Old Lyme Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, Old Lyme is a charming town that captures the essence of New England. With its rich history, artistic heritage, and natural beauty, this hidden gem offers a perfect destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and cultural retreat.

Step back in time as you wander through the historic district of Old Lyme. This quaint area boasts beautifully preserved colonial buildings, showcasing the town's architectural heritage. Take a leisurely stroll down Lyme Street, lined with charming shops, art galleries, and antique stores. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the past, and don't miss the Florence Griswold Museum, which was once the epicenter of the American Impressionist art movement.

For nature enthusiasts, Old Lyme offers an abundance of outdoor activities. Explore the picturesque hiking trails of the Lyme Land Conservation Trust, which wind through lush forests and reveal breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take a scenic drive along the Connecticut River, or embark on a boat tour to observe the diverse wildlife and stunning waterfront landscapes.

Art lovers will be captivated by Old Lyme's artistic legacy. Known as the "Art Colony," this town has been a gathering place for renowned painters, such as Childe Hassam and Henry Ward Ranger. Visit the Lyme Art Association, the oldest continuously operating art association in the country, and marvel at the impressive collection of local and regional artwork. Don't miss the Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts, where aspiring artists can hone their skills and be inspired by the town's creative atmosphere.

Indulge your taste buds at one of Old Lyme's charming restaurants, offering a delectable array of culinary delights. From fresh seafood caught daily to farm-to-table cuisine, there is something to satisfy every palate. Sample local wines at one of the nearby vineyards, or treat yourself to a sweet treat at one of the town's charming bakeries.

Alternative names: Area: 28.8 mi²Elevation: 26 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°18'51"N, 72°19'38"W

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ConnecticutUnited States

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Old Lyme Top Attractions

Old Lyme Attractions - What to See and Explore

Old Lyme offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Florence Griswold Museum, Lyme Art Association, Watch Rock Park, Old Lyme Congregational Church. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Historical place • Art gallery
Florence Griswold Museum
The Florence Griswold Museum is an Art Museum at 96 Lyme Street in Old Lyme, Connecticut centered on the home of Florence Griswold, which was the center of the Old Lyme Art Colony, a main nexus of American Impressionism.
Museum • Shopping
Lyme Art Association
Lyme-Old Lyme High School is a public high school in Old Lyme, Connecticut. It serves grades 9 through 12 and is the only high school operated by Lyme-Old Lyme Schools.
Park
Watch Rock Park
Watch Rock Park is a 25-acre park in Old Lyme, Connecticut owned by the Old Lyme Conservation Trust. It is located off Joel Road at the point where the Duck River flows into the Connecticut River, just above the point where the Connecticut flows into Long Island Sound.

Church
Old Lyme Congregational Church
The Old Lyme Congregational Church is located in Old Lyme, Connecticut. The church is noted as a favorite subject of Old Lyme Art Colony painters. It is affiliated with the United Church of Christ.
Museum • Art gallery
Lyme Art Association
Lyme Art Association is a non-profit art organization established in 1914, with roots going back to 1902. The organization maintains a historic art gallery located at 90 Lyme Street in the Old Lyme Historic District, Old Lyme, Connecticut.
Cemetery
Duck River Cemetery
The Duck River Cemetery, also known as the Old Lyme Cemetery is the communal burying ground of the town of Old Lyme, Connecticut. The earliest surviving grave marker dates from 1676, Renold Marvin`s gravestone. A tidal stream known as the Duck River and a salt marsh bisect the burying ground.

Day trips

Old Lyme – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Old Lyme, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Mystic Seaport (Mystic), Submarine Force Library and Museum (Groton), Montauk Point Lighthouse (Montauk).

19 milesE
Museum, Maritime museum
Mystic Seaport, Mystic
Mystic Seaport, nestled in the picturesque town of Mystic, Connecticut, is a quintessential New England attraction and a treasure trove for maritime enthusiasts. This expansive museum, often referred to as The Museum of America and the Sea, offers a unique glimpse into...
13 milesNE
Museum, Specialty museum, Military museum
Submarine Force Library and Museum, Groton
The Submarine Force Library and Museum, located in Groton, Connecticut, stands as a testament to the rich history and technological advancements of the United States submarine force. This unique museum is the only submarine museum operated by the United States Navy...
30 milesSE
Lighthouse
Montauk Point Lighthouse, Montauk
Perched at the easternmost tip of Long Island, the Montauk Point Lighthouse stands as a sentinel over the tumultuous waters where the Atlantic Ocean meets Block Island Sound. Constructed in 1796 under the direction of President George Washington and authorized by the...
9.7 miNE
Racetrack, Sport venue, Sport
Waterford Speedbowl, Waterford
Rev up your engines and prepare for an adrenaline rush at the Waterford Speedbowl, an iconic car racing track nestled in the city of Waterford, Connecticut. This asphalt oval track has been fueling the excitement of motorsports enthusiasts since 1951, offering a...
24 milesE
Amusement, Historical place, Amusement ride
Flying Horse Carousel, Watch Hill
The Flying Horse Carousel is a historic carousel in Watch Hill, the principal summer resort area of the town of Westerly, Rhode Island, United States.