From November through February the very popular Model Train Show is set up with a 26-foot working train layout! Train enthusiasts both young and old will really enjoy this interactive exhibit. From February through March, the River Museum's RiverQuest gives tours along the Connecticut River where you may spot a bald eagle as well as many other local wildlife species. Grab lunch back at Olive Oyl's or a panini at Sweet P's, both on Main Street, before heading to the Essex Steam Train for a two and a half hour excursion along the Connecticut River Valley. You can also enjoy lunch on your excursion while searching for wildlife including eagles, hawks and seals. If you happen to be in town on February 2, you will absolutely love the town's annual Groundhog's Day Parade! Bring your pots and pans and silly groundhog hats, which can be bought on Main Street at Toy's Ahoy. The town wakes up groundhog, Essex Ed, and escorts him to his post at the top of Main Street. Stay in town for dinner and head to the historic Griswold Inn, or the “Gris” as the locals call it, or The Black Seal, another favorite local eatery. Before you leave town, be sure to check out all of the local shops along Main Street and maybe grab some dessert at Sweet P's the local ice cream shop or Truffle Shots, a unique chocolate experience. You could easily make your stop in Essex a weekend getaway or a week long vacation.
"Bring your binoculars to look for bald eagles which nest along the shores of the Connecticut River."
Featured Listings
18 Birch Mill Road, Killingworth, CT
$2,195,000
The Well Maiden Estate is a rare architecturally significant waterfront estate where cascading waterfalls, winding streams, and Kroopa Pond converge across 3.5 private acres to create one of Connecticut's most extraordinary residential settings. Just minutes from the Connecticut shoreline, marinas, beaches, and fine dining, and ideally positioned between New York City and Boston, this private luxury retreat offers a rare opportunity to own a legacy estate equally suited for year-round living or a distinguished second-home escape. Originally a historic fishing shack, the restored wing blends seamlessly with a striking architectural residence designed to embrace its natural surroundings. Soaring vaulted and barreled wood ceilings, walls of glass, rich hardwood and slate floors, and 2 grand living rooms with magnificent fieldstone fireplaces create warm, sophisticated spaces with captivating water views. Chef's kitchen with Garland 6-burner range, double ovens, flat-top grill, Sub-Zero refrigerator, farmhouse sink, pantry, and abundant cabinetry. Four bedrooms include a private upper-level primary suite with exposed beams, waterfront balcony, dressing room, walk-in closet, clawfoot soaking tub, and spa-inspired bath. Heated gunite saltwater pool and spa with waterfall, rare private clay tennis court, bluestone terraces, Viking grilling station, and outdoor shower complete this exceptional estate where architecture, nature, privacy, and luxury exist in perfect harmony.
134 Meadow Woods Road, Deep River, CT
$2,200,000
Rare opportunity to acquire approximately 30 acres in one of Deep River's most desirable locations. This exceptional property presents a unique residential development opportunity combining privacy, natural beauty, existing improvements, and future potential. The property includes an existing Saltbox style residence and offers subdivision potential for approximately 5-7 residential lots, subject to approvals and diligence. Featuring gently rolling topography, mature woodlands, historic stone walls, and expansive acreage, this remarkable parcel is ideal for builders, developers, investors, or buyers seeking a private compound, family compound, multi generational compound, or legacy property. The land is well suited for luxury homesites, estate sized lots, custom homes, a boutique luxury subdivision, or a private estate. Select building locations may offer seasonal Connecticut River views depending on home placement and elevation. The existing Saltbox home provides immediate utility as a residence, guest house, rental property, caretaker's home, or staging area during future development. Minutes from Essex and Chester Village, the property offers convenient access to the Connecticut River, Safe Harbor Marinas, yacht clubs, the Essex Steam Train, shopping, dining, cultural attractions, and the Route 9 commuter corridor while maintaining a secluded setting. A rare Connecticut Shoreline offering combining 30 acres, residential subdivision potential, luxury homesites.
134 Meadow Woods Road, Deep River, CT
$2,200,000
134 Meadow Woods Road is a rare Connecticut Shoreline estate property offering a custom Saltbox-style home on approximately 30 private acres in one of Deep River's most desirable locations. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath country home features approximately 1,591 square feet, hardwood and wide-plank pine flooring, a cathedral ceiling, patio, and unfinished basement. Surrounded by mature woodlands, historic stone walls, and gently rolling topography, the property offers exceptional privacy, natural beauty, and flexibility. The existing residence provides immediate value as a primary home, weekend retreat, guest house, caretaker residence, rental property, or multi-generational living opportunity. Expansive acreage creates space for outdoor recreation, hiking trails, gardening, equestrian pursuits, or the creation of a private estate, family compound, or legacy property. In addition to the existing home, the property may offer future residential subdivision potential for approximately 5-7 lots, creating a compelling investment property and residential development opportunity. Builders, developers, and investors will appreciate the combination of buildable acreage, road frontage, and potential estate sized homesites. Select future building locations may offer seasonal Connecticut River views depending on elevation and home placement. Located near Marinas, Connecticut River, Essex Village, Chester Village. Unique property combines a custom home with acreage and development potential
