If you have not had this experience you are not living. An unbelievable glimpse back in time. Food-5 stars, service- 100 stars if that were an option. As you enter you will be awestruck, white linen table cloths with apps and your salad plated. The train car made me feel like I should have worn a 3 piece suit with a derby from the 1920’s. The only downside was the conductor constantly interrupting conversations and dinner with useless information. FYI he cut his grass twice a week this year. Unneeded which took away from the experience. But still 5 stars, we are booking again tonight and I would highly implore you to do the same. Hands down one of the coolest experiences I have had. Bravo to the staff, your level of service left nothing to be expected. Restaurants worldwide should be trained by you. Thanks for a great night out celebrating my mother in law’s 70th. I night I shall never forget.

Had a fun time on the old Steam Train and River Boat Ride. We went on a rainy day and enjoyed the trip anyway. On rainy days, the picture taking isn't so great but we enjoyed a relaxing day nonetheless. The train ride takes you to the Connecticut River where you'll climb on board the river boat for a fun ride up there river and back. We saw the Gillette Castle and several bald eagles. You'll board the train again and head back to the station. Great trip back to yesteryear.

We went on Memorial Day, and it was a beautiful day. I recommend buying tickets in advance online. Make sure to arrive 30 mins before departure because you have to pick up your tickets at the ticket booth. Coach tickets are $45, and first-class tickets are $60. You can purchase food and drinks on the riverboat, and the food is reasonably priced. Will definitely do this again !

The kids had a blast! Walking up to the train was great all in itself. The steam/smoke coming out made for a great show. My son was amazed. The main house was warm and cozy. You can purchase coffee, snacks, wine, and beer. You can't bring alcohol on the train, but if you purchase/rent the D car, they serve drinks.

I have an adult son who is autistic and loves trains, so we booked a first class trip. This included the river boat. We had a great time. Great people, wonderful old trains, and great gift shop.

What a lovely treat. Went here because Connecticut was doing it's Summer at the Museum program again and this gem was on the list. We haven't been here since my son very little for the polar express, it was nice to experience it during the day in a warm season. My son was super excited and enjoyed the whole experience from the train to the boat ride. It was our first time doing them both, the adventure begins with about a 30-45 minutes train ride that goes from Essex and along and past Gillette castle, beautiful view. The train goes to the end of the line and back tracks to where the Steamboat picks up. The boat ride was about an hour, with a food/drink area and restrooms. We got to get very close to Gillette castle on the boat and we saw a bald eagle in a tree. Then we got back on the train to go back to the station for another 30ish minutes. Lovely experience and very relaxing.

Booking an Essex Steam Train & Riverboat tour is an easy add-on for a day exploring this area. It's really satisfying, while still leaving you time in your day to do other things. You don't need to be there ridiculously early, but plan accordingly. I actually went to the wrong starting location first and almost missed it because of that. If you don't see the large admissions building, you're in the wrong place. The train is fun, but goes through a lot of forest, so there isn't much to look at. The boat portion offers more satisfying views. Bring warm clothes so you can enjoy the open deck views. On my tour, we saw bald eagles, cormorants, an osprey nest and nice views of Gillette Castle splashed in autumn colors. Admission was very reasonable for this type of venue and books up fast when there's something special like holiday focused tours coming up.

The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat offered a delightful experience. The scenic journey aboard the steam train combined with the riverboat cruise was both picturesque and relaxing. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, providing interesting insights throughout the trip. The historical charm of the steam train added a unique touch, and the riverboat cruise offered serene views. Overall, a well-organized and enjoyable excursion suitable for all ages. A lot of parking and beautiful worthy photos to take in the area

I love going on trains and this is one of my favorites now! We paid the little extra to stay in the first class Pullman car. The seats were all swivel recliners and they served drinks!! We then went on the train and got on the steamboat before returning to the train and back to the station. What a great trip! Will definitely do it again next time that we are in the area!

Had a awesome time on the Steam Train & Riverboat ride today. It was a perfect day. Awesome weather. Such a lovely experience. Would definitely recommend.

What a great way to escape the fast paced world and go back in time. Easy access from I95, plenty of parking on property and they stay on schedule so plan accordingly. Their web site details the options for various experiences. Some trips catering to families and others to adults. My favorite is their Dinner Train. There is a well stocked gift shop, clean bathrooms and a fairly tiny snack shop. If you want to have a meal before or after your trip I’d suggest giving the Surfridge Brewing Co next door. We opted for the very comfortable First Class Car where they will serve you signature cocktails, beer or wine. Well worth the upgrade with all window views from your verity comfortable swivel plush seat.