Experience the Santa Train, Lake Hopatcong history cruises on the Miss Lotta, and members-only caboose rides — authentic New Jersey railroad heritage for families and rail fans.
Tri-State Railway Historical Society is a New Jersey-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region’s railroad heritage. Based in Wayne, New Jersey, the society organizes public excursions and member events that highlight historic equipment, local rail history, and community engagement.
Public experiences include seasonal and themed trips such as the Santa Train, a one-hour holiday ride featuring onboard entertainment, musicians, and a visit with Santa who distributes gifts to children. The society also presents the Lake Hopatcong Railroad History Cruise aboard the Miss Lotta, a private tour with live narration and a buffet dinner that explores shoreline railroad sites. Members enjoy an annual Tri-State Members' Day with scenic caboose rides, a catered lunch, and access to the cab of the M&E 19 locomotive.
Programming emphasizes accurate historical interpretation and hands-on experiences that connect families, railfans, and local residents to New Jersey’s transportation past. Events support the society’s work to maintain and interpret rolling stock and historic artifacts and to share knowledge through narrated tours and volunteer-led presentations. Volunteer members, historians, and guest narrators contribute research, storytelling, and operational skills to ensure safe, informative outings.
Tri-State Railway Historical Society partners with local venues and leverages volunteer expertise to run events responsibly. Clear event descriptions, published schedules, and ticketing information help visitors plan reliably. For those seeking nostalgic train rides, family holiday activities, or specialized railroad history tours around Lake Hopatcong, the society provides regionally focused experiences rooted in documented rail heritage. Ticket details, accessibility information, and event dates are published on the society's event listings and through affiliated community channels. New volunteers are encouraged to participate.