Train rides coincide with Main Street Marketplace

THOMASTON — The last passenger train left Torrington 60 years ago and area residents have talked about their return for years. The Railroad Museum of New England is making this happen on Wednesday nights this summer with their 1920s restored passenger coaches.

The museum is sponsoring special excursions with the “Torrington Twilight Express” on Wednesdays until Aug. 1. These special trains will run in collaboration with the Main Street Marketplace and leave Thomaston Station at 5 p.m., allowing passengers the chance to enjoy Torrington’s popular street festival. The trains depart from Torrington at 7:30 p.m. and return to Thomaston at 8:45 p.m. Train service is provided by the Naugatuck Railroad.

In addition, people who wish to see the sights south of Torrington can board the train at the Water Street Torrington railroad crossing and take the “East Litchfield Shuttle,” a 40minute tour. If Main Street Marketplace is postponed by rain, the Express will return at 6 p.m. and the shuttle will be cancelled.

“Torrington Twilight Express,” is $20 for adults, seniors and children 3 and over. These tickets can be purchased online at www.rmne.org or phone 860-283-7245. All tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Trains depart from the Thomaston Station at 242 East Main St. Passengers may pick up tickets at the Thomaston Station’s “Will Call” window on the day of the event. Passengers must arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure time. Trains depart promptly at the scheduled times

The East Litchfield Shuttle costs $5 and tickets can be purchased before boarding the train at Water Street.