Essex Steam Train and Riverboat

About Us

The Valley Railroad Company, operating the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, has been serving the lower Connecticut River Valley since 1971. Our company’s mission is to keep alive the rich mechanical, industrial, and transportation heritage of our state through the ongoing operation of vintage steam and diesel locomotives, passenger coaches, and the facilities and infrastructure to support these. We welcome visitors from throughout the state of Connecticut, the New England region, and from all over the world to ride our railroad, relax aboard our riverboat, and visit our unique facilities.

Our best-known excursion, the iconic Steam Train & Riverboat ride, operates from May through October, with daily operation during the summer months. We’re the only Steam Train & Riverboat connection in the country, with two operating steam locomotives, and multiple classes of passenger service – Coach, First Class, a seasonal Open Air Car, and one weekend a month, aboard our Caboose or Cabin Car. The Becky Thatcher riverboat can be chartered for private cruises, dinners, and event.