Mystic on the Move: How a Classic Postal Truck Became the Region’s Traveling Visitor Center
What began as an idea during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into a regional showstopper, drawing attention across state lines and putting Mystic on wheels.
From Office to Road: How It All Started
Back in 2020, before the pandemic reshaped everything, the Chamber operated out of a quaint, street-level house across from the Mystic Seaport Museum. A dedicated visitor center welcomed travelers daily. But when the pandemic hit, the Chamber downsized, relocating to a second-floor office and continuing to offer visitor services from there.
Recognizing the need to reach people in new and engaging ways, the Chamber used COVID relief funds from Stonington and Groton to purchase a classic 1983 AM General FJ8c United States Postal Truck. It was the start of something truly special.
A Truck with History—and a Makeover
Originally purchased in 2022 from Jeff Walters in Houston, Texas, the truck had already lived a second life as a novelty ice cream vehicle called
Thrilla N Vanilla. After making its way to Mystic, the truck received the royal treatment. The Antonino Auto Group helped kickstart repairs, which were completed by local mechanic Guy Palazzo. Then local graphic designer Abbie Park lent her talents to give the vehicle a new look, and Critical Signs’ Shawn and Jenn removed the old wrap and installed the brand-new Mystic-themed design. Jeff Mazella owner of NE Truck & Offroad helped spray the floor down and with additional repairs.
In March 2024, the truck made its official debut at the Mystic Irish Parade—and instantly turned heads. Over the year, it visited more than 20 events across southeastern Connecticut and even made a splash at the Big E in Massachusetts. With its eye-catching branding and nostalgic charm, it quickly became a favorite selfie spot and a symbol of regional pride.
Mystic Goes Mobile
From 2022 to 2024, the Chamber also operated a seasonal Visitor Center next to the iconic Mystic Bascule Bridge. With that space no longer available starting in 2025, the Chamber is rolling full steam ahead with the Traveling Visitor Center as its primary outreach tool.
Parked daily in downtown Mystic during the summer—and on select weekends throughout the year—the truck will act as a hub for locals and tourists alike. Through a partnership with the Town of Stonington, the Chamber will also activate a sidewalk structure to enhance the Chamber’s presence.
Inside the truck, visitors will find a curated collection of maps, brochures, and tourism materials representing all 41 towns of the Eastern Regional Tourism District (ERTD). This mobile information center will be stocked with everything from beach guides to casino highlights, showcasing the best of the region from Misquamicut to Niantic and north to the casinos and beyond.
What’s Inside (and Outside)
Thanks to support from regional grants, the Chamber is enhancing the truck with:
- A custom-designed 11x17 tri-fold map, highlighting attractions off I-95 exits from Exit 74 (Niantic) to Exit 92 (Stonington/Route 2).
- A wrap version of the map mounted on the truck near the service window for easy public viewing.
- A thoughtfully designed interior with shelving and brochure racks, maximizing space for visual displays and visitor materials.
- A generator to power the truck while parked.
- A Wi-Fi hotspot to provide connectivity and information access on the go.
These improvements will be completed by May 31, 2025, just in time for peak tourist season.
Driving Tourism—Literally
With its bold design and accessible location, the truck is more than just a mobile info booth—it’s a rolling billboard for the entire Southeastern Connecticut region. Whether parked in Mystic or out on the road in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or elsewhere, the truck is promoting everything from the beaches of Misquamicut and the boardwalk of Niantic to the world-class entertainment of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.
It ties the region together, offering a unified vision of what makes this corner of New England so special. It encourages longer stays, deeper exploration, and helps turn a simple day trip into a full weekend getaway.
Be Part of the Movement
This is more than just a truck—it’s a regional marketing tool, an ambassador on wheels, and a vibrant example of creative tourism promotion. The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce looks forward to driving awareness and foot traffic not just to Mystic, but to the entire Eastern Regional Tourism District.
If you'd like to book the truck for an event in 2025 or have questions about this exciting initiative, contact Bruce Flax at
bruceflax@mysticchamber.org.
Mystic has always drawn travelers in—but now, it’s also meeting them on the road. Keep your eyes peeled for the Traveling Visitor Center: a symbol of community, connection, and the best of Eastern Connecticut.
