www.kidsguide.com/new jersey/museums

Museums | Trains, Planes & Automobiles | Planetariums

PLEASE NOTE:
Hours, prices, exhibit and event information are subject to change.
Please call ahead or use the convenient website links to get the latest information prior to your visit.

Museums

Adventure Aquarium
1 Riverside Dr. (NJTurnpike exit 4), Camden, NJ08103, 866-451-AQUA. Daily 9:30-5. Adults $17.95, srs. & ages 2-12 $14.95, under 2 free. 4D Theater $3 (riders must be at least 36" tall and at least 5 yrs. old). Advance reservations available by phone. Aquarium exhibits include a West African River experience with hippopotamuses, crocodiles, African porcupines and fish inside a free-flight aviary; Amazon rainforest; Caribbean Currents; shark exhibit with 40-foot long walk-through tunnel; Jules Verne Gallery of deep sea exhibits, seal pool, Inguza Island penguin habitat and 760,000-gallon Ocean Realm Exhibit. Shows and feedings daily, live entertainment.
Apr-Oct
     Freedom Ferry links Philadelphia &Camden waterfronts with hourly service daily. 215-925-LINK, www.riverlinkferry.org
Ongoing
     Aquarium Adventures, hands-on aquarium experiences include swim with the sharks, train &feed seals, scuba dive with fish, explore hippo habitat for ages 12 yrs. and older. Call 800-616-JAWS for reservations and information.
New
     Interactive Attractions, five new touch exhibits allow visitors to touch jellyfish, lobsters, sharks, spider crabs, stingrays and other sea creatures.
     Feather Ridge, free-flight aviary ofWest African birds.
Thru
Oct '08
     Planet Earth 4D, 4D theater show based on the Discovery Channel television series.
Selected Special Events
Jul 19-26
     Shark Week, in partnership with Discovery Channel.
Aug 17
     Philly Phanatic at Adventure Aquarium, 1-3.
Sept 18, 19, 25, 26
     Creep in the Deep, annual Halloween celebration. Ghost ship, pirate training camp, "Creepy Creature Hunt," pumpkin feedings.
Oct 18
     Annual Beach Clean Up, 9-12:30pm, in collaboration with Clean Ocean Action. Log onto www.AdventureAquarium.com Conservation page for information.
Nov 4
     Election Day, kids invited to vote.
Nov 28-30, Dec 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-Jan 4
     Fishmas!, scuba-diving Santa and children's activities.

Aljira
591 Broad St., Newark, 973-622-1600. Wed.-Fri. 12-6, Sat. 11-4. Contemporary visual arts center promotes the work of emerging artists.

Atelier Gallery
14 Kings Rd., Madison, 973-377-3660. Mon.-Sat. 10-5 (July-Aug. Mon.-Fri. 10-2) and by appointment. Affiliated with Creative Hands Art Studio, the gallery presents emerging and established artists as well as children's art exhibits.

Children's Museum of Somerset County
The PeopleCare Center, 120 Finderne Ave. (entrance in back), Room 210, Bridgewater, 908-595-0001. Open 9am-noon Saturdays for themed programs designed for children ages 3-9. Suggested donation $3 per child.
Sept-
Jun
Birthday Parties, four themed programs include rainforest, dinosaurs, Native Americans and Sensational Science for ages 3-8.
Summer
Closed for the summer.

Community Children's Museum
77 E. Blackwell St., Dover, 973-366-9060. Thurs.-Sat. 10-5. Sun. 12-5. Groups by appointment any time. Ages 6 months &older $5, srs. $4. Hands-on museum for children features a full size replica of van Gogh's bedroom painting, art studio, electricity exhibit, John Glenn's space capsule and actor's theater. Children's classes; birthday parties; field trips; scout programs; special pricing for playgroups.
Jun 30
     Make It for America Day, 4th of July project.
Open
Jul 13
     Many Colors of Islam, exhibit of Indonesian children's artwork.
Jul 26
     Multicultural Summer Festival.
Children's Workshops
1-3pm. $3 materials fee per child, pre-registration is required. Jul 13
     Where Is Indonesia?
Aug 3
     Calligraphy Workshop.
Aug 10
     Music of the World.
Aug 24
     Traditional Dance &Clothing of Indonesia.
Sept 13
     Make a Self-Portrait, Write a Letter to the children and curator of the Islam exhibit.
Rockaway Mall Series
Health-related topics presented by St. Clare's Health System professionals with children's activities presented by the Community Children's Museum of Dover. 11am-noon the first Wed. of every month at the Kidgits Play Area, Rockaway Townsquare Mall. For info, call 973-989-3230.
Sept 3
     Storytime, make a book and invent stories.
Oct 1
     Fire/BurnSafety Starts at Home.
Nov 5
     Learn About Your Heart.

Franklin Mineral Museum
Evans St., Franklin, Sussex County (off Rt. 23), 973-827-3481. Open daily April thru 1st week of Dec. Open March by appointment. Admission charged. Separate admission to the Buckwheat Dump for hands-on collecting. Combination ticket and group rates available. Guided tours. Located in the fluorescent mineral capital of the world, see artifacts, tour a mine replica and collect your own mineral specimens. Picnic area. Meeting room. Showcase exhibits. Excellent for all ages. Groups accommodated.

Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Rd. (Exit 4 NJTurnpike), Cherry Hill, 856-424-1233. Tues.-Sun. 9:30-5:30, extended hours Sat. Open Mon. summer & holidays. Admission $9.95, srs. $8.95, under 12 months free. Hands-on museum for infants to 10 yr. olds offers 15 larger-than-life interactive exhibit areas. Classes; workshops; performances; parties.

