Want to show your kids a piece of living history? Hop aboard the Black River & Western Railroad, the little railroad that could, with vintage diesel- or steam-powered scenic trains. Kids will especially love riding the rails during themed events, where the train ride becomes interactive with hop-on and hop-off activities. The Pumpkin Train takes a scenic train ride to Everitt Farms, and for the holidays the Santa Express is pure magic for the littles. Read on to learn why the Black River & Western Railroad makes all of its train rides so special. (featured photo credit: Black River & Western Railroad)

Take A Ride On The Black River & Western Railroad

Black River & Western Railroad green nj mom — *From the station to the rails there is so much to see on a trip or during an event. Photo Credit: Black River & Western Railroad*

How the Black River & Western Railroad keeps history alive

The Black River & Western Railroad was founded over 50 years ago by a group of friends passionate about steam railroading. Today, volunteers with that same passion operate public passenger trains and events with the mission to keep historic railroading alive and have a little fun while they do it. This railroad is unique because volunteers run it entirely, and many have brought their friends and family along, too. Once you take a ride, you’ll see the volunteers at work—parents with children, husbands and wives, siblings, and even entire families get involved because it’s such a rewarding experience.

Black River & Western Railroad whistle nj mom — *All aboard and discover all of the fun events for kids riding the rails. Photo Credit: Black River & Western Railroad*

Get into the fall spirit with the Pumpkin Train

Want to embrace the fall vibes? Hop aboard the Pumpkin Train for a scenic ride to Everitt Farms and a genuine farm experience. Family-owned since 1888, Everitt Farms welcomes guests to hop off the train and explore. The scenic train departs from Flemington and builds excitement for fall fun at the farm, including a 6-acre pumpkin patch (pumpkins available for purchase), a fun corn maze, and authentic wagon rides. Kids will love playing in the corn box, navigating the straw-bale maze, or visiting the friendly petting zoo. With a live DJ spinning lively tunes and fall treats (cider donuts and vanilla ice cream—yum), there’s plenty of fall fun to enjoy.

Railroad Santa nj mom — *Santa Claus comes to the railroad on the Santa Express. Photo Credit: Black River & Western Railroad*

Get festive on the Santa Express

In November, Santa Claus comes to the Black River & Western Railroad, putting everyone in the holiday spirit. With volunteers who want to be there and love what they do, the holiday train ride becomes a festive, magical event. The train ride starts in Flemington, where you can get ready to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and each child even receives a handcrafted sleigh bell gift and a souvenir golden ticket. Once on your trip, you will stop at Ringoes Station to enjoy a cookie and hot cocoa and take festive photos, including a family photo with Santa in a photo booth. You can also explore the museum, which showcases railroad memorabilia and model train layouts. Don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa to leave in the mailbox at the station.

Black River & Western Railroad red nj mom — *All aboard for new additions in 2026 at the Black River & Western Railroad. Photo Credit: Black River & Western Railroad*

FAQs about Black River & Western Railroad

When dates do the themed trains run?

On select dates from September 26-October 25, 2026 you can get all aboard The Pumpkin Train and the Santa Express runs on select dates from November 21-December 20, 2026. Keep an eye out for upcoming Easter Bunny Express train dates as well.

Where can I purchase tickets?

The best way to buy tickets is online in advance, especially for the Santa Express Train, which tends to sell out early. Walk-up tickets are available onsite at the Flemington and Ringoes stations, but availability varies. If the departure says it is sold out, you can check back for cancellations, as tickets may become available at any time. NJ MOM Tip: Visit earlier in the season for the Santa Express for a more budget-friendly option that still offers the full experience.

What is the difference between Coach and Premium Coach seating?

Coach class is the classic, no-frills train ride experience with seats that flip for your comfort to face the direction the train is traveling. Premium Coach class includes a more intimate, less crowded seating selection and a table.

What’s new for 2026-2027?

In 2026, Black River & Western Railroad volunteers worked hard to enhance Ringoes Station with fresh paint on the station building, a new brick platform, and a new spacious courtyard; these improvements have been improving the guest experience. Volunteers also did cosmetic upgrades to a train car by updating its bodywork and giving it a fresh new paint job, the volunteers are also working on a highly requested air conditioning system in another train car.

Are strollers welcome?

Collapsible strollers are permitted onboard the train. Children cannot ride in a stroller onboard the train unless medically necessary. The stroller must fit down the historic train car’s narrow aisle.

Is parking available?

Flemington Station has free parking across from the station. At Ringoes Station, a free, though smaller, parking lot is available across from the station for guests to use. Make sure to double check which station your train ride is departing from. Your departure station will be listed on your ticket.

Black River & Western Railroad
Ringoes Station – 101 John Ringo Road, Ringoes, NJ 08551
Flemington Station – 80 Stangl Road, Flemington, NJ 08822

This post is sponsored by the Black River & Western Railroad.

Black River & Western Railroad: All Aboard For Seasonal Fun

Take A Ride On The Black River & Western Railroad

How the Black River & Western Railroad keeps history alive

Get into the fall spirit with the Pumpkin Train

Get festive on the Santa Express