You’ll never be in search of things to do in Old Saybrook (CT), whether you want to chill in a lounge on a soft, sandy beach, in dining, on an island, or even indoors soaking up history in a museum.
This city is also one of Connecticut’s oldest and most elegant places. It was founded in 1635. The town had a population of 10,481 as of 2020. It is situated between Boston and New York.
Old Saybrook brims with colonial history and a thriving business environment with numerous shops, exquisite restaurants, and beautiful natural features. Here visitors can stroll along the stunning seacoast.
They usually have other attractions taking place in different seasons. Some of these attractions include; arts and crafts displays, boat shows, outdoor concerts, sidewalks sales, carol singing, fireworks display, and festival.
You wouldn’t want to miss out on all this fun, so look at our compiled list of things to do in Old Saybrook to help you get the best out of your trip:
Fun Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT)
1. Fasten the Peg at Fenwick Golf Club
The public can play golf at the year-round Fenwick Golf Club, which is located on Old Saybrook’s southeast tip.
It is Connecticut’s most seasoned fairway and the second most established public green in the state, with the initial three openings (5,6,7) completed in 1894 and the 9-opening course totally settled in 1896.
The course is on a landmass at the mouth of the Connecticut Stream, and from each opening, it gives stunning perspectives on the Waterway, Long Island Sound, and South Bay.
The primary objective of Fenwick is to allow golfers of varying skill levels to take pleasure in its innovative, strategic link design.
The course is made as difficult as possible by the combination of fast green speeds, difficult topography, intricate hole designs, and other elements.
Address: 580 Maple Ave, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Go on a Ride on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
The Essex Steam Train or riverboat venture starts at the notable 1892 Essex Station for a full circle in the core of Connecticut Waterway Valley, with a ride finishing at Old Saybrook.
Selden Neck State Park and the tidal wetlands of Chester Creek and Pratt Cove can be seen as the steam locomotive that takes passengers through the picturesque New England towns of Chester and Deep River.
The steam train takes passengers on an eco-excursion to numerous preserves and coves.
During February and Walk, travelers might witness the dynamite bald eagle relocating south from Canada and Maine to the Connecticut Waterway Valley.
Before boarding the return train, passengers board the Becky Thatcher riverboat at Deep River Valley to take in the valley’s natural beauty and view impressive landmarks.
Address: 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426, United States
3. Explore the Rocky Neck State Park
Rocky Neck Park in the town of East Lyme is found a short way from Old Saybrook and is among Connecticut’s most visited state parks.
It is popular for its beautiful, gently sloping, soft-sand beach, where you can spend the day building a sandcastle, splashing around in the water, or having a picnic.
Anybody can likewise take a stab at setting up camp in one of its many destinations, searching Baker’s Cave for blue crabs; looking for struggle, mackerel, and striped bass at Lady Stream; and looking for ospreys, cranes, herons, and other waterfowl in the vicinity.
Explore salt marsh platforms, rocky shorelines, a tidal river, a shipyard, and a cave on the 713-acre trail system.
Rocky Neck State Park offers numerous ways to enjoy a wonderful day with the family.
Address: 228 W Main St, Niantic, CT 06357, United States
Also see: 23 Best & Fun Things To Do In Milford (CT)
Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT) At Night
1. Spend the Night at Saybrook Point Resort and Marina
Saybrook Point Resort and Marina is proud of its tranquil waterfront location, tucked away between the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound.
This charming hotel is the place to be if you’re looking for some opulence for a night or two. It has incredible views, 82 comfortable rooms, large historic guesthouses, and a lavish spa.
Due to its stunning views of the Sound, the hotel’s Lighthouse Suite was dubbed the “most romantic place to stay.”
The marina has world-class amenities, top-notch yacht services, and a full-service marina supply shop, and can accommodate boats ranging in length from 13 to 140 feet.
Fresh American seafood can also be enjoyed at Fresh Salt, an elegant upscale restaurant with stunning views of the Connecticut River.
The hotel has indeed achieved the ideal balance of northern opulence and Southern hospitality for its eager guests.
