Connecticut Families: NAUGKIDS allows kids to ride historic train for free this summer

THOMASTON, Conn. (WTNH) — All aboard the Naugatuck Railroad for a unique adventure through the river valley!

“I think history is important and this is a really unique opportunity because you get to experience this in Connecticut on a historic line that helped build this entire county at one time,” said Orion Newall, manager of Passenger Operations for the Naugatuck Railroad Company.

The rustic train rumbles across the Thomaston Dam, showing beautiful views while a narrator shares fun facts.

“I loved seeing the river and the waterfall,” said 10-year-old Mia.

“I really enjoyed hearing the history of everything,” her mom Lindsay Peterson of Milford said.

But there’s more to this story.

“The state of Connecticut was no longer going to offer the Summer at the Museum Program,” Newall said.

Even so, the railroad still wanted to give families the opportunity to take advantage of a cost-effective option this summer.

So Newall helped launch the NAUGKIDS program.

“Now kids can ride for free in coach on the Naugatuck River Scenic Train and Torrington Twilight Express,” he explained.

“It’s a great price, kids are free, so, it’s a great opportunity. We do it every year especially when it’s free, we’re so glad they brought it back,” said Natalie Walters of Watertown, who brought her kids on the train for a summer treat.

The Naugatuck River Scenic Train makes a stop at the incredible Fascia’s Chocolates in Waterbury where folks clamor to enjoy turtles, truffles and gelato.

“They put a lot of milk in the chocolate so it’s better than brands you find in the store,” 12-year-old Colton said.

Kids love sweets and kids, like 8-year-old Weston, really love trains!

“They’re loud and obnoxious like I am!” he said with a laugh.

Plan an affordable, enjoyable outing that takes families back in time.

“Here we are 175 years later from when the first train ran and people are still getting to experience the railroad here in the Naugatuck River Valley,” Newall said.

The Kids Ride Free program runs through Sept. 9.

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