Spend a Day in Niantic, Connecticut

Tucked along the Southeastern Connecticut coastline is Niantic, CT. It has a traditional New England Main Street, flanked by small, gourmet restaurants, specialty shops, a movie theater, and beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. The fact that it is a virtual unknown in tourist destinations simply adds to its charm. While the Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Casinos, as well as the Mystic Seaport, are nearby, Niantic offers a more serene vacation spot. Here are some tips for making your stay in Niantic, Ct a fantastic one.

1. Where to Stay

Niantic is a very small village that boasts two big names in hospitality! The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina is a waterfront B&B, with unparalleled views of the Long Island Sound. The Inn has been awarded the Golden Pineapple Award for Excellence in Tourism Services and Hospitality, as well as Best of New England by bedandbreakfast.com. Further, the Inn at Harbor Hill is within walking distance to all of downtown Niantic's shops and restaurants. Additionally, the Niantic Inn offers wonderful accommodations for any visitor to Niantic. It is located just across from the Niantic Boardwalk and Beach. The Inn has huge rooms with amenities, such as wi-fi, microwave, and television.

2. Where to Eat

You will not find a chain restaurant in this little village and for good reason. The local restaurants offer gourmet meals at inexpensive prices and great service. For breakfast, try the Niantic Diner or Village Bake House. The Diner offers standard breakfast fare and impeccable service. The Village Bake House has outstanding coffee and an array of breakfast baked goods. When lunchtime rolls around, you are sure to find something unique at the Eclectic Chef on Main Street. With homemade soups, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a front seat to some great people watching, you cannot go wrong. If you really want a taste of some New England seafood, grab a seat at Dad's Restaurant where you can get a scallop roll, fried clams, or a fried fish sandwich, just to name a few. At Dad's, you will have a great view of the water, as well as the trains passing by. Finally, for dinner make your way to Illiano's for homemade Italian food and New York style pizza. Illiano's has long been a local favorite due to its impeccable service and great food.

3. What to Do

Although some of Connecticut's major tourist attractions are close by, make sure to indulge in what Niantic has to offer. The Niantic Boardwalk is a 1.1 mile stretch that spans the Long Island Sound and connects two of Niantic's beaches. There is free parking on either end of the Boardwalk, so you may enjoy the gorgeous views and fresh, salt air for as long as you desire. Niantic is also home to the Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut. The Museum offers interactive, hands-on exhibits for children and is a true gem for worn out parents. If you are looking for history, you can visit the Little Boston Schoolhouse and the Smith-Harris House, just a couple of miles outside of downtown. Additionally, if you seek a more active vacation, there are a number of places to rent canoes, kayaks, golf clubs, and bicycles. Niantic offers a number of beaches and lakes in which you can pack a picnic lunch or enjoy various water activities, including fishing charters and clamming. Finally, if you are looking for a unique shopping excursion, Niantic is a great choice. The village offers a number of specialty shops, including a household goods store, antique stores, and fine gift stores. You are sure to find something for someone back home and perhaps for yourself.

Niantic, CT is a great Southeastern Connecticut getaway, offering all of the perks of a big tourist destination with none of the crowds or hassles. Hopefully, you will make Niantic a stop on your next visit to the Connecticut shores.