Hidden Gems Of Connecticut

EAST WINDSOR, CT — The latest trek to a Hidden Gem in Connecticut takes us to the oldest incorporated museum dedicated to electric railroading in the United States.

Founded in 1940, the Connecticut Trolley Museum, located on state Route 140 in East Windsor, showcases more than a half-dozen operational vintage trolley cars, plus seven retired trolley cars on display in the Visitor Center.

Exhibits detailing the progression of the trolley era are featured throughout the museum, as well as activities for all ages.

A 1.5 mile heritage railroad (a 3-mile round trip) gives visitors the opportunity to ride on several different types of trolleys. Several special events offered annually include rides to a pumpkin patch, the popular Rails to the Darkside in October, and Winterfest and the Tunnel of Lights from late November to late December.

Located on the museum grounds at 58 North Road (the local address for Route 140) is the Connecticut Fire Museum.

This museum is dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of antique fire apparatus and associated equipment. See antique fire trucks on display from the local area and a functioning fire alarm call box.

More information may be obtained by visiting www.ct-trolley.org.

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The Hidden Gems series features out-of-the-way mom and pop restaurants, small specialty stores you may have never heard of, little-known historical markers or beautiful nature spots that may be a bit off the beaten path, all located in the Nutmeg State.