Essex, Connecticut

• What is the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat?
  • The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat is a historic excursion operated by the Valley Railroad Company, offering a memorable journey across Connecticut’s rivers.
• What makes this attraction unique?
  • It is the only steam train and riverboat connection in the entire United States, providing a rare and scenic travel experience.
• When does the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat operate?
  • The train and riverboat operate seasonally from May through October.
• What locomotives and class experiences are available?
  • Guests can choose from one of two operating steam locomotives and select from multiple class experiences, including:
    • Coach
    • First class
    • Open-air car
    • Caboose (cabin car) ride
• Are there special events held on board?
  • Yes, several onboard events take place throughout the year, including the Essex Clipper Dinner Train.
  • The Essex Clipper Dinner Train is a romantic culinary event, recognized by USA Today as a "Memorable Meal."
• Where is the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat located?
  • 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426

• What is the Connecticut River Museum?
  • The Connecticut River Museum is a cultural and educational institution dedicated to preserving the maritime heritage of the Connecticut River Valley.
• When was the Connecticut River Museum established?
  • The museum is housed in a restored steamboat warehouse from 1878, one of the last remaining on the river, while the institution itself was built in 1813.
• What kind of artifacts can visitors see?
  • The museum showcases a collection of maritime-related artifacts, including:
    • Nautical artwork
    • Navigation equipment
    • Shipbuilding tools
  • Many of these artifacts were donated by the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford.
• What can visitors learn about shipbuilding?
  • The museum has a permanent shipbuilding exhibition featuring models of steamboats and historical maps, providing insights into maritime construction and history.
• What is one of the most fascinating exhibits?
  • Visitors can see a full-scale replica of the Turtle, the first American submarine, which played a role in early naval warfare.
• Where is the Connecticut River Museum located?
  • 67 Main St, Essex, CT 06426

Attractions for Couples

• What is the Pratt House?
  • The Pratt House is a historic house museum and one of the oldest surviving buildings in Connecticut, constructed in the mid-17th century.
• Is the Pratt House historically significant?
  • Yes, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was owned by a single family for over 2½ centuries before being transferred to the local historical society.
• Are tours available at the Pratt House?
  • Yes, there are docent-led tours held daily, providing visitors with insights into the house's architecture and history.
• What can visitors see on the tour?
  • The tour showcases stunning architectural details and decor, including:
    • Period furniture
    • An accurate, period-appropriate kitchen garden
• Where is the Pratt House located?
  • 19 West Ave, Essex, CT 06426
  • Phone: 860-767-0681

• What is the Cooper & Smith Gallery?
  • The Cooper & Smith Gallery is a contemporary fine art gallery featuring over 5,000 square feet of exhibition space showcasing a wide range of styles and genres.
• What kind of art is displayed at the gallery?
  • The gallery emphasizes oil paintings created using drawing-based disciplines, with works ranging from abstraction to realism.
• Who are some of the featured artists?
  • Visitors can see works by artists such as:
    • Tom Root
    • Molly McDonald
    • Henry St. Clair
    • Merrill French
    • Judith Pond Kudlow
    • James Coe
• Is the gallery suitable for both new and experienced collectors?
  • Yes, the gallery provides a welcoming environment for both new and experienced collectors, offering a space to appreciate and acquire new art.
• Are there exhibitions and events at the gallery?
  • Yes, the gallery hosts several art exhibitions and other events throughout the year.
• Where is the Cooper & Smith Gallery located?
  • 10 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
  • Phone: 860-581-8526

• What is the Florence Griswold Museum?
  • The Florence Griswold Museum is a National Historic Landmark focused on the home of Florence Griswold, which became the heart of the Old Lyme Art Colony.
• How did the Old Lyme Art Colony originate?
  • To make ends meet, Florence Griswold took in boarders, including artist Henry Ward Ranger, who encouraged other artists to stay.
  • The home soon became the epicenter of the Old Lyme Art Colony, which played a crucial role in the growth of American Impressionism.
• What kind of artwork is displayed at the museum?
  • The museum showcases an extensive collection of American Impressionist paintings within its 9,500 square feet of exhibit space.
• What are some highlights of the museum's collection?
  • Notable works in the collection include:
    • Summer Evening by Childe Hassam
    • Laurel by Edward Francis Rook
    • East Hartford Meadow by Milton Avery
• Where is the Florence Griswold Museum located?
  • 96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
  • Phone: 860-434-5542

Food and Dessert

• What is Truffle Shots?
  • Truffle Shots is a locally created, mother-daughter chocolate brand that produces internationally award-winning truffle chocolates.
• How are Truffle Shots made?
  • They are crafted in small batches using premium ingredients that melt smoothly as soon as they hit your tongue.
• What are some of the most popular flavors?
  • There are over thirty amazing flavors to try, with some of the most popular being:
    • Minted Grapefruit
    • Tellicherry Cardamom
    • Caramel Beurre Noisette
    • Miel Habanero
    • Fig Balsamico
• Is there alcohol in Truffle Shots?
  • No, there is no alcohol in any of the Truffle Shots, making them suitable for chocolate lovers of all ages.
• Can customers create custom assortments?
  • Yes, customers can create a nine-pack custom assortment, allowing them to mix and match different flavors to try out.
• Where is Truffle Shots located?
  • The Barn at Griswold Square, 47 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
  • Phone: 860-581-8351

• What is The Griswold Inn?
  • The Griswold Inn is a historic dining establishment that specializes in classic American cuisine prepared with simple ingredients and imaginative form.
• What type of food is served at The Griswold Inn?
  • The restaurant offers seasonal menus crafted by award-winning Executive Chef Toppin, featuring:
    • High-quality pork chops
    • Aged beef
    • Fresh seafood
• What is special about the Hunt Breakfast?
  • The famous buffet-style Hunt Breakfast is served on Sunday mornings and is a tradition that dates back to the War of 1812.
• What is the dining atmosphere like?
  • The restaurant features a black-tie dining room full of charm and character, making it a wonderful place for a romantic meal.
• Where is The Griswold Inn located?
  • 36 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
  • Phone: 860-767-1776

• What is Olive Oyl's?
  • Olive Oyl's is a carry-out restaurant that has been serving delicious food in the heart of Essex since 1991.
• Where is Olive Oyl's located?
  • The restaurant is situated just steps away from the picturesque Connecticut River, making it a perfect stop for fresh and flavorful meals.
• Does the menu change seasonally?
  • Yes, the menu changes to reflect seasonal ingredients, ensuring fresh and unique offerings throughout the year.
• What types of food does Olive Oyl's serve?
  • The restaurant offers a variety of sweet and savory culinary creations, including:
    • Seasonal salads
    • Fresh soups
    • Daily specials such as Ponzu grilled salmon and New England crab cakes
    • Freshly baked goods like coffee cakes, buttermilk bran muffins, and tempting scones
• Where is Olive Oyl's located?
  • 6 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
  • Phone: 860-767-4909