The Lollipop Road

You know spring is here again when the Easter Bunny trains begin pulling out of their stations.  So, to kick off the season we climbed aboard the Black River & Western Railroad’s Easter Bunny Express in Flemington, NJ this past weekend.

We arrived about 20 minutes before departure, just in time to see the train pulling into the station carrying lots of children with smiling faces.  Our two kids were revved up and ready to go!

Climbing aboard a few minutes later, we settled into our seats as our youngest glued himself to the window in anticipation of the changing scenery outside.  The passenger cars used on this line are vintage with the “flip” style seating that is great for families; and the warmth radiating from the well stocked potbelly stove in each car is just enough to take the chill off.  Oh, and remember…NO SPITTING!

With a big thud, the engine was coupled to the passenger cars and the whistle let out a loud toot; we were on our way.  At first, we were worried that our 4 year old would not be receptive to the Easter Bunny.  After all, he isn’t exactly the type to embrace furry, life-sized characters, no matter what they have to offer (even candy).  Surprisingly, this time was different; he was quite excited and kept close tabs on Ms. B’s progress throughout the passenger cars.

When the fluffy life-sized Easter Bunny finally arrived, the kids eagerly dipped into the basket to claim their “prize”.  It was great – the adults also got to partake…I can’t tell you how long it has been since I’ve had Sour Patch Kids…yummy.  During the remainder of the 25-minute ride down to Ringoes, the kids ate their candy and continued to stare out the window.

Upon arriving in Ringoes, you are required to disembark the train while it repositions for the return trip (they tell us for safety reasons).  During the 20-minute stopover, we made a quick round through the gift shop, then checked out some of the old railcars in the yard.  There is a cool Amtrak car that is used as a residence, a caboose being used as an office and plenty of other railcars of various shapes and sizes and in various states of repair.  The highlight was the big black locomotive (Old #60) sitting in the shed.  Of course, our son seems convinced that it could be Hiro.

After dragging the kids back on the train, we settled in for the 20-minute return trip to Flemington.  The folks that put together these trains do a great job and our kids look forward to each and every trip.  So, if you’re looking for a fun family activity this Easter, chugging down the line with the Big Bunny is a sure bet.  Check out an Easter Train near you!

Black River and Western Railroad is offering the Easter Bunny Express again on April 2nd and 3rd at 11:30AM, 1:00PM and 2:30PM.  Each trip is approximately 75 minutes and costs $14 for adults and $7 for children (3-12).  Children under the age of 3 are free.  You can obtain tickets at the box office at Flemington Station between 11:10AM and 2:30PM on the day of departure.

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