Grounds for Sculpture
18 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, 609-586-0616. Tues.-Sun. 10-6. Adults $10, students $8, ages 6-12 $6, 5 & under free. A 35-acre sculpture park and museum on the site of the former New Jersey State Fairgrounds exhibits the works of emerging and well-known artists. Over 240 contemporary sculptures can be found throughout the landscaped grounds and gardens. Gallery talks, poetry readings, concerts, adult and children's art workshops and special events are scheduled throughout the year. Gazebo Cafe (open seasonally), Chez Alice cafe and Rats, a full-service gourmet restaurant, are on-site for dining. Outside food is not permitted. Children must be accompanied by an adult and within reach at all times.
Sat
     Tots on Tour, storytelling and art for ages 3-5 with adult 11-12pm 3rd Sat. of every month. No reservations, first come-first served.
Jun 21, Jul 19, Aug 16, Sept 20, Oct 18
Exhibitions
Jul 19-
Oct 12
     Robert Koch, metal sculpture.
Oct 12-
Apr 26
      Outstanding Student Achievement in Contemporary Sculpture Award Exhibition.
Oct 18-
Dec 31
     A Twist of Art, woodturning art of William Smith.
SelectedEvents
Free with park admission, unless noted.
Jun 22
     Poet's Invitational, 2pm.
Aug 2
     Summer Social, 50's-style sock hop, 11-4pm. Young Artist Workshops for children and No Children Allowed Adult Workshops by reservation only, 609-586-0616.
Aug 10
     Music &Motion, 1-4pm.
Aug 24
     Poet's Invitational, 2pm.
Sept 6
     Princeton School of Rock: A Tribute to the Grateful Dead, student band ages 7-18. 12pm.
Sept 11
     Free Admission Day, open for a day of contemplation and remembrance.
Sept 13
     FallOpen House, 11-4pm.
Oct 5
     The Outlet Dance Project, choreographed dances throughout the park. 2pm.
Oct 19
     Guild for Early Music, 12-5:30pm.
Oct 25
     Mercer County Arts Showcase, 11-3pm.
Nov 1
     Artists in Action, artist demonstrations, live music. 11-4pm.
Nov 15
     Taking Better Holiday Photographs, family workshop. $25 non-members, $20 members. Call to register.
     Gingerbread House Demonstration, with Rats Restaurant Pastry Chef Peter Max Dierkes. 1pm.
Nov 22
     Young Artist Workshop: Holiday Style, ages 6-14 make holiday gifts. 1-3pm. Non-members $10, members $8.
Nov 29
     Lights On!, 1-5pm. Cookie decorating workshop 1-4pm, holiday music 3-5pm, annual Gingerbread House Contest awards 3:30pm, holiday treelighting 5pm.
Concerts
8pm. Non-members$25, members $20, ages 16 & under $15. Call for reservations.
Jun 13
     Trout Fishing in America.
Oct 17
     Lucy Kaplansky, smooth vocals, often sings as a duo with Shawn Colvin. 7pm.
Courtyard Concerts
7:30pm rain or shine. Non-members $10, members $8, unless noted. Tickets at door.
Jun 27
     Jeffrey Gaines, voice and guitar. Non-members $20, members $15.
Jul 11
     Jessy Tomski Band, folk rock.
Jul 25
     The Commons, rock with touches of country and blues.
Aug 8
     Natural Breakdown, jam band. Yoga lesson prior to performance at 6pm.
Aug 22
     Jay Keller &the Eastside Vibe, blend of R&B, funk and pop.

Hunterdon Museum of Art
7 Lower Center St., Clinton, 908-735-8415. Tues.-Sun. 11-5. Suggested admission $5. Gallery and exhibitions of contemporary art in a 19th century gristmill on the Raritan River. Exhibition-inspired workshops, events and studio classes are offered for adults and children seasonally; summer art camp; birthday parties; docent-led tours; scout programs.
Open
Artzone, child-friendly space on third floor open for hands-on art projects, free.
Thru
Jun 15
Bonnie Berkowitz. Uncommon Clay.

Imagine That!!! Discovery Museum for Children
4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, 973-966-8000; Monmouth County, 732-706-9000. Daily 10-5:30. Adult $5.95, child $8.95. Under one year no charge. A hands-on discovery museum for children ages toddler through 10. Over 50 activities, including an authentic plane and fire truck. Shadow play, indoor sandcastle, arts and crafts, dance studio, music room, science room, computers, multi-cultural area, pirate ship and space shuttle. Theme birthday parties and field trips available year round. See coupon on page 133.
New
     Slot Car Racing Exhibit.
Craft Calendar
Jun 14-15
     Summer Tattoo.
Jun 21-22
     Fuzzy Caterpillars.
Jun 28-29
     Catch A Butterfly.
Jul 5-6
    Pinwheel Craft.
Jul 12-13
     Beach Picture.
Jul 19-20
     Fabulous Fish.
Jul 26-27
     See You Later Alligator.
Aug 2-3
     Sailing Sailing.
Aug 9-10
     Seashell Art.
Aug 16-17
     Big MouthBullFrog.
Aug 23-24
     Buried Treasure.
Aug 30-31
     Fossil Fun.
Sep 6-7
     An Apple A Day.
Sep 13-14
     A, B, C's.
Sep 20-21
     Autumn Wreaths.
Sep 27-28
     Foam Art.
Oct 4-5
     Leaf Rubbing.
Oct 11-12
     The Five Senses.
Oct 18-19
     Boo! Who Are You?
Oct 25-26
     Goblins &Ghosts.
Nov 1-2
     Leaf Collage.
Nov 8-9
     Make A Tom Tom.
Nov 15-16
     Set the Table.
Nov 22-23
     Pine Cone Turkey.
Nov 29-30
     Explore Space.
Dec 6-7
     How Much is That Doggie in the Window?
Dec 13-14
     Woolen Mittens.
Dec 20-21
     Snow Day.
Dec 27-28
     Ring in the New Year.

Jenkinson's Aquarium
Ocean Ave. &Parkway (exit 98GSP), Point Pleasant Beach, 732-899-1212. Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5, Sat. &Sun. 10-5. Adults $10, children (3-12)/srs. $6, 2 & under free. Group rates. Small aquarium on the boardwalk features tropical fish, alligators, penguins, seals, sharks, rays and touch tank. Outreach programs; workshops; behind-the-scenes tours; Junior Biologist program; birthday parties.

Jersey City Museum
350 Montgomery St., Jersey City, 201-413-0303. Wed.-Fri. 11-5, Thurs. 11-8, Sat. & Sun. 12-5. Adults $4, srs./students $2, under 12 and members free. Admission waived Thurs. from 5-8pm. A museum of history and American visual art with particular emphasis on the work of contemporary artists offers art talks, performances, group programs, home school afternoons and Saturday children's programs.
Sept-
Jun
     Victory Arts Projects: Saturday Children's Programs, an opportunity for students to visit museum galleries and make projects in museum classrooms. Register at 201-209-0510 or www.vapkids.org.
Jun 7, Jun 14
     Homeschool Afternoons, monthly art program for homeschool families in groups of 8 or more is held 1-3pm on selected Fridays. $4 per student, adults free. Reservations required, 201-413-0303 x116.
Jun 27
     Printmaking: Creating Multiples, homeschool afternoon. See info above.
Oct 26
     Make It Spoooky! Family Project Day, Halloween crafts and tours. 1pm. Free.
Nov 5-
Dec 10
     Jersey City Board of Education Annual Student Art Exhibition, grades K-12.

