My favorite New England seaside village is Connecticut's Stonington Borough. The town is tucked away on the southeastern Connecticut shore, not far from Interstate 95. Stonington Borough is chock full of quintessential charm and historical magnificence. This village appears to have successfully avoided the fast lane, and perhaps it's so comfortable because hordes of tourists haven't found it yet.
There's a well-balanced appeal to the town; its high-class waterside image is sprinkled with history, romance and down home allure. Stonington Borough is a working fishing village and its fleet of boats adds to the magic of the place. It's perfect for a weekend escape, an add-on to a Foxwoods Casino or Mohegan Sun Casino trip, or even a meeting spot halfway between New York and Boston.
What are the must-see attractions in the Borough? Here are five things to do when you visit:
1. Stay in a historic inn. The Inn at Stonington is renowned for its beautifully appointed rooms, friendly ambiance, and location. Don't miss the wine and cheese hour held nightly.
2. Go for a stroll. Water Street is the main drag in town. It's lined with antique shops, boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and local favorites. A majority of the houses in the village are pre-1900, and the side streets are packed with restored homes.
3. See the Old Lighthouse Museum. The stone lighthouse and museum are located at the foot of Water Street. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse, which was built here in 1840, for a fascinating view in all directions. Adjacent to the museum is DuBois Beach which is open to the public.
4. Grab a bite at a local eatery. Noah's Restaurant, located on Water Street, is famous for their homey and regional cuisine. At the Skipper's Dock Restaurant you can dine al fresco on the water. Their delicious hot lobster sandwich on toasted bread is an indulgent treat.
5. Visit the town dock. Here's where the seafood comes ashore to the delight of landlubbers along the East Coast. The annual Blessing of the Fleet takes place each summer at the town dock - this year's event is on July 21 & 22. Before leaving town pick up a package of frozen Stonington scallops at the self-serve vendor on the dock. It'll be a sweet reminder of your visit to Stonington Borough.
For more information about merchants, the marina, and special events taking place in the Borough, visit www.stoningtonboroughct.com.
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