Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

The Valley Railroad Company, which was founded in 1868, is a heritage railroad based in Essex, CT, and operates the Essex Steam Train and Essex Clipper Dinner Train. Departing from the historic 1892 Essex Station, steam and vintage diesel locomotives pulls vintage coaches through gorgeous New England countryside and  the quintessential New England towns of Deep River and Chester.

Essex Steam Train isn’t just a railroad; as the name implies, the line includes a junction with an antique riverboat – the Becky Thatcher -- , which cruises the Connecticut River and is accessed from the Deep River Landing train stop. The 2 ½ hour train/boat combination journey offers passengers access to several coves and preserves of the undeveloped Selden Neck State Park (accessible only by boat) and great river views of historic sites including Gilette Castle, Goodspeed Opera House and the Haddam Swing Bridge.

The Essex Steam Train also runs the Essex Clipper Dinner Train, which serves a four-course meal served in beautifully restored 1920s Pullman diners. MORE >