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Essex

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Essex

3 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Essex, Connecticut

Updated April 15, 2021

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Unusual Attractions in Essex

Essex, Connecticut

The Griswold Inn

British troops and Prohibition couldn’t stop this spot from becoming one of the United States' oldest continuously-run taverns.

One of the museum’s locomotives.

Essex, Connecticut

Essex Steam Train

This classic steam-powered train takes tourists on a nostalgic trip around the Connecticut River Valley.

The fully functional replica of the Turtle Submarine in CT

Essex, Connecticut

'Turtle' Submarine at Connecticut River Museum

This museum holds a fully-functional replica of the "Turtle," the first American submarine ever built.

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Are we missing something unusual?

The small stone often has coins and other offerings left by visitors.

Deep River, Connecticut

The Grave of XYZ

The mysterious headstone of an unidentified bank robber was seen visited, every year, by a woman in black.

2 miles from Essex

House from the 1971 movie “Let’s Scare Jessica to Death”

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Old Bishop House

House used in the 1971 horror film "Let's Scare Jessica to Death."

3 miles from Essex

East Haddam, Connecticut

Gillette Castle State Park

Quirky castle designed by the American actor best known for portraying Sherlock Holmes on stage.

5 miles from Essex

The Singing Bridge, now with a paved road

Westbrook, Connecticut

The Singing Bridge

The iconic bridge's signature hum is triggered by passing cars, music to drivers' ears.

5 miles from Essex

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Essex

Essex, Connecticut

The Griswold Inn

British troops and Prohibition couldn’t stop this spot from becoming one of the United States' oldest continuously-run taverns.

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Explore Essex, Connecticut

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Stories About Essex

In non-pandemic times, the bar is packed for chantey night.

This Connecticut Inn Has Hosted Sea Chantey Singalongs for Half a Century

Landlubbers are very welcome.

by Allison Hadley

Aerial image of Vietnam, displaying the picturesque rice terraces, characterized by their layered, verdant fields.

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