FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAqS)

How much do tickets cost?

Ticket prices for 2025 have yet to be determined. Ticket prices are commensurate with operating costs and our commitment is to make our train the most affordable holiday-themed train experience in the New Jersey area.

When do tickets go on sale?

The 2024 train has been run. Tickets for the 2025 train are likely to go on sale in late-September or early-October.

When does the train run?

The train runs one day per year. The date for 2025 has yet to be determined. Departures are typically at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM. Due to operating constraints, we are only able to offer one date per year.

Do you offer seating for large groups?

Yes, we can accommodate large groups. Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact us early at santa@tristaterail.org to secure their seats.

Do you offer wholesale ticket prices?

No. Furthermore, all tickets must be directly purchased from the Tri-State Railway Historical Society, Inc. (via our ticket processor, FareHarbor). We do not permit the sale of tickets to wholesalers, resellers, or ticket aggregating services.

What is included in my ticket?

All passengers will be treated to a round trip train ride lasting approximately 60-minutes. All passengers will be treated to on-board entertainment in the form of musicians, costumed characters, Mrs. Claus and the opportunity to meet Santa. Children will be able to meet with Santa and receive a small gift from him.

Is there assigned seating?

Yes and no. You will be assigned a Train Car number on your ticket(s). Our platform attendants will direct you to your assigned car. However, there is no assigned seating within the Train Car itself.

Where do I board the train?

All passengers board and disembark at Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, Route 23 Southbound & West Belt Parkway, Wayne, NJ 07040 (click here for directions). This is the large park-and-ride parking lot, bus station, and train station on Route 23 in Wayne, NJ.

What time should I arrive?

All trains depart at the scheduled time on your ticket. Trains cannot be held at the station and refunds for late arrivals are not granted. Therefore, we highly recommend that passengers arrive 20-30 minutes prior to their scheduled departure time.

Where does the train go?

Our train ride is a round trip from the Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center in Wayne, NJ. The train travels along NJ TRANSIT’s Montclair/Boonton Line as far as Denville, NJ. The train will wait a short time at Denville, NJ, before changing direction and returning to Wayne, NJ. The only boarding and detraining location is the Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center in Wayne, NJ.

Does the train operate if it snows or rains?

Yes. Our train operates rain, shine, sleet, or snow. Our train will not operate only if the State of New Jersey declares a State of Emergency in which case all tickets will be refunded.

Do you offer refunds?

No. All ticket sales are considered final and non-transferable. Ticket refunds will only be offered if the train is cancelled.

Are there restrooms on the train?

Yes, however, the capacity of the restrooms on-board the train are limited and may become unavailable. We encourage all passengers to utilize the restrooms located at the station before and after their train ride.

If the train sells out, will you add capacity?

Unfortunately, we are unable to add capacity to the train in the event of a sell out.