All aboard—it’s never too early to think about the holiday season. And taking one of the Christmas train rides in New Jersey is a must, especially if you can score tickets early. After all, who doesn’t like sipping hot cocoa in Christmas PJs while spending quality time with Santa and his elves? So, what are you waiting for—you can buy tickets NOW before they sell out (you’ll thank us later). Scroll down for where you can hop aboard a holiday train ride, and stay tuned for updates for the upcoming holiday season, which will be here before you know it. (featured photo credit: DiDonato Family Fun Center)
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DiDonato Family Fun Center
November 15-December 23
Looking for a Christmas train in New Jersey that truly delivers magic for the whole family? All aboard the Magical Holiday Express at DiDonato Family Fun Center — one of NJ’s most dazzling holiday traditions. Your journey begins aboard a festive train weaving through millions of sparkling lights before arriving at Santa’s Workshop for a complimentary meet-and-greet and free photo with the Big Guy himself. Mrs. Claus awaits nearby with stories, smiles, and her own photo moment. Children receive a special gift from Santa, and every guest can cozy up with free hot chocolate and a cookie. From the walk-through Holiday Village to the Snowman Tent movie experience and the Little Strikes Snack & Toy Cottage, every corner is packed with holiday joy. Plus, enjoy a bonus free game of bowling — making this outing extra merry. New in 2025: Sensory Nights (Dec. 3 & 4) offer a calmer, more comfortable experience for guests who prefer softer sounds and smaller crowds.
1151 South White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037
Get Your Tickets Ready For Christmas Train Rides In New Jersey
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express
November 15-December 23, select dates
All aboard a train ride through millions of Christmas lights with a meet and greet with Santa and his elves in his workshop. Perfect for Kids ages 1-92, experience a train ride through millions of Christmas lights, meet Santa and his elves in his workshop, chat with Mrs. Claus, and so much more. Afterward, head to the Holiday Movie tent, take a photo with your favorite snowman, and shop for everyone on your list at the Toy Market and Walkthrough Holiday Village. Tickets go on sale in the fall.
Cost: starting at $22.95
1151 South White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037
North Pole Express at the Black River and Western Railroad
November 23-December 28, select dates
Don’t miss North Pole Express—the Black River and Western Railroad’s most popular annual event. Board the train in Flemington and stop at the festive Ringos Station for some holiday cheer. Guests can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy a chocolate chip cookie, hot cocoa, a special silver sleigh bell, and a gold souvenir ticket. Premium Coach, Parlor Class, Private Caboose Rentals, and Club Car Rentals are also available.
Cost: 3 and under ride free, $39.99 and up
80 Stangl Road, Flemington, NJ 08822
Pine Creek Railroad
Dates to be announced
For over 40 years, the Pine Creek Railroad has been a Holiday Tradition, and it continues to sell out. When the Christmas Express comes to town, Santa rides the train and talks to every child during the trip. These holiday rides typically happen throughout December, but keep in mind that dates and times may change. Be sure to contact the railroad before your experience, and visit Allaire State Park after your train ride.
Cost: Prices vary for special events
4265 Atlantic Avenue, Wall, NJ 07719
The Polar Express Train Ride with the Delaware River Railroad Excursions
November 28-December 21, select dates
Inspired by the film and the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a ride on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical hour-and-a-half trip to meet Santa. Once on board, car hosts will come by to punch your golden ticket. Sit back and relax as the dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies, and the classic children’s book, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, is read aloud. Set to the sounds of the Polar Express, kids can sing along with roaming hobos, watch a Juggling Chef, and spend time with Santa, who will give each guest their first gift of Christmas— a silver bell. And to make the experience truly authentic, wear your Christmas PJs during the ride.
Cost: $38 per child and $48 per adult
38 Market Street, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
The Polar Express Train Ride Whippany
November 1-December 30, select dates
Punch your golden ticket and get all aboard The Polar Express. Your family will experience the magic of the popular book and movie, and embark on a one-hour trip to the North Pole together. Kids will enjoy hot chocolate, Walker’s Shortbread, storytime, meeting Santa, and a silver sleigh bell surprise. It’s one of those Christmas train rides in New Jersey that you won’t want to miss.
Cost: Ages 2 and under are free, $57 and up
1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ 07981
The Santa Express and the Santa Starlight Express
November 29-December 23, select dates
The Seashore Lines will take you on a historic, comfortable, fun train ride with the big man himself. The 75-minute round-trip ride will feature Santa and his helpers, as well as onboard entertainment. You can hop on board at Richland Village or Tuckahoe Village, and The Starlight Express offers the same experience, but the magic happens at night.
Cost: Ages 2 and under are free; prices start at $33.95
Richland Village- 1272 Harding Highway, Richland, NJ 08350
Tuckahoe Village- Reading Avenue and Railroad Avenue, Tuckahoe, NJ 08250
The Santa Train with the Tristate Railway Historical Society LLC
Dates TBA
Climb aboard this hour-long round-trip experience on a dedicated NJ Transit Train with musicians, costumed characters, and an opportunity to meet Santa and receive a special gift. The Tri-State Railway Historical Society, Inc. sponsors this annual event, and the Santa Train is its largest fundraiser. Tickets will go on sale in mid-October (but get them quickly since they sell out fast).
Cost: Starting at $28
Route 23 Southbound and West Belt Parkway, Wayne, NJ 07040
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