Need a peaceful riverside escape steeped in New England charm? Head to Essex! This picturesque village on the Connecticut River is known for its historic beauty, scenic cruises, and colonial architecture. Whether you're after a romantic getaway, small-town shopping, or a dose of maritime heritage, Essex delivers timeless appeal with a relaxed pace.
Essex, CT Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Ride the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat – Take a nostalgic journey by rail and river through the Lower Connecticut Valley.
- For Nature Lovers: Kayak the Connecticut River – Paddle peaceful waters with views of lush riverbanks, birds, and old shipyards.
- For Shoppers: Explore Essex Village – Stroll tree-lined streets with charming boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries.
- For Couples: Enjoy sunset dining by the water – Relax with cocktails and candlelight along the scenic marina.
- For Families: Visit the Connecticut River Museum – Interactive exhibits, boat history, and hands-on learning for all ages.
Best Time to Visit Essex, CT
The best time to visit Essex is in spring (April–June) or fall (September–October). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and colorful scenery—perfect for river cruises, village strolls, and foliage views.
How to Get to Essex, CT
- If you are traveling by car: Located just off Route 9, Essex is about 2.5 hours from New York City and 2 hours from Boston.
- By Train: Nearby Old Saybrook Station (10 minutes away) offers Amtrak and Shore Line East service from major cities.
- By Plane: Bradley International Airport (BDL) is about 1 hour away by car.
Where to Stay in Essex, CT
- Recommended for Families: Copper Beech Inn – Historic charm, beautiful gardens, and easy access to local attractions.
- For Couples: The Griswold Inn – One of the oldest continuously operating inns in America, known for its cozy ambiance and nautical tavern.
- For a Waterfront Stay: Saybrook Point Resort & Marina – A nearby luxury resort with spa services, pools, and river views.
Best Things to Do in Essex, CT
1. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Rating: ★★★★★
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
Plan Your Trip