Essex Steam Train & Riverboat 
PO Box 452, Railroad Avenue 
Essex, CT 06426 
(800) 377-3987 (1-800-essex train) • (860) 767-0103 

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 rdiing 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. 

Hours: Open some days in early April through early June, then daily through early September, then Wednesday through Sunday through October. Open late November through December Thursday through Sunday. Call for schedules.  

Admission 
Train & Boat:  
Adults             $26.00 
Children (2-11) $13.00 
Train Only:  
Adults             $17.00 
Children          $ 9.00  
Parlor Car add 5.00 per person. Observation car add $3.00   
Children under 3 FREE.  
Discounted family passes are available.
Call for special rates for groups of 25 or more. Private charters available.  

Group Reservations: At least 2 weeks in advance. 

Lunch: Snack bar on grounds.  

Handicapped : 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.  

Time: 2 hours.  

Nearby: 
Millstone Energy
Education Center 

 
 

 
 
 


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