As a Jersey citizen I’m Ashley, mom of two sons Joe and christian, and I love finding fun places to take my kids. New Jersey has so many great spots where children can play, explore, and have a great time. Whether it’s an outdoor park, a hands-on museum, or an indoor playground, there’s something for everyone. My kids and I have enjoyed everything from the beaches at the Jersey Shore to exciting amusement parks. If you live here or are visiting, these top 10 activities will make for a fun and memorable day with your family!
Liberty Science Center (Jersey City)
This place is awesome for kids who love to learn while having fun! They can play with science stuff—like making tiny tornadoes, climbing a cool sci-fi maze (the Infinity Climber), or seeing stars in a huge planetarium. Little ones will enjoy the pretend grocery store (Tiny Town) where they learn about healthy food. There’s also a river-themed area with real animals to touch. Parents, you’ll love the easy parking, café, and new exhibits (like dinosaurs or robots) that change often. Great for ages 2 to teens!
Six Flags Great Adventure (Jackson)
Thrill rides, animals, and water fun—this park has it all! Big kids and teens will scream (happily!) on huge roller coasters like Kingda Ka, the tallest in the world. Little ones can ride gentle attractions in Looney Tunes zones. Don’t miss the Safari Off Road Adventure to see lions, giraffes, and bears up close! In summer, cool off at Hurricane Harbor water park with slides and pools. Tips for parents:
- Bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and water bottles.
- Use the park app to check ride wait times.
- Weekdays = fewer crowds.
- Try seasonal events like Halloween Fright Fest!
Jersey Shore Boardwalks
The Jersey Shore’s iconic boardwalks are pure family fun—think salty air, sticky cotton candy, and endless activities! Point Pleasant Beach has Jenkinson’s Aquarium and gentle rides for little ones, while Wildwood’s massive piers (like Morey’s) pack wild roller coasters and waterslides. Seaside Heights offers classic arcades, a Ferris wheel with ocean views, and games to win stuffed animals bigger than your kid! Stroll, bike, or hop on a tram car (Wildwood’s famous “Watch the tram car, please!”), then hit the beach to cool off—build sandcastles, collect seashells, or try simple Montessori activities for toddlers like sorting treasures by color or texture. Kid-Friendly Perks Tips.”
- Free summer fireworks and live music.
- Cheap thrills: mini-golf, bumper cars, and $1 ice cream stands.
- Pizza slices as big as their heads (parent-approved!).
- Go early to avoid crowds and parking hassles.
- Bring sunscreen, towels, and cash (some spots don’t take cards).
- Most boardwalks are free to walk, but rides/attractions cost extra.
Adventure Aquarium (Camden)
This aquarium is a fun, easy day out for families! Walk through a shark tunnel (yes, sharks swim right above you!), meet real hippos (so cool!), and touch stingrays or small sharks. Kids love feeding colorful birds and watching playful penguins. There’s a play area with slides and climbing nets for little ones.
Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange)
Turtle Back Zoo is a perfect family-friendly spot for animal lovers and curious kids! This 20-acre zoo packs a punch with interactive exhibits like the Essex Farm Petting Zoo, where little ones can brush goats and meet friendly farm animals. Don’t miss the Sea Lion Sound show, the colorful South American Penguin Exhibit, or the Reptile House for slithery fun. Bigger kids will love climbing the Treetop Adventure Course ropes course, while the Endangered Species Carousel and Zoo Train add classic charm. The zoo focuses on conservation, making it a great place to teach kids about wildlife.
Storybook Land (Egg Harbor Township)
Step into a fairy-tale world at this charming, family-owned park designed just for little ones! Storybook Land brings nursery rhymes and classic tales to life with rides like Cinderella’s Pumpkin Coach, Alice in Wonderland’s Crooked House, and a gentle Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe slide. Meet life-sized storybook characters (think Humpty Dumpty or the Three Little Pigs) and ride the J&J Railroad Train through whimsical scenes. At Santa’s Christmas Village (seasonal), kids can visit Santa’s workshop year-round!
Diggerland USA (West Berlin)
Calling all future builders and truck lovers! Diggerland is America’s only construction-themed amusement park where kids (and adults!) can ride, drive, and operate REAL machinery. Climb into the driver’s seat of a massive excavator, spin in a 360-degree digger, or race family members in construction-themed bumper cars. For tiny adventurers, the KidsZone offers mini-diggers and sand play, while thrill-seekers can soar on the SkyShuttle or tackle the Ropes Course. Don’t miss the Water Main water park (seasonal) with dump-truck slides and splash pads!
Land of Make Believe (Jersey)
This family-friendly park is perfect for little kids (ages 2–10)! Open from May to October, it has gentle rides like a mini Ferris wheel, train rides, and slides. In summer, cool off at Pirate’s Cove Water Park with splash pads and mini slides. Meet farm animals at the petting zoo or enjoy holiday fun—like trick-or-treating in October or meeting Santa in July! Parents love the affordable tickets, free parking, and picnic areas (bring lunch or buy snacks). Weekdays are less crowded, and there’s plenty of shade. Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, and smiles for a simple, happy day out!
Grounds for Sculpture (Hamilton)
This magical outdoor park mixes art, nature, and play! Kids will love spotting giant, colorful sculptures hidden in gardens (like dinosaurs, dancing people, or giant umbrellas). Walk through secret paths, peek into tiny fairy-tale houses, or pretend to be part of the art (posing with statues is encouraged!). Don’t miss the Peacock Garden with real birds or the Rat’s Restaurant (yes, named after Ratatouille!) for pizza or ice cream.
