Connecticut Historic Inn For Sale: Once-in-a-Lifetime Architectural Masterpiece

The historic Captain’s Mansion—better known to many shoreline residents as the Spicer Mansion—is back on the market in downtown Mystic. It’s a rare chance to own one of Connecticut’s most storied properties.

This fully operational luxury inn and former fine-dining destination blends Old World elegance with modern amenities. Its flexible zoning opens the door to both business and private estate possibilities.

Find Your Ideal Getaway in Connecticut
Explore top-rated stays with no booking fees and instant confirmation. Your dream trip starts here!
Start Exploring Now

The Legacy of the Spicer Mansion in Mystic

Set in the heart of Mystic, the Captain’s Mansion has long stood as a reminder of the town’s maritime prosperity. Built in 1853 for shipping magnate Captain Elihu Spicer, the home has watched Mystic evolve from a working seaport into one of Connecticut’s most visited coastal communities.

As towns from New London to Stonington work to preserve their historic character while supporting tourism, the Spicer Mansion stands out. It’s a strong example of how a 19th-century property can be restored and repurposed for 21st-century use.

Italianate Victorian Architecture, Fully Restored

The mansion is a classic example of Italianate Victorian design, spanning more than 10,000 square feet. The restoration team preserved period details while upgrading systems for modern comfort and commercial operation.

Among the standout features are:

Eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms, allowing for generous guest accommodations or an expansive private residence.
Three grand parlors with hand-painted ceilings, ideal for receptions, meetings, or intimate gatherings.
Five ornate fireplaces, converted to gas, that blend historic charm with convenience.
A full commercial kitchen, ready for a chef-driven restaurant or high-end catering operation.

A Turnkey Luxury Inn in the Heart of Downtown

For investors and hospitality operators in places like Hartford, New Haven, or Norwich looking to expand into the shoreline market, the Captain’s Mansion offers a significant advantage. It’s already up and running.

Recently reopened in 2023 under new ownership, the property is currently operational as an inn. The sale includes furnishings and fixtures, so a new owner can transition in with minimal downtime.

In a competitive tourism landscape that stretches from Groton to Bridgeport, a fully equipped, branded property in Mystic’s walkable downtown is a notable opportunity.

Dining, Entertaining, and Event Space

The formal dining room, which can comfortably seat up to 30 guests, is a natural fit for boutique weddings, corporate retreats, and destination dining. The adjoining brick patio extends the entertaining space outdoors.

This setup is especially attractive in the warmer months when Mystic’s downtown and waterfront are at their busiest. A designated registration area supports seamless inn operations.

The layout lends itself well to curated guest experiences—from chef’s tasting menus to small private events. It’s easy to imagine the possibilities here.

Zoning Flexibility: Business or Private Estate

One of the most compelling aspects of the listing is its flexibility. The property is zoned for both business and private use, giving a future owner options that are increasingly hard to find in a dense, in-demand village center.

Currently, the mansion is approved as an eight-unit inn featuring a guest-only restaurant and a full liquor license. That creates a strong framework not only for traditional hospitality, but also for niche concepts such as wellness retreats, culinary getaways, or executive conferences.

Potential for a Lower-Level Speakeasy

An intriguing bonus is the potential to create a lower-level speakeasy—an amenity that could draw both overnight guests and locals from surrounding communities like Waterford, Ledyard, and beyond. With Mystic’s growing reputation for food and craft cocktails, a speakeasy-style lounge could become a signature feature.

That kind of addition would definitely set the property apart in the regional market.

Location, Acreage, and Asking Price

The estate sits on nearly 1.5 acres—an unusually generous parcel for downtown Mystic. Landscaped grounds give privacy and room for outdoor amenities.

It’s a short walk to the Mystic River, local shops, restaurants, and attractions. That’s a key selling point for both guests and investors.

The Captain’s Mansion is listed at $6.5 million and is represented by Judi Caracausa of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty. Caracausa emphasizes the property’s rare blend of historical pedigree, careful preservation, prime location, and flexible use, noting that it’s tough to find this combination even in historic markets like West Hartford or Fairfield.

A Rare Opportunity in Connecticut’s Coastal Market

In Connecticut, lots of historic homes have turned into offices or split up into apartments. The Captain’s Mansion, though, stays mostly intact—a high-end slice of Victorian architecture reimagined for modern hospitality.

Maybe it’ll keep running as a boutique inn. Or maybe someone will turn it into a private compound, or even some kind of event-driven hybrid.

Whatever happens next with this Mystic landmark, people are definitely watching—preservationists, investors, and neighbors all have their eyes on it.

If you want a property on the Connecticut shoreline that makes a statement, with both history and some income potential, the Spicer Mansion is honestly one of the most notable listings out there right now.

Discover Your Perfect Stay in Connecticut
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now