Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park — Attraction in Essex

Prepare for a long walk from the parking lot, as this place gets packed. Consider booking your tickets on line because seats and the boat cruise add-on sell out at the ticket window. They could use more signage or guest services staff on the grounds because many people were confused about what to do, where to wait, what the different tickets mean, what else to see on the grounds, etc. The ride for train only is about an hour. There is a stop to drop off/pick up the boat cruise passengers. There is a bathroom on at least one of the cars, but for heavens sake, just go before you board. They have regular bathrooms at the station. You can bring non-alcoholic drinks on board or buy from them once you get rolling. The open air car was my choice, and I loved it. There was a good breeze from the motion, even on the humid day. In this car, however, ash and debris will blow in from the steam engine (not too dirty, mostly sand-like). It accumulates and I swept my lap several times and rinsed my face in the ladies room afterward. It was nothing to worry about and you probably shouldn't wear white or fancy clothes while visiting this place, even if you dont ride the train at all. You can tour the grounds...

I had been to this place years ago with my mom and came back to visit at the age of 51 the purpose for that visit is because I was celebrating my 51st birthday I celebrated my birthday which is September 25 for an entire month Each week in September I chose a place to visit and Essex was a place I chose I booked tickets for the Essex Steam Dinner Train which was for October 16 My experience was awesome The food was excellent The staff on the Dinner Train we're exceptional (if I give a tip you know the service is good) I enjoyed shopping at the gift shop The ride on the train was beautiful I felt like I was a celebrity because as the train was passing through the town people were waving and recording on their cell phones Lord will I'm going to celebrate my 52nd birthday at Essex Dinner Train Thank you for a five...

We took the dinner train from Essex to East Haddam and were pleasantly surprised with the experience. The train takes a very slow ride with pleasant views of the countryside and the CT River. As you approach East Haddam the train stops at an opening in the treeline and you get a fantastic view across the river of the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, the swing bridge, and Goodspeed Airport. Dinner was served onboard at this point and was actually pretty good!

The steam train operates different trips during the year including rides that hook up with one of the riverboats that go up the river to visit Gillette Castle. You will often see Eagles in flight and in the fall will witness the beautiful color changes of the forests along the river. Its a fun way to spend...