Ride the Veterans Day Express: Scenic Historic Train Journey Through Southern New Jersey

Read the full experience

Southern New Jersey's rolling countryside comes alive with history and heart aboard the Veterans Day Express, a unique 50-minute excursion stretching 14 miles round trip from South Woodstown Station. This restored 1930s passenger train offers travelers a chance to step back into the golden age of rail travel while honoring the sacrifices of our nation's veterans. The ride threads through peaceful landscapes—crossing serene Memorial Lake and traversing the Oldmans Creek Trestle—highlighting the rural charm and natural beauty of this historic region. Departing from the quaint South Woodstown Station, passengers settle into comfortable coach-class seats that flip and swivel, ideal for families and groups to enjoy views on either side. Opening windows invite fresh breezes in summer, while winter trips warm travelers with heated cars. Trainmen enrich the journey with stories and insights about railroading in New Jersey nearly a century ago, deepening appreciation for the vital role railroads played in local development. This trip is more than a scenic ride; it’s a tribute. Special discounted fares honor veterans with proceeds supporting combat veterans through The Rescue 22 Foundation. The combination of heartfelt mission, historical significance, and the charm of historic rail infrastructure like the Oldmans Creek Trestle make this experience deeply memorable. Woodstown itself, located within Salem County, offers a gateway to southern New Jersey’s countryside, with accessible amenities for visitors planning multiple days in the region. Capturing idyllic scenes of lakes, rich farmland, and historic towns, this excursion fits perfectly for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, mild outdoor fresh air, and cultural history. The South Woodstown Station is not just a boarding point but a place to linger, offering a small gift shop and fire pits where visitors can relax pre- or post-ride. Photography enthusiasts will find enchanting vistas from the trestle and lake crossings, especially at sunrise or late afternoon golden hour. Please be aware that due to the historic vintage of the railcars, accessibility for passengers with mobility challenges is limited. The whistle and horn sounds at crossings are mandatory and can be loud — hearing protection is recommended for sensitive ears. Light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are welcome onboard, though alcohol is restricted to special events. The Veterans Day Express provides a rich outdoor recreation opportunity that combines easy physical effort with meaningful history and scenic exploration in a way few others do in this part of New Jersey. For anyone visiting Woodstown, it offers an authentic, relaxed journey into the past, framed by the natural charm of the countryside and the warmth of community dedication to veterans.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

50 minutes.

Fitness level

No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and physical levels.

Frequently asked questions

Do all passengers need a ticket?

Yes, all passengers must have a ticket regardless of age, with different pricing for children aged 0–3 and 4–12.

Is there a bathroom on the train?

Yes, restrooms are available onboard and a port-o-potty is located at South Woodstown Station.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Only registered service animals are permitted aboard the train for safety and comfort.

Does the train operate in bad weather?

The railroad operates in most conditions but may cancel during extreme weather with advance notice via email and social media.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks are allowed onboard as long as drinks have lids to prevent spills.

Is alcohol allowed on the train?

Alcohol is only permitted during special WCRR events such as Brew to Brew or BYO Cheese trains.

Local insights

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for local waterfowl around Memorial Lake.
You may spot white-tailed deer grazing in surrounding fields during spring and fall.

History

Woodstown’s railroad heritage dates back to the early 20th century, integral to Southern New Jersey’s development and commerce.

Conservation

The railroad actively preserves vintage equipment and promotes sustainable tourism by maintaining the natural beauty along the route.

About Woodstown Central Railroad

Woodstown Central Railroad preserves and operates historic passenger excursions in Woodstown, New Jersey, offering seasonal and private train experiences that highlight Southern New Jersey scenery and rail heritage. Founded and maintained by a dedicated preservation team, the operation runs restored vintage equipment including the 1927 Pennsylvania Railroad Table Car "Mineral Spring" and restored 1930s passenger cars for special events. The railroad offers a variety of scheduled excursions, from short family-friendly rides—such as the Woodstown Fall Fest excursion and the Princess‑Superhero Special—to longer scenic trips like the two‑hour Scenic Rambler and 32-mile roundtrip journeys. Seasonal offerings include the Autumn Leaf Pumpkin Train with pumpkin picking at Fenwick Grove, the Salem Ghost Train with storyteller-led historic tours, and holiday and event-specific runs like the Independence Day Express and Father's Day Express. Private rentals are available for up to 50 guests aboard the Mineral Spring table car, making the railroad a unique venue for birthdays, corporate outings, and group events. Each excursion departs from Woodstown or South Woodstown stations and traverses landmarks such as the Oldmans Creek Trestle and Memorial Lake, offering repeated opportunities for photography and nature viewing. Safety protocols and volunteer-led operations emphasize preservation, education, and community engagement. Ticketed excursions are scheduled seasonally; advance reservations are recommended due to limited seating in first class, deluxe, table car, coach, caboose, and open-air seating options. Woodstown Central Railroad combines authentic historic railcars, curated storytelling, and scenic Southern New Jersey routes to deliver memorable rides for families, history enthusiasts, and railfans. Tickets sell quickly.

Base locationWoodstown, New Jersey

Tours offered59+

Adventure tips

Arrive Early for Check-InPlan to arrive 20–30 minutes before departure to check in at South Woodstown Station and explore the gift shop or relax by the fire pits.

Bring Hearing ProtectionThe train horn is loud at all road crossings—earplugs or noise-canceling headphones help if you’re sensitive to noise.

Dress for Season and ComfortCoach cars have heating in winter and open windows in summer, but layering clothes ensures comfort throughout the ride.

Light Snacks AllowedNon-alcoholic drinks and light snacks are permitted onboard if sealed or covered to prevent spills.

Recommended gear

Layered Outerwear: Weather can vary; layers keep you comfortable through changing temperatures during your trip.
Hearing Protection: Protect your ears from the loud train horn at all road crossings on the route.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture scenic views, especially from the Oldmans Creek Trestle and Memorial Lake.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated before and after your ride; limited options onboard for refreshments.