East Lyme

Interstate 95 (Connecticut Turnpike) passes by the town.

• 🌍 Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut, 409 Main Street, Niantic, CT, ☏ +1-860-691-1111. See website, hours vary by season. Children's museum in the village of Niantic. Contains plenty to keep kids occupied. Inside there is a model ship, a TV weather forecast station, and a large play kitchen. There is also a small, authentic pipe organ which demonstrates the principles of how a pipe organ operates. A complete science section with hands-on exhibits for kids to explore. There is also an outdoor play area complete with a small wall climbing area and zip line. $7.00 from ages 1 and up. (updated Aug 2017)
• 🌍 Niantic Bay Boardwalk. Sunrise to Sunset. A 1.1 mile concrete "boardwalk" along the coast of Long Island Sound. It was originally a true boardwalk which was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy, but the town and Amtrak funded the restoration of the walk. Excellent views of Long Island Sound. (updated Aug 2017)

• The Book Barn, 41 West Main Street, ☏ +1 860 739-5715. Located in the village of Niantic, this massive used book store (with over half a million volumes) is spread over three locations, each housing a specialized collection. The grounds are quirky, the staff is knowledgeable. Books are bought and sold. 

• 🌍 Inn at Harbor Hill Marina, 60 Grand St. (I-95 to exit # 74), ☏ +1 860 739-0331, info@innharborhill.com. Beautiful bed and breakfast in the marina district of the quaint Connecticut seaside village of Niantic. The property features two buildings: the original Main Inn and the newly opened (as of 2014) Captain Clark House. Guests can enjoy magnificent water and nautical views from any one of the 16 guestrooms, each with its own unique decor and special amenities, some with queen or king beds, soaking tubs, fireplaces and private balconies. $155.