WOODSTOWN SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Woodstown Central Railroad’s Ice Cream Express: A Short, Sweet Ride Through Historic Southern New Jersey
A 50–60 minute round-trip train excursion that pairs a scenic rail loop with ice cream or custard from a longtime local purveyor—this guide prepares you to board and savor the ride.
Woodstown Central Railroad’s Ice Cream Express: A Short, Sweet Ride Through Historic Southern New Jersey.
Adventure brief
Woodstown Central Railroad’s Ice Cream Express: A Short, Sweet Ride Through Historic Southern New Jersey
All aboard the Ice Cream Express: a 50–60 minute round-trip on the Woodstown Central Railroad that threads past Memorial Lake, crosses the Oldmans Creek trestle and moves through historic Woodstown while onboard Trainmen share the story of rail travel in New Jersey. It’s a compact, family-friendly outing that combines local flavor with a gentle, scenic loop through Salem County.
South Jersey’s Woodstown Central Railroad offers a distinct kind of summer adventure with its "Ice Cream Express" — a 50- to 60-minute journey combining nostalgic rail travel with a delicious local treat. Departing from South Woodstown Station, this historic train winds through the gentle landscapes of Salem County, crossing the Oldmans Creek Trestle and passing Memorial Lake, while guests savor ice cream or custard from Cream Valley Custard, a beloved Woodstown establishment with over three decades of sweet heritage.
This trip appeals to families and friends seeking easygoing, memorable outings that balance time outdoors with a refreshing indulgence. Riding aboard vintage railcars powered by restored locomotives, including the notable ex-Reading FP7 #902, passengers glimpse a slice of New Jersey’s railroading past. Knowledgeable trainmen share insights into nearly a century of rail history that shaped this region’s development.
The route traverses farmland, small towns, and pockets of forest, a quiet contrast to the busy urban centers nearby. Though the railcars are not ADA-compliant due to their historic status, the well-maintained equipment offers an intimate atmosphere through two first-class seating options: the richly appointed Table Car "Woodstown" and the deluxe 1927 Pennsylvania Railroad "Mineral Spring" car.
Woodstown itself is a quiet town with roots traceable to early American rail expansion, and the train ride honors that legacy. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to browse the gift shop or relax by fire pits at the station before their departure. With a chance to engage multiple senses—scenic views, tactile railcar craftsmanship, and the sweet taste of custard or ice cream—the Ice Cream Express is a unique outdoor excursion that enhances the local recreational landscape and offers a refreshing alternative to traditional hiking or kayaking outings in southern New Jersey.
Route Schematic
Route schematic
Stops, boarding steps and key moments on the Ice Cream Express.
South Woodstown Station arrival & check-in
Arrive at South Woodstown Station about 20–30 minutes prior to departure; check in at the ticket window on the track side of the station building and take time to browse the gift shop or sit near the fire pits.
Boarding & departure
Train boarding begins approximately 15 minutes before departure; the train departs as close to the scheduled departure time as possible.
Scenic circuit
During the 50–60 minute round trip passengers are served ice cream or custard and the train travels across Memorial Lake, through historic Woodstown and over the Oldmans Creek trestle while Trainmen share historical context.
Return & disembark
The train returns to South Woodstown Station and passengers exit the train at the conclusion of the loop.
The railroad operates historic railcars that do not meet current ADA accessibility standards; in addition, operations may be altered or canceled in extreme weather conditions—check operator notices before travel.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A quiet loop over Memorial Lake and Oldmans Creek
The excursion follows a scenic route across Memorial Lake and the Oldmans Creek trestle, offering passengers brief but memorable views of Southern New Jersey’s pastoral landscape during the 50–60 minute round trip.
Cream Valley Custard served onboard
While underway, passengers are served a 6oz cup of ice cream or custard from a local favorite—options include vanilla, chocolate, creamsicle, cookie dough and other flavors—so the trip is as much about tasting a regional treat as it is about the ride.
Vintage railcars and narrated history
Trainmen narrate the ride, and the operator highlights the historic nature of the cars and the experience of rail travel in New Jersey nearly a century ago, with premium first-class options available for those seeking a traditional railcar atmosphere.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The Ice Cream Express is a slow, deliberate loop: arrive and check in at South Woodstown Station, browse the station amenities, board as seating opens, then settle in as the train departs close to the scheduled time. During the roughly hour-long circuit passengers enjoy served ice cream or custard while Trainmen describe the region’s rail history, the train crosses local waterways and returns to the station where passengers disembark.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and where to take care.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks are allowed onboard; to prevent spills, drinks should have a lid or cap. Alcohol is permitted as this is a BYO event. Plan to consume the provided 6oz ice cream/custard cup included with the experience.
The train is equipped with restrooms, and there is also a port-o-potty at South Woodstown Station—bring any personal items you need for a roughly 50–60 minute outing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do all passengers need a ticket?
Yes. All passengers require a ticket; children's tickets are divided into age groups 4–12 (Child) and 0–3 (Toddler).
Is there a bathroom on the train?
Yes. The train is equipped with restrooms; there is also a port-o-potty located at South Woodstown Station.
Are pets allowed on the train?
Only registered service animals are permitted aboard the train.
Do you operate during bad weather?
The railroad attempts to operate in all weather conditions, but in extreme conditions the railroad will cancel operations and notify guests via email, the homepage and social media.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks are allowed onboard; to prevent spilling, please ensure drinks have a lid or cap.
Can I bring alcohol on the train?
Yes. This is a BYO event and alcohol is permitted onboard.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-18T12:02:56.951Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.