The Whippany museum is a railroad and excursion train ride museum located at 1 Railroad Plaza in the heart of Whippany, Morris County, New Jersey. Founded in 1965, the non-profit museum has a collection of railway vehicles from different eras which are showcased on its property. This facility also hosts a number of train rides throughout the year for all guests to enjoy.
The museum displays one of the largest collections of American-built standard gauge steam locomotives and railway cars. Some of the locomotives that can be found here include a 1907 Southern Railway train, a Texaco Fireless Cooker steam engine, and an Alco U.S. Army 0-6-0 No. 4039 that was built in 1942 for World War II service.
Excursions are offered throughout the year at the museum which is operated by volunteers and is a non-profit organization. These train rides allow guests to experience how it was like living and working as a railway worker back in the day. The rides are fun and educational for all guests regardless of age.
In addition to the train ride exhibits, this museum features a model railroading area. There are two operating layouts which are open to the public on a daily basis and a gift shop as well. The facility also has a caboose and restored club car that can be boarded for guests to take a tour of these railway cars on specific days and events.
The facility has a variety of other activities and exhibits that can be enjoyed by visitors including a collection of artifacts from the early 20th century. This is an excellent place to learn about the history of transportation in the United States and also how it shaped the growth and development of communities across America.
Father’s Day Express Train Ride
Treat dad to a unique and enjoyable experience this Father’s Day with a trip onboard the train at the Whippany museum. This limited-time event offers a 10-mile, 45-minute round-trip ride on our historic railway. The train will travel along the route of the Whippanong Trail and will roll through towns such as Whippany, East Hanover, Livingston, and Roseland in Morris and Essex Counties. This scenic trail is dotted with the remnants of prehistoric glacial Lake Passaic and supports abundant wildlife, such as deer, wild turkeys, turtles, and rabbits.
During the Revolutionary War, many famous leaders of the Continental Army and the British army traveled through the area including General George Washington at Tappins Hostelry (1777), Benedict Arnold at Malapardis Tavern (1779), and James Monroe at the Morristown National Historical Park (1780). In fact, the town of Whippany was named after its founder, Peter Mullan.
Embrace a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Sonesta Select Whippany Hanover, where you’ll be minutes away from dazzling natural displays at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum (3.5 miles), fascinating cultural and historical collections at the Morristown Museum (5.8 miles), and exotic animals at the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo (8.8 miles).
