Private Events & Trolley Charters


Have your next event or charter with us!

Whether you’re planning a celebration, group outing, or special event, a private trolley charter offers a unique setting your guests won’t forget. Our historic trolleys seat approximately 35 passengers each, are heated for year-round use (weather permitting), and can be combined to accommodate larger groups.

Small groups are always welcome.

📞 (203) 467-6927 | 📧 reservations@shorelinetrolley.org


Types of Events We Host

We regularly host:

  • Children’s birthday parties
  • Adult birthdays & milestone celebrations
  • Family gatherings & reunions
  • School field trips & educational groups
  • Tour buses, senior groups, and historical societies
  • Corporate outings, team-building, and client events
  • Photography sessions & engagement shoots
  • Small weddings, proposals, and rehearsal events
  • Holiday parties and seasonal celebrations

You provide the details—we provide the historic setting, trolley, and operator.

Not sure if your idea fits? If it involves people, we can likely make it work—just ask.


Charters & Private Events

Schools, tour buses, historical societies, and special needs groups are all welcome. We can accommodate groups ranging from small gatherings to several hundred guests using multiple trolley cars.

Our scenic property is also a great setting for weddings, corporate functions, and large group outings.

Custom pricing is available for larger groups and specialty events—please contact us to discuss your needs.


Trolley Parties / Rentals

Private trolley rentals are offered at:

$160 per hour
2-hour minimum for parties

This includes:

  • Exclusive use of a trolley car
  • A uniformed operator
  • Time for setup and your event

Shorter rentals may be available for photography sessions or specialty uses—please inquire.


Visitor’s Center Rentals (Off-Season)

During the off-season, events may be hosted in our Sprague Visitor’s Center at the same hourly rate.

This option includes:

  • Use of the indoor, climate-controlled Visitor’s Center
  • Trolley rides as part of your event (not continuously onboard)
  • Flexible space for gatherings, food, and activities

This is a great option for colder weather or groups looking for a combination of indoor space and a trolley experience.


What to Expect

Your event typically begins at the Visitor’s Center, where your group gathers and boards a private trolley.

  • Enjoy one or more scenic round trips along our historic railway
  • The trolley may pause on a siding or return to the station for your group to gather
  • Depending on your event type and season, time may be spent onboard the trolley, in the Visitor’s Center, or a combination of both

Guests are welcome to bring their own food, decorations, and event details.


FAQs

Do the trolleys move?
Yes! Most events include one or more round trips down the line, along with time for your group to gather.

How long is a round trip ride?
Approximately 30 minutes. If your event overlaps with public operations, timing may vary slightly to allow for safe spacing between cars.

Can I bring food or catering on board?
Yes, aboard select cars such as Connecticut Company Car #1602. Please help us preserve these historic vehicles during your event.

Are the trolleys climate-controlled?
Our trolleys are heated but not air-conditioned, as most were built over a century ago. When available, the Visitor’s Center offers a climate-controlled space.


Guest Operator Charters

Our Guest Operator Program allows participants to operate a historic trolley or rapid transit car under supervision.

These experiences are offered on select dates throughout the year. If you’re unable to attend a scheduled session, please contact us to discuss private arrangements.


Your event helps support the preservation and operation of historic trolley cars and educational programming for future generations.