Essex Vacations from $273

Photo by Bill Dillard

Essex Steam Train

Rating: 8.4/10 (165 reviews)

Travel back in time aboard the Essex Steam Train's 1920s Pullman coaches through the Connecticut River Valley. This journey combines vintage rail travel with a scenic riverboat cruise.

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Essex Library

Rating: 7.6/10 (21 reviews)

The Essex Library serves as a vibrant community hub with diverse collections and educational programs for all ages. Browse the local history section or attend author talks and cultural events.

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Photo by Bill Dillard

Connecticut River Museum

Rating: 10.0/10 (3 reviews)

Explore maritime heritage in this riverside museum in an 1878 Steamboat Dock building. Climb aboard the Turtle submarine replica or take a seasonal river cruise to experience Connecticut's aquatic history firsthand.

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Pratt House

Built in 1803, the Pratt House showcases classic Colonial architecture with its stone foundation and wooden siding. Admire the exterior and gardens before exploring the charming shops and galleries of Essex Village.

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Hattitudes

Enjoy an outing to Hattitudes during your stay in Essex Village. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

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Sweet Martha's

Enjoy an outing to Sweet Martha's during your stay in Essex Village. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

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Find out more about Essex

Things to do near Essex

Essex, Connecticut, offers a charming mix of outdoor and romantic activities perfect for a scenic getaway. Enjoy a round of golf at local courses, explore recreational areas, or relax at nearby resorts. Don't miss the iconic Essex Steam Train and the Essex County Holiday House Tour for a taste of local history. For family fun, head to amusement parks or Adventure Island, and take part in guided house tours to soak in the area's unique charm.

Shopping

In Essex, visit the Essex Plaza Shopping Center, just 1 mile away, for a family-friendly atmosphere. The Essex Saybrook Antique Village Shopping Center, located 3 miles away, offers unique finds. If you're up for a drive, the Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets, 9 miles from Essex, features numerous brand-name stores.

Recreation

Enjoy a refreshing swim at Ocean Beach Park, where family-friendly vibes and outdoor sports await just 16 miles away. Experience culture and romance at the Ivoryton Playhouse, located 3 miles from Essex, or hit the greens at Cedar Ridge Golf Course for a perfect day outdoors, only 9 miles away.

Adventure

At Stay and Play LLC, located 5 miles from Essex, enjoy an exciting arcadeAdventureZone filled with family-friendly games. For thrill-seekers, head to Waterford Speedbowl, 12 miles away, where you can experience exhilarating motorRacing action. Kids Quest, an arcadeAdventureZone 18 miles from Essex, offers fun for the whole family.

Nightlife

In Essex, Connecticut, enjoy a cozy nightlife featuring local bars and restaurants like The Griswold Inn and The Essex Steam Train. Experience live music and vibrant atmospheres along Main Street, where friendly locals create an inviting ambiance perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.

Find the best attractions in and around Essex

Essex, Connecticut, is a charming destination perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore scenic spots like the Essex River, the quaint Essex Village, and the fascinating Essex Shipbuilding Museum. With attractions that include beautiful beaches, historic houses, and nearby state parks, Essex offers a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a picturesque escape.

• Essex Steam Train: Experience the charm of a bygone era on the Essex Steam Train, where you can ride vintage steam locomotives through beautiful Connecticut scenery. Explore the railway museum and immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of rail travel in America.
• Essex Island Marina: Dive into outdoor adventures at Essex Island Marina, offering access to picturesque beaches and water activities. Rent a kayak, go fishing, or simply relax by the water while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this stunning marina.
• Gillette Castle State Park: Just a short drive from Essex, Gillette Castle State Park features breathtaking views and hiking trails. Explore the unique castle built by actor William Gillette, surrounded by scenic landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Essex

The best time to visit Essex is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Tips to save on your trip to Essex

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Essex.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top things to do in Essex?

Essex is an outdoor and nature destination, offering a mix of historical sites, scenic parks, and river activities for your Essex vacation:


Browse and book things to do in Essex on Expedia.

How can I save money on a Essex vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Essex package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

Do you need to rent a car in Essex, or is public transport enough?

A rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring Essex and its surrounding natural attractions, especially for Essex vacation packages with flights. The Estuary Transit District provides public transportation throughout Essex and nearby towns via its 9 Town Transit Service. This service also connects to the Old Saybrook Train Station, which is served by regional rail services.


Given Essex's nature as an outdoor and nature destination, a car makes it easier to reach various state parks, beaches, and historical sites that are spread out. A car allows you to fully customize your Essex vacation package itinerary.

Can I change or cancel my Essex vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking Essex vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Essex vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Essex vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How do I find last-minute vacation packages to Essex?

To find last-minute vacation packages to Essex, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

How does free cancellation work on Essex vacation packages?

Free cancellation on a Essex vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Is it cheaper to book a Essex vacation as a package or separately?

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Essex getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Why should I book my Essex vacation package with Expedia?

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.