If your kids love Thomas and Percy, consider taking them to one of the many train and plane museums nj that are perfect for kiddos who dream of being a conductor or pilot someday. From a historic railroad station to the world’s largest model train display, New Jersey has plenty of places that will delight young and old alike!
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just starting to learn about trains, this train museum in Mahwah is an absolute must-see. The Donald Cooper Model Railway features a trolley, subway system, logging station, roundhouse, waterfall and even a working turntable. This elaborate exhibit is rotated on a weekly basis so each visit offers something new to see and do.
The museum is free but donations are encouraged. It is open on Saturdays from 1-4 pm.
Established in 1965, this all-volunteer NJ train museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about rail history. It has preserved, restored and interpreted historic railway and train equipment and artifacts from the state of New Jersey. The museum has also been dedicated to promoting the public understanding of rail transportation, especially passenger train travel.
This museum has a number of different exhibits that are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during their annual Christmas train show. There are over 100 trains at a time that run along over 8 miles of tracks. It’s truly a sight to behold, and you’ll want to take your time strolling through the massive display, pushing buttons that make sirens blare, roller coasters spin, the carousel move and mine warning sounds go off.
Take a trip back in time at this historic museum that’s housed in the original Greenport train depot. The exhibits here are a mix of interactive and educational, with lots of hands-on activities for kids. They’ll learn about the many different roles that trains play in everyday life, from a simple commute to a more involved trip around the globe.
If you want to go on a full day of train fun, make sure you plan your visit to coincide with their Excursion Train Rides. On select Sundays from May through October, you and your family can hop aboard the train for a tour of the museum’s historical cabooses. Rides are limited, so be sure to check their website for a complete schedule.
Located on the site of a former WWII naval aviation hangar, this one-of-a-kind NJ train and plane museum is a must-see for any airplane and train lover. The museum is a non-profit that has been designated as both a National Historic Landmark and a Guinness World Record Site. Kids will enjoy seeing and exploring the collection of over 20 full-size aircrafts and hands-on exhibits that bring the history of aviation to life for children and adults alike. They’ll also have the opportunity to watch real jets take off and land from the onsite observation deck! It’s an experience that will certainly leave lasting memories.
