Essex Photo Journal | Connecticut Charm

Matthew and I enjoy driving around Connecticut and New England together just to explore. It is a tiny state in comparison to others, but there is so much to discover and Essex is one of those hidden gems. It is a small historic town along the Connecticut River and not too far from the shoreline. I have heard many good things about Essex, but have never had the chance to visit the historic downtown until this summer. We drove off with no particular goal in mind except to explore and I had my camera in hand. 

I love making these photo journals because it is a fun way to simply share the pictures we take on our little afternoon adventures. They are visual journeys that give you an inside look into Connecticut and New England living. 

The first place we visited was the Essex Steam Train, a place I have not visited since our train and riverboat ride back in 2011 for my 21st birthday. 

Did you know that this beautiful and historic train station (with one of the only running steam trains in the country) was also the set for the train scene in the most recent Indiana Jones film? I’m a big Indy fan, so this was a special visit for me. That, and I adore historic trains. If I had the funds for it, we would have had our rehearsal dinner or engagement party in the 1920’s dinner clipper train. 

We walked through after hours so it was very quiet at the train station. 

This old train car was converted into the Track Side Cafe. I’ll have to stop by one day when they are open because this looks like a wonderful place for tea! I couldn’t help myself, I had to peek inside. 

Our next stop was the historic downtown, complete with a riverside park and gazebo. This looks like a great place to bring your kayaks or paddle boards!

The Griswold Inn is a popular destination for dinner, however, it is also a famous setting for many a Hallmark movie! 

We were too late in the afternoon to visit the Connecticut River Museum, but it looks like a lovely place to learn about the history of the Connecticut River. 

We simply cannot resist a field at sunset. 

What are your favorite activities and places to visit along the Connecticut River? Share this post with your friends who love traveling across New England.