EXPERIENCES
Bike-Rail Adventures
Pedal a Rail-Bike for a 8 mile round trip adventure over moderate terrain from Deep River Station north to Broadway (Haddam) and return; passing through the lower Connecticut River Valley and along the Connecticut River. At the 1/2 point, you will have the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the Goodspeed Opera House, Goodspeed Bridge and the Connecticut River itself before pedaling back to the starting point.
Princess Academy & Royal Tea
July 12 & 13
Let us make all of your wishes come true when you attend our second annual Princess Academy & Royal Tea! Dress your Princess in training in her prettiest dress or gown and join our beautiful Belle of the Valley and her regal companions in the Grand Ballroom at Essex Station for an unforgettable and magical afternoon. Tiaras and scepters will be adorned with sparkling gems in the Courtly Creations Station, while perfect princess poise will be taught at the Majestic Finishing School. Every princess needs a happy tune to hum so we will practice one of our favorites before finally walking the red carpet to attend A Royal Tea aboard the Essex Steam Train.
Taco & Tequila Cruise
July 10 & 17
It’s time for some Tacos, Tequila and Tunes aboard the Tacos & Tequila Cruise! Ride our vintage train pulled by an antique diesel locomotive to Riverboat where on board you will enjoy a Margarita, a taco bar and other light food and live music. Ticket includes train & boat excursion, (1) Margarita, taco bar and other light food and music. Additional beverages are available for purchase aboard the boat.
Pirate Family Adventures
July 19 & 26
Ahoy and avast, me hearties! Come aboard for a jolly good time and join the crew of the infamous Captain Kidd! Set sail with the scurvy scallywags of the Becky Thatcher on a fully immersive, one-of-a-kind treasure hunt along the Connecticut River. Hear tales of sea serpents, mermaids, and buried loot, and take part in the search for Kidd’s long-lost treasure—right aboard the ship! Sing sea shanties with our band of merry pirates and take home a piece of your newfound treasure.
Reptiles on the River
July 27 & August 3, 2025
Join us for a 2+ hour ride on the train and riverboat along the Connecticut River Valley and on the Connecticut River as we explore the beauty of our natural surroundings in summer with Ranger Russ as our tour guide! Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way!
A Summer Afternoon Tea
August 2, 9, & 30
Beyond Whispers
August 21
What if the presence of those you’ve loved and lost has never truly left you? Beyond Whispers is a powerful and popular workshop that guides you in learning how to use your senses—smell, hearing, sight, and touch—to connect with loved ones who have passed on. And it’s not what you might expect. This experience begins with a clear, grounded explanation of how our loved ones continue to remain near and accessible, even after death. Drawing on the field of Thanatology—the study of death, dying, and the afterlife—we explore how each of your senses can pick up subtle signs and communication from the other side.
Sunset Tree Swallow Cruise with Train
August 23 & 30, September 13
Enjoy the train ride on your way to board the Becky Thatcher for a cruise to view the spectacular phenomenon of hundreds of thousands of tree and barn swallows converging on the lower Connecticut River. This amazing sight of the birds in a beautifully choreographed “dance” only happens once a year for a limited time. Join us this early fall as we deliver you to the show. Guests are welcome to bring their own food (no food will be available for purchase on the boat).
Sunset Tree Swallow Cruise without Train
August 22 & 29, September 20
Board the Adventure for a cruise to view the spectacular phenomenon of hundreds of thousands of tree and barn swallows converging on the lower Connecticut River. This amazing sight of the birds in a beautifully choreographed “dance” only happens once a year for a limited time. Join us this early fall as we deliver you to the show. Guests are welcome to bring their own food (no food will be available for purchase on the boat).
