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.
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The host requires you to 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.
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
Important information
You need to know
Property # 3312193vb
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Mystic
Located in Mystic, this cottage is on the waterfront. Mystic Seaport and Foxwoods Resort Casino are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration and Ocean Beach Park. Mystic Arts Center and Mystic Seaport - The Museum of America and the Sea are also worth visiting.
Mystic Seaport - The Museum of America and the Sea - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Mystic Seaport - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
Getting around
Mystic Station - 12 min walk
New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London) - 15 min drive
Restaurants
Sift Bake Shop - 3 min walk
Mystic Pizza - 3 min walk
Engine Room - 5 min walk
Captain Daniel Packer Inne - 8 min walk
Popover Eatery Mystic - 5 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Historic Waterfront School House pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Historic Waterfront School House?
As of 12 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic Waterfront School House on 12 Jan, 2027 start from S$379, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Historic Waterfront School House?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Historic Waterfront School House?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Historic Waterfront School House?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Historic Waterfront School House located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Mystic River Bascule Bridge and Mystic Seaport. Mystic Arts Center and Mystic Downtown Marina are also within 10 minutes. Mystic Station is 12 minutes by foot.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a wonderful time. The house was clean and as advertised. It is very comfortable and well stocked. Great location to visit Mystic. Easy walk to town, restaurants and seaport museum. The outside seating area is very nice as well but the weather was a bit cool when we visited.Upstairs ceiling is low so may not be a good fit for tall people!
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.
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.
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!
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!
Rachel T.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified
4/10 Poor
Dorothy V.
13 Aug, 2025
Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy
Great location. Stairs into the cottage are questio
Dorothy V.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov, 2025
We are sorry you found the stairs troubling Dorothy. We have clearly stated in the listing, this is a restored 19th century school house. We also very clearly stated the stairs are steep. Yet you booked and complain the stairs are steep.
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!
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
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.
The house was immaculate and right off Main St. Very comfortable bed. We didn't use the kitchen but it seemed to have all the necessities. Would definitely stay again
Kathleen D.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
About the host
Hosted by Gerard from Great Gull Island Properties
We are a boutique, family-owned property investment and management group specializing in co-working spaces, vacation rentals, and academic accommodations. Our passion lies in curating unique spaces that foster creativity, comfort, and community, delivering exceptional experiences for every guest.
Why they chose this property
We’ve always been enchanted by Mystic – the quintessential historic coastal town of New England. Our properties are nestled on peaceful streets, just a short stroll from the iconic Downtown Mystic Drawbridge and the renowned Mystic Seaport. Enjoy the charm of boutique shops, waterfront dining, and maritime history right at your doorstep. Plus, Mystic Aquarium and the region’s picturesque vineyards are just a quick drive away, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.
What makes this property unique
The History! The Views! The short walk to Downtown!
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests