A train ride is the perfect way to take the kids out for a fun adventure that they’ll never forget. With a few tips, you can plan the perfect kiddie train ride in New Jersey.
The New Jersey Museum of Transportation offers a variety of train excursions throughout the year. All fares are reduced for children 2-12 years of age, and one infant under the age of two rides free with each adult ticket. The Museum is a non-profit organization that collects, preserves, displays and operates New Jersey-related rail and transportation equipment and artifacts. All proceeds from these excursion train rides benefit the Museum’s mission and historic preservation efforts.
During the holiday season, the Museum is home to Santa’s Workshop and the annual Christmas Train. This family-friendly holiday train ride is the perfect place for little ones to meet Santa Claus and have their picture taken with him. Guests aboard can also enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. There is even on-board entertainment, like roaming hobos and a juggling chef. The train is pulled by an antique diesel locomotive and consists of historic restored passenger cars from the 1950s.
Other special train rides are offered by the Black River and Western Railroad in Central Jersey and the Cape May Seashore Lines in South Jersey. These seasonal train trips are great for families looking for something new and different to do with the kids.
NJ Transit employees volunteer to help transform the commuter trains into Christmas magic for the annual Railmen for Children’s Santa Express train ride for kids. The volunteers spend a significant amount of time pre-holiday to raise funds and shop for the gifts requested by each child on the train. The cost of the event is covered by donations from the public, as well as NJ Transit employees and other local businesses.
In addition to the holiday-themed train rides, many other train excursions are available throughout the year at the Whippany Railway Museum. During the fall, passengers can enjoy the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. Children can also visit the Pumpkin Junction at the train station, where they can pick their own pumpkins and have fun in a corn maze or wagon ride.
The Whippany Railway Museum is also home to the annual Easter Bunny Train. This popular event is a must-do with the kids, especially for those who are big fans of the Easter Bunny. During this 45-minute ride, the Easter Bunny visits each child, distributing sweet treats and taking pictures. Tickets for the Easter Bunny Train often sell out, so make sure to book yours early.
