Did you know New Jersey has 38 blocks of boardwalk attractions in the Wildwoods? This fact is just the start of a fun journey through family activities in the Garden State. You’ll find everything from historical sites to exciting amusement parks. These places are full of fun for the whole family.
Looking for outdoor fun? Check out the 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Or, explore the 40-foot shark tunnel at the Adventure Aquarium. New Jersey has something for everyone, no matter their age. Plus, many places offer free or discounted entry, which is great for families watching their budget.
From Sandy Hook Beach to the New Jersey State Museum, the Garden State is full of options for kids’ entertainment in NJ. Let’s explore the many family-friendly activities waiting for you in New Jersey!
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities
- Many attractions have free or discounted admission
- The state boasts diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains
- Historical sites and educational experiences are plentiful
- Outdoor adventures and amusement parks cater to all ages
- Seasonal events and unique attractions keep things exciting year-round
Exploring Historical Sites and Landmarks
New Jersey is full of historical sites and landmarks great for kids. The state has 20 important historical spots, from Cape May to Camden and Trenton to Atlantic City. These places take kids on a journey through American history.
The Battleship New Jersey in Camden is a must-see. It’s America’s most decorated battleship and now a museum. Families can explore naval history and even climb aboard.
The Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City offers a bird’s-eye view of history. The Cape May Lighthouse lets kids climb to the top for an ocean view. Both lighthouses mix fun with learning.
At the Thomas Edison National Historic Park in West Orange, kids can see Edison’s house and lab. It’s a hands-on way to learn about inventions.
- Princeton Battlefield State Park: Learn about the Battle of Princeton
- Morristown National Historic Park: Explore Revolutionary War history
- The Historic Village at Allaire: Experience 19th-century living
New Jersey has 15 museums or historical houses among its 20 sites. Places like the 1719 William Trent House Museum and the Alice Paul Institute tell stories from different times. These sites make history fun for kids all over the state.
Beach Towns and Boardwalk Fun
New Jersey’s beach towns are full of fun for kids and exciting activities for families. The Ocean City Boardwalk is 2.5 miles long and has 32 rides at Playland’s Castaway Cove. It’s great for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Wildwood is known for its classic amusement parks, water slides, and delicious treats. Families can enjoy Morey’s Piers and beachfront water parks here.
Point Pleasant Beach is a favorite for family attractions. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has an aquarium, amusement rides, and arcades. Kids will love the weekly fireworks and the 7D dark ride.
For a quieter day, visit Sandy Hook Beach in Middletown. It has soft sand, rolling dunes, and beautiful views.
Cape May is famous for its Victorian buildings and family-friendly vibe. The Cape May Promenade is 2 miles long, with shops, candy stores, and ice cream parlors. The Cape May County Park and Zoo is a must-see for kids, with animals to see up close.
New Jersey’s beach towns promise unforgettable family memories. With so many options, there’s something for everyone.
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Outdoor Adventures in New Jersey’s Natural Landscapes
New Jersey is a treasure trove for outdoor fun for families. It has over 18 waterfalls, from easy-to-reach spots to hidden gems that need hiking. You can explore places like Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park, Liberty State Park, and High Point State Park. Each offers its own special landscapes and activities.
Mountain Creek in Vernon is a top spot for thrill-seekers. It has a huge water park and bike park for cycling on rugged trails. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is also great, covering 70,000 acres along the Delaware River. It’s perfect for canoeing, hiking, camping, and fishing.
Nature fans will love the outdoor fun all year. In spring, visit botanical gardens to see tulips, roses, and orchids bloom, or check out butterfly gardens. Summer is for water fun at places like Thundering Surf Waterpark. Geocaching, a modern-day treasure hunt, is also popular in the state.
Animal lovers have lots to do too. New Jersey has over 80 alpaca farms, where you can meet these friendly animals. Whale or dolphin watching tours near Cape May offer amazing marine life encounters. With so many activities, outdoor adventures in New Jersey make lasting memories for families.
Amusement Parks and Water Parks
New Jersey has many amusement and water parks for kids. Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson is a top choice for families. It has exciting rides, shows, and a safari adventure for all ages.
DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream in East Rutherford is great for water fun. It’s the biggest indoor water park in North America. Kids can enjoy the Jungle Jammer and Mad Flush slide for a fun family day.
Diggerland USA in West Berlin is special because it’s a construction-themed park. Kids can drive real machinery and learn about engineering in a fun way.
Morey’s Piers in Wildwood is perfect for boardwalk fun. It has three piers with rides and two water parks. It’s a great place for families with rides for all ages.
New Jersey’s parks offer more than rides. Diggerland’s fall festival, Diggerfest, has petting zoos, fire truck rides, and games. These events make your visit even more special.
Educational and Cultural Experiences
New Jersey is full of educational activities for kids. The Liberty Science Center in Jersey City is a top spot. It has the biggest planetarium in America, offering a cosmic adventure for kids. The center has interactive exhibits and hands-on experiments that spark curiosity and learning.
The Adventure Aquarium in Camden is great for underwater adventures. It’s ranked as the #4 aquarium in the country by USA Today, with a 40-foot shark tunnel. Kids can walk through and see marine life up close, making it a thrilling attraction in New Jersey.
History lovers will enjoy the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton. It has about 2,000 pieces of militaria and art, giving a peek into America’s past. For a hands-on historical experience, visit the Battleship New Jersey in Camden. It’s America’s most decorated battleship, offering a unique journey through naval history.
Art fans should check out the Newark Museum of Art. It hosts special events for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, making art fun and accessible. These educational and cultural experiences in New Jersey offer endless learning and fun.
Things to Do with Children in New Jersey on a Budget
New Jersey has many affordable activities for families. A surprising 64% of these activities are free, making it easy to find budget-friendly options. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Sourlands Mountain Preserve, a 17-mile area great for hiking. Duke Farms, covering 1000 acres, focuses on the environment and offers free entry with bike rentals at a low cost.
Beach lovers will enjoy Wildwood NJ Beach, which is free to visit and has a 38-block boardwalk with lots of fun activities. The Cape May County Park and Zoo is a great place for history and nature. It has many animals and works with conservation groups to protect wildlife.
Garden fans can take free walks through Rutgers Garden, a 180-acre botanical wonderland open all year in New Brunswick. The New Jersey Botanical Gardens in Ringwood State Park has 96 acres of beautiful gardens and woodlands to explore. These places are perfect for family fun in New Jersey without spending a lot.
For indoor fun, visit the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton. It has over 2 million artifacts and a planetarium, offering lots of learning opportunities. The Heritage Glass Museum in Glassboro shows South Jersey’s glass-making history, providing a unique cultural experience for families.
Indoor Play Spaces and Museums
New Jersey has lots of fun indoor activities for kids. These are great for rainy days or when you need a break from the sun. You can find interactive museums and exciting play spaces all over the state.
In North Jersey, there are places like Catch Air Indoor Playground, Exceptional Explorers, and Hudson’s House of Play. Central Jersey has Jungle Jim & Jane and Little Dreamers Play Cafe. South Jersey is home to Jellybean Jungle and Peekaboo Playground.
Funtime Junction Children’s Entertainment Center offers a special experience. Kids can play on a multi-level climb scape, bounce house, and even laser tag. Arena STEM Edutainment Center in Paramus mixes learning with fun.
New Jersey’s museums for kids are full of interactive exhibits. Imagine That!!! New Jersey Children’s Museum in Florham Park is great for school trips and birthday parties. Northlandz Miniature Wonderland in Flemington is the world’s largest miniature wonderland.
With so many indoor activities, your kids will always find something fun to do in New Jersey, rain or shine!
Farm Visits and Pick-Your-Own Experiences
New Jersey is full of farm visits and pick-your-own spots, great for family fun. You can pick blueberries or visit petting zoos. These places teach kids about farming and nature.
Alstede Farms in Chester covers 600 acres. It has corn mazes, pony rides, and hayrides. Kids can feed animals and play in a bouncy house, making it fun for families.
Demarest Farms in Hillsdale offers a variety of activities. Kids can pet animals and play in wooden houses. It’s a place full of fresh produce and fun.
