I say this every year. The artists who create the 32 fairy houses on the Florence Griswold Campus outdo themselves with each exhibition. For this year’s theme, Lettersburg Junction, the creators were charged with constructing tiny domiciles based on the letters of the alphabet. Crafted from traditional natural resources to decidedly not, you won’t believe these tiny magical installations. Whether you’ve got a kid in tow or not, this is a must see before the whole town is dismantled on October 28th.

I had the happy pleasure of taking a newbie (and not a child!) who was utterly wowed by the exhibition. During the week, the campus is mainly left to adults, but on weekends sprites of all sizes and costume race around and, frankly, there’s nothing better than witnessing their delight, especially if you’re not the one corralling them!

Arguably the best seasonal restaurant in these parts is still open, so head to the Flo Gris Cafe for lunch (prepared by the talented team at Gourmet Galley) with a view of the Lieutenant River and the landscape so dearly loved by the American Impressionists who established the Old Lyme Art Colony. On weekends, soups, chili, mac & cheese, and more kid-friendly food is available in the Landscape Center. Make sure to stop in the Museum Shop for all manner of make-believe paraphernalia from wings and fairy dust, to dragon tails and unicorn headbands (a great place to stock up for the holidays, while supporting the Museum, too!).

Special events include faerie crafternoons, faerie dance lessons, tea parties, live music and more. Check out the schedule of special events here.

$15 Adults
$14 Seniors (62+)
$13 Students
$5 Members 
Children 12 and under are free!

Above image by Dave Graybill