The locomotive was once one of the most popular means of transport, especially for train rides in NJ. Even today, the state still heavily relies on trains for commuters going into New York and Philadelphia. But rarely do we sit back and enjoy a scenic train ride in the Garden State. These scenic train rides in New Jersey offer a unique experience that can transport you into the past while taking in all of the beauty of the present. Though the state doesn’t offer much in the way of railroad excursions, there are several options for things to do in NJ that involve trains.

1. Delaware River Railroad Excursions, Phillipsburg
Facebook/Delaware River Railroad Excursions
Delaware River Railroad Excursions, 99 Elizabeth St, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865, USA
Facebook/Delaware River Railroad Excursions
Delaware River Railroad Excursions is home to the only operating steam train in New Jersey. Ride this lovely locomotive right along the beautiful Delaware River for a relaxing ride or enjoy one of the many available adventures. Children will love "A Day Out With Thomas," while adults will enjoy the "Warren County Winery Train." Other options include a trip to the Susquehanna Mine, the "Dino Days" event featuring a train ride back into the Jurassic Period - complete with paleontologists and dinosaur skeletons, and themed holiday rides. For more information, head to the website for Delaware River Railroad Excursions.
2. Whippany Railway Museum, Whippany
Facebook/Whippany Railway Museum
Whippany Railway Museum, 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ 07981, USA
Facebook/Whippany Railway Museum
The Whippany Railway Museum does a wonderful job of preserving New Jersey's railroading history. It also offers round-trip excursions in the spring and fall. Rides are about 45 minutes and travel the route of the Historic Whippanong Trail through Whippany, East Hanover, Livingston, and Roseland. The train passes through the remnants of the pre-historic glacial Lake Passaic, a natural swamp with diverse wildlife, and offers the excitement of crossing high above the Passaic River over a historic bridge.

There are several train cars to choose from including a luxury option on the elegantly-restored 1927-era Central Railroad of New Jersey club car, Jersey Coast. This definitely isn't the type of train ride you're used to - it's so much better. The Whippany Railway Museum also offers seasonal events like the Pumpkin Festival and rides with the Easter Bunny. Learn more about what you can expect for your train rides in NJ from the website for the Whippany Railway Museum.

Take a look at this video by @LibertyRailfan:
3. Pine Creek Railroad, Allaire State Park
New Jersey Museum of Transportation/Facebook

Related Stories

This Charming Canal Town In New Jersey Is Like Something From A Dream

This Charming Canal Town In New Jersey Is Like Something From A Dream

 The Longest Boardwalk In The World Is Here In New Jersey And It’s An Unforgettable Adventure

The Longest Boardwalk In The World Is Here In New Jersey And It’s An Unforgettable Adventure

 The New Jersey Christmas Celebration Where You Can Visit With An Outdoorsman Santa

The New Jersey Christmas Celebration Where You Can Visit With An Outdoorsman Santa
The New Jersey Museum of Transportation, 4265 Atlantic Ave Suite A, Wall Township, NJ 07727, USA
New Jersey Museum of Transportation/Facebook
Another train-related thing to do in NJ, in conjunction with the New Jersey Museum of Transportation, Pine Creek Railroad offers short steam train rides seasonally. They also offer unique special events, including the Civil War Encampment and Railroaders Weekend which features a parade of classic and modern trains. Several holiday rides are available, though the Haunted Express Nighttime Rides in NJ are a favorite. Get all the details for Pine Creek Railroad from their website.

Take a look at this video by @adventurefifty:
4. Black River & Western Railroad, Flemington/Ringoes
Facebook/Black River & Western Railroad
Black River & Western Railroad, 245 John Ringo Rd, Ringoes, NJ 08551, USA
Facebook/Black River & Western Railroad
These relaxing scenic train trips in New Jersey last approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including a 10-15 minute layover. Use this time to explore the gift shop or museum car. Certain rides even include an extended trip. Ticket prices vary by age. Black River & Western Railroad also offers themed holiday excursions like the Easter Bunny Express and Trick or Treat Train. Head to the website for Black River & Western Railroad to plan your trip.
5. Cape May Seashore Lines, Richland-Tuckahoe
Facebook/Cape May Seashore Lines
Cape May Seashore Lines, 31 Mill Rd, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA
Facebook/Cape May Seashore Lines
This line offers a 30-mile scenic trip through the pine barrens, along with special events like a Santa Train. For a truly unique experience, they even provide private charters for corporate and personal functions. You can also take a four-mile rail biking excursion from here that goes along the beautiful Garrett Family Preserve. It's a unique way to catch train-side views and get a little exercise in too! Be sure to check the website for Cape May Seashore Lines to see what's available.

These scenic train rides in New Jersey are perfect whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure. Have you taken any of these scenic train rides in NJ? Tell us about it in the comments!

Rather see scenic places on foot? Check out these beautiful NJ hikes. And if you’re up for hiking, check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List before you hit the trails!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Fall Fun in New Jersey

Rachel Raimondi | September 08, 2022

What is the most scenic town in New Jersey?

With 8,723 square miles and 130 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, there are a lot of scenic towns in New Jersey. In Hunterdon County, you’ll find Frenchtown. There are a ton of things to do in NJ here, such as unique shopping and attractions downtown, like a gemstone gallery and a book shop. There’s also plenty to nosh and sip on, all with gorgeous views of the Delaware River. For recreation, you’ve got the Frenchtown Preserve and Sunbeam Lenape Park.

What are the best fall hikes in New Jersey? 

There are 31 beautiful state parks in New Jersey, but there are a few that are real must-sees during the fall. Some of the best fall hikes in New Jersey include the following:

  • In Sussex, there’s High Point State Park. Here, you get all the way up to High Point, the highest point in the state, at 1,804 feet. From here, you can see the foliage of not only New Jersey but also Pennsylvania and New York.
  • The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is over in Layton. Among its six trails, one of the best to take in the splendor of fall is the 6.8-mile Buttermilk Falls and Crater Lake Loop Trail. Here, you’ll see the 85-foot-tall Buttermilk Falls (the state’s highest) among other lovely sights along the way.

 

Are there any animal encounters in New Jersey?

There are quite a few places to see animals in New Jersey. Check out the following places:

  • In Camden, you can visit Adventure Aquarium and its 8,500 aquatic species, including penguins, sea lions, jellyfish, and sharks. Many exhibits even have a “touch” option.
  • For a different animal experience, head to the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Columbia. This is the biggest preserve of its kind in the Northeast, and visitors can observe and learn all about the behavior of wolves. 

Related Articles

Explore New Jersey