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Historic Waterfront School House

Waterfront cottage with kitchen, near Mystic Seaport

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Photo gallery for Historic Waterfront School House

Terrace/patio
Exterior
Interior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
TV

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4646 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Groton, CT
  • Place, Mystic River Bascule Bridge
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Mystic Downtown Marina
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Mystic Seaport
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Airport, New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London)
    ‪10 min drive‬

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About the neighborhood

Mystic

This cottage places you next to Mystic River Bascule Bridge and within a 5-minute walk of Mystic Arts Center. The cottage includes a kitchen, a balcony, and a sofa bed.
View more Cottages in MysticOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Mystic River Bascule Bridge - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Mystic Arts Center - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Mystic Downtown Marina - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Mystic Seaport - The Museum of America and the Sea - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Mystic Seaport - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile

Getting around

  • Mystic Station - 12 min walk
  • New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mystic Pizza - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Sift Bake Shop - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Engine Room - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Milestone - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Historic Waterfront School House

Escape to a historic 1857 schoolhouse cottage on the Mystic River. This unique 1-bed, 1-bath waterfront retreat is perfect for couples or solo travelers. Enjoy stunning views of the Mystic Drawbridge and Seaport from your private patio. Just a 2-block walk to historic Downtown Mystic, this charming space combines authentic history with modern comfort for an unforgettable stay. We are pet friendly and have a Pack n Play and High Chair.

The Space
Step back in time at this thoughtfully relocated and transformed 1857 schoolhouse, now a peaceful 1-bedroom, 1-bath cottage on the Mystic River. Perfect for couples or solo travelers, this retreat combines authentic historic charm with modern comforts for a truly unique waterfront stay.

The cottage features:
* A cozy family room with a 55-inch HDTV with streaming services.
* A dedicated workspace for any remote work needs.
* A fully equipped kitchen to prepare your meals.
* A comfortable bedroom with a queen-sized bed.
* Coastal-inspired decor with natural textures that capture the warm, authentic spirit of Mystic living.

Wake up to gentle river breezes and enjoy your morning coffee with stunning views of the Mystic Drawbridge. From your patio, you can watch as historic wooden ships are restored at the Seaport Shipyard just across the water.

Access
Guests will have completely private access to the entire School House Cottage. Although attached to the main Captain’s House, the cottage has its own separate entrance, ensuring a peaceful and private experience.

Your private access includes:
* The entire cottage, including a full kitchen, cozy living room, one bedroom, and one full bathroom.
* An in-unit washer and dryer for your convenience.
* A private patio with a BBQ grill and outdoor dining area overlooking the river.
* One designated parking space on the property.
* Complimentary use of provided bikes and a kayak to explore the area.

Please note that while you have your own private patio, the larger backyard area is a shared space.

Details to Note
Please be aware of the unique characteristics of this genuine historic property, which are a key part of its charm:
* This is an attached cottage, part of a larger historic home.
* The stairs leading to the second-floor bedroom are steep, which may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues.
* The ceilings in the upstairs bedroom are low, in keeping with the original 1857 schoolhouse design.
The most important House Rule is, respect our neighbors and community. Mystic is a quaint, coastal New England town. As hosts, and guests, we share in the responsibility of keeping Mystic a great place to visit, and to LIVE. Honor the noise ordinance. Be the guest that you would want staying in a vacation rental near your home.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a sofa bed, and a coffee maker.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Kayak

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 646 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

The most important House Rule is, respect our neighbors and community. Mystic is a quaint, coastal New England town. As hosts, and guests, we share in

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Property is also known as

153461

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see close to this cottage?

This cottage is located in Mystic, just steps from Mystic River Bascule Bridge and Mystic Arts Center, and within a short walk of Mystic Downtown Marina. You'll also find Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration within a short drive.

Is there parking available at this cottage?

No, there isn't parking at this cottage.

Is this cottage associated with a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

Is Historic Waterfront School House a good place to stay for couples?

At this waterfront cottage, amenities that appeal to couples include a kitchen, kitchens in some accommodations, as well as a garden.

Are there hot tubs at Historic Waterfront School House?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage include breakfast service?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

Although cats and dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cottage.

Where is the closest airport to this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London), which is 5.4 mi away (15 minutes by car). Another top airport is Fishers Island, NY (FID-Elizabeth Field), which is located 18.2 mi away (81-minute drive).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Historic Waterfront School House?

Yes, every accommodation at Historic Waterfront School House comes with a balcony.

Historic Waterfront School House Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 44 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 44 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 44 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 44 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 44 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Krista Z.

Liked: Cleanliness
We loved the location of this property and how well it’s maintained. Our host was very attentive throughout our stay. We are looking forward to booking another stay at this property.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia N.

