Trains are the quintessential form of transportation for kids and adults alike and in New Jersey, there are many ways to take your children on a train ride that will keep them engaged and entertained. Whether it is a holiday train ride, a fall train ride or an educational train ride, these train rides will provide your kids with a unique experience that will not only be fun but will also bring them closer to the history of New Jersey.
The best way to make sure your kids get the most out of their train ride experience is to plan ahead and find out if there are any additional activities that they can do while aboard the train. These activities will keep them focused on their surroundings and help to make their train excursion one of the most memorable experiences of their lives.
1. A Train Ride with Santa
If your kids have a Christmas wish list, then they will love the chance to hop aboard a train and talk to Santa Claus! These Christmas Express train rides are a popular tradition in New Jersey and sell out fast each year.
2. A Wild West City Ride
If you have kids that are big into cowboy stories, then they will definitely enjoy this train ride excursion in Northern NJ. It will allow them to dress up in their best cowboy gear and ride the train through rural Hunterdon County, where they will see all kinds of scenery that they will never forget!
3. A Railroad Museum
Located in Morris County, this museum has a large collection of vintage trains and rail cars that are open to visitors. They have a variety of trains on display, including steam locomotives that have been returned to their former homes and restored railcars.
4. A Pumpkin Train
This is one of the more scenic train rides in NJ and every October, they offer a pumpkin train that will take you to a pumpkin patch where the whole fam can pick out a perfect-sized pumpkin and get a free carving kit!
5. A Commuter Train
This railroad is operated by Amtrak and runs commuter routes throughout the state of New Jersey. They are known for their family friendly train rides and have a special kids’ activity section on their website where you can find coloring sheets, videos and other activities that will keep your children entertained.
6. A Historic Train
Another great train ride in New Jersey is the Cape May Seashore Line, which operates a 30-mile round-trip on the former Reading Company’s steel speedway to the shore! They have an extensive schedule of trips that are sure to delight both adults and children.
7. A Historical Train
The Black River and Western Railroad is a family-friendly railroad that offers several excursions for families to enjoy in Central NJ. They run train trips through the rural countryside from Flemington to Ringoes where there is a museum and gift shop.
