From historic train stations and steam-powered locomotives to model railroad museums showcasing miniature fantasy-lands, New Jersey has a variety of attractions for rail enthusiasts and history buffs. Whether you’re looking to learn about the state’s railroading heritage or take a scenic train ride, here are five great options.
1. Morris County Central Railroad Museum
The Morris County Central was founded in the late 1950’s by a New Jersey aerospace technician who wanted to see an example of a conventional steam railroad still operating, as many were closing down at the time. Since its inception, the MCC has grown into one of the largest and most well-respected railway museums in the United States. This museum specializes in preserving and reviving classic locomotives, coaches, cabooses, and other railway artifacts while offering unique public train rides that showcase the museum’s collection of historic equipment.
2. Northlandz Train Museum
This world-class attraction in Flemington is a must for train lovers and non-enthusiasts alike. Featured in the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Model Railroad, this 16-acre wonderland is a world of excitement and discovery. It’s also home to a number of other interesting displays, such as a 94-room doll mansion, La Peep Doll House, a 2,000-pipe theatre pipe organ that Bruce Williams Zaccagnino plays, and fine arts galleries. The trains run throughout the warmer months and for special events such as Easter and Santa.
3. Whippany Railway Museum
The Whippany Railway Museum, located in the township of Hanover in northern New Jersey, was established in 1965 to preserve the history of railroading in Morris County and to provide an opportunity for the general public to experience the sights and sounds of a traditional steam excursion train. The museum is operated by volunteers and is one of the few railway museums in the nation to operate both electric and diesel trains as well as a trolleybus loop, allowing visitors to ride all three types of vehicles on a regular basis. During the summer, the museum offers scenic train excursions on its 3 ft narrow gauge tourist railroad.
4. Pine Creek Railroad Museum
The Pine Creek Railroad Museum, found in Allaire State Park, is a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to the preservation and operation of historic railroad equipment. This impressive museum features a large collection of locomotives and railcars, as well as an extensive archive of historical documents and photographs. The museum’s highlight is the Pine Creek Railroad, a 3-ft narrow gauge tourist railroad that offers scenic train rides on a portion of the original railbed.
5. Allaire Railway Museum
Located in the village of Allaire, the Allaire Railway Museum is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization dedicated to preserving and reviving historic railroad equipment. The museum’s collection includes several historic locomotives, passenger cars, and other railcars, as well as a working switch engine and other equipment. The museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including train excursions and a children’s holiday festival.
