🍕 From New Orleans to New England: A Slice of Adventure
After an early morning flight out of New Orleans, we landed in Newark, New Jersey, groggy but buzzing with anticipation. The crisp Northeast air greeted us as we picked up our rental car and hit the road, bound for Mystic, Connecticut—a charming coastal town we’d been dreaming of exploring. But first, we had a very important detour planned.
🚗 Road Trip Rituals & Pizza Pilgrimage
No East Coast road trip is complete without a proper pizza stop, and New Haven was calling our name. Nestled between the ivy-covered walls of Yale University and the hum of local life, Sally’s Apizza is a legendary institution. We’d heard whispers of its coal-fired crust and tangy tomato sauce, but nothing prepared us for the first bite.
It was, without exaggeration, some of the best pizza we’ve ever had. The crust was perfectly charred, the mozzarella melted into a creamy dream, and the sauce—bright, bold, and unapologetically simple—tied it all together. We devoured our slices in silence, the kind of reverent quiet reserved for truly transcendent food.
🌊 Onward to Mystic
With full bellies and happy hearts, we kept cruising along, enjoying Connecticut’s fresh spring greenery and colorful blooms, even as the cold rain made everything glisten and feel quietly beautiful. Mystic welcomed us with its quaint harbor, historic seaport, and the kind of small-town charm that feels like stepping into a storybook.
🐧 A Splash of Wonder at Mystic Aquarium
With a few hours to spare before hotel check-in, we wandered across the street to the Mystic Aquarium—and what a spontaneous treat it turned out to be. From the moment we stepped inside, we were immersed in a world of marine magic.
We watched sea lions perform playful flips, marveled at the graceful belugas gliding through their icy habitat, and got up close with vibrant jellyfish that looked like living art. The penguins were a crowd favorite, waddling with charm and diving like pros. It was the perfect way to ease into vacation mode—educational, entertaining, and unexpectedly moving.
The aquarium’s commitment to conservation and marine research added depth to the experience. We left feeling inspired and grateful for the chance to connect with the ocean’s wonders, even miles from the shore.
🏨 Family Fun at Hilton Mystic
After our aquatic adventure, we headed back to the hotel—and wow, were we in for a surprise. The Hilton Mystic wasn’t just a place to sleep; it was a full-on family retreat. To say it was family friendly is an understatement.
From the moment we walked in, the kids were greeted with smiles and excitement. The hotel had a full lineup of kid-focused activities that made it feel more like a resort than a roadside stop. There were scheduled craft times where our little ones got to make sea creature masks and decorate picture frames. The indoor pool was a hit, especially after a long day of travel, and the daily kids snack—complete with juice boxes and treats—was a thoughtful touch that made them feel special.
Meanwhile, we got to relax. Whether it was sipping coffee in the cozy lobby or enjoying a quiet moment while the kids played, the Hilton Mystic made it easy to unwind. It’s rare to find a hotel that balances comfort for adults with genuine fun for children, but this one nailed it.
🥞 Pancakes & Maritime History—Rain or Shine
The next morning kicked off with a hearty breakfast at Mystic Diner, a classic spot with retro vibes and a menu full of comfort food. We dove into stacks of fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and bottomless coffee—fuel for the day ahead.
Despite the gloomy skies and relentless drizzle, we made our way to the Mystic Seaport Museum, rain ponchos on and spirits high. The weather may have been miserable, but the museum was anything but. We explored historic ships docked along the waterfront and peeked into recreated 19th-century buildings.
The museum offered plenty of indoor fun—and the highlight for our little ones was the Kids Museum. Tucked inside the larger seaport experience, this space was a hands-on haven for curious minds. The kids got to dress up like sailors, steer a pretend ship, and explore interactive exhibits that brought maritime history to life in the most playful way.
The kids loved climbing aboard the tall ships and pretending to be sailors on the high seas. Even with wet shoes and foggy glasses, we found ourselves completely immersed in the maritime magic. It was a reminder that sometimes the best memories are made when things don’t go perfectly—and that a little rain can’t dampen a good adventure.
🏞️ Exploring Providence: History Comes Alive
The next morning, we packed up and hit the road for Providence, Rhode Island—a city steeped in history and full of surprises. Our first stop was the Roger Williams National Memorial, a peaceful green space nestled in the heart of downtown that honors the founder of Rhode Island and his legacy of religious freedom and tolerance.
The kids dove into the Junior Ranger program, which turned learning into an adventure. Through scavenger hunts, interactive exhibits, and thoughtful questions, they discovered how Roger Williams shaped the city and stood up for principles that still resonate today. Watching them proudly accept their Junior Ranger badges was a highlight of the day—equal parts educational and empowering.
The memorial itself was a quiet contrast to the bustle of the city, offering a chance to reflect and recharge before continuing our exploration. It was the perfect way to start our time in Providence: rooted in history, full of heart, and fun for the whole family.
Roger Williams National Memorial
🏛️ Newport’s Gilded Grandeur & Coastal Charm
From Providence, we made our way to the coastal elegance of Newport, Rhode Island—a town that feels like stepping into a Gatsby-era dream. Our first stop was lunch at The Black Pearl, a waterfront gem nestled along Bannister’s Wharf. With views of the harbor and a menu full of fresh seafood, it was the perfect place to soak in the salty breeze and indulge in a bowl of their famous clam chowder.
After lunch, we hopped aboard a Trolley Tour that whisked us through Newport’s storied past. The highlight? A stop at The Breakers, the opulent Vanderbilt mansion that defines the Gilded Age. Walking through its grand halls and ornate rooms felt like time travel.
What made the visit even more enjoyable was how family-friendly the experience turned out to be. While Mark and I explored the mansion at our own pace using the self-guided audio tour on our phones, the kids were given a scavenger hunt designed just for them. It kept them engaged and excited as they searched for hidden details and fun facts throughout the mansion. It was the perfect way to balance learning and fun for all of us.
By the end of the tour, we were all buzzing with stories—about secret doors, lavish ballrooms, and the sheer extravagance of the Gilded Age. Newport had officially won us over.
🌞 A Sunny Send-Off
After days of exploring, learning, and laughing through the misty charm of New England, it was time to say goodbye. We packed up in Newport and began our drive back to Michelle’s family in New Jersey. And just as we merged onto the highway, something magical happened—the clouds parted, and the sun broke through for the first time since we’d arrived.
It felt like a farewell gift from the Northeast, a golden ribbon tying up our journey with warmth and light. The kids dozed off in the backseat, tired from days of adventure, while we soaked in the scenery and replayed our favorite moments: the perfect slice at Sally’s Apizza, the penguins at Mystic Aquarium, the grandeur of The Breakers, and the pride on our kids’ faces as they earned their Junior Ranger badges.
This trip was more than just a getaway—it was a collection of memories stitched together by curiosity, connection, and a little bit of rain. And as the sun followed us down the highway, we knew we’d be back someday.
Family 50 Quest 
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