1. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: History lovers, families, train and boat enthusiasts, couples, and fans of scenic travel experiences.
What I Love: ♥ "It’s the only place in the country where you can ride a steam train and seamlessly continue the journey on a riverboat. Add a dinner train, and you’ve got timeless charm with a touch of elegance."
- Ride a historic steam locomotive operated by the Valley Railroad Company on a scenic tour through the Connecticut countryside.
- Board a riverboat directly from the train for a relaxing cruise along the Connecticut River.
- Choose from multiple seating options, including coach, first class, open-air cars, and even a nostalgic caboose ride.
- Attend seasonal onboard events like the Essex Clipper Dinner Train—a romantic experience recognized by USA Today as a "Memorable Meal."
- Visit between May and October to catch the full steam-and-boat experience under New England’s seasonal beauty.
Cost: Prices vary based on class selection and event; check the website for current rates and packages.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall; autumn rides offer spectacular foliage views along the river.
Local tips: Book early for specialty rides like the Essex Clipper Dinner Train—they sell out fast. Arrive 30 minutes early for boarding.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat: Located just off Route 9 in Essex. Follow signs to 1 Railroad Ave for parking and ticketing.
Address: 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426
2. Connecticut River Museum
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: History lovers, maritime enthusiasts, families, educators, and museumgoers exploring the Connecticut River Valley.
What I Love: ♥ "Housed in a steamboat warehouse from 1878, this museum brings the Connecticut River’s stories to life—from shipbuilding heritage to the mysterious Turtle submarine. It’s hands-on history in a picturesque riverside setting."
- Explore the museum’s nautical collection inside a historic 19th-century steamboat warehouse overlooking the river.
- Discover shipbuilding traditions through models, tools, and maps in the museum’s permanent exhibition.
- View maritime artifacts like navigation gear, nautical art, and shipbuilding tools—many donated by the Wadsworth Atheneum.
- Encounter a full-scale replica of the Turtle, America’s first submarine and a Revolutionary War innovation.
- Learn about the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of the Connecticut River through interactive exhibits.
Cost: General admission required; discounts available for seniors, children, and groups. See website for ticket details.
Best time to visit: Year-round, with special exhibitions and riverside events in spring, summer, and fall.
Local tips: Don’t miss the observation deck for river views, and check the calendar for seasonal cruises or family workshops.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to the Connecticut River Museum: Located in downtown Essex, just off Route 9. Follow signs to Main Street; the museum sits along the riverfront.
Address: 67 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Attractions for Couples
3. Pratt House
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: History enthusiasts, architecture buffs, garden lovers, and anyone interested in colonial-era life.
What I Love: ♥ "It’s like stepping back into the 1600s—timber frames, heirloom gardens, and centuries of family legacy. The docent-led tours make history feel personal and alive."
- Tour one of Connecticut’s oldest surviving buildings, constructed in the mid-17th century and beautifully preserved.
- Explore the home once owned by a single family for over 250 years—now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Admire original architectural details, colonial-era furnishings, and a period-appropriate kitchen garden.
- Join daily docent-led tours that bring the house’s rich past and family heritage to life.
Cost: Admission is free; donations to support the Essex Historical Society are encouraged.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall when the kitchen garden is in full bloom and tours are most frequent.
Local tips: Combine your visit with a stop at the Connecticut River Museum or Essex Steam Train for a full day of history.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to the Pratt House: Located in historic downtown Essex, just off Main Street on West Avenue—look for signs posted by the Essex Historical Society.
Address: 19 West Ave, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: 860-767-0681
4. Cooper & Smith Gallery
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: Art lovers, collectors (both new and seasoned), and those looking to explore contemporary fine art in a welcoming environment.
What I Love: ♥ “From realism to abstraction, the gallery’s curated collection of oil paintings radiates craftsmanship and creativity. The exhibitions are both intimate and inspiring.”
- Browse over 5,000 square feet of gallery space filled with works from acclaimed contemporary artists.
- Discover oil paintings rooted in traditional, drawing-based techniques—ranging from bold abstracts to fine realism.
- Explore curated exhibitions featuring artists such as Judith Pond Kudlow, James Coe, and Tom Root.
- Connect with the regional arts community through gallery-hosted events and seasonal showings.
Cost: Free admission
Best time to visit: Weekdays for a quiet viewing experience, or during special exhibitions for artist meet-and-greets.
Local tips: After your visit, stroll along Main Street to explore more Essex shops and cafés. The gallery staff are happy to recommend additional local arts destinations.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to the Cooper & Smith Gallery: Located in the heart of Essex Village on Main Street—easily accessible by foot from nearby attractions.
