Best 31 things to do in Essex, CT

Explore river landmarks and look for local wildlife with crew narration

Sail the Connecticut River aboard a re-creation of a 1614 vessel

Explore dinosaur trails, caves, a maze, playgrounds, and a seasonal Splash Pad

Cast off on a private fishing trip aboard the Sunbeam VI

Drift reef structure for bottom fish with bait included

Drift-fish reef waters at sunset and keep your catch

Cast off aboard a 42-foot boat for private fishing

Drift fish reef structure for blues and striped bass from a 70-foot boat

Drift reef waters for fluke with bait included and your catch to keep

Explore island history and local legends from the water

Private sunset cruise with space for your food, drinks, and playlist

See the Thimble Islands from open decks with live narration

Captain your own boat on a guided 3-hour Mystic River ride

Captain your own boat for 1 hour on Fishers Island Sound

Taste six curated stops on a guided walk through Mystic’s coastal dining scene

Trace Mystic’s maritime past through landmarks and lesser-known waterfront stories

A guided social night of pizza, drinks and downtown Mystic bars

Frame Mystic’s harbor, streets, and drawbridge in golden-hour light

Ride the HighFlyer Zipline for Long Island Sound views at Foxwoods

Zipline flight plus kart race with one pass

Hear local history on a shared narrated Connecticut River cruise

Tour Wethersfield Cove and the Connecticut River with live narration

Join a narrated public boat tour from Glastonbury’s Riverfront Park

Create a custom private outing for your next occasion