Whippany train is a fun and unique way to spend a day with your family. It is a combination of a museum and train ride that is operated by the Whippany Railway Museum. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of railroads in northern New Jersey as well as across the country for future generations. They do this by restoring, maintaining and operating a large assortment of historic rail cars. They also offer train rides on select weekends during the year. The rides are a great way for families to see the trains up close and personal.
This is one of the most unique train museums in the country and is well worth a visit. The volunteers at the museum are very knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions you might have. I was very impressed with how detailed they were in telling the history of each car and how they worked on them. It is obvious that they are passionate about the museum and the work they do. The museum is open every Sunday from April to mid-October from 12 noon to 4:00 PM. There is a small admission fee but it helps fund the restoration and preservation of the antique train cars.
There is so much to see at this museum including the huge “O” gauge model railroad that is the centerpiece of the main exhibit building. It is a beautiful display that includes a representation of a northern New Jersey landscape complete with a fieldstone depot and water tank. There are many other locomotives and rail cars on display as well as numerous historic railroad exhibits.
The highlight of any trip to the museum is taking a train ride. The museum offers excursions throughout the year powered by the Morristown and Erie Railroad. They are a fun and unique way to explore New Jersey and experience the beauty of its surrounding area. The excursions are a great way for the whole family to enjoy the experience and learn about the history of railroads in the state.
When you ride the train you will have the opportunity to sit in restored commuter coaches adorned in holiday decor. Each coach seats 100 passengers and is arranged in a theater-in-the-round style to give everyone the best view of the onboard entertainment. Designated wheelchair spaces are available in select coaches and can be reserved by selecting the appropriate seat icon during your online booking.
Each trip lasts about an hour and is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. The train leaves from the freight house at the museum and takes passengers on a scenic 10-mile round trip ride through Morris and Essex Counties. There are two or five Polar Express trips scheduled each day.
The museum is located at 1 Railroad Plaza in Whippany, New Jersey. It is easy to get to by car, bus or rail. Parking is free in the lot next to the museum.
