Who knew there was an actual steam locomotive not only still operating, but transporting rabbits, Santa and Thomas? The Delaware River Railroad Excursions uses three original Susquehanna Budd cars and an operating steam locomotive for its themed trips The Polar Express, A Day Out With Thomas and a Mine Trip to the Ol' Susquehanna Mine, amongst others. Of course, with the gracious help of the infamous Greg Trench, senior ticket agent, we were to travel with Mr. E. Bunny and collect some eggs by the historic 150-year old Lime Kilns. Bring on the Easter baskets!

We arrived a little early and were able to get delightfully sugared up at the Antionette Chocolatier, a wonderful little shop in Phillipsburg; carrying our bags of deliciousness, we proceeded down the hill to the sounds of music and even my jaded 11-year old gave a "Wow!" when we saw the 500+ pipes of the Grand Master Concert Organ, the largest traveling band organ in the U.S. It set the mood nicely for the first sight of the massive locomotive, seemingly approaching from another era.

The train ride was lovely and relaxing, and the grown-ups were amused by the traveling music, Christmas carols with Easter lyrics substituted. The wandering juggler and banjo player were charming, and set the stage nicely for the main event, the appearance of a gigantic white rabbit with a very loud bowtie. Hop off to collect a few eggs, and back on for the remainder of the trip, and our afternoon was done, in sweet fashion. All the kids in our group, from the 2-year old to the 11-year old, seemed to enjoy the trip equally, and so Mommy Poppins NJ is very happy to recommend this holiday excursion. Happy Easter!

Don't miss the Bunny's last rides of the season at Delaware River Railways Excursions: Saturday April 4 at 11am, 12:30, 2 and 3:30pm.