Happy Day Farm in Manalapan Township has a huge corn maze. Families can enjoy apple and pumpkin festivals in fall. They can also pick raspberries and blueberries in summer, perfect for family fun.
New Jersey has 18 farm visits for families. You can go on dairy tours, visit lavender farms, or see alpacas. These places are great for learning and family outings.
Seasonal Activities and Events for Families
New Jersey is full of fun activities for families all year. You can find everything from farmers markets to fall festivals. There’s always something exciting for kids to do.
Spring brings back the farmers markets. The South Orange Downtown Farmers Market is in its 33rd season, open from June to October on Wednesdays. In Ridgewood, families can find fresh produce and local goods at their Sunday market from June to October.
Summer is great for beach trips. With 130 miles of coastline and many boardwalks, there’s endless fun for families. For rainy days, places like Big Kahuna’s in West Berlin offer fun water parks.
Fall is full of family fun. Terhune Orchards has Fall Family Fun Weekends every Saturday and Sunday in October. They offer pumpkin picking and hayrides. The Pumpkin Train event by Black River & Western and Everitt Farms is also a favorite in autumn.
Winter keeps the fun going. Mountain Creek Resort has Annual Fall Fun Weekends for skiing and snowboarding fans. Indoor places like Urban Air Adventure Park keep kids active all year.
For learning, places like Liberty Science Center in Jersey City and Adventure Aquarium in Camden offer interactive fun. With over 58 state and national parks, New Jersey’s outdoors offer adventures all year for families.
Nature Walks and Wildlife Observation
New Jersey is a great place for outdoor fun with your family. It has many nature centers and parks. These spots are perfect for kids to explore and learn.
There are about 10 nature centers in the state. Each one offers different activities for kids. You can enjoy both indoor and outdoor fun all year round.
Looking for hikes for kids? New Jersey has many options. The hikes are about 2 miles long and not too steep. Plus, half of them let you explore ruins, making it even more exciting.
Some top places for nature walks include:
- The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
- Reeves Reed Arboretum in Summit
- Rutgers Gardens
These spots are great for families to see wildlife and enjoy nature. The Great Swamp has a boardwalk trail that’s easy for everyone.
For a bigger adventure, try High Point State Park. It’s the highest point in New Jersey, offering amazing views. It’s a great place for kids to see the state’s beauty and learn about its geography.
Before you go, check the hours of the nature centers. Some, like the Essex County Environmental Center, are open weekdays and Saturdays. Bring snacks, water, and a camera to capture your family’s fun in New Jersey!
Sports and Recreation for Kids
New Jersey is a paradise for kids with its wide range of sports and activities. Kids can enjoy everything from thrilling karting to calm water sports. The Garden State has something for every young adventurer.
At the New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, kids can experience real kart racing. This place offers a safe yet exciting way for young fans to try motorsports. It’s a chance for kids to feel the thrill of speed in a safe place.
New Jersey’s state parks are great for water-based fun. Spruce Run and High Point State Park have swimming, boating, and more. They charge $5.00 for NJ cars and $10.00 for out-of-state cars on weekdays, with higher prices on weekends. These parks are affordable, making them perfect for families looking for budget-friendly fun.
Local recreation centers and YMCAs across the state offer sports programs all year. These places have affordable membership options, making them accessible to many families. They offer swimming lessons and team sports, promoting physical activity and social interaction.
Branch Brook Park in Newark is a great spot for sports and nature. It has the largest collection of Japanese flowering trees in the US, making it a beautiful place for outdoor activities. The park’s large grounds are perfect for picnics, jogging, or playing outdoor games with the family.
Unique New Jersey Attractions for Families
New Jersey has many fun and educational spots for kids. The Adventure Aquarium in Camden is known as “America’s Most Touchable Aquarium.” It has over 20 sharks and 850 animals in a huge 550,000-gallon tank. It’s a great place for kids to learn about marine life.
The Camden Waterfront is a mix of history and fun. Families can see the Battleship New Jersey and visit the Adventure Aquarium. It’s a unique spot for naval history and underwater wonders. The Liberty Science Center has interactive exhibits that make learning fun for kids.
