Mystic Pizza
About
Made famous by the 1988 movie of the same name, Mystic Pizza is a beloved family destination serving up delicious wood-fired pizza in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Kids love spotting movie memorabilia on the walls while parents appreciate the authentic Connecticut-style pies and reasonable prices that won't break the vacation budget.
Highlights
- βFamous wood-fired pizza featured in the cult classic movie
- βWalls decorated with movie memorabilia and celebrity photos
- βKid-friendly menu with classic cheese and pepperoni options
- βCasual atmosphere where families feel completely comfortable
- βLocated in the heart of downtown Mystic for easy exploring before or after
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 11:30am for lunch or before 5pm for dinner to avoid long waits, especially during summer tourist season
- 2.Request a table on the lower level if you have very young children - it's typically quieter than the upstairs dining area
- 3.Let kids explore the movie memorabilia and photos on the walls while waiting for food - it's like a mini museum
- 4.Order the 'slice and salad' combo for picky eaters who might not finish a whole personal pizza
- 5.Street parking can be tricky; there's a public lot just a short walk away on Pearl Street
Best Time to Visit
Visit during off-peak hours (weekday lunchtimes between 11am-12pm or early dinners around 4:30pm) to avoid the summer crowds. Fall and spring offer shorter waits and more comfortable weather for exploring downtown Mystic before or after your meal.
What to Know
Expect to spend around $15-25 per person for pizza and drinks. Seating is first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted, so be prepared for potential waits during peak times. The restaurant is cash and card friendly with accessible ground-floor seating available.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but summer months (June-August) bring heavy tourist traffic and longer waits. Winter visits offer a cozy atmosphere with fewer crowds. The restaurant occasionally has extended hours during peak summer season.
More Activities Near Mystic
Captain Scott's Lobster Dock
Captain Scott's Lobster Dock offers families a quintessential New England dining experience right on the waterfront in New London. Kids can watch boats come and go in the harbor while enjoying fresh seafood in a relaxed, casual atmosphere where spills and wiggles are totally acceptable. The outdoor seating and food truck vibe mean parents can relax without worrying about formal restaurant behavior.
Mystic Starry Night
Mystic Starry Night is a delightful local ice cream shop serving up creative flavors and homemade treats that will make the whole family smile. It's the perfect sweet reward after a day of exploring Mystic's historic seaport, aquarium, or charming downtown streets. The welcoming atmosphere and unique flavor combinations make this more than just an ice cream stop,it's a memorable part of your family's Mystic adventure.
Thames River Landing Park
Thames River Landing Park offers families a peaceful riverside escape with an easy-to-navigate walking path that winds along Mystic's historic waterfront. Kids will enjoy spotting boats in the harbor while learning about the area's maritime heritage through educational signs placed along the scenic route, making it both an active outdoor adventure and a mini history lesson.
town of mystic
The Mystic & Noank Library serves as a wonderful free resource for families visiting or living in the charming seaside town of Mystic. With an extensive children's section, regular story times, and engaging educational programs, this community library provides a quiet, air-conditioned respite from sightseeing while keeping kids entertained and learning.