Liberty Science Center
251 Phillip St. (Exit 14C or 14B NJ Turnpike), Liberty State Park, Jersey City, 201-200-1000, 201-451-0006. Thru June:Tues.-Fri. 9am-5pm; Weekends & holidays 9am-6pm. Exhibit only admission: adults $15.75; juniors 2-12 &srs. $11.50; teacher $5; under 2 free. Combination tickets available for exhibits, IMAX Dome and 3-D Theater. Teacher and member discounts and community days available. Traveling science show for schools; scout programs; birthday parties; overnight group camp-ins (recommended for grades 1-8).
Open
     Museum Reopens after $109 million expansion and renovation. All new exhibitions include: Skyscraper! Achievement &Impact featuring artifacts from the World Trade Center, a walk along an I-Beam two stories above the exhibition floor and an earthquake shake table; Eat &Be Eaten uses live animals to explore how animals catch prey and avoid being caught; Communication traces the growth of human exchange of ideas from ancient cave handprints to today's telecommunications; Infection Connection helps visitors understand germs, viruses, -parasites and other life forms; Our Hudson Home explores the Hudson River; and I Explore is an age-restricted exploration area for guests under 6 yrs. old and their caregivers. The rock climbing wall, digital darkroom and Energy Quest exhibition remain from the previous collection.
Fri
     Family Friendly Fridays, number of camp kids are limited on Fridays July 4-Labor Day.
Traveling Exhibitions
Thru
Sept 14
     Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear, brave creepy animals, loud noises, electric shocks and the fear of falling to learn all about fear and how our brains and bodies cope with danger.
Thru
Jul
     Hurricane on the Bayou, journey through New Orleans region; Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs; Roving Mars; IMAX movies.
Selected Special Events
Jun 27-28
     ConstructionWeekend, climb aboard over 10 big construction vehicles and talk to professional construction workers. 10-4pm in the parking lot. Free.
Jul 12-13
     East Coast Boat Racing Club, 12-3pm in the parking lot. Free.
Jul 19
     "New"Liberty Science Center's First Anniversary Celebration, all day.

Monmouth Museum
On the Brookdale CommunityCollege Campus (GSP exit 109 to Newman Springs Rd. to Parking Lot #1), Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732-747-2266. Tues.-Sat. 10-4:30; Sun. 1-5. Admission $7, under 2 free. The Becker Children's Wing features changing exhibitions that offer interactive learning experiences geared to elementary school age children. Fees and hours vary depending on current exhibit. Call for hours for Wonder Wing, a creative play environment with an undersea theme for -children 6 and under. Birthday party room.
Selected Special Events &Exhibitions
Jul 26
     Summertime Storybook Festival, storytime with Mother Goose, hands-on activities, music and food. 2-6pm.
Aug 15-
Sept 21
     Fabulous FiberA Juried Exhibition, traditional and contemporary works in fiber.
Nov 23-
Jan 4
     Celestial Holiday Exhibition, annual holiday exhibition features trees with an outer space theme decorated by local Garden Clubs and an elaborate model railroad layout.
Becker Children's Wing Exhibition
Designed for school-age children. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 2-4: 30, Sat. 10-4:30, Sun. 1-5. StarLab Shows: Tues.-Fri. 4; Sat. -Sun. 1:30 &3. Admission $6, $7 with StarLab show. Birthday parties; group sleepovers; group tours available.
Thru
Aug '09
     Blast Off! A Space Journey, discover the past, present and future of space exploration, explore our solar system through interactive presentations, hands-on activities and a StarLab Planetarium show.

Montclair Art Museum
3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair, 973-746-5555. Tues.-Sun. 11-5. Closed Mon. & major holidays. Summer hours (July 5-Sept. 15): Wed.-Sun. noon-5pm. Adults $8, srs./students with ID $6, members & under 12 free. Admis-sion is free Fridays 11-1pm. Strollers permitted; changing table.
   Permanent collection dedicated solely to American and Native American art encompasses painting, works on paper, photography, and sculpture by American artists from the 18th-century to the present, as well as traditional and contemporary Native American art. Studio art classes for adults & children (ext. 221/241), teacher training workshops, ArtLunch gallery talks, summer art camp, special family events, birthday partie, free tours Sat. at 1pm.
New
     Cell Phone Audio Tours.
     Family Learning Lab, family activities on the 3rd floor exhibition space.
2nd Wed,
4 Tues
     MAMPark Bench, bring your stroller inside for an informal education program for adults with young children. Art projects for children, guided tours, storytelling and breakfast refreshments. Tues. 1-3; Wed. 9:30-11:30. Free with museum admission.
Jun 11
     Patterns.
Jun 24
     Create a Landscape.
Jul 9
     Make a Totem Pole.
Aug 13
     Butterflies.
Selected Exhibitions
Thru
Jan 13
     Reflecting Culture: The Evolution of American Comic Book Superheroes, traces the way in which comic books reflect national events, aspirations and attitudes. Comic Book Legends:Joe, Adam &Andy Kubert, New Jersey comic book legends.
Selected Special Events
Jun 22
     FreeFamily Day: Summer Landscapes, art projects and camera demonstrations along Susan Robb's interactive landscape-tube installation. 1-5pm.
Sept 20
     Free Family Day: Powwow, annual museum tradition filled with Native American art, music, dance and fun. 1-5pm.
ImaginationStation
Saturdays 1-2pm. One hour program for families with children ages 12 & under includes gallery tour followed by creative project. Children $4, adults free with admission.
Jun 14
     Celebrate Summer.
Jun 21
     Nature Prints.
Jun 28
     Create a Camera Obscura.
Cowboys &Indians Outdoor Summer Films
Tuesdays at sundown (about 8:30pm). In celebration of the Eloquent Vistas exhibition, the museum screens four classic Western films. Bring a blanket or beach chair. In case of bad weather, films will be shown indoors.
Jul 8
     Shane.
Jul 22
     Smoke Signals.
Aug 5
     Annie Get Your Gun.
Aug 19
     The Lone Ranger.
Home School Days
Tour and studio art project, 12-2pm. $4 per child, adults free with museum admission. Call 973-746-5555 ext. 257 for details and future dates.
Jun 19
     Animals in Art.

