Discover the Serenity of Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history at Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park, a perfect escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park is a picturesque destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Nestled in Essex, Connecticut, this state park offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking a tranquil escape.
A brief summary to Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
- 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, Connecticut, 06426, US
- +1860-424-3200
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the riverside for a relaxing afternoon.
- Check the park's schedule for any special events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Connecticut River Valley, take the nearest main road leading to CT-9. If you're in Middletown, for example, head south on Main St toward the CT-9 S entrance. Merge onto CT-9 S and continue for approximately 10 miles. Take exit 3 for CT-154 toward Essex. Turn left onto CT-154 N and continue for about 2 miles. Turn right onto Railroad Ave, and you will find Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park at 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation
To reach Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park via public transportation, you can take the CT Transit bus service. Check the schedule for routes serving the Essex area. For example, take the CT Transit bus Route 4 from Middletown to Essex. The closest stop is near the center of Essex. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the park. Head southeast on Main St, then turn left onto Railroad Ave. The park will be on your right. Make sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time, as service may vary.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, you can cycle to Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park. Many areas in Connecticut River Valley are bike-friendly. If you're starting from Old Saybrook, take the scenic route along the Connecticut River, following Main St toward Essex. The distance is approximately 8 miles, and it's a lovely ride along the riverfront. Once you reach Essex, turn onto Railroad Ave, and the park will be on your left.
Discover more about Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pratt House Museum - Essex Historical Society
0.9 km
Explore the Pratt House Museum in Essex, CT, and uncover the fascinating stories of local history and heritage in a charming historical setting.
Deep River Historical Society
4.1 km
Explore the rich history of Deep River, Connecticut at the Deep River Historical Society, where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Ferry Landing State Park
6.5 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme, Connecticut, a serene spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Florence Griswold Museum
7.1 km
Explore the Florence Griswold Museum, a captivating blend of American art, history, and stunning gardens in picturesque Old Lyme, Connecticut.
General William Hart House
7.5 km
Explore Old Saybrook's colonial past at the General William Hart House, a captivating local history museum with stunning grounds and engaging exhibits.
Hadlyme Ferry Historic District
7.9 km
Explore the charm of the Hadlyme Ferry Historic District, the second oldest ferry in Connecticut, nestled in scenic landscapes along the Connecticut River.
Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse
11.0 km
Explore the historic Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark offering breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and rich maritime history.
East Haddam Historical Society
11.5 km
Explore East Haddam's rich history at the East Haddam Historical Society, where heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Clinton Village Historic District
12.6 km
Explore the charming Clinton Village Historic District, a hidden gem in Connecticut filled with rich history, antique shops, and scenic architecture.
Meigs Point Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
16.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Meigs Point at Hammonasset Beach State Park, a coastal gem perfect for outdoor adventures and family fun in Madison, CT.
Hammonasset Beach
16.3 km
Hammonasset Beach in Madison, CT, offers a stunning two-mile stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for family fun, relaxation, and nature exploration.
Thankful Arnold House
17.2 km
Discover the rich history of the Thankful Arnold House in Haddam, Connecticut, a charming non-profit attraction offering insights into early American life.
Hole In The Wall Beach
17.7 km
Experience the enchanting charm of Hole In The Wall Beach in Niantic, Connecticut, where stunning views and sandy shores await your visit.
Millers Pond State Park
23.5 km
Explore Millers Pond State Park in Durham, CT - a serene escape for nature lovers offering hiking, fishing, and picturesque landscapes.
Seaside State Park
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Explore Seaside State Park in Waterford, Connecticut - a scenic coastal retreat combining natural beauty and rich historical significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting journey of the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, where history meets breathtaking scenery in Connecticut.
Connecticut River Museum
1.7 km
Discover the maritime history and natural beauty of the Connecticut River at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex.
RiverQuest
1.7 km
Explore the scenic Connecticut River with RiverQuest, where adventure meets history in the heart of Essex Village.
Deep River Landing
5.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Deep River Landing, a picturesque tourist attraction along the Connecticut River.
Gillette Castle Visitor Center
8.3 km
Explore the unique architectural wonder of Gillette Castle Visitor Center, a historic gem nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Connecticut's state park.
Gillette Castle
8.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Gillette Castle in Connecticut, a stunning architectural wonder with rich history and beautiful river views, perfect for all travelers.
Gillette Castle State Park
8.3 km
Experience the magic of Gillette Castle State Park, where history, architecture, and nature unite in a breathtaking setting.
Friends Of Gillette Castle
9.2 km
Discover the enchanting Gillette Castle in Connecticut, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by picturesque landscapes and rich history.
Chapman Pond Preserve
10.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Chapman Pond Preserve, a nature lover's haven in East Haddam, Connecticut, offering scenic trails and stunning wildlife views.
Eagle Landing State Park
12.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Eagle Landing State Park, a peaceful retreat along the Connecticut River, perfect for picnics, hiking, and wildlife watching.
East Haddam Swing Bridge
12.3 km
Experience the historic East Haddam Swing Bridge, a scenic marvel offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into early 20th-century engineering.
Brainard Homestead State Park
13.8 km
Explore Brainard Homestead State Park - a serene retreat in East Haddam, Connecticut, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature's beauty.
Rocky Neck State Park
14.4 km
Explore Rocky Neck State Park, a stunning Connecticut destination with beaches, trails, and rich wildlife for a perfect outdoor getaway.
