Niantic is a charming bayside village set on Long Island Sound. Sandy beaches and a lively boardwalk make Niantic popular with families from New York City and Boston. Enjoy bucket-and-spade fun on the beach and unlock hours of entertainment at the fantastic children’s museum.
Things to do in Niantic
Relax and enjoy the sunshine in McCook Point Park. Set between a pair of white-sand beaches, the blufftop park is a great place to enjoy a picnic. Claim a sun-dappled spot beneath a beech tree and watch sailboats cruise around the bay. The park moonlights as an outdoor venue for concerts and festivals in the summer.
Swim, sunbathe and enjoy spectacular sunsets from Niantic Beach. Toss a ball on the soft sand and cool off in the calm, clear waters of Long Island Sound. Niantic Boardwalk skirts the beach and is lined with laid-back bars and restaurants. Hunt for treasures at antique shops and stock up on treats at retro sweet shops.
Entertain the kids at the fun-filled Niantic Children's Museum. From giant foam building blocks to a colourful magnet wall, the museum is packed with interactive exhibits designed to educate, inspire and spark creativity. The outdoor play space delights little ones with a tree house, miniature zipline and climbing wall.
Rent a kayak and explore the Niantic River. Cruise around the sheltered estuary or venture into the bay if you’re an experienced paddler. Look for seals popping up from the glassy water and enormous bald eagles soaring overhead.
Getting around Niantic
Niantic is compact and easy to get around on foot. The village is in East Lyme, a 2.5-hour drive from New York City and two hours from Boston. Rental cars are the best way to visit Niantic and explore East Lyme at your own pace. Boston Logan International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away.