By Ann Sullivan
As days grow longer and spring turns to summer, New England becomes a popular draw for its wealth of vacation destinations with warm weather activities and pristine surroundings. Some places are off the beaten path and more on the quiet side. Others are crowded mainstream towns where the fun never seems to end. There are abundant beaches, parks, water activities, historic sites, arts & entertainment and plenty of great food. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to find it in one of these 10 best New England summertime destinations.
1) Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is a great summer town with many exciting things to do. The Museum of America and The Sea, in Mystic Seaport, is the largest maritime museum in the United States. It has a village as well as 17 acres of exhibits and numerous historic ships. The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. On the second weekend of June, the River Jam music festival welcomes a variety of bands performing rock, blues, reggae and more at the Mystic Shipyard. Mystic is also home to the oldest outdoor art festival, which spans two miles of the downtown district and attracts over 100,000 visitors. It’s free of charge and includes a children’s art park. Taste of Mystic, also in June, has 20-30 local restaurants set up in a street festival atmosphere serving up their culinary delights at Old Mistick Village.