Morris Museum
6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3700. Tues.-Sat. 10-5, Thurs. 10-8, Sun. 1-5. Adults $8, seniors/children $6, members & under 3 free. Free admission Thurs. 5-8pm.
   Permanent exhibits include galleries devoted to Native American history and crafts; antique dolls, toys and dollhouses; natural science with mounted mammal specimens; rocks &minerals; dinosaurs and fossils. Adult art workshops and speakers; scout & group programs; summer art & science day camps; school outreach; portable planetarium; school loan program. (See Theatre for performances at the Bickford Theatre.)
Open
     New Guinness Collection Gallery as well as 5,700 square feet of gallery and public space, including a two-story grand entrance pavilion and new museum shop.
Selected Exhibitions
Open
     MusicalMachines &Living Dolls: The Murtogh
     D. Guinness Collection, permanent exhibition of over 150 mechanical musical instruments and automata in the museum's new 4,300 square foot gallery features orientation theater and hands-on activities. Live demonstrations Tues.-Sun. at 2pm.
Jun 17-
Nov 23
     Black Cinema: The Vintage Years, chronicles the history of the black film industry.
Thru
Sept 14
     New Jersey Then &Now, works by notable artists who were born or lived in New Jersey.
Summer Drop-in Open Art Workshops
Tuesdays &Thursdays 2-4pm. $5/child plus museum admission, $4/child members. All ages, adults must accompany children. Pre-registration not required.
Jul 8, 10
      Watercolor Wonders.
Jul 15, 17
     Frame It Yourself.
Jul 22, 24
     Hands in Clay.
Jul 29, 31
     Puzzled.
Aug 5, 7
     Whirling Windsocks.
Aug 12, 14
     Music Maker.
School Year Programs
Adults must accompany children, registration not required for the activities listed below.
Tues
     Tour the World Tuesdays, drop-in gallery exploration for all ages, 3-4pm. Free with museum admission.
Thurs
     Open Art Workshops, drop-in craft with Morristown HighSchool Art Honor Society students. All ages. 4-7.
Sat
     Family Workshops, gallery exploration and related craft for ages 4 & up. 12-2pm.
     Jun 14 Totem Poles.

Museum of Early Trades & Crafts
Main St. at Green Village Rd., Madison, 973-377-2982. Tues.-Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-5, closed major holidays. Closed Sun. and Mon. during July & Aug. Free admission Thurs. 1-4. Adults $5; ages 6-17 & srs. $3; members and under 6, free; family maximum $13. Free admission Thurs. 1-4pm.
    Drawing on its collection of over 8,000 hand tools and their products, the museum, listed on the National Register of Historic places, interprets what life was like for a 19th century farm family and craftspeople who lived and worked in Madison before the rise of large-scale industrialization. Kids Club for ages 6 and up meets monthly during the school year. Changing exhibits; family work-shops; gallery talks; drop-in activities; children's discovery space; music series. On-site and outreach youth group programs; scout badges; school programs pre-K to grade 8; summer -history camp.
Special Exhibitions
Open
     Crafting Cures, learn about "modern" medicine during Colonial America.
Oct 14-24
     Greystone Park, mini-exhibit explores the history of Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital.
Family FunDays
Drop in between 1-3pm one Sat. per month. Museum admission plus material fee, advance registration recommended.
Jun 14
     Create a Father's Day themed craft.
Jul 12
     Ice Cream Social.
Special Events
Jul 7-11,
Jul 14-18
     Summer History Camp, for children aged 7-11. 9am-2pm. Advance registration required.
Aug 15
     Movie Night, family friendly movie under the stars. 8pm. Raindate Aug. 22. Free.
Aug 16
     Early American History Day.
Sept 21
     Autumn Botanical Remedies Walking Tour, a walk through the Great Swamp. 2-4. $8 non-members, $4 members, registration required.
Oct 4
     Bottle HillDay, annual town festival. 11-4. Free.
Oct 19
     Lecture on Greystone, 2pm.
Kids ClubOct.June
Children ages 7-11 learn about a historic craft and create their own work in monthly 112 hr. after-school program Wed. 3:30-5. Register for individual sessions or full year. $13 members, $15 non-members, pre-registration required.
Jun 11
     Grand Old Flag, make a flag.

