Whether you are traveling through New Jersey or New York, you may want to visit the Whippany Railway Museum. This non-profit organization is a great way to learn about the history of rail transportation in the state. There are several different trains on display, including the oldest steam locomotive in the United States. It is also a great place to take the kids.
Founded in 1985, the Whippany Railway Museum is located in Whippany, NJ. It is open on Sunday afternoons from April to October. For adults, admission is $1. However, there is a discounted rate of $0.50 for children. The museum also offers special train rides throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy an interactive model train that is about 30 feet long. There are different bridges, villages, and parts of the train that can be manipulated with the buttons on the wall. You can even raise the train and drive through the different aspects of the model.
In addition to the models, the museum offers several other rail artifacts to look at. There is a refurbished 1904 freight house from the Morristown and Erie Railroad that is on display. Other interesting artifacts include cast iron signs donated by railroad companies.
Another popular exhibit is the Whippany Valley Railroad. This is a 30-foot layout that was featured in O Gauge Railroading magazine. While you are visiting, you can take a picnic to enjoy while you view the various railroad cars. Also, there is a gift shop with items related to the railroad.
The Whippany Railway Museum is a non-profit organization that is staffed by all-volunteer members. They are responsible for preserving and restoring the railroad equipment in the area. When they are not repairing railroad equipment, they are also displaying privately-owned railroad equipment.
Another favorite among the many attractions at the Whippany Railway Museum is the restored passenger depot. Fans of the railway will appreciate the elegant stone structure. And you can even get a ride on an excursion train. During winter, the museum arranges a winter train ride. During the holiday season, visitors can get a ride on the Santa Claus Special. Tickets to the special ride will be available for purchase in advance.
The Whippany Railway Museum also specializes in restoring railroad artifacts. Visitors will have the opportunity to look at dozens of antique train cars in original condition. These cars include the 1907 Southern Railway steam locomotive No. 4039, the 1911 Watch Box, and several other pieces of vintage equipment.
The Whippany Railway Museum is open on Sunday afternoons from 12 to 4 p.m. Admission to the museum is $1.00 for adults and $0.50 for kids. Visit the museum for a day of fun and learning about the history of the railroad in New Jersey.
If you are looking for a place to spend a family vacation, be sure to stop by the Whippany Railway Museum. You’ll be able to see the largest collection of American-built standard gauge steam locomotives in the state of New Jersey.
