ALL NEW FOR 2020: The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat proudly presents our newest holiday adventure as we invite you and your family to experience our first ever, Reindeer on the Rails! We know that 2020 has been challenging for everyone and our mission is to wrap up this year with a safe, socially distanced, and magical experience to keep the spirit of Christmas alive for the young and young at heart. Join us for a safe, socially distanced, family excursion as you board our train for a 1-hour journey through the lower CT River Valley. Navigate through a whimsical evergreen and candy cane forest as you walk to your boarding location. Once aboard the train, kids will don their festive Reindeer Antlers (a gift from Rudolph himself!), piece together a fun Christmas craft ornament, and write a letter to Santa to be stamped and mailed at The Reindeer Express Post Office before departing Essex Station at the conclusion of each visit. Your table will be set with a continental family style breakfast or lunch platter while coffee, bottled juice and cocoa will be served to order. And don’t you worry….. even though Santa needs to keep himself at a safe social distance in order to ensure safe travels to so many homes on Christmas Eve, we are sure he will be taking a break from his workshop, and making a grand appearance outside to say hello to all of his little friends. Don’t forget to stop by Mrs. Claus’s bakeshop before you leave, say hello, get a cookie for your ride home and take a memorable photo by Santa’s sleigh!

Santa is coming to town, with safety in mind! Pre-purchase your photo package and schedule your contactless visit with Santa. The health and safety of our guests and staff is our top priority. Reservations to visit Santa are strongly encouraged.