The Ultimate Guide to Riding the Essex Steam Train in Connecticut
While on a road trip searching for the best things to do in Connecticut in the fall, I discovered the historic small town of Essex. Known as “The Perfect Small-Town” in the book 1000 Places To See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz, Essex brims with charm thanks in small part to the Essex Steam Train and The Griswold Inn.
If you yearn for a nostalgic journey back in time, the Essex Steam Train in Connecticut captures the quintessential New England experience.
Whether you’re a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique day out, the Essex Steam Train offers a delightful adventure.
In this blog post, I’ll explore everything you need to know about the Essex Steam Train, from the ticket options and costs to scenic stops. I’ll even give you a peek into the charming town of Essex and the historic Griswold Inn, famously featured in a Hallmark Channel movie.
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The Valley Railroad Company has operated the Essex Steam Train in the Connecticut River Valley since 1971.
Arriving at the historic and charming Essex Train Station, you will find plenty of free parking.
Make your way to the modern train depot with a vintage vibe to buy your tickets at the wooden window counter.
Next to the ticket window, you will find waiting areas, a gift shop, and restrooms.
All Aboard The Essex Steam Train: Ticket Types and Costs
The Essex Steam Train departs three times daily. The days of operation are on a varied schedule, dependent upon the season.
Several ticket options suit different preferences and budgets, each providing a memorable experience.
Coach Ticket
A basic ticket grants you access to the classic train trip on the steam train. For an additional cost, you can include a ride on a riverboat.
You’ll travel through the scenic Connecticut River Valley and enjoy a riverboat cruise on the Becky Thatcher.
A basic ticket costs around $30, but you can add on the riverboat trip, which runs around $45 for adults, $35 for children (2-11), and free for infants under two.
Dinner Train
For a truly unique dining experience, the Essex Steam Train offers a Dinner Train option.
Enjoy a gourmet meal while rolling through the picturesque Connecticut countryside.
With a four-course menu and impeccable service, this romantic and charming evening costs about $120 per person.
Seasonal Excursions
The Essex Steam Train also offers seasonal and special excursions, such as the North Pole Express during the holiday season and the Fall Foliage train rides.
These special tickets range from $50 to $80, depending on the event and seating choice.
While at the train depot, ask about other experiences the train offers, like rail bikes and opportunities to operate the train with a program called Hand on the Throttle.
TRIP TIP: Use the restroom before leaving the station, as a restroom is unavailable on the train.
The Caboose Car
The Caboose Car only makes a special appearance on the last weekend of each month, and luckily, the caboose was available on our visit.
Although we had tickets for the caboose, we jumped on board the Coach section. This was partly because I was in the restroom when the train was about to depart and literally had to run to board.
After realizing our mistake, the attendants apologized and agreed to put us in the Caboose car for the return trip.
The mistake was a blessing because riding in Coach and the Caboose are two different experiences.
Choose Your Ticket – Coach vs. Caboose
Because there is only one Caboose Car, the ride in the Caboose can get crowded.
Passengers maneuver around each other to peek out the few windows.
The caboose ride provides a unique perspective on how the train turns around at the end of the line, where it doesn’t turn at all.
The caboose is hooked to a new engine, and the train is pulled back to the station.
Watching the steam and hearing the roar of the whistle was a fun experience.
Overall, I was happy to experience rides in both train cars, but I enjoyed the views more in the Coach car.
Essex Steam Train Stops
The train leaves the Essex train station and heads along the Connecticut River Valley, passing through the charming towns of Chester and Deep River.
As you enjoy the one-hour-long round-trip train ride, your coach attendant will share points of interest and fun facts.
Sit back and enjoy the trip as you pass through beautiful landscapes and scenery, especially in the fall when the vibrant colors of the leaves wave past the open windows.
One of the most picturesque stops on the journey is Deep River Landing.
This charming riverside stop allows passengers to disembark and board the Becky Thatcher riverboat, which cruises along the Connecticut River.
You’ll witness breathtaking views of Gillette Castle, the Goodspeed Opera House, and the majestic swan-filled marshes.
A short distance from Deep River Landing, the train stops near the iconic Goodspeed Opera House, a historic theater that has hosted numerous Broadway-quality productions. Though the train does not stop long, this beautiful landmark from your window is worth noting.
As the train chugs along, the conductor often shares fascinating tidbits about the area’s history.
Finally, the trip concludes back at Essex Station, a restored Victorian station that transports visitors to a bygone era.
The station itself is a sight to behold, with its period-appropriate decor and friendly staff dressed in traditional conductor uniforms.
Our friendly train engineer agreed to pose for pictures and let us play around with our photos.
Overall, we had a great time on the Essex Steam Train!
Explore the Charming Town of Essex
After enjoying the Essex Steam Train, head to the charming town of Essex.
Essex, Connecticut, is often touted as one of the most beautiful small towns in America, and it’s easy to see why.
With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and charming waterfront, Essex embodies quintessential New England charm.
The colonial architecture, window boxes overflowing with flowers, and flower-lined pathways welcome you to this small Connecticut town.
The village area is perfect for a leisurely walk while you admire the historic architecture, with some dating back to the 18th century.
It’s no wonder it has been used as the setting for several movies.
Lunch at The Gris
After walking around Main Street, head to The Griswold Inn, affectionately known as “The Gris.”
Established in 1776, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the United States.
Stepping into The Gris feels like stepping back in time.
The walls are adorned with vintage maritime paintings, and the cozy taproom, complete with a roaring fireplace, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Griswold Inn offers a variety of dining options, from casual pub fare in the Tap Room to elegant dining in the Hunt Room.
You will be delighted by the menu selections and the friendly staff.
The menu is a mix of classic New England dishes, including clam chowder, lobster rolls, and prime rib.
Because it was mid-afternoon, I chose the butternut squash soup and split a giant chicken salad with my sister. Without asking, the waitress had the kitchen staff split the salad into two plates for us to share.
I love receiving this type of thoughtful service.
A Hallmark Channel Connection
The Griswold Inn’s timeless charm has not gone unnoticed by the entertainment world.
It was featured in several Hallmark Channel movies, including Christmas at Pemberly Manor, perfectly capturing the inn’s quaint, romantic ambiance.
The Inn’s cozy atmosphere, historical significance, and picturesque setting make it a perfect backdrop for the heartwarming tales that Hallmark fans adore.
After lunch, The Connecticut River Museum is a short walk from The Griswold Inn toward the Connecticut River. The walk and museum visit is a beautiful way to end your day in lovely Essex.
Tips for Your Visit
The Essex Steam Train is a popular attraction, especially during the Connecticut fall foliage season and holidays. Booking tickets in advance is a good idea to secure your preferred time.
Arrive at the Essex Train Station at least 30 minutes before departure to give yourself time to explore the station, take photos, use the restroom, and find your seat.
Dress comfortably and bring a camera for the scenic views from the train and riverboat.
Final Thoughts About the Essex Steam Train
From the nostalgic feel of the steam engine to the charming town of Essex and the historic Griswold Inn, an adventure on the Essex Steam Train offers a unique blend of relaxation, education, and picturesque scenery.
Whether you’re looking to rekindle the romance of train travel, explore a beautiful New England town, or enjoy a day out with family, the Essex Steam Train can check all the boxes.
So, hop aboard, sit back, and let the rhythmic chug of the train whisk you away on a scenic trip through the Connecticut River Valley.
Plan your visit today, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
