Niantic isn’t your typical shoreline destination—it’s a place where thoughtful living takes center stage. By the edge of the Sound, Niantic combines unspoiled views with a lifestyle rooted in simplicity and substance. Independent shops, well-composed interiors, chef-led kitchens, and moments of quiet by the water define life here. It’s not about having more, but about choosing well—whether that means an early morning walk along the bay or a slow afternoon in a sunlit café. In Niantic, luxury isn’t loud; it’s woven into the everyday.
Here are some of the staples and favorites throughout Niantic:
Dining
374 Main Street, Niantic
Winner of the 2024 Best New Restaurant award in New London County, 374 gives old school a modern feel with their unique meals and atmosphere. 374 has multiple TVs if you’re looking to catch a game, or come in on Wednesdays for live jazz. Lunch and dinner are both offered, with signature dishes on either menu. The menu offers a vast majority of gluten free options. Diners have claimed the deviled eggs to be a must have for all newcomers, along with several seafood dishes.
13 Hope Street, Niantic
Declared as a progressive Mexican cuisine, La Llorona serves authentic Mexican food just steps away from the Long Island Sound. The family owned restaurant brings you inside their home with their large portions and traditional decor, giving the feel of being in your own little part of Mexico. Radiating a classic fiesta vibe, La Llorona is the only Mexican restaurant of its kind in the area, making it a staple for all residents when in need of a trip outside the country.
Attractions
30 Main Street, Niantic
The most scenic destination in Niantic is the 1.1 mile boardwalk, located off of Main Street. The boardwalk wraps around Niantic Beach, stretching from Cini Park to Hole-in-the-Wall Beach. The boardwalk is in a premium location, where you can stroll with stunning views of the Long Island Sound without leaving the main part of town. Behind the boardwalk are shops and restaurants to continue your tour of Niantic.
409 Main Street, Niantic
The Niantic Children’s Museum is a hands-on, freeform space for children to come and explore. Nearly 5,000 square feet of activities for all ages of children, the museum has four different exhibits throughout the floor. The space in completely run by volunteers, and the museum is a nonprofit corporation. The museum also runs a sandcastle competition at Hole-in-the-Wall beach each summer, with all ages allowed to participate.
Outdoor Recreation
8-10 Atlantic Street, Niantic
The main beach area in Niantic, McCook has been a central summer destination in East Lyme for over 70 years. The park consists of a beautiful bluff between two white, sandy beaches. The park also includes a bocce court, play area for children, pavilion, tents available for rent, a bandshell, and plenty of space on the beach for families to relax and enjoy the sun. The beach is free for all residents, and $20 for non-residents, with prices decreasing in the afternoon.
244 W Main Street, Niantic
Rocky Neck is a dream for people who love outdoors activities. 710 acres of public beach, 160 camping sites, hiking trails, fishing escapades, and much more makes it a top destination in all of Connecticut. The Ellie Mitchell Pavilion at Rocky State Park is host to the largest depression-era structure in the state. The pavilion can host conferences and events of up to 300 people. The park also is great for geologists, with loose sediments throughout the park to explore. There truly is something for all to do at Rocky Neck.
Local Favorites
41 W Main Street, Niantic
Although it’s more than just a book store, Book Barn has more than 350,000 rare and gently used books for sale in its main barn. Outside the barn, the grounds have a garden open in the spring and summer months, to relax and enjoy your newly purchased book, or to take a stroll on your lunch break. The barn also is home to four goats: Fili, Cashew, Peanut, and Sapphire. Book Barn also buys books, and prides themselves on being open 363 days a year, only taking time off on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
334 Main Street, Niantic
“The sweetest shoppe in town,” Gumdrops and Lollipops gives your sweet tooth a delicious workout. With over 40 ice cream flavors, more candy options than you can think of, and fudges and premium chocolates galore, both your eyes and mouth will water upon entering the cozy yellow barn off the boardwalk. Gumdrops & Lollipops also bakes pies during the holiday season, with another large assortment of options for all kinds of pie lovers.
