I know most mamas are looking forward to warmer weather so they can get outside with their littles and let them burn off their limitless amounts of energy. Of course, there are the normal park and beach trips but I have a plan for Spring that may be something you haven't tried yet. I'm calling it-- A Train Adventure!
I live on the coast in Central NJ, and we have a train route that runs right down the state-- The NJ Coastline by NJTransit. The line goes as far south as Bayhead and via 1 connection, can take shore town residents all the way up to NYC. I have used the train every since I was a teen. I've done local trips to Belmar and Red Bank, and I have headed up to Manhattan more times than I can count.
My sister lives close to railroad tracks, and whenever my little guy hears the train approaching he gets VERY excited. Trains are generally a big hit with toddlers. We make sure to run out and watch the train pass by when we can, making our own choo-choo noises as it whizzes to the next destination.
With trains generating that kind of joy, I have known for the last few months that I am going to lean into this idea. This spring I am planning our first mini Train Adventure! Our plan is to drive to Manasquan or Point Pleasant and get the train from one of those stations in the late morning. We'll then ride up to either Belmar or Red Bank (both locations have great walk-able towns with lots of lunch options). We'll get off the train and walk to a nice restaurant for lunch and spend some time wandering town (probably looking for ice cream). Then we will head back to the train to hitch a ride south back to our car.
I have SEEN parents do this with young kids on this train before. The kids love watching the world fly by the window and interacting with the conductor as they come thru to punch your ticket. In the burbs where most people get from A to B via car, this is a really unique outing that toddlers and even elementary aged kids will LOVE. I'll be sure to share our experience here-- just waiting for the warmer weather since waiting at the stations and walking town require a lot of outdoor time!
Let me know if YOU do a train adventure with your littles! To check train schedules, visit NJTransit.com. And don't forget, ages 4 and under ride free!
Comments