Mystic Seaport isn’t just a engaging recreation of a 19th-century shipbuilding village — it is that village, preserved in time through the past hundred-some years through the forward-looking efforts of a trio of Mystic residents. More than 30 individual buildings –including a dry-goods shop, ship provisioner, pub and school — have been meticulously restored and supplemented by other buildings transported here from all over New England. Now they are populated with hands-on exhibits and costumed interpreters who teach visitors about all aspects of maritime history and culture. You can earn your sea legs hoisting the sails on the Charles W. Morgan — the country’s last remaining whaleship — or several other vessels berthed on the wharf; learn sea shanties from authentic musicians; or learn how to make ropes. Younger kids can try their hand making maps, building wooden boat models, or just climbing the rigging at a nautical-themed “playscape.”