New Jersey is a hub of rail travel, with countless commuters going back and forth to the big city every day. But the Garden State’s train roots go back well over a century and involve a lot more than just commuter trains. On this train-themed day trip in New Jersey, you’ll be able to explore that unique heritage – traveling to the state’s western border for a ride on a historic railroad with an accompanying train museum, before heading to the state line for a memorable night’s stay in an elite hotel and restaurant housed in a converted train depot. The Lambertville area is a must-visit destination for any train-lover, in the middle of it all – and you might find further adventures just a few steps away!

In Flemington, only a few miles from the Pennsylvania border, you'll find the Black River & Western Railroad - a historic scenic train route.
Black River & Western Railroad/Facebook
The old-school trains have been fully restored for tourists to take a roughly two-hour ride through the countryside.
Black River & Western Railroad/Facebook
While the railroad hosts events like a Polar Express train through the year, the regular excursion starting in spring is the best way to enjoy the train at its simplest and most peaceful.
Black River & Western Railroad/Facebook
The railroad's main station is also home to a small train museum, and the organizers eventually hope to restore passenger service to nearby Lambertville - your next destination!
Black River & Western Railroad/Facebook
The Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn is one of New Jersey's most unique hotels, housed in a historic train depot.
Management/TripAdvisor

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The old building has been converted into a charming modern inn, combining rustic authenticity with all the comforts you expect.
Management/TripAdvisor
Only inches from the old train tracks is the hotel restaurant, a bistro specializing in modern American cuisine.
Lamberville Station Restaurant and Inn/Facebook
Dig into specials like wild boar chops or mocha-rubbed brisket with an amazing view.
Lamberville Station Restaurant and Inn/Facebook
Then you can relax in a luxurious hotel room, waking up to a brilliant view of the river.
Management/TripAdvisor
But your adventure doesn't have to end here. Lambertville is right across the bridge from the New Hope Railroad in Pennsylvania, if you want to take your rail adventure to the Keystone State!
New Hope Railroad/Facebook

Have you visited the Lambertville area or taken a ride on the Black River & Western Railroad? Tell us your experience on this train-themed day trip in New Jersey in the comments section! You can find out more by visiting the websites for the railroad and the hotel and restaurant. For another memorable day trip in New Jersey, consider exploring New Jersey’s northern caves.

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Featured Addresses
Black River & Western Railroad, 80 Stangl Rd, Flemington, NJ 08822, USA
Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn, 11 Bridge St, Lambertville, NJ 08530, USA
New Hope Railroad, 32 W Bridge St, New Hope, PA 18938, USA