Newark Museum
49 Washington St. (24/78 to Newark exit for Rt. 21N, left on Raymond Blvd., right on Washington St.), Newark, 973-596-6550. Jr. Museum: 973-596-6616. Exhibition Hotline: 973-596-6697. 24-hr sky report &program info: 973-596-6529. Wed.-Fri. noon to 5. Oct. 1-June 30: Sat. &Sun. 10-5; July 1-Sept. 30: Sat. &Sun. 12-5. Suggested admis-sion: Adults $9, children, srs. students with valid ID $6, members free.
   The state's largest museum features 80 galleries exhibiting American art; decorative arts and the magnificent 1885 Ballantine House, a restored National Historic Landmark; arts of Africa, the Americas and the Pacific; classical art; the arts of Asia; numismatics; and natural science collection. Grounds contain 1794 schoolhouse and Newark Fire Museum. Junior Gallery, mini-zoo, family theater and planetarium. Attended parking in adjacent lot at corner of University &Central Aves. Year-round fine arts and crafts workshops for adults and children, summer Camp Junior Museum for ages 3-14 (973-596-6616). Adult gallery tours daily, reserved group gallery/planetarium and outreach programs; scout programs. See listing under Planetariums for more information.
New
     1784 One-Room Schoolhouse, has been fully restored and rededicated at the Museum.
Selected Exhibitions
Ongoing
     Dynamic Earth: Revealing Nature's Secrets, natural science galleries. Five areas of focus include Forces of Change, where visitors can see the forces of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and formation of continents and oceans; Life Adapts to Change, an African savannah and Arctic tundra environment; Diversity in your Backyard: New Jersey Highlands, containing a full-size bat cave, living bee colony, and pre-historic mastodon; and Discovery Field Station, where visitors select experiments designed for hands-on learning.
     Tibet Information Zone, interactive Tibetan art gallery provides hands-on learning experiences about Tibetan culture.
     Body Wars: Fighting Infection, Staying Healthy, explore microorganisms and the diseases they can produce. Junior Museum Gallery.
     Smart Bugs:Insect Societies, explore the world of social insects-ants, termites and bees.
Thru
Aug 24
      Embodying the Sacred in Yoruba Art, featuring the Bernard &Patricia Wagner Collection.
Thru
Jan 4
     Paths to Impressionism: French &American Landscape Paintings.
Thru
Feb
     Small but Sublime: Intimate Views by Durand, Bierstadt &Inness, renowned American art.
Aug 13-
Apr
     Completing the Circle: The Fiber of Ina Golub. The Lenox Legacy: America's Greatest Porcelain Maker, 1889-2005.
Thru
Jan '09
     Glass Beads of Ghana, glass bead-making by Africa's artists.
     Re-thinking Insects, large-scale installation of exotic insects camouflaged in textiles.
Nov 28-
Jan 4
     Feasting with Family &Friends: Christmas in the Ballantine House, step back in time to a traditional Victorian holiday. Tours at 1pm.
Weekly Summer Events
All programs are free, no reservations required unless noted.
Wed-
Fri
     Imagine A Journey, drop-in family art activities 1:30-4:30 July 9-Aug. 15, new theme each week.
     Journeys, drop-in science workshops 1-4 July 9-Aug. 15.
Thurs
     Jazz in the Garden, jazz concerts 12:15-1:45 June 19-Aug 7 rain or shine. Suggested admission $3, children and members free.
Fri
     Summer Performances for Kids, 1-2 Billy Johnson Auditorium. Free with admission.
Jul 11
     Aesop's Bops, David Gonzalez.
Jul 18
     Yah-Oh Way, Thunderbird Indian Dancers.
Fri
Jul 25
     TBA.
Aug 1
     Ginga Brasileira, Afro-Brazilian martial art, game and dance.
Aug 8
     The Lion's Whiskers, The Catskill Puppet Theatre.
Aug 15
     Kulu Mele, ("voice of the ancestors"), West African traditions.
     Far Out Fridays, space activities 1-4 in Third Floor Science Gallery July 11-Aug. 15.
Selected Special Events
Jun 14
     Bug-Mania 3!, live presentations and hands-on activities. 11-4.
Jun 15
     Newark Boys Chorus School, 2pm.
Jun 25-
Jul 30
     34th Annual Newark Black Film Festival, films focus on the experiences and concerns of contemporary African Americans. 7pm.
Oct 13
     Latino Heritage FamilyDay: Celebrating Our Roots, 12: 30-4:30.
Nov 28
     Thanksgiving Festival: Family Fun Extravaganza, 12:30-4:30.
Dec 26-31
     Winter Carnival: Six Days of Discovery at The Newark Museum, holiday family fun week. 12:30-4:30.
School Year Programs Sept.June
Sat &
Sun
     Interactive Gallery Activities, 11-4pm. Art and Science Activities, 1-4pm.
     Animal Explorations, meet live animals from the Mini Zoo, 1-4pm.
     Planetarium Shows: Children's show, 1 &3pm. Family feature (ages 10 & up), 2 & 4pm.
Wed-
Sun
     Drop-In Gallery Tours. Reserved tours for groups of 10 or more can be arranged for a fee, 973-596-6613.

New Jersey Children's Museum
599 Valley Health Plaza (Exit 165 GSP), Paramus, 201-262-5151. Weekdays 10-6, summer weekends 10-5, winter weekends 10-6. Children and adults $10, under 1 free. Play and learning center for preschoolers and toddlers features a real fire engine, helicopter and backhoe; dress-up ballet studio; castle and hospital; toddler grocery &pizzeria; science exhibits; and sand and water play. No strollers or food allowed; snuglis are usually available. Museum may be very busy until 12:30pm as groups visit in the morning.
Daily
Special Events include crafts, stories and skits.

New Jersey Historical Society
Essex Club, 52 Park Place, Newark, 973-596-8500. Tues.-Sat. 10-5. Library open Tues.-Sat. 12-5. Free admission. Families can explore New Jersey's history through interactive exhibitions and research local history and family geneology through the society's extensive archives, library and useful website. Sat. family programs, adult workshops and lectures, education programs offered for schools & groups.
Sat
Family Programs. Drop-in activities for children 5 & up accompanied by adult.

New Jersey Museum of Agriculture
College Farm Rd. off Rt. 1S, Cook College Campus, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, 732-249-2077. Tues.-Sat. 10-5, open Sun. for special events, closed major holidays. Adults $4, seniors/students $3, 4-12 $2, under 4 & members free. Collection of agricultural artifacts and photographs from the origins of the industry responsible for New Jersey's -reputation as "The Garden State." Birthday parties; group programs and tours; summer & winter vacation camps.
Special Events
Jun 21
     Pig Tales, ongoing activities from 12-3pm.
Jul 20
     National Ice Cream Day, 12-3. Free ice cream.
Aug 13
     Peter RabbitGarden, 2-hr. program for younger children. 12-3, advance registration.
Aug 23
     Catch the Buzz: Bees &Honey, 12-3pm.
Sept 20
     Barnyard Buddies, 12-3pm.
Oct 25
     Fall Fun, 12-3pm.
Nov 22
     5th Annual Tricky Tray Auction, doors open 3pm, drawing begins 4:30pm.
Dec 6
     Winter Celebration, 12-3pm.

New Jersey State Museum
205 West State St., Trenton, 609-292-6464 (recorded information), 609-292-6308 (weekdays only). Tues.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 12-5. Free, donations accepted. A four-in-one museum offers distinct sections in archaeology/ethnology, cultural -history, fine art, and natural history in a modern main building overlooking the Delaware River. Entertaining and educational programs are offered in an adjoining 150-seat planetarium and adjacent 400-seat auditorium. The planetarium is currently closed for construction, check website for reopening date. For schedule of student programs, teacher workshops and information about Kaleidoscope Kids Summer Academy, call 609-292-6347.
Open
     Main Museum Building Reopens with new exhibit that celebrates New Jersey's artistic and cultural life, Culture in Context: A Tapestry of Expression. Selected Special Events
Jun-
Aug
     Newark Black Film Festival, film screenings. Free. Consult website for schedule.
Jun 21
     David Gonzalez: Cuentos, stories and songs of Spanish cultures. Auditorium, 1pm.

Pierro Gallery of South Orange
The Baird, 5 Mead St., South Orange, 973-378-7754. Fri.-Sun. 1-4 or by appointment. Free. Contemporary art gallery exhibits regional, national and international artists with special interest in supporting emerging artists. Exhibitions change approx. every six weeks. Group tours and scout programs, 973-762-3120.
Thru
Jul 27
     Wake Up! Are We Desensitized?, multimedia artists explore post 911 world issues.
Sept 7-
Oct 12
     No Laughing Matter.
Dec
     Crafts at The Baird, unique handmade items for sale in time for holiday giving.

