Essex Steam Train #40 at Chester
The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat officially launches the attraction’s spring season on National Train Day, Saturday, May 11. Opening weekend will feature the Essex Steam Train’s popular 1-hour train ride and 2-½-hour combo train and boat ride aboard the Becky Thatcher Riverboat.
Neighbor Appreciation Weekend will also take place the same weekend and allow all residents in the five towns along the Valley Railroad’s operating line (Essex, Deep River, Chester, Haddam and Old Saybrook) to ride for free.
“We are very excited for our upcoming season and events this spring and summer,” said Bob Bell, President of the Valley Railroad Company. “When guests come to the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, they enter into a time of the past. It’s an adventure to ride the steam locomotive and tour the Connecticut River past landmarks like the Goodspeed Opera House and Gillette Castle. This year, we’re thrilled to host our opening day on the sixth annual National Train Day,” he said.
Coinciding with Opening Weekend, Neighbor Appreciation Weekend is a great opportunity for members of the local community to experience the adventure of the Essex Steam Train and Becky Thatcher Riverboat. All residents of Essex, Deep River, Chester, Haddam and Old Saybrook may elect a free 1-hour train ride or 2 1/2-hour train and boat ride at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. or 2 p.m. or a 1-hour train ride at 3:30 p.m. Neighbor Appreciation tickets are available for all five departures, on a first come, first serve basis. Adult residents must present picture identification at the Essex Station Ticket Window.
General admission tickets for opening weekend are now on sale at essexsteamtrain.com and can also be purchased at the Essex Station ticket window the day of the event. Tickets for only the Steam Train cost $17 for adults, $9 for children ages 2-11 and free for those under 2-years-old.
Steam Train and Riverboat Connection combo tickets cost $26 for adults, $17 for children ages 2-11 and free for those under 2-years-old.
During the first operating weekend each month passengers can also enjoy the Saybrook Special, a no-extra-charge trip south to Old Saybrook, departing at 10 a.m. With a donation to the Friends of the Valley Railroad, guests can also enjoy a ride in the little red Ralph Gibson Caboose.
Opening day this year marks the start of an exciting spring and summer along the Valley Railroad. From a summer Circus Train in July to an exquisite new menu for the Essex Clipper Dinner Train, this year is packed with fun new experiences and classic Essex Steam Train charm.
For more information about the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, visit essexsteamtrain.com, or follow @essexsteamtrain on Twitter and facebook.com/steamtrain97.