Explore the Mystic River Bascule Bridge

Explore the Mystic River Bascule Bridge

The Mystic River Bascule Bridge is a historic landmark located in Mystic, Connecticut. The bridge, which spans over the Mystic River, is a popular attraction for visitors who want to learn about the town’s rich history and admire its beautiful architecture. Here are some things to do when exploring the Mystic River Bascule Bridge.

Learn About the History

The Mystic River Bascule Bridge was built in 1920 and is one of the few remaining movable bridges in Connecticut. The bridge was originally built to allow boats and ships to pass through the Mystic River, which was a vital transportation route for the town’s shipbuilding industry. Today, the bridge is still in use and is raised several times a day to allow boats to pass through. Visitors can learn about the bridge’s history and the role it played in the town’s development by reading the informative signs located near the bridge.

Watch the Bridge in Action

One of the most exciting things to do at the Mystic River Bascule Bridge is to watch it in action. The bridge is raised several times a day to allow boats to pass through, and visitors can watch the bridge slowly open and close from a safe distance. The bridge is a popular spot for photographers, who come to capture the bridge in different positions as it opens and closes.

Take a Walk on the Riverwalk

The Mystic River Bascule Bridge is located in the heart of downtown Mystic, and visitors can take a stroll on the Riverwalk, a scenic path that follows the Mystic River. The Riverwalk offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding town, and is a great place to take a leisurely walk or bike ride. Visitors can also stop by the many shops and restaurants located along the Riverwalk, and enjoy a meal or some shopping after exploring the bridge.

Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum

The Mystic River Bascule Bridge is located near the Mystic Seaport Museum, a living history museum that showcases the town’s maritime history. Visitors can take a tour of the museum and see historic ships and boats, learn about the town’s shipbuilding industry, and watch demonstrations of traditional crafts such as blacksmithing and coopering. The museum also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year, making it a great place to visit during any season.

Take a Boat Tour

For a unique perspective of the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, visitors can take a boat tour of the Mystic River. Several tour companies operate in the area and offer a variety of tours, including sunset cruises, nature tours, and historic tours. Visitors can sit back and relax as they learn about the town’s history and admire the beautiful scenery of the Mystic River.

In conclusion, exploring the Mystic River Bascule Bridge is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Mystic, Connecticut. From learning about the town’s rich history to watching the bridge in action to taking a leisurely walk along the Riverwalk, there is something for everyone at the Mystic River Bascule Bridge. Visitors can also combine their visit to the bridge with a tour of the Mystic Seaport Museum or a boat tour of the Mystic River, making it a full day of fun and adventure.