Connecticut River Museum

What is there to do?

The Connecticut River Museum is where the river comes to life, and YOU can be a part of it!

Located on the waterfront in historic Essex, the Connecticut River Museum is the perfect place to explore the heritage and experience the wonders of New England’s Great River.

The exhibits cover a whole wealth of history, starting with the Native American communities who called the land home, moving through to the Dutch exploration in the 17th century!

Kids can learn about the famous War of 1812 and what that meant to the settlers, plus how trade with the West Indies affected the region!

How has the river helped the development of the region? Explore how trade, stone, timber and water power helped the communities who lived along its banks.

The Connecticut River Museum also has a number of changing exhibits so you can plan going back to see something new! 

Don't forget that the museum is located in a stunning part of the state, so why not take time afterwards to enjoy the park-like grounds that overlook scenic Essex Harbor, or just stroll through historic Essex Village!

A fascinating insight into how much history one river can hold, and you get to be part of its story by learning about it ON the banks of that very same river!