Fall is here, and you know what that means—pumpkin spice everything and beautiful warm yellows, reds, and oranges are all around. So if a trip to peep at leaves is on your fall bucket list, there’s no better way to do that than taking one of the scenic train rides in NJ, where everyone can admire the autumn leaves (and no one has to concentrate on driving). From short trips with pumpkin picking to longer ones winding through the most beautiful spots in the state, these scenic train rides in NJ will give you all the fall feels and is the perfect way to take in the sights. (feature photo credit: @didonatofuncenter)
Scenic Train Rides In NJ For Leaf Peeping This Fall
Delaware River Railroad Excursions
Jump on The Great Pumpkin Train and take a ride through the gorgeous fall foliage. During the month of October, every child who rides on the train will have the chance to pick their own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. You can also enjoy two fun maze games, visit the Ol’ Susquehanna Mine, where you can pan for real gems, or have a picnic at the stop. Rides are 1 1/2 hour round trip, and tickets for the Mine can be purchased ahead of time or on-site.
Rides run from October 1-31
Cost: $18 adult and $13 child
100 Elizabeth St, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Whippany Railway Museum
Climb aboard a train at the Whippany Railway Museum to admire the changing leaves. Littles can dress in their Halloween costumes as you all ride past the reds, yellows, and oranges and enjoy the chilly weather. After the ride, kids can visit the pumpkin patch and pick out the perfect-sized pumpkin and get a carving kit for free. This is the perfect way to spend the afternoon with the whole fam.
Rides are available on October 2, 9 & 16, rain or shine
Cost: $12-$14 per ticket
1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ 07981
Black River & Western Railroad
Looking for one of the scenic train rides in NJ and all the fun fall activities? The Pumpkin Train runs every weekend in October and takes a trip to Pumpkin Junction, where the whole fam can pick pumpkins, get lost in a giant corn maze, grab a wagon ride, and more before hopping back on the train to Flemington Station.
Rides are every Saturday and Sunday in October
Cost: $21 for adults and $15 for children; tickets must be purchased online
33-99 Stangl Road, Flemington, NJ 08822
Pine Creek Railroad
Take a ride on a historic train while you enjoy the beauty of nature in the fall—yes, please. One of the most scenic train rides in NJ, the Pine Creek Railroad, is within Allaire State Park. You’ll board the train at a station over 100 years old, and as it winds its way through the park, you’ll view some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the Garden State. And for your boo lovers, check their website for more details on the upcoming Halloween Train Ride.
Cost: $6 for anyone 3 and up, $2 for children under 3
DiDonato’s Family Fun Center
Check out the beautiful fall foliage as you hop aboard the “All A Boo” train that’s perfect for the littles in the fam. The train will take you through Halloween Town and includes tricks, treats, and surprises (costumes are encouraged). After the ride, get lost in the Halloween corn maze, trick-or-treat spots, a pumpkin patch, a giant slide, and more.
Rides begin September 24
Cost: $15.95 for adults, free for kids 12 months and younger
1151 South White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037
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