Author Norman Crampton mentioned Essex as one of America's best small towns in his 1995 book, ''The 100 Best Small Towns in America.'' This quaint and very Connecticut town is rich in historic attractions and scenic beauty.
Essex Steam Train and Riverboat’s two coal-fired locomotives and collection of restored railroad cars makes for the experience of an authentic journey back in time, as you learn about the history and natural beauty of the Connecticut River Valley. Passengers who purchase tickets for the connecting riverboat also experience some of the best river scenery in New England as they travel the quiet and pristine side of the Connecticut River.
Referred to as “a little known jewel on the Connecticut shoreline”, the Ivoryton Playhouse is a unique theatre with small town charm and a fascinating history. Built in 1911, the Ivoryton Playhouse has been a summer home to some of the greatest names in the history of American stage, including Katharine Hepburn, Marlon Brando, Helen Hayes and Tallulah Bankhead. Today the playhouse produces at least seven professional shows annually, drawing audiences from New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts
Recognized as one of “The Last Great Places in the Northern Hemisphere” by the Nature Conservancy, the Connecticut River Museum exposes the marvels of New England's Great River through river cruises, educational programs, interactive exhibits, and special events. The Connecticut River Museum has attractions from interactive experiences with the world’s first submarine to the historic schooner Mary E. Located on the Essex waterfront, visitors of the Museum can experience the Revolutionary War with an reenactment of the British raid on Essex in the "Burning of the Fleet, " and view bald eagles, migratory birds, and waterfowl from the museum’s docks.
Essex Calendar of Events
