Riding the Essex Steam Train: What to Know Before You Go
The Essex Steam Train has been offering scenic rail excursions through the Connecticut River Valley for more than five decades. You board a vintage steam locomotive in Essex, roll past marshes and river coves, and see part of Connecticut that has mostly been left untouched. Add the riverboat cruise to your ticket, and you extend that view another hour and 15 minutes down the Connecticut River.
If you’re planning a fall getaway, the Essex Steam Train fall foliage excursions are among the area’s most popular seasonal experiences. Whether you’re checking the Essex Steam Train schedule for a Saturday afternoon excursion or booking the Essex Steam Train dinner for a special evening out, this is one of the most unique things to do in Essex, CT. Nearby, you can also find plenty of things to do in Mystic, CT, to make your trip even more worthwhile. We recommend visiting the Mystic Seaport Museum, exploring the Mystic Aquarium, browsing Olde Mistick Village, or enjoying dinner along the Mystic River.
After a few hours on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, there’s something to be said about returning to a comfortable home base. As one of the boutique hotels Mystic, CT travelers choose specifically because it’s an easy base for exploring the whole river valley, our luxury hotel puts you close to Essex and in the middle of the charming town of Mystic. End your day of exploring with our on-site restaurant before settling in to one of our upscale and cozy accommodations. Book your stay, and start planning the ultimate getaway today!
What to Expect on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
The Essex Steam Train departs from the beautifully restored 1892 Essex Station along tracks operated by the historic Valley Railroad Company. You’ll board one of the railroad’s carefully restored steam locomotives before traveling north through Deep River and Chester. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic marshes, the Florence Bidwell Sanctuary, and Post Cove, where the protected wetlands provide habitat for a variety of native birds and wildlife. Guests who choose the riverboat portion enjoy scenic views of the Connecticut River Valley, with picturesque shoreline landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming waterfront communities along the way.
Most visitors choose the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat excursion, which lasts approximately two and a half hours. The journey begins aboard the train, then transfers at Deep River Landing to the Becky Thatcher, an authentic Mississippi-style riverboat, for a narrated cruise along the Connecticut River. After the cruise, passengers return to Essex aboard the train. If you’re short on time, the train-only excursion offers a shorter ride without the riverboat. Seating options include Coach and First Class accommodations, with Caboose seating available on select departures for guests seeking a unique experience.
If you’d like to include dinner, the Essex Steam Train dinner experience is offered separately aboard the Essex Clipper Dinner Train. This evening excursion features a multi-course meal served in beautifully restored Pullman dining cars, creating an entirely different experience from the daytime excursions. Throughout the warmer months, the railroad also offers select themed excursions and special events. Fall is especially popular, with Essex Steam Train fall foliage rides drawing visitors from across New England. The railroad generally operates its primary excursion season from spring through fall before transitioning into popular holiday events later in the year.
Plan to arrive at Essex Station about 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow plenty of time for check-in and boarding. Because prices, schedules, and excursion offerings vary throughout the season, it’s always a good idea to review the current Essex Steam Train offerings and reserve tickets in advance, particularly during weekends and the popular fall foliage season.
Essex sits about 35 minutes from downtown Mystic by car, making it an easy half-day excursion during a coastal getaway. Combining one of the most scenic train rides in Connecticut with time exploring Mystic’s waterfront, shops, and restaurants creates a full weekend experience. It’s also one of the reasons guests searching for hotels near Essex Steam Train often choose our boutique lodging as their home base while exploring southeastern Connecticut.
Where to Stay After the Essex Steam Train: Boutique Hotels in Mystic, CT
After a day adventuring on one of the best train rides in Connecticut, there’s no better place to unwind than one of the top boutique hotels in Mystic, CT. Located in downtown Mystic, our lodging combines historic New England charm with modern comforts, offering beautifully appointed guest rooms across five restored buildings. Many accommodations feature gas fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, luxurious bedding, and thoughtful amenities designed to help you relax after a day of exploring. Best of all, you’ll be just steps from Mystic’s waterfront, unique shops, galleries, and attractions, making it easy to continue your getaway without getting back in the car.
Complete your stay with dinner at our James Beard-recognized restaurant, The Shipwright’s Daughter, then join us for breakfast before another day of exploring coastal Connecticut. Whether you’re planning to experience the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, discover Mystic’s famous attractions, or simply enjoy a relaxing New England getaway, our lodging is one of the best options for boutique hotels in Mystic, CT. Book your stay today and start planning an unforgettable weekend on the Connecticut shoreline.
