8 Most Scenic Train Rides In Connecticut, USA

1. MTA Metro-North Railroad

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

MTA Metro-North Railroad is a suburban commuter train service that’s part of North America’s largest transportation network, servicing millions of people every year.

It has two routes to and from New York and Connecticut. The first route has three commuter lines (Hudson, Harlem, and New Haven lines) and one freight line (Beacon Line) that run along the scenic east side of the Hudson River. On the west side of the river, there are the Port Jervis and Pascack Valley lines, both also servicing commuters while providing some of the most scenic rides in the region.

MTA Metro-North Railroad

Website: MTA Metro-North Railroad

2. Connecticut Trolley Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Learn more about the state’s railroading history at Connecticut Trolley Museum. The museum features the Hartford and Springfield street railway, a historic railroad system that used to service commuters between the two namesake cities. The railway system also has branches and lines running across several towns and cities and connecting to several local street railway systems.

When the trolley commuting service was discontinued in 1926 due to the popularity of automobiles, many trolley companies started constructing several park destinations that provide people with picnicking opportunities along the routes. Some of these “trolley parks” like the Quasey in Middlefield and Lake Compounce in Bristol are still around to be enjoyed to this day.

Connecticut Trolley Museum

Address: 58 North Road, East Windsor, CT 06088, United States

Website: Connecticut Trolley Museum

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)

Price: 11 USD

3. Naugatuck Railroad’s Northern Lights Limited

During Christmas and other popular holidays, the Northern Lights Limited is usually dedicated to ensuring families and vacationers get to create great memories. For those who love night rides, the scenic trip on this train should be on top of your to-do list. The train comes with a first-class section and regular coach services. Via the Naugatuck Railroad, this train takes you on a scenic trip through the valley between Waterville and Thomaston. The train cuts through the area’s rugged terrain, passing beautiful forests and old factories located along Naugatuck River.

Naugatuck Railroad’s Northern Lights Limited

Website: Naugatuck Railroad’s Northern Lights Limited

4. The Bulletin's Fall Foliage Train Excursion

Looking for fun and romantic things to do with your better half in Connecticut? As the leaves, trees, and foliage take on fall hues, they bring a romantic atmosphere and vibe with them. During this season, tourists from all over the world venture into this part of New England to come and experience this wonderful atmosphere. The Bulletin’s Fall Foliage Train is usually the best way to explore awe-inspiring views of the state’s spell-binding terrain. For parents, you don’t have to worry about your kids too much. They can also have fun on a special tour while riding an antique trolley car.

The Bulletin's Fall Foliage Train Excursion

Website: The Bulletin’s Fall Foliage Train Excursion

5. Shore Line Trolley Museum

Nestled in a quiet, scenic area along River Street in East Haven, the Shore Line Trolley Museum is one of Connecticut’s hidden gems. This museum has been added to the National Register of Historic Places due to its significant contributions to the local community’s heritage. Founded to ensure the trolley car isn’t forgotten, this is also the oldest operating trolley museum in the United States. Families bring their kids here to experience thrilling themed rides and explore vintage vehicles. Here, the train rides take you across lush green forests and charming fields lined with gorgeous wildflowers.

The Shore Line Trolley Museum

Website: The Shore Line Trolley Museum

6. Railroad Museum of New England

Situated along the East Main Street in the city of Thomaston, Connecticut is the Railroad Museum of New England. It’s one of the most iconic attractions and tourist hotspots in the state. The trains from this attraction operate on the historic Naugatuck railroad. An excursion on one of them takes you across a plethora of breathtaking attractions nestled between Waterville and Thomaston. The train also crosses Naugatuck River and passes old factories along the route. Step back in time as you learn the beautiful history of this railroad and why it was constructed in the first place. Riding a train along this railroad is an activity for people of all ages, but it might be one that kids might enjoy more.

Railroad Museum of New England

Website: Railroad Museum of New England

7. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

Whether you are planning to enjoy a romantic weekend getaway on a cruise boat or explore the breathtaking beauty of Connecticut, there’s one exciting option that will ensure you enjoy a memorable adventure – Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. Witness a beautiful sunset while drifting peacefully on the tranquil waters of the river while on this attraction. Additionally, if you’ve never seen a steam engine before, this is your opportunity to see one! Not only that, but you also get to enjoy a scenic train ride on one of those engines. Step back to the late 19th century with your family as you enjoy a 2.5-hour adventure.

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

Website: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

8. Essex Clipper Dinner Train

Have you ever been to a moving restaurant before? In Connecticut, you get to experience weird but exciting things like enjoying a romantic dinner on a train. With a lively and courteous catering staff, the Essex Clipper Dinner Train offers you an out-of-this-world dining experience that features a four-course meal served in a vintage diesel locomotive. You can drink some of the finest wines as you relax, share pleasantries and listen to the sound of the train tearing through the forest for about two and a half hours. The coach is also available for private parties and events.

Essex Clipper Dinner Train

Website: Essex Clipper Dinner Train

Explore rural Connecticut

Vacationers, adventure-seekers, and tourists from all four corners of the earth come to Connecticut every year to relax and have fun. Some come to experience the vibrant, glamorous street life while others come to explore hidden gems and treasures from the countryside. There are plenty of places to check out, from hiking and trekking spots to cool skateparks. If you prefer the countryside, the above scenic train rides won’t disappoint you.