Embark on the Essex Steam Train to Discover Connecticut’s Beauty
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.
After learning about the Essex Steam Train and the Griswold Inn, I knew I had to visit this quintessential Connecticut town.
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The Essex Steam Train – 1 Railroad Ave., Essex, CT 06426
The Valley Railroad Company operates the Essex Steam Train in the Connecticut River Valley and has done so since 1971.
Arriving at the historic and charming Essex Train Station, you will find plenty of free parking.
Walk up to the modern train depot with a vintage vibe to buy your tickets at the wooden window counter. Besides the ticket window, visitors will find waiting areas, a gift shop, and restrooms.
TRIP TIP: Use the restroom before leaving the station, as a restroom is unavailable on the train.
How much does the Essex Steam Train cost?
Passengers can choose from several classes of tickets: Coach, First Class, Open Air Class, and 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.
The Essex Steam Train begins its 2023 schedule in May and will depart three times daily. The days of operation are on a varied schedule, dependent upon the season.
Prices for the train ride begin at $28 per person.
In addition to the Essex Steam Train, visitors can purchase an Essex Steam Train and Riverboat combination ticket.
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.
Seasonal events such as the North Pole Express and the Essex Clipper Dinner train are also available.
Where does the Essex Steam Train go?
The train leaves the train station in Essex and heads along the Connecticut River Valley, passing through the charming towns of Chester and Deep River.
The one-hour-long round-trip train ride passes through beautiful landscapes and scenery, especially in the fall when the vibrant colors of the leaves wave past the open windows.
Choose Your Ticket – Coach vs. Caboose
Although we had tickets for the caboose, I was in the restroom when it was time for the train to depart.
I literally ran to the train as the steam whistle blew, being hustled along by our friendly train attendant.
We realized we were ushered into the wrong car once seated in the Coach class.
After realizing our mistake, the attendants apologized and agreed to put us in the Caboose car for the return trip.
The mistake was actually a blessing because riding in Coach and the Caboose were two totally different experiences.
Coach Car Seat
Caboose Car Seat
The Coach Car features bench-type seats and large windows. As the attendant shares stories about the history of the area and the train, another points out interesting sights along the way, including the Gillette Castle.
Our coach car was used in one of the Indiana Jones movies starring Harrison Ford. How cool is that!
Because there is only one Caboose Car, the ride back was crowded.
Passengers maneuvered around the inside of the car to peak out the few windows.
The caboose ride provides a unique perspective on how the train turns around at the end of the line. It doesn’t turn at all.
The caboose is hooked up to a new engine, and the train is pulled back to the station.
The experience of watching the steam and hearing the roar of the whistle was a fun experience.
Our train engineer was friendly and agreed to pose for pictures with us, which was fun.
Overall, I was happy to experience both rides, but I enjoyed the views more in the Coach car.
Visit the Town of Essex
After enjoying the Essex Steam Train, head to the charming town of Essex.
The colonial architecture, window boxes overflowing with flowers, and flower-lined pathways welcome you to this small Connecticut town.
It’s no wonder it has been used as the setting for several movies.
After walking around Main Street, head over to The Griswold Inn, the setting of a 2018 Hallmark Christmas movie, Christmas at Pemberley Manor. The sizeable colonial inn, established in 1776, also has a welcoming restaurant.
Head inside for a delicious lunch in front of the enormous stone fireplace.
You will be delighted by the menu selections and the friendly staff.
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 send the salad out, split into two plates.
I love receiving this type of thoughtful service.
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.
