Mystic Country

Begin at the Florence Griswold Museum, on Lyme Street in Old Lyme. Take I-95 South, one exit, to Rte 9N (Exit 69). Take Exit 2 and follow Rte 154 N/Middlesex Turnpike. On this road you will find Essex Steam Train and Riverboat the only steam train and riverboat connection in the country.

Continue to follow 154 N as it winds along the Connecticut River and through the picture perfect New England towns of Essex, Centerbrook, Deep River, Chester, Haddam and East Haddam. You may choose to spend some time in these towns browsing the unique shops and dining at quaint bistros.

ALT: In Chester at the junction of Rte 148, you can turn right to take the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry across the River or turn left for a short side trip to the quaint Chester Village Center. Once you’ve crossed the river follow Rte 148 out to Rte 82 and follow along with the rest of the route below. If you decide not to take the ferry continue north on 154, turn right onto Bridge Rd/Rte 82 to cross the East Haddam Bridge – a beautiful steel swing truss bridge (you may have noticed this bridge while driving along Rte. 154). Immediately after crossing the bridge you will be in East Haddam and will see the historic Goodspeed Opera House where the musical "Annie" was born.

Follow Rte 82 through Hadlyme to the junction of Rte 156 south into Lyme. These winding country roads are dotted with farms, antique shops and beautiful vistas. Continue following route 156 into Old Lyme. At the junction of Halls Rd, you can make a left to return to the Florence Griswold Museum.

Distance: 35 miles

Nearby or en route:

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