A true blue New England town, Essex is a historical shipping and shipbuilding town famous for its small-town friendliness. Visitors have plenty to explore: historic buildings featuring Federal-style architecture, a rich history going back to the birth of America, a host of museums and art galleries, the scenic riverside, and much more. Essex comprises three small towns: Essex Village, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton. On April 8, 1814, this small town was attacked by the British who destroyed 28 vessels carrying USD 200,000 worth of cargo. Historians call it the “Pearl Harbor” of the War of 1812. This is just one of the many historical anecdotes about this fascinating place. You must visit this town, conveniently located just two hours from New York, to unravel its stories. You can stay in one of the amazing hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals. To get you going, we have put together a list of things to do in Essex, Connecticut.
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1. Dive into local history at Connecticut River Museum
Located on the banks of the majestic Connecticut River, this museum’s permanent and special exhibit galleries offer different ways to explore the River and its rich heritage. You can also opt for their Onrust cruise ticket or Winter Wildlife boat tour for a more hands-on exploration of the river. The museum also has beautifully maintained grounds offering river views and paths for leisurely walks. You can also visit the beautiful and well-stocked gift shop.
Connecticut River Museum
Address: 67 Main Street Essex, CT 06427
Website: Connecticut River Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 10 USD
2. Check out the pubs and eateries at Downtown Essex
You cannot visit Essex without walking though the Downtown Essex area to soak in the colonial vibe. As you walk along the quaint roads, you will find plenty of inviting restaurants and buzzing bars where you can stop for a bite and a mug of beer while to experience the local culture. Sit at the bar to strike up conversations with some locals! Enjoy classic pub fare at the popular Black Seal Seafood Grille, have a hearty meal by the river at Abby’s Place, and explore to discover the many culinary delights of Downtown Essex.
3. Take a tour on Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
Get the best of two enchanting historical means of transport, with the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat tour. It is an enjoyable 2.5 hours round trip with beautiful scenery. Your journey starts at the Essex Station, with a train ride in comfortable coach cars to a riverboat tour. And, after a breezy cruise on the Connecticut River during which you’ll get to see some birds and enjoy live music, the train will bring you back to Essex Station. It is one of the best tours available in Essex.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Address: 1 Railroad Ave, Essex, CT 06426
Website: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 30 USD
4. Swing by Pratt House Museum
Add a touch of historical exploration to your Essex visit at Pratt House, a vintage landmark acquired and owned since 1985 by Essex Historical Society. This over 200-year-old house, dating back to 1732, has been well-preserved, thanks to the efforts of six generations of the Pratt family who were among the first settlers in Essex. Located on 19 West Avenue, it has a main block with story-wood-frame structure, five bays, a central chimney and two older structures with gambrel roofs, attached to the main block, dating further back to 1650s. Pay a visit here to appreciate the architecture, furnishings that represent a range of styles through the years, and even a vintage blacksmith shop.
Pratt House
Address: 19 West Ave, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Pratt House
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 1pm - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
5. Dine at Abby's Place Restaurant for great American food
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed.
Abby’s Restaurant serves the finest American cuisine (soups, seafood, meats) in a scenic location overlooking the waterfront. Located in the Brewer’s Dauntless Shipyard along the Connecticut River, Abby’s provides scenic views of boats and yachts from the balcony seating. In addition to classic, homemade recipes made from fresh ingredients curated by the owner, Abby Miner, like steaks, crab melts, clam chowders, salads, burgers, wraps and BLT’s, they also offer gluten-free options and free refill on beverages. It is open for breakfast and lunch only.
Abby's Place Restaurant
Address: 37 Pratt St, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Abby’s Place Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 3pm (closed on Mon)
6. Grab a beer at Scotch Plains Tavern
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Scotch Plains Tavern on Friday, November 3, 2017
Scotch Plains Tavern is a fascinating old-style restaurant located in Oliver Tavern on Westbrook Road, popular for its authentic tavern cuisine and ambiance which is a mix of rustic and modern. The decor evokes the history of the Essex area with antique wooden gear, murals, French doors, and a giant scotch barrel. Food is a mix of classics like Rib Eye steaks, burgers, seafood and salads, and the industrial-themed bar stocks a rich collection of craft beers and ciders. Added attractions include pool, shuffleboard, live music, large screens playing games and NFL Sunday Ticket, and daily specials. Choose from patio seating bathed in sunlight or dining room indoors, and have a ball of a time.
