Stonington(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Stonington, the standout boutique hotel is The Inn at the Pier, a charming blend of New England heritage and modern elegance located right on the waterfront. Its sea-view rooms and locally sourced restaurant offer an authentic coastal experience. Another excellent choice is Stonington Hotel & Spa, featuring a full-service wellness center and proximity to the historic Stonington Lighthouse. Both properties lie within the historic downtown district, making them ideal for travelers seeking culture, comfort, and tranquility amidst scenic surroundings.

The downtown district is the prime area for lodging in Stonington, offering easy access to shops, galleries, and the seaside promenade. From the Town Hall Square, you can walk to the Old Navy Yard and harbor views in under 5 minutes. This area is safe, vibrant, and rich in history, with many boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts providing personalized service. Several properties even include private dock access, enhancing the unique maritime charm of your stay.

Visitors must tour the Stonington Lighthouse (built in 1801), one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S., where climbing the tower rewards you with panoramic views of the Long Island Sound. The annual Stonington Music Festival in summer features live performances at the Harbor Theater. Additionally, hands-on workshops like pottery-making or visits to the Old Navy Yard Workshops allow guests to engage directly with traditional New England craftsmanship and local artistry.

Head to The Lobster Trap Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled along the pier, renowned for its fresh Maine lobster and oysters served raw or grilled. Pair your meal with local craft beer in a cozy, rustic setting. Alternatively, The Boathouse Café offers Mediterranean-inspired seafood risotto and grilled fish with breathtaking sunset views along the seaside trail. Both restaurants emphasize daily catch sourcing, ensuring exceptional freshness and authenticity in every bite.

Absolutely. Stonington features spacious harbor parks and child-friendly pier trails with interactive nature signs. The Stonington Children’s Museum hosts science experiments and craft activities perfect for young explorers. Many hotels offer family suites, free pool access, and kid-friendly tours. Weekly events like beach scavenger hunts combine education and fun, making it ideal for multi-generational travel and lasting memories.

Don’t miss the Stonington Town Hall (1890), a neo-classical structure with original fireplaces and wood carvings, reflecting local governance history. The Old Presbyterian Church (1824) boasts Gothic arches and stained glass windows, now used for cultural events. The Stonington Historical Society Museum houses artifacts from the 19th-century whaling and shipping era, offering deep insight into the town’s legacy as a maritime trade hub.

Try a guided kayaking tour through the Long Island Sound estuaries, spotting birds and tidal life with expert naturalists. Summer offers sailing lessons at the Stonington Yacht Club. For hiking, the Seaside Trail (3 km) features scenic overlooks and educational plaques. In spring, Green Hill Park is perfect for picnics and wildflower viewing. These activities highlight the region’s natural beauty and ecological richness.

Walking and biking are ideal in Stonington, with narrow, safe streets perfect for e-bikes. For longer trips, CT Transit buses connect to New Haven and Norwich, with train transfers available. Ferry services also link to West Haven across the sound. Visitors driving can use I-95 but are encouraged to park in central lots to avoid congestion. The town’s compact layout makes most attractions accessible without a car.

Yes. The Inn at the Pier offers secluded sea-view suites and customized dining experiences, ideal for couples. Some guesthouses feature private decks with hot tubs and stargazing opportunities. Enjoy a couples’ dinner at the Harbor Theater during a summer concert series or a moonlit walk along the waterfront promenade. The combination of historic charm, ocean vistas, and intimate settings makes Stonington a dream destination for romance.

In fall, don’t miss the Pumpkin Festival at Town Hall Square, featuring giant pumpkins, craft markets, and children’s activities. Spring brings the Seaside Art Show, where artists display works along the harbor. Summer’s Lighthouse Night combines light displays with live music. During winter, the Holiday Market sells handmade gifts and warm gingerbread, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for holiday cheer.