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson is perfect for thrill-seekers. It has rides for all ages and is open from 10:30 am to 10 pm in August. The American Dream complex offers indoor snowboarding, rollercoasters, and water parks for fun all year.
Nature lovers should check out the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. It covers over 70,000 acres and is great for outdoor activities and bonding. These attractions make New Jersey a great place for family adventures.
Conclusion
New Jersey is a treasure trove for family fun. The Jersey Shore’s beaches and amusement parks are just the start. Families can go whale watching in Cape May, see animals at Turtle Back Zoo, or check out the sea life at Adventure Aquarium in Camden.
The state has something for everyone, no matter your budget. Kids can learn at Liberty Science Center or experience medieval times in Lyndhurst. Beach lovers will enjoy Morey’s Piers in Wildwood and Ocean City’s Beach, best on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Nature fans will love Island Beach State Park’s eco-tours, teaching kids about local wildlife. History buffs can explore the Battleship New Jersey in Camden, a historic warship from the 1940s. With so many activities, New Jersey guarantees memories for all ages.
FAQ
What are some popular historical sites and landmarks to visit with children in New Jersey?
Liberty State Park in Jersey City is a must-see. It offers views of the Manhattan skyline. You can also visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
The Battleship New Jersey in Camden is another great spot. It’s America’s most decorated warship and now serves as a museum.
What beach towns and boardwalk attractions are great for families in New Jersey?
The Wildwoods have 38 blocks of fun. You’ll find attractions, restaurants, and shopping, including three amusement piers.
Seaside Heights is lively with its boardwalk and water park. Cape May is known for its Victorian architecture. Point Pleasant Beach is perfect for families.
What outdoor adventures can families enjoy in New Jersey’s natural landscapes?
Mountain Creek in Vernon has a huge water park and bike park. It’s great for cycling rugged trails.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers many activities. You can canoe, hike, camp, bike, and fish. Tubing down the Delaware River is also fun.
What amusement parks and water parks are popular with families in New Jersey?
Six Flags Great Adventure & Wild Safari in Jackson is huge. It has rides, shows, and attractions, plus a water park.
Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon also has a water park. It’s a great place for fun.
What educational and cultural experiences are available for children in New Jersey?
The Liberty Science Center is fascinating for families. It has exhibits for everyone.
The Adventure Aquarium in Camden has a 40-foot shark tunnel. The New Jersey State Museum in Trenton has exhibits on natural history, archaeology, and fine art.
What budget-friendly activities are available for families in New Jersey?
Many attractions are free or low-cost. The Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge and the Raptor Trust bird rehabilitation center are great.
Trailside Nature Center in Watchung and Duke Farms in Hillsborough Township are also good choices. The Morris Museum in Morristown offers free admission on certain days.
What indoor play spaces and museums are suitable for children in New Jersey?
Indoor play spaces are all over the state. They offer fun for kids all year. The New Jersey State Museum in Trenton and the Morris Museum in Morristown are popular.
What farm visits and pick-your-own experiences are available for families in New Jersey?
Howell Living History Farm in Lambertville offers free visits and low-cost classes. It shows historic farming practices.
The Crystal Springs Resort area has farms with pick-your-own Jersey Fresh produce. It’s a great place for families.
What seasonal activities and events are great for families in New Jersey?
Fall brings hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking. The Waterfront Music Pavilion in Camden hosts live concerts all year.
Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Mountain Creek.
Where can families enjoy nature walks and wildlife observation in New Jersey?
The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge has miles of trails. It’s great for wildlife observation.
Reeves Reed Arboretum in Summit and Rutgers Gardens have beautiful gardens and trails. They’re perfect for nature walks.
What sports and recreation options are available for kids in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville has a karting circuit. Kids can try real kart racing.
State parks offer swimming, boating, and water sports. Local recreation centers and YMCAs have sports programs and classes for kids.
What unique attractions are great for families visiting New Jersey?
Doylestown Castle in Pennsylvania has a huge wooden castle playground. Ringing Rocks Park in Upper Black Eddy, PA, has boulders that ring like bells.
The Camden Waterfront offers history, underwater mystery, and entertainment. It’s a unique attraction for families.