Liked: Cleanliness
The location could not be beat. We parked the car and walked everywhere.The view of the river with the glimmering lights of Mystic was beautiful. The snowfall completed the look of a winter wonderland.Gerard, our host, was always available to answer questions.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

DAVID L.

Liked: Cleanliness
The host was very welcoming and accommodating. The house was perfect and the view was beautiful. Loved everything!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Andrew K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cassandra C.

Liked: Cleanliness
I have been to Mystic many times before, but never have I stayed quite literally in the center of town. The location is absolutely perfect. All of our favorite shops and restaurants were so close. This was particularly convenient for traveling with our twin 1 year olds, as in the mornings we could stroll around and go back and forth to the house at any time. The house itself is indeed charming. The school decor is adorable, and all of the things you’d need (appliances, utensils etc) are available. We took full advantage of the outdoor space as the view of the river is incredible. Although Main Street is just steps away, you still feel a nice sense of privacy. Gerard was the icing on the cake. He was extremely responsive and caring making sure our family was comfortable and had what we needed. A great stay overall, we were extremely happy!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stacy M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location, pet-friendly, clean and thoughtfuk management.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Dorothy V., Seymour Connecticut

Great location. Stairs into the cottage are questio
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

jill d.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location! Clean, adorable house
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

frank c.

Liked: Cleanliness
The family and I (dog and wife) truly loved our stay here. Gerard was very attentive to all our needs and would not hesitate staying again. Perfect weather unbelievable location to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Don’t hesitate book a trip at this property!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marissa B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

Great!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard M., Flushing

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice unit just as advertised. Location was excellent for access to the numerous restaurants and shops downtown, an easy 2 minute walk and you are in the “middle of it all”. The private off street parking was a huge advantage. Once we arrived we had no need to use our vehicle until we departed.Will definitely stay here again in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Inna

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gil F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exceeded expectations

We had a great week. Loved the schoolhouse theme throughout as did our granddaughter on her visit. Nice short walk to downtown and great views of the river. We’re looking forward to our next visit in August!
Stayed 8 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Glenn E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great

Parking CleanConvenientFriendlyYou can not ask for more then that.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

David V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect stay in Mystic!

An incredible place to stay! My wife, 2 kids (2 and 1), and dog stayed in the “School House” and it was the perfect space to relax and enjoy. Gerard was extremely accommodating and great at communicating, the house was clean and stocked with anything we might need (pack and play, high chair, baby gate, etc), and the location can’t be beat (just steps away from downtown). We will definitely recommend this place to friends/family, as well as stay again in the future
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute house, perfect location!

Loved the historic aspects of the house, combined with the school theme. We appreciated the opportunity to travel with our two dogs. The house is conveniently located less than a block from Main St and the neighborhood was great for a scenic walks. Everything was very clean and there were many conveniences in the house to make you feel at home. Gerardchecked in frequently to make sure everything was going well and nothing was needed. Great communication and smooth check-in/check out process.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Susan S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location

All was pretty good. Beautiful kitchen, lots of dishes, utensils, everything you need. Only things of issue - VERY steel stairs with bathroom upstairs. Bed was a bit saggy - rolled to the middle. They came and flipped the topper which was helpful. Gerald stayed in touch very well!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen, Peabody

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Had a wonderful time. The house is so close to anything you need. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peta W.

Liked: Cleanliness

School house

Lovely place and historic town
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Seth J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Time

Great location and our host was attentive from day 1. House was charming and clean. Hope to stay there in warmer weather some day.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christine M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Location, Location, Location

Booked the 1 Bedroom Schoolhouse because it was just me and my Fiancee this trip. So cute and incredibly clean and appointed. Centrally located to enjoy all the shops and restaurants and across the water you can see the Mystic Seaport Museum. The Owner, Gerard, is a great communicator and more importantly a really nice guy. I have had the pleasure of staying at 2 other Great Gull Island properties for family gatherings and they are all great!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa S.

Liked: Cleanliness

5 Stars--restored historic schoolhouse

My sister and I stayed at the schoolhouse for four nights, and there was ample space for the two of us. The house was extremely well cared for and clean, the kitchen was nicely stocked with everything we needed, and the bed was very comfortable. The house is within walking distance to many shops, restaurants, and Mystic Seaport Village. Gerard, the host, was very responsive to my questions and very helpful. We had a wonderful time in Mystic. and a large part of our happiness is due to the great communication with the host and the overall condition of the property. I highly recommend staying at this property.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rachel T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay!

We had an amazing time staying here while in town for concerts at Mohegan sun. Amazing location perfect for shopping on the main strip, great food within walking distance, and the property owner was perfectly communicative. Would love to stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacy M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great spot

Adorable little apartment right in the center of town. We were able to bring our dogs which was great. Check in and check out were simple. Kitchen was well-stocked for cooking so we enjoyed meals in and out. Would return in the future!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rachael M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great View

Cozy and clean property with a great location and view.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024