Address: 2 Bridge St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Cool off at Harvey’s Beach
A trip to the Connecticut coast is not complete without a stop at the beach, and Harvey’s Beach is frequently regarded as one of the best.
It is a beautiful location for swimming in the calm, shallow water, beachcombing on the sand at low tide, launching a boat to explore, and taking in an amazing sunset.
The size of the beach varies significantly between high and low tide; You can walk a long distance along the offshore sandbars and even set up your chairs on the dry sand when the water is out.
There is a massive pavilion with picnic tables and shade, a free library with books, and food trucks selling desserts for extra relaxation.
Sometimes, the town’s parks and entertainment division presents fun projects for people to appreciate, like ocean-side yoga and film evenings.
Address: Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
3. Grab a healthy dinner at Penny Lane Pub
Penny Lane Pub is an English-style home base and café housed in a two-story working in Old Saybrook, CT.
The pub is spacious and well-lit. The outdoor and indoor areas are ideal for hosting friends and family.
In addition to offering a variety of high-quality and improved restaurant dishes, the Pub also serves dinners at reasonable prices, everyday specialties, and a superb selection of exceptional wines and local craft beers. You can also try their fish and chips, half-pound Angus burgers, and shepherd’s pie steaks.
For dinner, try the Cabernet-braised short rib with vegetable ragout, mashed potatoes, and green beans at the Penny Land Hub. Due to live entertainment, Saturday and Sunday are prime times to visit the hub.
Address: 150 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT) For Couples
1. Chill out at Monkey Farm Café
The Monkey Farm Café, which serves delicious food and is located in the historic 1800 Old Stage Inn in Old Saybrook, is a favorite local hangout and watering hole.
This barroom has a relaxing atmosphere with dartboards lining the wall and old exposed beams.
You can see a game on the television, play pool with companions, chill in the wraparound yard, or drop by for an end-of-the-week feast.
A stacked-up broiled meat sandwich was usual at the Motel during the 1960s. However, its most memorable center was serving cocktails.
When the innkeeper asked a guest to watch over the establishment in the early 1960s, the customer famously responded, “They’ll let anyone work here; this spot is only a Monkey Farm,” fixing its name.
There are pub staples like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches on the menu and exquisite dishes like shrimp scampi, swordfish, and salmon.
Address: 571 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Walk the Amtrak-Old Lyme Bridge
The Amtrak-Old Lyme Bridge, which spans the Connecticut River and connects Old Lyme and Old Saybrook, will appeal to photographers who enjoy bridges.
Because it is of the truss type, this long bridge can move up and down as many boats and ships pass through it.
The most outstanding aspect of visiting this scaffold is the beautiful promenade along the Connecticut Stream, where you can respect its provincial, nearly brutalist design plan.
Going to the Amtrak – Old Lyme Bridge and seeing the Connecticut River is also nice. You can detect this extension at South Yard Marina.
Address: Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
3. Appreciate Nature at South Cove Wildlife Area
South Cove Wildlife Area is an incredible spot to visit, especially assuming you’re into the outside.
It is an ideal wildlife habitat for birdwatching and one of Old Saybrook’s best spots to experience the marshlands.
Numerous birds use Old Saybrook’s South Cove, an inlet of water that forms along the Connecticut River, as their natural habitat.
You can do light exploration via canoe or kayak in this scenic location, allowing you to experience Old Saybrook’s waters firsthand.
You can enter its parking lot along Neptune Drive to begin your adventure.
Address: 64 Neptune Dr, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA
Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT) For Kids
1. Bring the Kids along for a touchup on History at Fort Saybrook Monument Park
Take advantage of the outdoors at this park and simultaneously receive a brief history lesson.
Near the Connecticut River’s mouth, Fort Saybrook Monument Park covers 18 acres and is littered with historical artifacts from the late 1500s to the Fort’s leveling and transformation.
The recreation area denotes the site of a stronghold made by English military specialist Lion Gardiner to watch the Old Saybrook settlement from fights between the Pequot clan and English pilgrims.
Numerous markers in the park provide information about the fort, the settlement, the river, and the marshlands nearby, and boardwalks can be walked to observe coastal wildlife and birds.
