The Cape Atlantic Model Railroad Club has found a new home for the summer months, and it just so happens to be located in the heart of one of Cape May County’s most beloved attractions. For the fourth season, the club is bringing its interactive model train display to the Cape May County Park & Zoo, delighting kids and adults alike with a nostalgic journey through miniature trains, trolleys and amusement rides.
The pop-up display, located in the green shed next to the zoo’s historic carousel, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. From now through Labor Day, visitors and locals can stop by and enjoy the display before popping in to visit the animals at the zoo. Admission to the train display is always free, making it the perfect addition to a family day at the zoo.
This year’s setup features an impressive O-gauge model train display with 17 push buttons, five track runs, three trolleys and a whimsical amusement section complete with an operating Ferris wheel and carousel. The feeling of nostalgia is evident throughout the whole display, as it was designed to evoke memories of the old Wildwood Boardwalk. The centerpiece includes a charming miniature replica of the Cape May County Zoo itself, as well as a festive Christmas-themed village that will delight visitors of all ages.
“We’ve had nothing but positive responses from visitors who stop by,” said John Barbieri, the president of the Cape Atlantic Model Railroad Club. “The zoo brings in people from all over the world, and we see an average of 32,000 to 35,000 visitors each year when we’re set up here.”
But the magic isn’t just in the trains. The club’s 31 members collaboratively build and maintain every part of the display and love being present during operating hours to chat with guests about their own childhood memories of model trains.
“Regardless of age, almost everyone has a story about their dad or grandpa setting up trains,” Barbieri said. “Our goal is to give visitors that warm, nostalgic feeling — no matter how old you are, it’s all about being like a kid again.”
The Cape Atlantic Model Railroad Club, based out of its main clubhouse in Egg Harbor City, has been a fixture in the community for five years. The Egg Harbor City location is open every third Saturday of the month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well as during special city events.
In addition to bringing nostalgia and fun to people, the club also prides itself on its community-driven mission, collaborating with local businesses, hosting canned food drives for the community food banks during the holidays, and organizing field trips for young students to experience the wonder of their model trains.
The railroad club’s display is a hidden gem at the Cape May County Zoo, and everyone who’s had the pleasure of walking through has loved it.
“We have heard nothing but positive responses from the visitors that have come in so far,” Barbieri said. He shared that guests of all ages have enjoyed the display, often hearing kids asking parents to visit the trains again after seeing the zoo.
The Cape May County Park & Zoo itself is also a hidden gem in South Jersey. Known for its free admission, expansive animal habitats and beautiful park grounds, the zoo attracts visitors from across the country. The addition of the train display only adds to its appeal, offering another unique experience for families to enjoy during their visit — free of charge.
For families looking for a memorable summer adventure, a trip to the Cape May County Zoo — complete with a stop at the model railroad display — promises an experience filled with the kind of joy that comes from reliving the magic of childhood.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. After earning a BA in Communications, Delaney built a successful career in the newspaper industry, honing skills in, news writing, media, and content creation. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DC’s Social Media & Content Creation, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
