love boats or have your kids with you this is a great way to spend a few hours during the day.
One of the late night spots in the walkable area, about 10 min from The Whaler's Inn. Known for having live music every night and great Espresso Martinis. The other spots that are open late night are a little closer to the hotel. The Harp & Hound, the local Irish pub and Chapter One if you like to dance.
Just a short 15 minute drive from downtown Mystic featuring 100 acres of coastal property with a renovated WWII vintage hangar opening onto terraces and the vineyard. They have a tasting room with regularly scheduled live music, they host weddings here so if you plan to visit, call ahead to make sure they are open to the public that day. There are several other wineries under an hour away, but this is the closest to the wedding and to the shore. If you would like other recommendations on the Connecticut Wine Trail, reach out to Molly, her parents know a lot of local wineries!
Fun fact: Connecticut is home to not one, but two, of world known and top rated Indian casinos, the other being the Mohegan Sun. Foxwoods is the largest resort casino in North America located 30 minutes from the wedding events. Their vast complex is home to several casinos, shopping, theaters, spas and a zip line.
Naval Submarine Base New London is the primary United States Navy East Coast submarine base, also known as the "Home of the Submarine Force." It is located in Groton, Connecticut 20 minutes from the wedding events. You cannot go in, but you can drive by to try and see a SUB or visit the free U.S. Navy Submarine Force Museum.
Misquamacut is the state beach in Westerly Rhode Island that both Molly and Patrick grew up going to in the summers. Just a 30 minute drive from the wedding events. If weather permits we recommend bringing a swimsuit and having a beach day! You'll have to pay to park here. Westerly Rhode Island is a very cute little town with restaurants and shops as well. Another small beach in the area is called Watch Hill.
Newport Rhode Island is just over an hour away and is home to gorgeous coastal views, scenic walks, beaches, and harbors. Molly highly recommends the ~90 minute cliff walk to appreciate the ocean view as well as the stunning mansions. She also recommends eating at Perro Salado, a locally inspired Mexican restaurant serving gourmet tacos, moles, tequila and mezcal in a small historic house in downtown.