Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park - map and other informations

Description

Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park is a beautiful and historic park located in Middletown, Connecticut. It is situated along the scenic Connecticut River and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the rich history of the area.

Establishment

The park was established in 1967 and is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. It encompasses over 12 miles of abandoned railroad tracks that were once part of the Hartford and New Haven Railroad.

Things to Do

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park. One of the main attractions is the Essex Steam Train, which offers scenic train rides through the picturesque Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can hop aboard one of the vintage steam locomotives and take a leisurely ride through the countryside.

In addition to train rides, there are also opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching along the park's trails. The park offers stunning views of the Connecticut River and surrounding landscapes, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.

Historic Sites

Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park is home to several historic sites that provide insight into the region's railroad history. The Goodspeed Station is a restored train station that now serves as a museum showcasing artifacts from the golden age of rail travel.

The Haddam Swing Bridge is another notable site within the park. This historic bridge was built in 1913 and allowed trains to cross over the Connecticut River. While no longer in use, visitors can still admire its impressive architecture and learn about its significance in transportation history.

Visitor Information

The park is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season. Admission fees apply for train rides and museum entry, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups. It is recommended to check the park's website or contact the visitor center for the most up-to-date information on hours and fees.

There are also amenities available at the park, including restrooms, picnic areas, and parking facilities. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnicking, as there are no concessions available on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park

Is Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park suitable for children?

Yes, Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park is a great place to visit with children. They will enjoy the train rides and have fun exploring the historic sites.

Are pets allowed in Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park?

Pets are not allowed on the train rides or inside the museum. However, they are permitted in other areas of the park as long as they are kept on a leash.

Can I bring my own bike to Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park?

Yes, you can bring your own bike to the park. There are trails available for biking, but please note that bikes are not allowed on the train rides.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	3 °C 37 °F	-4 °C 25 °F	56 mm 2.2 in	18 mm 0.7 in
Feb	4 °C 39 °F	-4 °C 25 °F	52 mm 2.0 in	28 mm 1.1 in
Mar	8 °C 46 °F	0 °C 32 °F	58 mm 2.3 in	18 mm 0.7 in
Apr	13 °C 55 °F	5 °C 41 °F	91 mm 3.6 in	2 mm 0.1 in
May	19 °C 66 °F	11 °C 52 °F	88 mm 3.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	24 °C 75 °F	16 °C 61 °F	103 mm 4.1 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	28 °C 82 °F	20 °C 68 °F	109 mm 4.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	27 °C 81 °F	20 °C 68 °F	89 mm 3.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	23 °C 73 °F	16 °C 61 °F	100 mm 3.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	17 °C 63 °F	11 °C 52 °F	107 mm 4.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Nov	11 °C 52 °F	4 °C 39 °F	79 mm 3.1 in	4 mm 0.2 in
Dec	6 °C 43 °F	0 °C 32 °F	94 mm 3.7 in	14 mm 0.6 in