Need a peaceful New England escape filled with art, history, and coastal charm? Head to Old Lyme! Stroll sandy beaches, visit historic art colonies, tour classic colonial homes, and explore nature preserves. Whether you're craving creativity, calm, or coastal beauty, Old Lyme delivers timeless Connecticut charm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Old Lyme is in late spring through early fall (May–October). Enjoy beach days, gallery strolls, outdoor concerts, and scenic hikes during these pleasant, sunny months.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Old Lyme is located off I-95, about 2.5 hours from New York City and 2 hours from Boston.
- By Train: Amtrak stops at nearby Old Saybrook Station (about 15 minutes away) with easy access to taxis or rideshares.
- By Air: Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN) is about 45 minutes away; Bradley International Airport (BDL) is about 1 hour north.
Where to Stay
- Old Lyme Inn – Historic, charming inn with cozy rooms, jazz performances, and a popular tavern.
- Bee and Thistle Inn – Elegant historic bed and breakfast surrounded by lush gardens near the Lieutenant River.
- Saybrook Point Resort & Marina (nearby) – Luxury resort offering waterfront views, a spa, and fine dining, just minutes away in Old Saybrook.
Best Things to Do
1. Florence Griswold Museum
Rating: ★★★★★
The Florence Griswold Museum, which magnificently displays its role as the home of the Lyme Art Colony and the birthplace of American Impressionism, can be found on the banks of the Lieutenant River. Encompassing a flourishing 13-acre surrounding, the Georgian home of Florence Griswold, and the Krieble Gallery, the museum is one of the most visited attractions in Old Lyme. You’ll be able to embrace the beauty of several temporary collections as well as its permanent collection, which includes the works of artists from the 18th century up to the present day. You’ll be able to see the works of Ammi Phillips, Thomas Cole, Childe Hassam, and many more artists while you’re there.
96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
2. Black Hall Outfitters
Since it was established in 1999, Black Hall Outfitters quickly grew to become the local authority on kayak fishing. In addition to their rentals and sales, Black Hall also provides a variety of tours which are a unique way to explore the area’s waters. You can go paddle boarding during the sunset, show off your skills with kayak fishing, test your balance with stand up paddle boarding, or go on an eco-tour to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna. Discover some of the most pristine coastlines in the nation on the Long Island Sound while learning so much from you certified kayak instructor and naturalist.
132 Shore Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, Phone: 860-434-9680
3. Lyme Art Association
Old Lyme is packed with art as it was the home a prolific art colony in the beginning of the 20th century. The Lyme Art Association was incorporated in 1914 and began at the home of Florence Griswold, the birthplace of American Impressionism. The gallery has several exhibitions throughout the year, often displaying works of both professional and developing artists. In addition to exploring the exhibits, you can also spend your time taking part in one of the many classes and workshops held at the Lyme Art Association’s Gallery. Some of their most popular classes are Beginning and Intermediate Watercolor, Portrait/ Figure Drawing and Painting, Oil Painting for Beginners, and Working with Pastels.
90 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. The Chocolate Shell
Often called “the sweetest destination in Old Lyme”, The Chocolate Shell is sure to have something to satisfy your sweet tooth. The shop has been around since the 1980s, though the current owner took over in 2011. Walking in, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory; the shop is full of truffles, bonbons, and chocolate covered everything no matter if you prefer salty pretzels or chewy gummy bears. Another reason that The Chocolate Shell is so popular is because it’s the best place to buy nostalgia-inducing candies from your childhood like Peanut Chews, Mallo Cups, and Abba Zabba.
16B Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371, Phone: 860-434-9727
5. Connecticut Art Trail
The Connecticut Art Trail will guide you on a journey through fifteen historic sites and world-class museums, all of which are located on a single path of travel. The trail was established in 1995 as a way of making it easier for residents and visitors to explore, appreciate, and celebrate Impressionist art, though now it has expanded to include other styles of art as well. Some of museums which you’ll find along the way are the Yale University Art Gallery, the Florence Griswold Museum, the Bruce Museum, and the Bush-Holley Historic Site. To make it easier, you can purchase an Art Pass which will grant you admission to several of the museums on the trail for one low price.
6. Bell 8 Charters
Home of the Black Hall Outfitters and Marina, Bell 8 Charters can handle all of your outdoor adventure needs. You can utilize the services of this renowned company to partake in fun activities such as swimming, birdwatching, fishing, and much more. Cruise the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River Estuary to come across the local flora and fauna such as the marshes, various species of fish, and shore birds such as kingfishers, gulls, and marsh sparrows. Their fishing and fly fishing tours are incomparable and is sure to be an amazing experience for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Walk and swim through stunning deserted beaches which seem as if you’re on an exotic island. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Bell 8 Charters is one of the most sought-after companies in the state.
132 Shore Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, Phone: 860-490-0967
7. Coffee's Country Market and Catering
Coffee's Country Market and Catering is must-visit deli and full-service catering company in Old Lyme, Connecticut. To ensure that everything served at Coffee’s is delightful and full of flavor, the culinary-trained chefs follow three rules: fresh ingredients, classic cooking techniques, and no short cuts. They’ve won many awards over the years including the Best of Readers’ Choice Awards for Food and Dining. Stop by for a hearty breakfast of eggs and ham, an omelet, or a freshly baked giant muffin. They also have a varied selection of sandwiches, wraps, desserts, cookies, and other bakery items like sticky buns, buttery croissants, and cinnamon rolls.
169 Boston Post Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, Phone: 860-434-1877
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