Princeton University Art Museum
Center of campus, Princeton, 609-258-3788. Tues.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 1-5. Closed Mon. &major holidays. No charge. Permanent collections range from ancient to contemporary art. Free tours given every Sat. at 2pm. Gallery talks given Fri. at 12:30 and Sun. at 3pm during academic year. Gallery talks for children ages 5-9 are given Sat. at 11am during academic year. Younger siblings are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Free, no reservations. Group tours preschool-high school.
Sat
Art for Kids, drop-in Saturdays 10am-12pm during school year for hands-on art projects. Free.

Rutgers University Geology Museum
Geology Hall, Old Queens Section,College Ave. Campus, New Brunswick, 732-932-7243. Mon. 1-4, Tues.-Fri. 9-12, call for weekend hours. Free. Exhibits on geology and anthropology, with an emphasis on the natural history of New Jersey, include a dinosaur trackway from Towaco; a mastodon from Salem County; mineral exhibits featuring the zeolite minerals of Paterson; and the zinc minerals of Franklin. Groups tours; small rock shop.

Vietnam Era Educational Center
Garden State Parkway, Exit 116, Homdel, 800-648-VETS, 732-335-0033. Tues.-Sat. 10am-4pm. Adults $4, srs./students $2, veterans and under 10 free. The story of the Vietnam era is told through photographs, timelines, films, interactive displays, personal letters and artifacts. The New Jersey Vietnam Veteran's Memorial is nearby featuring a circular black wall engraved with the names of more than 1,000 New Jersey soldiers who lost their lives in the war. Guided tours available for groups of 10 or more.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey
68 Elm St., Summit, 908-273-9121. Mon.-Thurs. 10-8, Fri. 10-4:30, Sat. & Sun. 10-4. Suggested donation: Adults $5, children/srs. $3. Docent tours available for school, family and community groups.
   Contemporary art exhibitions mounted in the Palmer and Members' Galleries change every four to six weeks. Classes for all ages and abilities; birthday parties; kids' & teens' art camp.
Open
     Outdoor Sculpture Park.
Jun 13-
Jul 18
     Members Show &Sale 2008.
Jun 5-
Jul 17
     Animal Portraits.

Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center
Montclair State University, 8 Quarry Rd., Little Falls, 973-655-2377. Wed.-Sun. 12-5pm, open 'til 7 during NJ Jackals home games. Closed major holidays. Adults $6, students/children $4, under 5 free. Artifacts from the life of the -legendary catcher, exhibits on the history of the Yankees, Yankee Stadium, baseball in New Jersey, baseball equipment and baseball during World War II. Guest speakers; book signings; group and school tours; on- and off-site sports-based educational programs; sports broadcasting camp and baseball/softball camp.
Selected Special Events
Jun 13, Jun 20
     Jerry Winick Art of Sport Drawing Workshops, for ages 7-12. 4-5:30pm. $15 per class.
Jun 12
     Yogi Berra Booksigning, 6-8pm.
Jun 13
     In the Crease Screening &Discussion, youth hockey documentary. 7-9pm. $15 fundraiser.
Jul 21-25
     Bruce Beck &Ian Eagle Sports Broadcasting Camp, for ages 14 and up. 9-4. 908-233-1133.
Aug 4-9
     Yogi Berra MuseumBaseball/Softball Clinics, for ages 8-12.

The Jane Voorhees Zimmerli Art Museum
Rutgers University (Tnpk. exit 9 to Rt. 18N), George and Hamilton Sts., New Brunswick, 732-932-7237. Tues.-Fri. 10-4:30pm. Weekends noon-5pm. Closed Mon.; Mon. & Tues. in July. Closed Aug. and major holidays. Adults $3, under 18 free. Free admission 1st Sun. of month.
   One of the largest university art museums in the country features strong collections of Russian art, French, Belgian and American graphic arts and Japonisme (Western art influenced by Japan). Of particular interest to families and children is the Rutgers Collection of Original Illustrations for Children's Literature which documents the process of creating a book for children. Story-telling; lectures; group tours; outreach program to local schools; after-school drawing club; workshops for teachers; adult and children's education; summer art camp for ages 6-60; birthday parties. Z Cafe.
Sun
     Spotlight Tours, 30-min. informal gallery tours by volunteer docents at 2pm. Free.
Monthly
     Art at Lunch, gallery conversations for adults 1st & 3rd Wed. except Aug. 12:15-12:45. Free.
Open
     Studio Z: The Adi Blum Learning Center, self-guided activities for the whole family during regular museum hours.
Jun 23-
Jul 25
     Summer Art Camp.
Selected Exhibitions
Ongoing
     The Dodge Collection of Nonconformist Art from the Soviet Union, 1956-1986, the world's largest collection of its kind.
Thru
Jul 20
     Ways and Means: How Illustrators Plan a Picture Book.
Thru
Jul 27
     From Here to the Horizon: American Landscape Prints from Whistler to Celmins.
Thru
Jul 31
     New Narratives: Contemporary Art from India.
Sept 2-
Dec 14
     Pop Art &After:Prints and Popular Culture.
Sept 2-
Jan 11
     Picture Play: Illustrations Made for Young Booklovers.