Chatfield Hollow State Park
15.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth, Connecticut, a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Devil's Hopyard State Park
15.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife at Devil's Hopyard State Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Connecticut.
Essential places to dine
Marker 37
6.6 km
Experience exceptional dining at Marker 37 in Chester - where fresh ingredients meet local flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
River Tavern
6.9 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine at River Tavern in Chester, CT, where local flavors meet stunning riverside views.
Castle Cuisine
8.3 km
Experience culinary delight at Castle Cuisine in East Haddam – where local flavors meet scenic views.
Pica Chica Tacos
13.4 km
Experience vibrant Mexican flavors at Pica Chica Tacos in Clinton, CT - where every bite tells a delicious story.
McDonald's
13.8 km
Enjoy classic fast food at McDonald's in Clinton - perfect for travelers seeking quick meals at affordable prices.
Cohen's Bagel Company
14.8 km
Discover the authentic flavors of New York-style bagels at Cohen's Bagel Company in Madison, Connecticut—your perfect breakfast spot!
Clam Castle
15.0 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Clam Castle in Madison, CT - where every dish tells a story of coastal tradition and flavor.
Dunkin'
15.0 km
Discover Dunkin' in Madison – Your go-to spot for coffee, bagels, and donuts amidst Connecticut's charm.
Donahue's Madison Beach Grille
15.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Donahue's Madison Beach Grille in picturesque Madison, CT—where every meal is a seaside celebration.
Lenny & Joe's
15.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Lenny & Joe's in Madison, where every bite takes you closer to the ocean.
The Place Restaurant
23.9 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at The Place Restaurant in Guilford - where coastal flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Quattro's Italian Restaurant
24.4 km
Experience the flavors of Northern Italy at Quattro's Italian Restaurant in Guilford—where delicious cuisine meets live entertainment.
Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar
31.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar in Middletown, where fresh ingredients meet exquisite wines for an unforgettable dining experience.
Luce Restaurant
31.3 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Luce Restaurant in Middletown - where traditional flavors meet local charm.
Fire at the Ridge
32.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vintage Home Decor
0.6 km
Explore a unique blend of antique treasures and local artwork at Vintage Home Decor in Centerbrook, Connecticut, where every piece has a story to tell.
Old Beautiful Antiques & Art
1.2 km
Explore the charm of Old Beautiful Antiques & Art in Essex, CT - a treasure trove of 18th and 19th-century American artifacts.
The RiverLane
1.3 km
Discover the charm of The RiverLane, a boutique gift shop in Essex, Connecticut, offering unique clothing and accessories to elevate your style.
Connecticut River Artisans
1.6 km
Explore the Connecticut River Artisans: A captivating gift shop and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity in Essex, Connecticut.
Gather Again
3.0 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Gather Again in Ivoryton, CT, where history meets artistry in every piece.
Celebrations
4.7 km
Explore Celebrations in Deep River, CT, for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and a charming shopping experience in a beautiful town.
Pet's Choice
4.7 km
Discover a pet supply paradise at Pet's Choice in Deep River, CT, where every pet's needs are met with care and expertise.
Eve's Addiction
5.9 km
Discover exquisite jewelry at Eve's Addiction in Old Saybrook, where craftsmanship meets luxury in every stunning piece.
Treasures
6.3 km
Explore Treasures in Old Lyme, a home goods store bursting with unique finds and charming New England artistry.
Re-Unique Antiques
6.8 km
Explore Re-Unique Antiques in Old Saybrook for a captivating journey through time with unique vintage finds and artistic treasures.
The Space Chester
7.0 km
Discover the vibrant world of contemporary art at The Space Chester, where creativity and inspiration come alive in a charming Connecticut setting.
The Trove
7.0 km
Explore The Trove, an exquisite antique store in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, featuring a curated selection of vintage furniture, jewelry, and unique collectibles.
Tova's Vintage Shop
7.1 km
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Westbrook Outlets
7.1 km
Discover unbeatable deals at Westbrook Outlets, Connecticut's top shopping destination with an array of brand-name stores and unique local finds.
The Chocolate Shell
7.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scotch Plains Tavern
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The Griswold Inn
1.5 km
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The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn
1.5 km
Experience the charm of The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn, a historic bar in Essex, Connecticut, serving craft drinks and delicious fare in a cozy setting.
Rusty Rail Tavern
2.7 km
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The Blue Hound Cookery & Tap Room
3.1 km
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Red House
4.7 km
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Calamari's Tavern
5.1 km
Discover Calamari's Tavern - a cozy bar in Deep River, CT, offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all visitors.
Whistle Stop Cafe
5.1 km
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Landing & Main
5.3 km
Experience local flavors at Landing & Main, a charming restaurant in Deep River, Connecticut, perfect for all food enthusiasts.
The Anchor
6.8 km
Experience the culinary delights of Chester, Connecticut, at The Anchor, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Village Bistro
6.9 km
Experience farm-to-table dining at The Village Bistro in Chester, CT, where seasonal ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy atmosphere.
Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille
6.9 km
Discover the heart of Chester at Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille, where delicious grill cuisine meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Side Door Jazz Club
7.2 km
Discover the rhythm of live jazz at The Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme, where intimate performances create unforgettable musical memories.
The Brushmill by the Waterfall
7.7 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine by a picturesque waterfall at The Brushmill, a must-visit dining destination in Chester, Connecticut.
Rustica Ristorante
8.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Rustica Ristorante in Chester, CT, where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
