Autumn River Rambles
By canoe, by train or by riverboat, there are many ways to view the glories of the Connecticut River Valley. And when you can throw great restaurants and a classic B&B into the mix, you’ve got a Getaway that will bring autumn alive.
- Fall
- Great River Outfitters
- Connecticut River Museum
- Essex Steam Train
- Griswold Inn
Great River Outfitters
Begin up north with a canoe or kayak trip through Great River Outfitters. The outfitter is based in Windsor, Connecticut’s oldest town, and arranges customized trips along the “Farmicut” (Farmington and Connecticut rivers) for as long as decent autumn weather holds up.
Connecticut River Museum, Essex
Connecticut River Museum
Next, head downstream for a visit to the Connecticut River Museum in Essex, where you’ll find exhibits highlighting the big river’s historical importance to Connecticut and the nation. Enjoy wildlife views from the museum’s dock and take a stroll along the charming streets of Essex.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Essex
Essex Steam Train
Next day, hop aboard the Essex Steam Train for a relaxing journey past blazing fall foliage in the hills, working farms and some of the bridges of the Connecticut River Valley (one of the “last great places,” according to the Nature Conservancy). At Deep River Landing, you can switch from train to riverboat for spectacular views.
Griswold Inn, Essex
Griswold Inn
Make sure you make one more stop in downtown Essex at the Griswold Inn, one of Connecticut’s venerable watering holes. Have a meal or just something at the bar – or make it an overnight - and you’ll suddenly feel like you’ve found your place in the river valley’s history.
