NJIB’s Guide to 7 New Jersey Christmas Trains for 2023
Step into the enchanting world of New Jersey Christmas Trains, where the holiday spirit comes alive against the backdrop of festive lights, cheerful carols, and the warm embrace of the season. New Jersey transforms its railways into magical journeys during the Christmas season.
These festive train rides offer a unique and joyous way for families, friends, and visitors to experience the magic of Christmas while traversing picturesque landscapes and enjoying the company of Santa Claus himself. From beautifully decorated train cars to the sound of jingling bells, New Jersey Christmas Trains provide an unforgettable yuletide adventure that captures the essence of holiday cheer.
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New Jersey Christmas Trains 2023:
The Polar Express Train Ride Whippany
November 15 – December 30
Embark on a one-hour enchanting journey aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™, where passengers, serenaded by the movie soundtrack, relive the timeless tale. Hosts in each coach will punch golden tickets, serving hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread. Amidst dancing chefs, guests read The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers join, presenting passengers with a silver sleigh bell, the first gift of Christmas. Caroling and onboard entertainment, mirroring the film, add to the magical experience. Every guest departs with a keepsake sleigh bell and cherished memories, while First Class passengers receive a collectible ceramic mug.
1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ
Cost: $48+
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express
November 17 – December 23
This holiday event features a ride on an exciting train through millions of Christmas lights. The fun includes meeting Santa, a gift from Santa, a holiday movie, cookies, and a walk through the Holiday Village.
DiDonato’s Family Fun Center, 1151 S White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ
Cost: $19.95 to $24.95
North Pole Express at the Black River and Western Railroad
Select Dates November 19 – December 30
Experience 2.5 hours of holiday joy in this delightful adventure! Embark on the enchanting 2023 holiday features with a festive photo beside a 6-foot wreath at North Pole Station. Enjoy a magical train journey meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, indulging in cookies and hot cocoa. Children receive special gifts of a silver sleigh bell and gold souvenir ticket. Capture the spirit with Santa’s Sleigh and Christmas tree photo ops, plus more festive opportunities at North Pole Station.
80 Stangl Road, Flemington, NJ
Cost: $39.99+
The Polar Express Train Ride
November 24 – 26, December 1 – 3, 8-10, & 15-17
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical hour and a half trip to meet Santa. Once on board, your car hosts will work their way through the coach and punch your golden ticket before hot chocolate and delicious cookies are served by dancing chefs.
Lehigh Junction, 99 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg, NJ
Cost: $38 per child and $48 per adult
The Santa Express and the Starlight Santa Express
November 25 & 26, December 2 & 3, 8-10, 15-17, 22 & 23
The Santa Express runs every weekend, commencing the Saturday after Thanksgiving and continuing until Christmas, offering a festive 75-minute journey departing from either Richland Village or Tuckahoe Village. Additionally, the Santa Starlight Express, operating on Friday evenings from December 8th until Christmas, provides a magical 75-minute trip with departure times at 5:30 pm and 7:45 pm from both Richland Village and Tuckahoe Village.
1272 Harding Highway, Richland, NJ
Reading Avenue and Railroad Avenue, Tuckahoe, NJ
Cost: $29.99+
The Santa Train with the Tristate Railway Historical Society LLC
December 9
Experience the joy of riding with Santa on the Santa Train in Wayne, NJ! This hour-long holiday-themed train journey guarantees a fun-filled adventure for every child, providing them with the opportunity to meet Santa in person.
Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, Route 23 Southbound & West Belt Parkway, Wayne, NJ
Cost: Currently Sold Out, Join Wait List
Woodstown Central Railroad Holiday Train Rides
Candlelight Limited – December 1 @ 67 East Ave, Woodstown, NJ
Yuletide Special – December 2 @ 13 Market St, Salem, NJ
Santa Claus Special – December 3, 9-10, 16-17, 22-23 @ 650 Alloway-Woodstown Road, Woodstown, NJ
Discover the magic of the holiday season with Woodstown Central Railroad’s trio of festive train rides. Hop aboard the Santa Claus Special, a nostalgic journey on beautifully restored 1930s train cars adorned with plush seats and holiday decorations. Santa himself will traverse through the train, creating memorable moments with each family. As you glide down the tracks, enjoy the winter landscapes of South Jersey’s forests, farmlands, and historic small towns, accompanied by classic Christmas tunes. Make the most of the Woodstown By Candlelight celebration before or after your ride, immersing yourself in the charm of a Revolutionary-era Christmas with home tours, carriage rides, a holiday market, and live music. Alternatively, experience the Yuletide Tour of Homes in Salem, complete with reenactors, building tours, wine tastings, and festive shopping on Market Street.
Cost: $20+
