If you are looking for a great place to take your family for a train ride and a day trip out of the ordinary check out Whippany museum. This museum is a New Jersey train museum that has been open since 1965 and explores the history of railroads in America.
The museum is located in the heart of Whippany, in a 1904 freight house, with dozens of historic railcars and exhibits. Visitors can see how train cars were used as they evolved over the years from coal to steam and even electric. The museum also houses one of the largest collections of American-built standard gauge steam locomotives in New Jersey.
In addition to the museum, there is a gift shop, Snack Depot, full restroom facilities and picnic area. The museum is staffed by volunteers and is open on Sundays from April through October, with Excursion trains running on five days in the spring and fall. Admission to the museum is $1 for adults and 50 cents for children under 12. Excursion train tickets are an additional fee.
The museum was very well organized and told the story of railroads in the town of Whippany, but it also told a very detailed story of railway systems throughout the country. There were lots of old train car displays and traditional railway signs. The volunteers were very knowledgeable and when one volunteer named Mike gave a very detailed hour-long tour of every train car in the museum it was very informative.
There is an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the railroad era as well as early clothing, tools, farming equipment and even Native American objects. The museum is very interactive and kids will love it as there are many things to touch and play with. It is a very interesting museum and I could have spent more time there.
This museum has been open for over fifty years and is an example of how a museum can be successful with a small budget and the help of volunteers. The museum has been recognized by the New Jersey State Assembly for the work it does in preserving our heritage. It is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered by more people and visited frequently.
If you are a fan of steampunk it is definitely worth visiting the Whippany museum. Steampunk is a style that combines Victorian era designs with industrial steam power and machinery. This style of clothing, makeup and accessories is very popular amongst the young and old alike. There is a lot to see at the Whippany museum so plan on spending the day there and make it a fun outing for the whole family. There are some special Father’s Day train rides planned for this weekend so be sure to visit their website to learn more and book your tickets! The proceeds from these train rides will help further the museum’s mission and historic preservation efforts. So grab the kids, Dad and Grandpa and head out to enjoy this unique experience in Hanover, NJ!
