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Connecticut Dinner Train Rides (2025): A Complete Guide

Published: March 7, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Connecticut, renowned for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, offers a unique dining experience through its selection of scenic dinner trains. These trains not only provide sumptuous meals but also offer breathtaking views of the state's lush forests, serene rivers, and charming towns. Here's a detailed guide to what’s available.

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

The Essex Steam Train is perhaps the most iconic rail experience in Connecticut. Nestled in the heart of the Connecticut River Valley, it offers a nostalgic journey that combines the romance of steam-powered travel with exquisite dining options.

They offer a full service dinner train, the Essex Clipper, throughout the operating season in addition to several specials involving some type of dining available.

The dinner train provides a four-course meal during the 2.5 hour trip. Their menu can be viewed online. The dinner trains are hosted within two diner-parlor cars originally built by the Pullman Company for the New Haven. These include:

Meriden - This car was built in 1924 for the New Haven as the parlor Plymouth. It was later restored by the Valley Railroad and currently has a 50-person seating capacity.

Wallingford - This car was built in 1927 for the New Haven as a parlor, and later rebuilt by Pullman and given the name Wayfarer. After passenger service it was sold to the classic short line, Reader Railroad of Arkansas, and then acquired by the Valley Railroad in 1975.  It was rebuilt into its current configuration as a diner in 1994.

The history of the Essex Steam Train begins on August 15, 1969 when the state of Connecticut purchased the former New Haven's Old Saybrook line from what was then the moribund Penn Central Railroad.

Ultimately, the state authorized the Valley Railroad, a largely a volunteer-effort, to lease and operate the property beginning June 1, 1970 and officially opened in 1971.  This company runs what is today the Essex Steam Train.

While the state has granted the railroad to host excursions over 22 miles of the route from Old Saybrook to Middletown, currently only about 13 miles host trains.

The Essex Steam Train is only location in Connecticut to ride behind restored, standard-gauge steam locomotives.  There are currently three on the property, which are in operation.  These include:

• Birmingham & Southeastern Railway 2-8-0 #97: This Consolidation was originally built by Alco in 1923 for sale to Cuba but subsequently diverted to the B&SE in 1926.  It spent time in excursion service on the New Haven during the 1960s before being acquired by the Valley Railroad in 1970.  

• Aberdeen & Rockfish 2-8-2 #40: This Mikado was another American Locomotive product built in 1920.  It had originally been built as Portland, Astoria & Pacific #101 (a lumber/logging line based in Oregon) but never entered service.  It later spent time on another short line, the Minarets & Western Railroad, before its acquisition by the A&R.  It was acquired by the Valley Railroad in 1977.

• Valley Railroad 2-8-2 #3025: This Mikado is perhaps the most interesting on the property.  It was originally built by the Tangshan Locomotive Works of China in 1989 for the Knox & Kane Railroad of Pennsylvania.  It was acquired by the Valley Railroad in 2008 after the K&K ended operations and has remained in use since that time.

Dinner Train Experience

Route: The train travels from the historic Essex Station through the stunning landscapes of the lower Connecticut River Valley. Expect to see quaint forests, colonial-era architecture, and peaceful river views.

Dining Options: Guests can indulge in a gourmet meal prepared by on-board chefs. The menu often features local and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and unique culinary experience.

Atmosphere: The vintage rail cars are impeccably restored, providing an authentic and atmospheric setting for relaxation and dining.

Connecticut’s scenic dinner trains offer a unique blend of travel, history, and cuisine, making for memorable experiences. Whether you are a local or a visitor, these journeys provide a delightful way to witness the state’s beautiful landscapes while enjoying a delicious meal.

They stand out as perfect options for special celebrations or simply a serene way to disconnect from the everyday hustle and enjoy the slow magic of rail travel.

For the most rewarding experience, consider exploring multiple train offerings or visit during different seasons to take in the diverse beauty and events each train line offers. Enjoy your scenic dining adventure!