Start your traincation fun day by reading Donald Crews’ book Freight Train and then take off! (And don't forget, kids under 5 ride free at all times).

Summit

Reeves-Reed Arboretum
Get your history on while crawling like a caterpillar at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and once visited by the Lenni Lenape Indians, this beautiful property hosts birthday parties, an impressive greenhouse with plants kids can examine with magnifying glasses, and hiking trails. Grab an illustrated map which makes learning fun by encouraging kids to act out the life of a Monarch butterfly, or do a “honeybee dance” to show other bees where the sweetest nectar is.  The best part? Admission is free, with a suggested $5 donation. 908-273-8787

McCool’s Ice Cream
As the sister store to the Madison original, McCool’s ice-cream is a great treat for all ages. With 45 flavors, even the pickiest toddler will be satisfied. 14 Beechwood Rd. Summit; 908-522-9731 

Mabie Memorial Day Playground
Getting tired of taking your wee ones to the same jungle gym? Try a new one! The Mabie Memorial Day Playground has two bocce courts, a ton of picnic benches, and a huge rock with a plaque on it that my son likes to play “King of the Hill” on. Open dawn to dusk.

Chatham

School of Rock
Next stop, Chatham’s School of Rock! Lessons are led by top-notch professional musicians and vocal coaches. Ages 7 to 18 can rock out in individual 45 minute private classes on the instrument of their choice. For drop-in classes call before arrival. You might get lucky and hear some Zeppelin or Beatles tributes during one of the weekly jam sessions! 973-635-2100

Jabberwocky Books and Educational Toys
This 20 year-old establishment hosts monthly children’s book signings, and awesome monthly Pokémon tournaments. Their toys are educational-based, and span a wide variety of ages. An adorable store that would make the perfect place for your child to spend their hard-earned allowance! 973-635-5244

Café Beethoven
Café Beethoven encourages little ones to press their noses up against the glass of their 6-foot long cookie display case, where they proudly boast 15 different varieties. They also make a mean hot chocolate with whip. Beethoven does not have high chairs, but welcomes children of all ages. 973-635-0005

Madison

Nicky’s Firehouse Family Restaurant & Pizza
Need to feed your brood? Just a two minute stroll from the train is one of the best-kept-secrets in NJ pizza history. Nicky’s Firehouse is a replica of Madison’s first firehouse, located down the street. Each kid gets their own fire hat, coloring pages, and there is an extensive children’s menu. 973-765-0565

Dewey’s Comic City
Dewey’s, located just a few blocks from Nicky’s, is the perfect place to bring kids going through a Batman phase. They host a Friday evening card game tournaments for ages 11 and up. Plan your visit for Free Comic Book Day,” held the first Saturday in May. Each child receives 30 free books, and can take home a sketch from a local illustrator! 973-593-0042

Creative Hands Art Studio
Children as young as 5 can learn how to use a pottery wheel at this local favorite for children’s art classes located behind the station. Your pint-sized Picasso can also try drawing, painting, or sculpture. Call office manager Betty in advance, for drop-in classes. 908-604-0773

Morristown

South Street Creamery
For the best homemade ice-cream in NJ, walk to the South Street Creamery for a warm welcome from this family-owned joint. They also have a lunch menu which changes daily and their soup and sandwich combo for $7.48 is delish. 973-267-8887

The Teaching Room
Located directly next door to the Creamery is The Teaching Room, where you’ll find educational tools for teachers that can be implemented in your own home such as sticker books, a Velcro help chart, and sensory toys such as Melissa and Doug sand shovels and pails.  973-540-8358

MacCulloch Hall
Though a 15 minute walk from the train, this historic museum is worth the walk: A recent exhibition of Thomas Nast drawings showcase the man who brought us Santa Claus. Be sure to pack a picnic snack for the flowering gardens in back. Children 5 and under are free. 973-538-2404

For more information and to check schedules, visit NJ Transit online or call 973-275-5555