Connecticut ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Published: July 7, 2026
By: Adam Burns
The Naugatuck Railroad offers one of Connecticut’s most accessible heritage-rail experiences—equal parts living museum, scenic getaway, and community event. Operated by the Railroad Museum of New England, the line blends classic New England railroad atmosphere (vintage diesels, heavyweight coaches, station platforms that still feel like “the day before yesterday”) with a modern excursion calendar that keeps locals coming back season after season.
While the railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bourbon Special—a rolling celebration of Connecticut-made hospitality that pairs scenic railroading with a memorable evening out.
A Brief History
The story begins long before today’s excursion coaches ever welcomed families aboard. The original Naugatuck Railroad dates to the mid-19th century: chartered in 1845 and opened in 1849, the route historically followed the river northward through Connecticut, tying together mill towns and manufacturing centers that depended on reliable transportation.
Over the decades, ownership and operations evolved alongside regional railroading trends. In the late 1800s the line was leased by the New York, New Haven & Hartford system, and by the mid-20th century passenger service north of Waterbury gradually faded—ending in December 1958 on the northern reaches.
Fast-forward to the preservation era: today’s railroad (formed in the 1990s) is a common-carrier railroad owned by the museum and operated on a Connecticut Department of Transportation-leased corridor, serving both heritage passenger runs and freight activity.
Where The Naugatuck Railroad Runs Today
From a rider’s perspective, the charm is immediate: you’re in a river valley, with wooded hills rising on either side, bridges and curves arriving at a relaxed pace, and towns appearing the way they always have—by trackside streets, mill-era buildings, and old depots.
Many excursions depart from Thomaston Station, a Victorian-era depot built in 1881. The station itself has a story—after passenger use ended in the 1950s, the building suffered serious decline and was later damaged by a 1993 fire, before being restored as part of the museum’s work.
One of the most popular “classic” outings on the line is the Naugatuck River Scenic Train, described as a 20-mile round trip through the valley, pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive, with the route following the river between Thomaston and Waterbury.
Depending on the specific excursion, trips may also incorporate themed stops—such as time to visit Fascia’s Chocolate Factory on certain runs.
The BBQ & Bourbon Special
If your ideal rail trip includes not just scenery, but a full “night out” vibe, the BBQ & Bourbon Special is built for you.
What it is
The museum bills this as a one-of-a-kind excursion and a community partnership event—bringing together rail travel, curated tastings, and barbecue in a venue setting.
What’s included
While details can vary by year, the core experience has been promoted with:
- Multiple tastings of “high-quality whiskey and bourbon” from different producers
- BBQ served by Mission BBQ (Southington)
- A hosted experience at Bad Dog Brewing Company, positioned as the dining/venue component of the event
In short: this is not “snack car and a sip.” It’s designed as a full, structured evening where the rail ride is part of the ambiance and anticipation, and the food-and-tasting portion is the main event.
Why it works so well on this railroad
The Naugatuck line is practically tailor-made for an excursion like this. The river-valley scenery provides a natural “slow down” transition from the day to the evening—especially in shoulder seasons when the trees are changing or the air starts to feel crisp. The train itself becomes the opening act: you settle into your seat, watch the valley roll by, and arrive already in the mood for something special.
More Than Excursions
It’s easy to think of a heritage railroad as “just a ride,” but the Naugatuck Railroad and the Railroad Museum of New England are doing several things at once:
- Preserving place-based history. The line’s communities—Thomaston, Waterbury, Torrington and others—grew up with the railroad. Keeping tracks active and stations relevant helps keep that story visible.
- Operating real railroad infrastructure. Because the railroad functions as a common carrier, it’s connected to “actual railroad life,” not just a static display.
- Creating repeat reasons to visit. Beyond scenic trains, the museum’s calendar includes seasonal favorites (from autumn color trips to holiday trains and other themed rides).
That’s the secret sauce: the Naugatuck Railroad can be a first-time day trip for a family, a nostalgia hit for railfans, and a genuinely fun date-night option for adults who just want something different—especially on signature events like the BBQ & Bourbon Special.
Final Thoughts
If you’re putting together a list of “must-do” heritage rail experiences in New England, the Naugatuck Railroad deserves a spot—particularly because it pairs authentic scenery and historic rail atmosphere with excursions that feel current and local. The BBQ & Bourbon Special stands out as a perfect example: a train ride that’s not only scenic, but also social, flavorful, and rooted in Connecticut partners. To learn more about this unique experience please click here to visit the railroad's website.
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