Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime chance to play conductor and drive the Essex Steam Train old school locomotive. The unique “Hand on Throttle” package offers a course on how to operate a full-size steam locomotive and then gives course graduates the opportunity to conduct the train, with supervision of course!
Fall classes are Thursday, September 12, 19, and 26 at 2:15 PM and include course materials, one hour of training and one hour of operation for $699.
If you prefer to enjoy the ride and let someone else conduct, there are dozens of specialty rides aboard the Essex Steam Train!
The most popular ride is the amphibian Essex Steam Train & Riverboat experience. The 12-mile, 2.5-hour trip commences on a vintage coach at the 1892 Essex Station in Connecticut and concludes with a boat ride up the Connecticut River valley. You’ll enjoy unspoiled views of coves, marshes, wetlands, and see several bird species en route!
Becky Thatcher, the riverboat, also passes historical Connecticut landmarks including Gillette Castle, Goodspeed Opera House and the Haddam Swing Bridge!
In addition, the Essex offers themed trips including a Princess Tea ride, Hocus Pocus trip, Swallow Cruise, and even a Polar Express ride!
Find the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat at:
1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426