Trains for kids nj offer families an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, where they can enjoy beautiful scenery and relaxation. They are also a fun way for families to spend time together, allowing kids to learn about the history of trains and how they are made, as well as enjoy the thrill of being pulled by a vintage locomotive.
There are plenty of train rides in NJ that kids can choose from, including some that even offer unique experiences for the holidays. From model train shows to a ride through holiday lights, there are countless ways for families to enjoy train rides during the holidays in New Jersey.
Pine Creek Railroad in Allaire State Park, a historic train ride that is the oldest continually operating narrow-gauge steam preservation locomotive in New Jersey, offers trains seasonally. There are also many special events, like the Halloween Express and Railroaders Weekend in October and Civil War Encampment in April.
Black River & Western Railroad, in Flemington, provides trips through the rural Hunterdon County countryside on weekends throughout the summer. They use either steam or vintage diesel locomotives, depending on availability, and have a museum and gift shop in the historic civil-war-era station.
PATCO, in Newark, offers a Silver Sleigh train for children to ride with Santa on the train for free as part of their Christmas train excursion. It’s a great way to spend a day with the whole family and make memories that last a lifetime!
Northlandz, the world’s largest indoor model train museum, is a great place for kids to learn about the history of trains and see how they are made. The museum has thousands of different structures and bridges to view, as well as a full-size outdoor train ride for guests to enjoy.
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, a famous amusement park located in Ocean City, New Jersey, has a classic train that passengers can take around the perimeter of the park. They can then enjoy gorgeous views of the beach and boardwalk while they enjoy their trip on the train!
Playland’s Castaway Cove, also in Ocean City, offers a traditional train ride that is both fun and relaxing for the entire family. There are multiple stations along the train where kids can get off to explore, and a ride can be enjoyed on a classic car that has been restored from a gasoline-powered engine from the 1920s.
Delaware River Railroad Excursions, in Philipsburg, is another scenic train that the entire family can enjoy. It is a one and a half hour train ride through the scenic New Jersey countryside, with an optional 10-15 minute layover where kids can explore the gift shop or museum car.
All of these attractions will have additional activities for the kids that keep them entertained during the train ride as well. These additional activities may include crafts, story time, a magic show and more!
The Amtrak website has a special kids’ section with coloring pages and other activity sheets that the whole family can enjoy. Check out their website to find a few trains that offer these additional activities, and plan your trip accordingly!
