Discover the Charm of Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
Explore the captivating Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park, where history, nature, and adventure await in a stunning riverside setting.
Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park offers an enchanting escape for tourists with its scenic views, historic railroad experiences, and serene natural surroundings, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
A brief summary to Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
- 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, Connecticut, 06426, US
- +1860-424-3200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the weekend for the best chance to experience steam train rides.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic spots within the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park's walking trails.
- Check the park's official website for event schedules and any seasonal activities.
- Visit during the fall for breathtaking foliage and a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, navigate to Essex, CT. From Route 9, take Exit 3 for Route 154 towards Essex. Continue on Route 154 and take a left onto Main Street. Follow Main Street until you reach Railroad Avenue. The park entrance will be on your right at 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426.
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Public Transportation - Train
Take the Shore Line East train towards New London. Disembark at the Essex station. From the station, it is approximately a 1-mile walk to the park. Head west on Main Street and turn right onto Railroad Avenue. The park entrance will be located at 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426. Please check the train schedule for specific departure times and ticket prices, which usually range from $10 to $20 for a one-way trip.
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Public Transportation - Bus
If using the bus, take the 15 or 19 CT Transit bus routes which service the area. Get off at the Essex Main Street stop. From there, it's a short walk to the park. Head east on Main Street and turn right onto Railroad Avenue. The park entrance is at 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426. Check the CT Transit website for the latest bus schedules and ticket prices, which generally cost around $1.75 for a single ride.
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
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Ferry Landing State Park
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Florence Griswold Museum
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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
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East Haddam Historical Society
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Clinton Village Historic District
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Meigs Point Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
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Thankful Arnold House
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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, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
RiverQuest
1.7 km
Eco-tours on the Connecticut River: Explore wildlife, history, and scenic beauty aboard the RiverQuest, departing from the Connecticut River Museum in Essex.
Deep River Landing
5.2 km
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Gillette Castle Visitor Center
8.3 km
Explore the life and legacy of William Gillette at the gateway to his castle, offering historical insights and visitor amenities.
Gillette Castle
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Explore the eccentric castle of William Gillette, the famed Sherlock Holmes actor, with stunning views of the Connecticut River.
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
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Chapman Pond Preserve
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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
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East Haddam Swing Bridge
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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
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Rocky Neck State Park
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Chatfield Hollow State Park
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Devil's Hopyard State Park
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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
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Dunkin'
15.0 km
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Donahue's Madison Beach Grille
15.1 km
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Lenny & Joe's
15.1 km
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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
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Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar
31.2 km
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Luce Restaurant
31.3 km
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Fire at the Ridge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vintage Home Decor
0.6 km
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Old Beautiful Antiques & Art
1.2 km
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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
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Gather Again
3.0 km
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Celebrations
4.7 km
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Pet's Choice
4.7 km
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Eve's Addiction
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Treasures
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Re-Unique Antiques
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The Space Chester
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The Trove
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Tova's Vintage Shop
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Westbrook Outlets
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The Chocolate Shell
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scotch Plains Tavern
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The Griswold Inn
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The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn
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Rusty Rail Tavern
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The Blue Hound Cookery & Tap Room
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Red House
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Calamari's Tavern
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Whistle Stop Cafe
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Landing & Main
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The Anchor
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The Village Bistro
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Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille
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The Side Door Jazz Club
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The Brushmill by the Waterfall
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Rustica Ristorante
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Feather Lounge
30.5 km
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Comix Roadhouse
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Discover Comix Roadhouse: A vibrant restaurant and live music venue in Uncasville, offering great food and unforgettable entertainment experiences.
Avalon Night Club Mohegan Sun
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Vista Lounge at Wombi Rock
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Sachems Lounge
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Dog house bar & grill
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Dog House Bar & Grill in Meriden, CT, your perfect stop for food and fun.
CT Young Bullz
38.6 km
CT Young Bullz: A vibrant youth club in Meriden, Connecticut, promoting creativity, friendship, and personal growth for teens.
Scotty O Boyles Pub
39.2 km
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105 restaurant and lounge
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Shrine Nightclub
39.4 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Shrine Nightclub, where electrifying music meets luxurious ambiance in the heart of Foxwoods Resort Casino.
Diablos Conn.
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The Neon Palm Daiquiri Bar
39.5 km
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Foxwoods Great Cedar Showroom Loading Docks
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Raffy's Cafe 1 LLC
40.0 km
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La Patrona Cafe
40.0 km
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