Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
PO Box 452, Railroad Avenue 
Essex, CT 06426 
(800) 377-3987 (1-800-essex train) • (860) 767-0103
www.essexsteamtrain.com/

Operated by the Valley Railroad Company, this charming attraction features two operating engines:  Engine No. 40, a 2-8-2 engine built in 1920 and Engine No. 97, a 2-8-0 "Consolidation" type locomotive built in 1923 by the American Locomotive Company's Cooke Works. Visitors can ride a restored 1920's vintage coach, parlor car, or a partially-open observation and then transfer to an old time river boat for a picturesque tour of the Connecticut River. 

The scenery from both rides is beautiful, with views of quaint old houses, country lanes, green meadows, woods, streams, and famous sights. A narrator points out places of interest along the way.  The Train ride is one hour long.  Visitors riding both the Train and the Boat will enjoy a scenic 2 and 1/2 hour journey.  There are also vintage rail cars, a working railroad yard, and steam and diesel locomotives to explore. 

For individuals, families or groups who enjoy old-time trains and the wonderful atmosphere of yesteryear, Essex Steam Train and Riverboat provides a nice opportunity for a one-day vacation.

Photo courtesy of Daveda Lamont

 


Hours: Open weekends and Memorial Day in the spring; Daily in the summer, including Labor Day; Weekends during the fall, with additional days during Foliage season; and there is a holiday schedule around Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. Visitors should call or visit the Train's official site for a detailed schedule.
Admission (Train and Boat):
Adults $28.00 Children 2 - 11 $19.00 Children under 2 FREE
Admission (Train only):
Adults $18.00 Children 2 - 11 $10.00 Children under 2 FREE
Additional charge for Parlor Car, Observation Car or Caboose. Rates do not include dinner tours or other special trains. Parking is FREE. Discounted family passes are available. Senior discount every day. Private charters available.
Groups: Discount available for groups of 20 or more with advance reservation.
Group Reservations: At least 2 weeks in advance.
Lunch: Snack bar on grounds. 
Handicapped Access: Partial.  
Directions: I-95 north to Connecticut exit 69. Take Rt. 9 to exit 3. Left from exit.  Valley Railroad Company is ¼ mile on the left. About 2 hours from the George Washington Bridge.

Copyright © 1996-2014 by Patrick Tadeushuk. All Rights Reserved.