Address: Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Give the Kids a treat to Aspen Restaurant
The Aspen Restaurant has an innovative space with a high-end style, a cozy fireplace, a gorgeous mahogany bar, a large granite top, and a comfortable and laid-back atmosphere.
The whole spot is all-around enlightened on account of their lovely alabaster sconces and fashioned iron subtleties. They serve guests contemporary American cuisine prepared with the finest ingredients.
For your main course, you can try their tasty rabbit cassoulet, which includes confit rabbit leg, pork belly, cassoulet beans, and chicken sausage. They have a wide choice of wine records reasonable for your spending plan.
Address: 2 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
3. See the Beauty at Ferry Landing State Park
Even closer, on the Old Lyme side, Ferry Landing State Park is right at the Connecticut River’s mouth.
Watching the boats glide from the boardwalk or viewing Old Saybrook and the steel railroad bridge, which opens to let large boats through, are just two reasons to visit this beautiful location.
In addition, this is a great spot for fishing, crabbing (blue crabs are common), and wildlife observation.
Ospreys and shorebirds are familiar sights in the nearby salt marsh, with seals in the water.
This park is the Profound Marine base camp, where you can get hold of data on the nearby nature and other state parks during business hours.
Address: 398 Ferry Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, United States
Indoor Activities To Do In Old Saybrook (CT) For Adults
1. See a Show at Katharine Hepburn Cultural Art Center
In 1912, Katharine Hepburn made her home in the Old Saybrook borough of Fenwick Inn.
The museum and theater, a Colonial Revival structure with a Doric portico in the 1911 former town hall on Main Street, were opened in 2009 in her honor.
The Center is a non-profit performing arts organization that stands for Katharine Hepburn’s lasting legacy and is locally known as The Kate.
Visit a small museum here to see items like her Emmy award, her self-portrait, and rare photographs from her life and career.
The charming 250-seat theater hosts a variety of comedy, dance, film, music, opera, and children’s shows in the performing arts.
Famous singers and small-town bands also perform here, adding to the atmosphere.
Address: 300 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Get a good Breakfast at Parthenon Diner
Parthenon Diner joint is quite possibly of the most visited eateries in Old Saybrook, renowned for its morning meal platters and warm air.
Good American morning meals are their specialty here, so you’ll be eager to see a few tasty hotcakes, bacon, and eggs, and the sky is the limit from there.
You should try their turkey and meatloaf dishes if you didn’t decide because they offer so many options.
The atmosphere and excellent staff make it a great place for families.
Address: 809 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In New London (CT)
3. Stop by the Florence Griswold Museum
This historical center in Old Lyme, a little from Old Saybrook, is an unmissable stop for anybody appreciating American craftsmanship.
Florence Griswold owns the museum, a yellow Georgian masterpiece designed by Samuel Belcher in 1917. Griswold ran a lodging wherein various American Impressionist specialists remained, rehearsing their art.
A group of creatives soon established the Old Lyme Art Colony when artist Henry Ward Ranger invited his friends to board here.
The Krieble Gallery and an old house make up the museum; You can learn about the artists’ lives and watch a movie that tells their story here.
Address 96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371, United States
Romantic Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT)
1. Enjoy Seafood at Liv’s Oyster Bar and Restaurant
When Liv’s Oyster Bar and Restaurant opened in 2006, it quickly became a popular dining spot in Old Saybrook.
To welcome the community to his family’s table, owner John Brescio started the business with years of restaurant industry experience.
The Executive Chef, Brescia, creates focused and simple dishes, showcasing local ingredients and the region’s exquisite seafood.
As you enter, you are met with an exquisite painting of the coast and see the block lounge area radiant with flawless mirrors, crystal fixtures, and decorative liners.
Starters such as Ahi tuna poke and red wine poached mussels, traditional main courses such as sesame salmon or shrimp and cod curry, and, of course, six varieties of delectable oysters on the half shell are all great options.
Address: 166 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Relax at Knollwood Beach
Along Maple Avenue, at the town’s southernmost point, Knollwood Beach is a great place to see the Long Island Sound.
Even though Knollwood Beach doesn’t have a lot of sand, its waters are great and make it possible to do many things.