Scotch Plains Tavern
Address: 124 Westbrook Rd, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Scotch Plains Tavern
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 11:30am - 10pm; Thu : 11:30am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 1am
7. Get holistic health services at Prive Swiss Essex Wellness Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Privé Swiss Wellness on Friday, June 19, 2020
Prive Swiss Essex Wellness Center offers specialized healthcare services, a first of its kind in the east coast region. Founded by Heidi Kunzli, they have a skilled team of holistic and clinical health industry professionals and services ranging from acupuncture, meditation, counseling, behavior therapy to life coaching, naturopathic and Chinese medicine, chiropractic services, body treatments, nutrition services, and massage therapy. They also organize fitness workshops, health talks and social events focused on wellness from time to time. Located in the idyllic and pristine natural setting, this Wellness Center is ideal for anyone looking for a much-needed break from routine life and put the focus back on health and longevity.
Prive Swiss Essex Wellness Center
Address: 28 Main St, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Prive Swiss Essex Wellness Center
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 9am - 7pm; Wed - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 3pm (closed on Sun)
8. Get your chocolate fix at Truffle Shots
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We are open today until 5! Stop by to pick up some Truffle Shots or grab a Demi sampler (a fabulous stocking stuffer).
Posted by Truffle Shots on Monday, December 24, 2012
If you are into chocolates (who’s not!), you can’t miss dropping by Truffle Shots. Located in The Barn at Griswold Square on Main Street, this international award-winning store has a great line up of chocolate chip cookies, signature truffle shots in over 30 flavors like Macallan Whiskey Caramel, Caramel Beurre Noisette, Flowers of Sicily, Morello Cherry and even a hot chocolate bar. These truffle shots were created by the mother-daughter owner team who replaced the chocolate shell of the classic chocolate truffle with a sealed shot glass. Being popular, these truffles are made fresh daily, make for a perfect gift and are a must for any chocolate lover.
Truffle Shots
Address: The Barn at Griswold Square, 49 Main St, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Truffle Shots
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
9. View contemporary fine art at Cooper & Smith Gallery
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are looking for an art space that enriches your soul, look no further than Cooper & Smith Gallery. Located on Main Street in the historic Essex village, this modern art gallery combines the finest of talents in both traditional and contemporary forms. Featuring artworks in a range of genres and styles spread over a sprawling 5,000 square feet (464.5 square meters) of exhibition space equipped with the best lighting, it is a must-visit for art collectors. The curation of art pieces is top-notch, with an emphasis on oil artists and themes of realism and abstraction.
Cooper & Smith Gallery
Address: 10 Main St, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Cooper & Smith Gallery
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10:30am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
10. Have a relaxing treatment at The Spa of Essex
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed.
The Spa of Essex, located on South Main Street within walking distance from the Essex Village, is an ideal stop for relaxing beauty treatments, premium spa services, and a unique rejuvenating experience. A team of qualified therapists, skilled estheticians and attentive staff make sure that you have a fulfilling time here worth your time and money. The facility is spread over 3 acres (1.2 hectares), and high levels of hygiene are maintained throughout the different sections like a sauna, waiting lounge and relaxation lounge, which is adorned with dim lights and deep chairs. Apart from standard spa services like massages (Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, couples massage) and pedicures, the facials are tailored to skin types, and they also organize special events like baby showers, Valentine’s and spa parties.
The Spa of Essex
Address: 63 S Main St, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: The Spa of Essex
Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat: 9am - 5pm; Thu: 9am - 7pm (closed on Sun & Tue)
11. Savor delicious seafood at Black Seal Seafood Grille
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Get your wing on! Featured here -> Chicken Wings in a Teriyaki sauce
Posted by The Black Seal on Tuesday, August 31, 2021
If you’re on the lookout for an old-school dining experience in the heart of Essex Village, you must visit Black Seal. Located on Main Street close to the Essex Historical Society, this restaurant offers vintage New England charm and a nautical air in its decor, theme, and food. The menu covers a wide range from grilled seafood, pastas, burgers, stuffed clams, fried calamari, the famous “Whittingly” sandwich, to classic pub fare with a large selection of brews and wines with contemporary cuisine. They also offer vegetarian options, and is a great idea for a family dine out and a must-visit for anyone looking to get an authentic touch of local food in Essex.
Black Seal Seafood Grille
Address: 15 Main St C, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Black Seal Seafood Grille
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm
12. Buy local chocolates at Essex Chocolatier and Coffee Bar
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed.