Planetariums

County College of Morris Planetarium
Cohen Hall, B building, 214 Center Grove Rd., Randolph, 973-328-5076. Planetarium programs are usually presented on the 2nd weekend of each month with special holiday programs; school programs. Adults $5, srs. $4, 12 & under $3. Reserva-tions recommended.
Jun 14
     Tour of the Planets, 1 & 3pm.
Jul 12
     The Solar System Clutter: Asteroids, Comets &Dwarf Planets. 1 &3pm.
Aug 9
     Shapes in the Sky 22, especially for ages 3-7. 11, 1 &3pm.
Sept 13
     Longer Nights Brighter Stars 2008, 1 &3pm.
Nov 8
     Shapes in the Sky 22Greatest Hits 2008, especially for ages 3-7. 11, 1 &3pm.
Dec 5-6,
12-13
     A Holiday Under the Stars, Fri. at 7:30pm, 12-13 Sat. at Dreyfuss Planetarium
Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., Newark, 973-596-6529 for schedules. Press 2 for weekly update on the night sky, sunrise, sunset and moon phase information. 24-hr. Sky Report: 973-596-6611. For the latest dates to see the space station and other satellites, visit www.heavens-above.com or link to it from www.newarkmuseum.org. Wed.-Fri. shows at 2pm, Sat. &Sun. shows on the hour from 1-4pm. Adults $3, children under 12/srs./students $2, not recommended for children under 4. Tickets available at the Information Desk when the museum opens on a first come, first served basis. Strollers are not permitted and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Planetarium shows are followed by a tour of the constellations and information on how to view the planets. Sphæra portable planetarium outreach program, 973-596-6690.
Special Events
Fri
     Far Out Fridays!, space activities for kids in the Third Floor Science Gallery. 1-4pm July 11-Aug. 15. Free with admission.
Jul 10-
Aug 14
     Project Sunscope, tour the sun with a solar telescope in front of the museum. 12-1:30, weather permitting. Free.
Jul 25
     Summer Stargazing, telescopes will be set up to see Jupiter and other wonders of the summer sky in Riker Hill Art Park, 276 Beaufort Ave., Livingston. 9-11pm. Raindate:July 26.
Planetarium Shows
Thru
Aug 15
     Moonbound 2020, chronicles the history of NASA's manned space program. Ages 10 & up. Wed.-Sun. 1:30pm.      Solar System Safari, ages 6-9. Wed.-Sun. 2:30.
     The Planets, ages 10 & up. Wed.-Sun. 3:30pm.
Aug 15-
Sept 19
     Planetarium closed for maintenance.
Opens
Sept 20
     Moonbound 2020, ages 10 & up. Wed.-Fri. 2pm, Sat. & Sun. 2 & 4pm.
     Solar System Safari, ages 6-9. Sat. &Sun. 1 &3.

Morris Museum Astronomical Society
973-386-1848. Meets at the Morris Museum on the second Thursday of every month at 8pm. Membership is open to ages 14 and older.

New Jersey State Museum Planetarium
205 West State St., Trenton, 609-292-6303. 150-seat planetarium and astronomy gallery open for public programs, school programs and annual Scouting Astronomy program offered in spring.
Closed
for renovations. Consult website for reopening date.

North Jersey Astronomical Group
Free telescope nights Thurs. 8-9pm in front of Richardson Hall at Montclair State University, Montclair during the school year and skywatches for special events, weather permitting. Monthly kids' telescope nights begin at 7:30pm.

Robert J. Novins Planetarium
Ocean County College, College Dr. (parking lot 2), Toms River, 732-255-0343. Recorded show information: 732-255-0342. Original sky shows, observing sessions, school programs and workshops offered for both adults, educators and children.
Closed
Planetarium closed for renovations.

Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium
Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd. (Rt. 78 exit 26 or Rt, 22W), North Branch, 908-231-8805. Park in lot #1, 6 or 7. Admission $5 two shows on the same day $9, not recommended for children under 5. Reservations recommended. Group rates; school group shows; Starlab portable planetarium for rent to educators who have attended summer workshop. Also offers Project ASTRO, a program that matches teachers in grades 2-9 with a volunteer astronomer; Family ASTRO, a one-day training program open to anyone with an interest in astronomy; and astronomy workshops for teachers of grades 2-12.
Thru
Jul 7
     No shows.
Summer Schedule July 8-Aug. 28
Tues
     Space Bus, ages 6-12. 2pm.
     Sky Lights, laser and video concert preK &up. 3pm.
Wed
     Summer Skies, general audience. 7:30pm.
     Led Zeppelin, 8:30pm July 9, Aug. 6.
     Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon, 8:30pm July 16, Aug. 13.
     Jimi Hendrix, 8:30pm July 23, Aug. 20.
     Legends of Rock &Roll, 8:30pm July 30, Aug. 27.
Thurs
     The Little Star that Could, ages 6-10. 2pm.
     Sky Lights, laser and video concert. 3pm.
     The Skies Over Hogwarts, Harry Potter-themed tour of the night sky. $6 per person. Call for summer dates or check link at kidsguide.com.

Paul H. Robinson Observatory
Voorhees State Park, 251 County Rd. Route 513 (rt. 78 to Rt. 31N), Glen Gardner, 908-638-8500. Memorial Day-Oct. 31: Sat. 8:30-10: 30 & Sun. 2-5. Nov. 1-Memorial Day: 4th Sat 8:30-10:30 weather permitting (except Dec.). Sponsored by the New Jersey Astronomical Association, lectures begin at 8:30pm rain or shine followed by viewing until 10:30, weather permitting.

Robert A. Schommer Astronomical Observatory
On the roof of the Serin Physics Laboratories, Frelinghuysen &Allison Rds. (park in lot 53 or 53A), Busch Campus of Rutgers, Piscataway, 732-445-2531, 732-445-2503. Open to the public on the second and fourth Thurs., weather permitting, starting at 8pm (Oct.-March) and one hour after sunset (April-Sept.). Closed
Call or check website link at kidsguide.com for reopening.

John W. H. Simpson Observatory
Washington Crossing State Park, TItusville, 609-737-2575. The Amateur Astronomers Association of Princeton opens its observatory to the public every Friday April-Oct. from twilight to 11:30pm, if weather is clear.

Sperry Observatory
Union County College, 1033 Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-276-STAR. Monthly meetings of Amateur Astronomers, Inc. are held on third Fri. of the month from Sept.-May. Informal meetings are held on the remaining Fri. with a program for younger audiences at 7:30pm. All are open to the public. Celestial viewing takes place throughout the evening, weather permitting.

Trains, Planes & Automobiles & Ships

Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of New Jersey
Teterboro Airport (off Rt. 46 on Fred Wehran Dr.), Teterboro, 201-288-6344. Tues.-Sun. 10-4. Closed Mon. Adults $7, children 2 & older/srs. $5, group rate discount. Aeronautical Education Center (on east side of airport) features historical exhibits, hands-on aircraft engines & equipment, a Martin-202 airliner, M.A.S.H. unit and 60-seat theater with film tracing the 200-yr. history of aviation in New Jersey. Picnic area. Birthday parties for ages 5 & up.
Sept 20-
Wings &Wheels Expo 2008, historic and modern aircraft, vintage cars and race cars, antique military vehicles and more on display.

Battleship New Jersey
Camden Waterfront (Tpk. exit 4), 866-877-6262. Open for guided tours Jan. 1-Feb. 29 Sat.-Mon. only; May-Sept. 9-5; Oct.-Mar. 9-3. Adults $15, ages 6-11/srs. $10.50, under 6 free. Floating museum and veteran's memorial showcases the most decorated ship in history. Group tours; overnight encampments. Jun 14
PGADay at the Battleship New Jersey.
Jul 3
Independence Day BBQ on the Battleship.