Fishing, sailing, and, surprisingly, swimming during low tide are probably everything you can manage here, yet you can likewise essentially respect the delightful sea from a remote place.
Knollwood Beach is a great place to unwind because it has numerous benches and walking paths.
Regardless of whether you’re running almost out of time, you can investigate this region by driving along the side of the road, which has great sees as well.
Address: 435-439 Maple Ave, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
3. Visit Johnny Ad’s
Visiting a beachfront town like Old Saybrook is unfinished without tasting the freshest fish ready by their neighborhood eateries.
Johnny Ad’s, on Boston Post Road, is unquestionably one of the most well-known and highly regarded seafood restaurants in Old Saybrook. It is a casual restaurant with a lively and inviting atmosphere ideal for families and friends.
Their lobster roll is their most popular dish and is praised by many tourists and locals. Their seafood selection here is excellent.
In addition, they offer fried clams, fish and chips, and even hotdogs, which are excellent alternatives for individuals who are allergic to seafood.
Address: 910 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
Free Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT)
1. Experience the Beauty of Lynde Point Houe
Individuals know New Britain for its great beacons, one of which can be tracked down right in Old Saybrook.
Since its construction in 1803, this lighthouse has guided ships entering Long Island Sound from the Connecticut River’s mouth for centuries.
The current octagonal brownstone tower, which rises 65 feet and is renowned for its high level of craftsmanship, was constructed in 1838 to replace the original building, which stood 35 feet above the harbor entrance.
Before switching to kerosene in 1879 and electrifying in 1955, it was fueled by whale oil. In 1978, the lighthouse was completely automated.
You can even see the sunset over the water from the lighthouse, which is best seen from a boat.
Address: Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA
2. Stroll Down Main Street
With its Americana-infused shops, restaurants, and establishments that have served as inspiration for countless Hollywood films, Main Street on Old Saybrook will transport you back in time.
It is the town’s main retail hub, is wide and easy to walk, and is the most popular place to cruise, shop, eat, or have a cup of coffee.
The road is home to Maximus Collectibles, where you can find a display area overflowing with interesting finds: gems, dishes, old seats, and then some.
Pursue the ratty stylish tasteful at Bungalow Pizazz with its natural stylistic layout, or peruse craftsman classic works at Pieces Home Style.
Pearls and Plaid, where you can find the ideal vacation outfit, or Saybrook Home, where you can research the most recent designs, fashions, and accessories, have it all.
What’s more, duck into Penny Path Bar or Taste Wine Bar when you need a flavorful toll and a sweet glass of wine.
Address: Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA
3. Experience Nature at the Preserve
Prior to its acquisition for conservation in 2015, this pristine land was the largest expanse of unprotected coastal forest between Boston and New York.
Since then, it has developed into a beloved, protected environment encompassing numerous ecosystems.
Ponds, vernal pools, canopied woods, freshwater seeps, habitats in swamps, mature coastal forests, and tributaries or headwaters of the Mud River, Oyster River, and Trout Brook can be found in the region.
This preserve has more than 30 species of mammals, 57 types of birds, and 25 breeds of amphibians were observed. Reptile species were additionally spotted, for example, spotted turtles, box turtles, and northern dim lizards.
Address: 241 Ingham Hill Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
Cheap Things To Do In Old Saybrook (CT)
1. Explore the General William Hart House
One of Saybrook’s earliest homes is the General William Hart House.
The structure is a great example of residential Georgian architecture: a 2.5-story wood frame building with five bays, a gabled roof, two chimneys, a clapboard exterior, and a central entry surrounded by a portico with Doric columns and a gable roof.
A sealskin-coated Cromwellian Chair, the Saybrook/Guildford chest, and an intricate outfit belonging to Governor John Winthrop Junior are among the pieces of historical memorabilia on display inside.
Behind the house are the 18th-century Hart House Heritage Gardens, filled with fruit trees, flowers, shrubs, and roses and in full bloom in the summer and spring.
Address: 350 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. See what happens at the Connecticut River Museum
Perched on Steamboat Dock in charming Essex Village, the Connecticut River Museum was once a steamboat warehouse that dates back to 1878.
