Train lovers and families of all ages can climb aboard one of the historic trains operated by the non-profit Whippany Railway Museum. These excursion train rides are a great way to see the sights of New Jersey and get a feel for the past. The Museum also has a large assortment of railroad locomotives and cars on display and operating model train layouts.
The Museum was founded in 1965 as a companion to the Morris County Central Railroad, which ran weekend steam-powered excursions. Since then, the Museum has grown to become a premier destination for those interested in exploring the history of New Jersey railroads. Excursions are offered on select Sundays in May, June, September and October.
Each trip is an opportunity to climb into the cab of a vintage locomotive and experience what it was like to be in total command of a fire-breathing iron horse. The train travels along the scenic 10-mile round trip through the historic Whippanong Trail which runs through the towns of Whippany, East Hanover, Livingston and Roseland in Morris and Essex Counties. The train passes over the remnants of glacial Lake Passaic, a natural swamp which is home to wildlife including wild turkeys and deer.
In addition to stepping into the cab of a classic locomotive, passengers can enjoy a leisurely ride on one of our restored cabooses. This is the same style of train car that was a vital part of the freight service on all railroads in the country for more than 130 years. The insulated cabooses are quiet, comfortable and safe for all age groups. Children love to climb up into the cupola and listen to the “clickety-clack” sounds of the wheels as they roll over the rail joints.
In the fall, the museum offers Halloween train rides to celebrate the spirit of the season. During this special train ride, there is an onboard craft/vendor fair and the kids can participate in a pumpkin patch.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Whippany Railway Museum is the ‘Whippanong Valley Railroad’, a large Lionel train layout. This ‘O’ gauge layout is located in the main exhibit area of the Museum and offers a representation of a North Jersey landscape. The layout is complete with a track yard and station area designed to resemble the actual Morristown and Erie Railroad facility at Whippany.
Visitors to the Museum can also explore the history of Morris County by visiting the original 1876 courthouse which is now located in downtown Morristown, just a few steps from the Museum. The building was the site of the original trial of the notorious rapist William C. Whitman and it is a historical treasure that provides an insight into the early days of our nation. The museum also has a rotating selection of temporary exhibitions which showcase different aspects of New Jersey’s rich railroad heritage. The Museum is a great place for both families and individual train enthusiasts to learn about New Jersey’s past through the artifacts on display.
