Train rides are a great way to bring children into the world of rail transportation. New Jersey is home to many exciting train attractions that children of all ages will enjoy. From the train-themed attractions at the Delaware River Railroad Excursions to the model train shows at the Morris County Railroad Museum, there’s plenty to choose from.
The train-themed events of the holiday season include the Santa Train. The yearly fundraiser for the Tri-State Railway Historical Society, this one-hour train ride is not to be missed. Not only will your kids get a chance to meet the real Santa, but you’ll be treated to a trip around the museum. Tickets for this train are not cheap, and they sell out quickly. If you’re interested in taking your child on this magical journey, you should buy your ticket ahead of time.
Another exciting train-related event is the annual Easter Bunny Train Ride. In addition to the traditional Easter Bunny visit, this ride is a part of the Phillipsburg Easter Bunny Egg Hunt. The ride takes guests through the woods and past a lake. If you’re looking for a more seasonal ride, the Haunted Express Nighttime Rides are also popular.
The Ethan Allen Express is a 241-mile train ride that departs from New York City to Rutland, Vermont. The journey includes stops in charming New England villages. It also offers a view of the Hudson River Valley and the untouched wilderness.
Another train ride worthy of note is the one offered by the Black River & Western Railroad. The ride has several themed holiday excursions, including the North Pole Express and the Victorian Christmas Special. While the route from New York to Rutland is not too far from the coast, you’ll be awed by the scenic scenery along the way.
If you’re interested in exploring New Jersey’s railroad history, you’ll want to consider the Whippany Railway Museum. The museum is located in Morris County and is open on Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Its trains pass through remnants of pre-historic glacial Lake Passaic and a swamp with diverse wildlife. The museum itself is free, but visitors should pay to ride the railroad. The price per adult is a mere $1. However, kids under 3 years old can ride for free.
The Readin’ Railroad Story Time is another unique train-related event. During this ride, passengers get to listen to a narration that describes points of interest along the line. This includes the history of the railroad and a fun magic show. The layover is also an ideal opportunity for kids to explore the museum car, which has a gift shop.
The Bucks County Railroad, which runs through the picturesque farmland and historic buildings of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, is the perfect place to enjoy the scenery. There are also other train rides in the state that are especially geared towards young children. The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is one of the most popular. It offers a ride over the newly-reopened track.