Address: 10 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: 860-581-8526
5. Florence Griswold Museum
Location: Old Lyme, CT
Recommended For: Art and history lovers, museumgoers, fans of American Impressionism, and anyone curious about the cultural legacy of New England.
What I Love: ♥ “The Florence Griswold Museum is more than a gallery—it’s the birthplace of American Impressionism, where art and history intertwine in a beautifully preserved riverside setting.”
- Step back in time as you explore the historic home of Florence Griswold, once the heart of the famed Old Lyme Art Colony.
- Admire American Impressionist masterpieces in a 9,500-square-foot exhibition space filled with natural light and artistic legacy.
- See celebrated works such as Summer Evening by Childe Hassam and Laurel by Edward Francis Rook.
- Learn about how Florence Griswold’s hospitality and vision helped shape one of America’s most important art movements.
Cost: Adults $10–12; discounted rates for seniors, students, and children
Best time to visit: Spring through early fall when the museum’s riverside gardens and outdoor installations are in full bloom.
Local tips: Don’t miss the “Artist’s Trail” and museum gardens for a peaceful stroll after your gallery tour. The on-site shop is also perfect for unique art-inspired gifts.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to the Florence Griswold Museum: Located off I-95 in Old Lyme, just minutes from downtown and easily accessible by car with free on-site parking.
Address: 96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Phone: 860-434-5542
Food and Dessert
6. Truffle Shots
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: Chocolate lovers, gift shoppers, families, foodies, and fans of artisanal sweets.
What I Love: ♥ “Truffle Shots turns gourmet chocolate into a playful, luxurious tasting experience with over 30 inventive, alcohol-free flavors.”
- Experience award-winning artisan truffles, crafted in small batches for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
- Sample unique flavors like Minted Grapefruit, Fig Balsamico, and Caramel Beurre Noisette.
- Create your own custom nine-pack assortment—ideal for gifts or an indulgent treat.
- Enjoy the elegant, alcohol-free chocolates made for all ages and tastes.
Cost: Prices vary by assortment size; custom 9-packs available
Best time to visit: Weekends and holidays are great for picking up seasonal specialties and gifts.
Local tips: Ask the staff for pairing suggestions—they know which flavor combos shine brightest. Online ordering is also available for nationwide delivery.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to Truffle Shots: Located in The Barn at Griswold Square in downtown Essex; accessible by car with nearby public parking.
Address: The Barn at Griswold Square, 47 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: 860-581-8351
7. The Griswold Inn
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: Food lovers, history buffs, romantic couples, weekend brunch fans, and traditional dining enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ “The Griswold Inn offers timeless American fare and historic charm in one of the country’s oldest continuously operated inns.”
- Dine on seasonal menus featuring aged beef, fresh seafood, and top-tier pork chops crafted by award-winning Executive Chef Toppin.
- Experience the legendary Hunt Breakfast, a buffet tradition dating back to the War of 1812, served every Sunday morning.
- Relax in the black-tie dining room, full of period décor, charm, and romantic ambiance.
- Enjoy an immersive meal where culinary tradition meets colonial history.
Cost: Moderate to high; brunch buffet and dinner entrees vary
Best time to visit: Sunday mornings for the Hunt Breakfast or evenings for a cozy, candlelit dinner.
Local tips: Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Ask about the rotating seasonal specialties.
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from New York City.
How to Get to The Griswold Inn: Located in downtown Essex, easily accessible by car with public parking nearby. Main Street is walkable and full of charm.
Address: 36 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: 860-767-1776
8. Olive Oyl's
Location: Essex, CT
Recommended For: Foodies on the go, casual diners, seasonal eaters, riverfront strollers, and lovers of fresh baked goods.
What I Love: ♥ “Olive Oyl’s blends creative, seasonal meals with the charm of carry-out simplicity—just steps from the Connecticut River.”
- Order fresh, flavorful meals like Ponzu grilled salmon or New England crab cakes from a menu that evolves with the seasons.
- Pair your main with house-made soups, salads, and scones for a delicious riverside picnic or quick bite.
- Treat yourself to fresh-baked goodies including coffee cakes, muffins, and buttermilk scones.
- Stroll the nearby waterfront and enjoy your meal in one of Essex’s most scenic spots.
Cost: Inexpensive to moderate
Best time to visit: Midday for lunch specials or mornings for baked goods and coffee before a river walk.
Local tips: Menu changes frequently—check the chalkboard or call ahead for the day’s specials. Perfect for picnics!
Distance: About 45 minutes from Hartford, CT; 2.5 hours from NYC.
How to Get to Olive Oyl's: Located on Main Street in Essex near the Connecticut River, easily walkable from other local attractions. Public parking is available nearby.
Address: 6 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: 860-767-4909
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