Experience family-friendly excursions, holiday specials, and railfan events from the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston, Connecticut.
Seasonal and themed excursions from short scenic rides to adult tastings and holiday specials.
land-adventures · Thomaston
Celebrate Saint Patty's Day aboard the Leprechaun Express, a scenic train ride from Thomaston to Torrington, featuring craft beer, hearty meals, and local fudge. Discover why this festive trip is a unique springtime highlight in Connecticut.
The Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston, Connecticut preserves and operates historic railroad equipment while offering seasonal and themed train excursions. The museum maintains restored passenger cars and locomotives and runs public trips from Thomaston Station that showcase the Naugatuck River valley and the Litchfield Hills. Guests can choose family-friendly rides, holiday specials, and adult-focused tastings that use local partners.
Trips include the Leprechaun Express to Bad Dog Brewing with live music and tastings; the Easter Bunny Express featuring a Bunny Patch stop and chocolate eggs; and the Santa Express and Northern Lights Limited with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Seasonal excursions also include the Pumpkin Patch Express, Autumn Colors Limited, and the Connecticut Ice Cream Train serving Nutmeg Fudge Company ice cream. The Chocolate Decadence Tour pairs chocolate with wine, beer, or spirits and includes a confection-making stop at Fascia’s.
The museum highlights railfan-focused events such as Railfan Day with Locomotive 2019, providing opportunities for photography and historic preservation fundraising. The Naugatuck River Scenic Train offers a 20-mile round trip from historic Thomaston Station with river valley views and a stop at Fascia’s Chocolate Factory.
The Railroad Museum of New England partners with local breweries, confectioners, and vineyards to create unique experiences. Ticketed excursions provide clear descriptions of duration and age policies. The organization preserves regional railroad history while offering scenic, educational, and seasonal train rides for families, rail enthusiasts, and adult travelers. Tickets are available online and at Thomaston Station on select dates subject to availability.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Based at historic Thomaston Station
Seasonal and themed excursions available
Short to mid-length scenic rides
Events for kids and adults
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current Railroad Museum of New England listing.
Railroad Museum of New England offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Find tickets for family excursions, holiday trains, and adults-only tastings — secure seats for upcoming departures.
land-adventures · Thomaston
Hop aboard the Easter Bunny Express in Thomaston, Connecticut, for a festive 1 hour and 20 minute train ride through the awakening Litchfield Hills. Kids meet the Easter Bunny, rescue rubber ducks, and enjoy springtime fun on rails—perfect for family adventures this season.
water-activities · Thomaston
Hop aboard the Santa Express for a festive train journey through wintery Connecticut. Meet Santa, sing carols, and create holiday memories that last a lifetime.
winter-sports · Thomaston
Climb aboard the Northern Lights Limited for a festive train journey filled with holiday cheer, Santa visits, and scenic winter views that will delight the whole family. Discover why this enchanting ride stands out in New England’s holiday lineup.
water-activities · Thomaston
Hop aboard a vintage train in Connecticut and indulge in handcrafted ice cream while enjoying scenic views and fun scavenger hunts. A perfect summer outing for all ages!
travel · Thomaston
Discover the vibrant fall colors of Litchfield Hills aboard the Autumn Colors Limited train. This scenic 1.5-hour ride offers breathtaking views and a sweet stop at Fascia’s Chocolates, making it a perfect autumn adventure.
water-activities · Thomaston
Hop aboard the Naugatuck River Scenic Train for a relaxing journey through Connecticut’s river valley, complete with scenic views and a chocolate factory stop. Discover why this vintage train ride is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
water-activities · Thomaston
Step aboard the Naugatuck Railroad for an immersive 3.5-hour journey in Thomaston, CT, blending handcrafted chocolates with local wine, beer, and spirits. Perfect for adults 21+, this unique rail experience delivers both education and indulgence in equal measure.
land-adventures · Thomaston
Step aboard the Pumpkin Patch Express for a scenic autumn ride through Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills. Enjoy riverside views, pumpkin ice cream, and a visit to a charming pumpkin patch—perfect for family fun before Halloween.
land-adventures · Thomaston
Board the BBQ and Bourbon Train in Thomaston, CT, for a unique four-hour tasting adventure. Savor premium bourbons paired with Mission BBQ’s smoked meats aboard a vintage railcar at one of Torrington’s top venues.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.