Dog Friendly Vacation In Mystic CT

If you are looking for a fun and relaxing getaway with your furry friend, come to Mystic! On the coast of Long Island Sound there are plenty of dog friendly attractions and activities for a fun vacation. Here are a handful of some of the best things to do with your dog in Mystic.

Lola Sunshine graced us with her presence a while back.

Explore Downtown Mystic

One of the highlights of visiting Mystic is strolling through its historic downtown, where you can find quaint shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries. Many of these places welcome dogs, so you can bring your pup along as you browse and dine. 

Mystic Knotwork, visit us! We have nautical knots and macramé items including dog toys and one of a kind dog leashes, cat toys too. You might even meet our mascot Betsy Mongrel, who is seen often with Jill strolling down the streets of Downtown Mystic. Yes, dogs are welcome.

Betsy waiting to greet you.

When you visit our shop with your friendly dog don't worry Betsy will keep an eye on them. Here a frisky visitor ready to pay for his dog toy.

This tiny pup prefers the smaller dog toy.

Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream, a popular place to get a scoop of homemade ice cream or frozen yogurt, so many choices and sundaes! Get the Pup Cup for your dog, soft serve vanilla or whipped cream in a small cup (it's free). Visit in the morning and meet their shop dog, Lola, and the other pup regulars. 

Mystic River Park, a scenic spot to enjoy the views of the river that runs right through town and the bascule bridge. Relax on the park benches or bring a blanket and lie in the shade with your pup. You can also catch live music and events here during the summer and year round.

Chillin' under one of the many park benches...

...with my buddies.

At the park I met Maria and her rescue Yorkie pup, Chewy.

Betsy pondering the Mystic Noank Library book cart.

A few years ago Jill caught the Fidelco guide dogs training on the boardwalk.

Mystic Museum of Art, a cultural institution that showcases local and regional artists. I heard dogs are allowed on the waterfront grounds and in the lobby, but not in the galleries. Check before you go.

Mystic Museum of Art located right on the river.

Mystic Seaport For Dogs

You know how fun the Seaport is, a living history museum that recreates a 19th-century seafaring village. Learn about the maritime heritage of New England, see historic ships and buildings, and watch demonstrations and exhibits. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the grounds, but may not enter restaurants, exhibit buildings, or hop onboard display vessels. Dogs are allowed on boat rentals and on the waterfront cruise boat, as long as there’s room on the tour for the dogs to fit comfortably.

Beaches, Parks, Vineyards

If you and your dog love nature and outdoor activities, you will find plenty of options in Mystic and nearby areas. You can take your dog to one of the many beaches and parks that allow dogs, such as:

Esker Point Beach, a sandy beach with picnic tables, restrooms, and a boat launch. Dogs are allowed on leash from October 1 to April 30.
Bluff Point State Park, a coastal reserve with hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic views. Dogs are allowed on leash year-round.
Haley Farm State Park, a former dairy farm with open fields, stone walls, and biking trails. Dogs are allowed on leash year-round.

Happy dog Betsy at the beach

Saltwater Farm Vineyard, a beautiful vineyard that has music events/bring your picnic, where dogs are allowed on a leash year-round. The good news is there are a handful of other vineyards around the Mystic area!

Barn Island, a great place to hike, bird watch, kayak or bike with beautiful scenic views of saltwater marshes and Long Island Sound. Dogs on leash welcome.

George is on a long leash at Barn Island.

Restaurants and Bars

Many allow dogs on a leash on their outdoor patios. Engine Room, Jealous Monk and Friar Tucks to name a few. There are also a lot of water bowls here and there as you walk through town, some with nearby snacks.

Engine Room

Stay at a Pet Friendly Rental or Hotel

After a day of fun and adventure with your dog, you will need a cozy and comfortable place to rest and relax. Luckily, Mystic has many pet friendly vacation rentals that can accommodate you and your pup. You can choose from a variety of properties, such as historic houses, modern cottages, waterfront apartments, airbnb's and more. Too many to list but many welcome a well behaved, house broken fur baby! The House of 1833 below.

You can browse more pet friendly places in Mystic on websites like Vrbo, Tripadvisor or BringFido.

If your dog is a salty dog, loves being on the water, the Mystic River is calm for kayaking and paddle boarding. Check out these pups Jill captured during some fine days on the water.

Full boat with 3 golden retrievers!

Enjoying the ride.

Shutter bug alert! Right next to the park is this perfect spot for a pup photo opportunity with the bridge in the background.

Take me to Mystic!