The Mystic Aquarium, located on Coogan Boulevard in Old Mystic, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and care for the planet's ocean life through research and education. The Aquarium features indoor and outdoor aquatic exhibits with an expansive array of sea creatures, reptiles and exotic birds, the immersion theater with daily shows, a cafe and gift shop.
Hands-on learning opportunities and classes abound through the Nautilus Live Theater, science education for kids from grades four to eight and interactive exhibits. Tickets can be purchased at an extra cost for wading with the Beluga whales and hanging with the penguins. It is located right next to Olde Mistick Village. Facility rental is available for weddings, cocktail parties, birthday parties and corporate events.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center is part environmental education center, part natural history museum, and part wildlife sanctuary. The nature center states its mission is "to inspire and nurture appreciation of the natural world and foster a personal environmental ethic." The nature center's wildlife sanctuary includes eight miles of hiking trails on 300 acres. The museum includes animal exhibits, eco-system exhibits and videos. The center also runs a preschool and has different programs and events for all ages throughout the year. The nature center motto is: "environmental education for all ages."
One of the historic local sites that have made Mystic famous, The Denison Homestead is an 18th century farmhouse perched on 200 acres of unspoiled woodlands and meadows. It has been continuously owned by the Denison family, and is now open for tours during part of the year. The furnishings inside the house are original family heirlooms, and each room reflects a different period in the site's rich history.