Arts & Culture
Arts & Culture
You won't find a more quaint and inviting arts district than Lyme Street in Old Lyme. Spend your day engaged in the American arts as you walk from the museum to our art galleries, wander through a sculpture garden of imagination, and stop by a coffeehouse where someone just might be strumming their guitar. A renowned Jazz Club joins other inspiring music venues and performance series across town, while special events celebrating the arts happen throughout the year.
After your visit to a gallery or performance, you might have time for a self-guided walking tour in town and can find four ideas here. Ready for a bite to eat? Check out our restaurants.
History buffs and naturalists will appreciate the works of our cultural organizations and how our collective reverence for history, nature, and the arts come together to create one magical story.
Art Galleries & Museums
A collaborative effort across town organizations, the Annual LYSB Art Show takes place at the Lyme Academy’s historic Sill House Gallery. Works on display during this exhibition feature the new and emergent talent of Lyme-Old Lyme School students across all grade levels. Juried by the Art Department of the school system, the show illustrates the commitment to excellence in the arts. Community members look forward to the show every year.
Live Music/Performance
Watch Old Lyme restaurants and venues for live music throughout the year. The Stumble Inne is offering live music on weekend nights, along with the Old Lyme Inn during teas and special dinners. During the summer months, The Pavilion Beach Bar offers live music on the beach, and Black Hall Outfitters sometimes has a live band Sunday nights on the docks. Check the calendars of all venues for the most up-to-date schedules.
Cultural Organizations
Old Lyme Arts District
The Old Lyme Arts District is a partnership of arts organizations, small businesses, and non-profits on Lyme Street who work together to promote cultural tourism and produce four signature events a year: Make Music Old Lyme, Old Lyme's Midsummer Festival, Fairy Doors on Lyme Street, and Light Up Old Lyme. Learn more here.
Welcome to Old Lyme
Welcome to Old Lyme, a small, historic town on the Connecticut coastline. We are known for our art galleries and beaches, and have so much more. Whether you are thinking about relocating your home or business here, or just looking to visit for the afternoon, welcome! We are glad to have you.