Essex Chocolatier and Coffee Bar, located on Westbrook Road, offers a great selection of locally crafted chocolates and coffee. Owned by Teresa, who also curates the range of chocolates and menu here, they source all ingredients locally. You can get both organic and fair trade products here, there is also bean-to-bar take away products in attractive packaging. The coffee is sourced from Willoughby’s in New Haven. This beautiful little chocolate cafe is a must-visit for any chocolate lover looking to indulge in some sweet treats, they also help you with choosing the right flavor for you, from a diverse selection of beans, flavors, richness of chocolate and milk proportion (vegan/dairy-free).
Essex Chocolatier and Coffee Bar
Address: 124 Westbrook Rd, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Website: Essex Chocolatier and Coffee Bar
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
13. Enjoy pristine views at Falls River
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Celebrate the unique history of the Town of Essex with a visit to Falls River Preserve, or enjoy the beautiful trail of the river through Essex Town. The 7.7-mi (12.39 km) long Falls River binds the three historic villages of Ivoryton, Centerbrook, and Essex together, and has well-preserved scenic spots along its banks with rich biodiversity and natural ecosystem of birds, wildlife and flora. Falls River runs through Essex Town for about 5 mi (8 km), originating in Comstock Field in Ivoryton and running along local landmarks like Sohmer Piano Factory, Main Street, Pond Meadow Road and Lutheran Church, finally meeting Connecticut River near the preserved Osage Trails.
Falls River
Address: Essex, Ivoryton, CT 06442, United States
14. Support local art at Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Visit Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store and enter a paradise of artworks and exhibits from local artists. Established in 2014, this popular art gallery presents the works (paintings, sculptures, photography, mixed media) of regional and national artists and artisans. The store has a wide array of fine art and craft products in fabric, ceramic, glass, paper, jewelry, pottery and a variety of mediums. Check out their calendar for themed exhibits, which are interactive and engaging events with discussions, demos, and art showcases. Art classes, summer camps, and workshops are also scheduled regularly for all age groups and levels, making this a popular hub for cultural activity and arts.
Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store
Address: 61 Main St, Centerbrook, CT 06409, United States
Website: Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 12pm - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
15. Visit Essex Veterans Memorial Hall
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Essex Veterans Memorial Hall or Essex Vets Club is a space dedicated to veterans located on Westbrook Road. Established in 1946 and originally called Centerbrook Schoolhouse, the club has beautiful green campus with meeting places, club rooms to host social gatherings and events and a well-stocked bar and sports equipment, a hallmark of this respectable social club. Events are hosted throughout the calendar year and membership meetings happen from September to June on the first Sundays of the month.
Essex Veterans Memorial Hall
Address: 3 Westbrook Rd, Centerbrook, CT 06409, United States
16. Pick what you like at Scotts’ Farm & Greenhouse
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Scotts' Farms on Saturday, October 3, 2020
If you love naturally grown fruits and vegetables or are a fan of picking flowers and making your own bouquet, visit Scotts’ Farm & Greenhouse. This lush green farm has 15,000 square feet (1393.5 square meters) of greenhouse space with a wide variety of plants. Located at Plains Road, this farm is much more than a roadside nursery, as it offers plant lovers fresh seasonal varieties like peaches, blueberries, raspberries and apples and perennial favorites at affordable prices. You can also enjoy cutting your own flowers in late July, when they are sold by the pound. Create your own bouquet with beautiful flowers for a party or special occasion.
Scotts’ Farm & Greenhouse
Address: 81 Plains Rd #1504, Essex, CT 06426, United States
Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)
17. Stay or cap off your Essex trip with tasty food and drinks at Griswold Inn
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The Griswold Inn on Sunday, January 6, 2019
Griswold Inn is one of the oldest operating inns in the county. It was established in 1776, and since then has been consistently offering guests not just a relaxing accommodation, but delectable dishes as well. Kitchen specialties include fish n’ chips, flat iron Ciabatta, and their signature clam chowder. The “Gris” also features The Tap Room, an acclaimed tavern that’s perfect for capping off your day with great food and drinks after exploring the beautiful coastal town.
Griswold Inn
Address: 36 Main Street Essex, CT
Website: Griswold Inn
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 8pm
Fall in love with New England history in Essex
Essex is a true blue New England Town offering a rich variety of things to enjoy - from trips down history to museums, steam trains, riverboats and art galleries, modern hallmarks like boutique cafes and chocolate shops, this wonderful small town just two hours from New York has it all.
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