Black River &Western Railroad
12 Stangl Rd., Flemington; John Ringo Rd., Ringoes, 908-782-6622. Antique passenger coaches depart Flemington and Ringoes weekends May-Dec. for a scenic ride through rural Hunterdon County. Adults $14, srs. $12, children 3-12 $7, under 3 free. First come, first served, no advance tickets sold except for North Pole Express. Special events include the Easter Bunny Express, Great Train Robbery, Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch Train, North Pole Express and Santa Express.
Special Event Trains
Jun 20-22
     Railroad Days. Photo freight on June 20. June 21-22: Train rides, caboose rides, model train layouts, displays, tours and demonstrations.
Sept 20-21
     Great Train Robbery, passengers protect the train from the Covered Bridge Gang. 11:30, 1, 2:30 &4. Tickets from Flemington only.
Sept 26-
Oct 25
     Corn Maze &Pumpkin Patch Train, every weekend, additional trains Fri. &Sat. evenings.
Nov 28, 29, Dec 6, 13
     The North Pole Express, two evening departures from Flemington, reservations required.
     TheSanta Express, ride and photos with Santa.

Model Railroad Club, Inc.
P.O. Box 1146, End of Jefferson Ave., off Rt. 22East, Union, NJ07083, 908-964-9724; 964-8808 recorded message. Open to the public Sat. 1-4pm. Adults $5, srs. $4, children $3.
Nov 28-
Dec 14
Annual Light &Sound Show. Nov. 28: noon-10pm; Dec. 5 &12: 7-10pm; Sat. 10-8pm; Sun. 11-6pm. Adults $7, srs. 6, under 13 $5.

New Jersey Naval Museum
Court &River St., Hackensack, 201-342-3268. Sat.-Sun. 10-4pm, last tour at 3:30. Call ahead to confirm hours. Adults $7, under 12 $3, group rates. Guided tour of the USS Ling, a WWII submarine. Birthday parties; overnights.

New Jersey Transit Train and Bus
Information: 800-626-RIDE. Weekend and Holiday Family Supersaver Fare: Two children (11 and under) ride free when accompanied by a full fare-paying parent or guardian on weekends, beginning 7pm Friday (or the eve of a holiday) until 6am Mon. or the day after a holiday. At all times, children 4 & under travel free when accompanied by a full fare paying parent or guardian, children aged 5-11 pay children's fare (half fare or less).
Summer
Visit www.njtransit.com/summer for package prices to Six Flags Great Adventure, Monmouth Park Racetrack, the Shore and Atlantic City, and discount offers available with a valid light rail, rail or bus ticket.

Family-FriendlyTrain Destinations
We welcome reader's suggestions. Please send them in.

· Bound Brook George's Station Restaurant at station with train memorabilia, brunch, outdoor dining.

· Far Hills Short walk to cafe, retail shops in Far Hills Center.

· Maplewood Station directly across from downtown shops, diner, bakery, ice cream, and Memorial Park playground.

· Millington Millington Café at station with outdoor dining.

· Newark Museum is a few steps from the Light Rail Washington Park Station.

· New Jersey Performing Arts Center Light rail service connects all rail lines served by Newark PennStation and Newark Broad St. Station to NJPAC. NJTransit.com/NLR

· South Orange Diner, ice cream shop at station, short walk to Meadlow-land Park.

· Summit Mabie Playground & downtown Summit with its many shops and restaurants across from station.

· Westfield, Cranford Walk to downtown shops and -restaurants.

New York Susquehanna &Western
100 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg, 908-454-4433 (weekends 10-4). Steam train runs weekends May-Oct. Diesel locomotive runs Nov.-May. Adults $14, children $7, tickets available online. The only steam locomotive operating in New Jersey offers scenic one-hour trips along the Delaware River weekends May-Oct. or themed excursions throughout the year including Santa Claus, Polar Express, Easter Bunny, Wine and Great Pumpkin Trains. Check website for dates.

New York Waterway
800-53-FERRY. A quick, convenient and scenic route to midtown and downtown Manhattan via ferry service from Hoboken, Jersey City or Weehawken. Free shuttle to Times

Pine Creek Railroad
In Allaire State Park, Rt. 524 (exit 98 GSP), Allaire (Wall), 732-938-5524. April-Dec.: 12-4:30 weekends & special events. July & Aug: Daily 12-4:30. Tickets $4. Parking fee Memorial Day-Labor Day. Narrow gauge rail line operates vintage diesel locomotives every half hour on a 1.5 mile loop in Allaire State Park. School groups; birthday parties.
Jul 19-20
     The Great Train Robbery at Ole' Pine Creek, departs every 45 min. beginning at noon. $5.
Sept 6
     Haunted Nights Express advance tickets on sale. $7.50.
Sept 6-7
     Railroader's Weekend Celebration, everything that runs, does, shop tours, exhibits, displays. Trains depart every half hour 11-4:30. Fare $5.
Oct
     Fall Foliage Train, departs weekends every half hour 12-4.
Oct 6
     Christmas Express advance tickets on sale. $7.50.
Oct 17-18, 24-25, 31
     HauntedExpress, nighttime rides through the haunted woods depart every 45 min. from 7:30-9:30pm. Tickets on sale from Sept. 6.
Nov 28-30
     Christmas Express Days, train departs every half hour 11-4. $5.
Dec 6-7, 13-14, 20-21
     The Christmas Express, train ride with Santa departs every half hour 11-4. $7.50.
Dec 13, 20
     Christmas Express Nights, new nighttime train.

WhippanyRailway Museum
1 Railroad Plaza, Rt. 10W &WhippanyRd., Whippany, 973-887-8177. Open for special events. Suggested donation: Adults $1, children $.50. Railroad memorabilia, exhibits, large operating Lionel train layout, gift shop, picnic grounds.
   45-min. rides with Santa or the Easter Bunny depart 1, 2 3, &4pm seasonally. Reservations are strongly recommended. Send ticket order with check or money order and self-addressed, stamped #10 envelope to: POBox 16, Whippany, 07981-0016. Tickets go on sale at museum on day of trip for remaining seats. Adults $12, under 12 $8, babes-in-arms free.
Jul 13, 20, Sept 7, 14
     Caboose Train Rides.
Oct 5
     Pumpkin Festival 2008, crafts, railroad memorabilia, hayride, Vampira, ride the Pumpkinliner featuring antique cabooses. Trains depart every 45 min. starting at 12:30pm. Advance tickets can be purchased online.
Dec 7, 13, 14, 20, 21
     Santa Claus Special, see listing for details