From historic train stations and steam-powered locomotives to model railroad museums that transport you to fantasy-lands, New Jersey has many exciting things to do with kids that feature trains. Take a ride on a classic train to enjoy the beautiful scenery, go on a themed excursion for an adventure you’ll never forget or hop aboard a miniature train at a children’s amusement park to zoom around their kiddie rides area.
The Camden Children’s Garden has a 1950s narrow train that takes visitors on a three-quarter mile forest journey. This fun and engaging train ride is an excellent way for young children to see butterflies and dinosaurs and learn about nature. This attraction also offers a seasonal ice cream and cookie train ride.
One of the best train rides for kids nj is The Polar Express. Inspired by the popular book and film, this hour-and-a-half train ride brings the magic of Christmas to life for families. Car hosts punch your golden ticket and welcome you aboard the train, while a Juggling Chef serves hot chocolate and Walker’s shortbread and a Reading Buddy reads the timeless story by Chris Van Allsburg. Then, Santa comes to visit you in the train cars and gives every child a silver sleigh bell. This is a magical family event you won’t want to miss!
If you have an NJ TRANSIT monthly pass, your children can travel for free during weekends and holidays. The Family SuperSaver fare allows two children ages five to 11 to travel with a paying adult. This program is available on trains, light rail and buses during the weekend and holiday periods from 7 p.m. Friday (or the day before if that’s when you plan to leave) through 6 a.m. Monday (or the day after).
For those looking for a more affordable option, there’s also the Group Trip discount. This is available for groups of nine or more traveling together on a single reservation and offers a 25 percent discount off the normal one-way adult fare.
Then, there’s the Amtrak Family Fare that’s available all year for travelers bringing at least one child under age 2. One infant under two may ride free on the lap of the adult and additional children travel at the child fare. This is a great way to save money and make a journey that you’ll never forget with your little ones. To purchase a Family Fare, simply reserve online or call 1-800-872-7245. The tickets are automatically applied to your booking, so you don’t need a coupon code. For more information, click here. The National Railroad Museum in Morristown is another great place to take kids on a train ride for an educational experience that will last a lifetime. Learn all about the history of railroads and the importance they have played in New Jersey’s history. The museum is open Sundays from April through October and has a large train layout. They also host many seasonal events including The Polar Express (select dates November – December), the Easter Bunny Express, and the Pumpkin Festival.