The Museum has three permanent exhibits that you can look through. In 2019, a nearby workmanship fan, Steve Cryan, completed a display with new changing subjects every year.
Connecticut Waterway Historical Center is likewise a mooring region for the Onrust, otherwise called “Dutch of Fretful, “an ideal carbon copy transport explored by Adriano Block (1567-1627), a Dutch broker. At the dock, expeditions can use the Museum.
Address: 67 Main St, Essex, CT 06426, United States
3. Don’t miss out on the experience at Sea Sprite Sport Fishing
Sea Sprite Sport Fishing is arranged at the entry of Connecticut Streams. Every time they come to Old Saybrook, people from all walks of life stop by to take advantage of the fantastic fishing service, which includes fishing for Striped Bass. Blackfish, Bluefish, Fluke, and Jumbo Sea Bass
Sea Sprite Sport Fishing Captain Pete Wheeler will take you fishing in Old Saybrook and the Eastern Long Island Sound waters. It promises a one-of-a-kind fishing experience with professionals.
Sea Sprite Sport Fishing has had contract fishing experience for over 46 years on the waterway of Plum Stomach, Long Island Sound, and adjoining islands.
Address: 198 College St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
Cool Places To Visit In Old Saybrook (CT)
1. Get some fish at Reel Caster Charters
Hire Reel Cast Charters, an experienced fishing guide service, for a high-quality Northeastern inshore angling experience.
It is a one-of-a-kind service because it primarily fishes in shallow waters with light tackle and focuses on the Long Island Sound waters off of Connecticut.
They don’t use traditional oversized reels or trolling; Instead, they target large fish by fishing with live baits, topwater lures, and more artificial lures.
In March, they begin fishing for holdover and migrating striped bass in the Housatonic and Connecticut Rivers. Throughout the summer, they target large striped bass on the Eastern Connecticut shores.
In the fall, they target surface-taking care of bogus tuna, striped bass, bonito, and bluefish with light turning and fly poles, and they likewise have inshore base fishing trips for blackish.
Address: 220 Ferry Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
2. Drop by the 30 Mile Brewing Company
The 30 Mile Brewing Company is a smaller-than-expected distillery in Old Saybrook. CT. The five-barrel process is used to create high-quality local beers; all of their beers are made on-site with the highest-quality ingredients.
The small brewhouse furnishes guests with various types of lagers, from twofold IPAs to stouts, sours to occasional, and others that will doubtlessly arouse your curiosity.
They have a cutting-edge tavern connected to the distillery, made of turning lagers on draft pints and growlers in two distinct sizes, flights, and pints.
There are a couple of tables to see outside in late spring. Additionally, they provide The Drunk Alpaca’s snacks. Additionally, their Drunken Baker offers sweet treats for purchase.
Address:39 Ragged Rock Rd Unit 5, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, 06475
3. Shop at Tova’s Vintage Shop
Tova’s Vintage Shop is one of the best places to visit among the many beautiful antique shops in Old Saybrook. It features items, collectibles from well-known designers, estate jewelry, costumes, handbags, sweaters, and antique dresses.
The owner of the Vintage Shop, Tove Vigen, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in fashion design from the Fashion Institute of New York (FIT). Jean Vigen is an antique and vintage costume jewelry expert and co-owner.
For the past 23 years, Tova’s Vintage Shop has been in business. Look at this critical classic store in Connecticut, named “Best Retro Duds” by Yankee Magazine and “Best Rare Shop” by the New Britain Travel and Life (Boston Magazine) and Connecticut Magazine.
Address: 1330 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Danbury (CT)
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to this city, worry not; we have made exploring the city’s attractions and fun places easy for you with our list of exciting things to do in Old Saybrook (CT).
The city is a honey pot of many attractions like sandy beaches, artistic flourishes, natural delights, culinary adventures, thriving culture, and historical antiquities. You can never be bored in this city.
Seize this opportunity to treat yourself and your family on a breathtaking trip. Pin this post and let our checklist guide you all along the way. Let us all about your trip via the comments.
Happy vacation!
