The Valley Railroad in Essex offers train rides, which can be combined with a riverboat cruise for a two and one-half hour excursion through the Connecticut River Valley. Passengers board a 1920's vintage steam locomotive at the depot in Essex, where there's a gift shop and snack car, and displays of antique locomotives and cars. Crew members on the train and the boat provide historical background and point out the sights.
Refreshments are available on the boat.
The steam train will be waiting when the boat docks again, to take passengers back to their 20th Century lives. Follow signs to 1 Railroad Avenue.