With expansive FREE beaches, a kitschy 50s feel, a lively boardwalk, and lots of shore favorites, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Wildwood, NJ. Sure, your kids will be thrilled to spend time at Morey’s Piers, the legendary boardwalk amusements that have been entertaining families for over 50 years, but there’s a lot more to Wildwood than just the rides. Spend the day biking the boards, cool off in a waterpark, test your stick skills at mini-golf, or just revel on the beaches for free (yup, no badges required)—the whole family will have a ball making memories here. Ready to head down to this spot at the shore? Here’s what you need to know before you go. (featured photo credit: Alessandra Agabiti Braghelli)
Wildwood NJ: 9 Kid-Friendly Things To Do
Relax at Wildwood NJ beaches
Unlike other shore beaches, Wildwood beaches are free to access, so no beach badges or tags are required. With five miles of broad swaths of sand, you have plenty of space to toss a Frisbee, dig sandcastle moats, and spread a towel and umbrella to relax. Beauty is abundant, thanks to a dune preservation system that enhances the natural habitat and preserves its pristine surroundings. Plus, many beaches are dog-friendly, especially at the Wildwood Dog Park & Beach between Glenwood and Maple Avenues—it’s known as one of the largest dog parks in the world.
Bike on the boards
For the family that likes to move on two wheels, biking on the boardwalk is that kind of activity everyone will love. Start early on the boards (biking on the boardwalk stops at noon) so you can check out Wildwood’s attractions while getting some exercise and soaking in those fantastic views. After, cruise around town for the rest of the day or hit the beaches along the coast. Bike rentals open early and are available at various locations on and off the boardwalk. And for an insta-worthy photo and ride, rent a family-friendly surrey bike where littles and bigs can have a blast pedaling together.
Shop for souvenirs and tasty treats
Hear the boom of the fireworks
There’s no better way to celebrate the start of the weekend than by kicking off your family’s Friday night with fireworks on the beach. Every Friday evening in the summer at 10 PM, catch a free fireworks display set to music along the boardwalk in Wildwood. Catch the explosive show almost anywhere in the Wildwoods, although the best location is on the beach at Pine Avenue. So, grab a blanket and spread it out in the sand to take in a burst of colors in the summertime night sky.
Go back in time
Go for wild rides on Morey’s Piers
With three amusement parks, Morey’s Piers is a kid’s (or kid at heart) paradise. Swing above the crowds on the Wave Swinger or try a classic ride like the Tea Cups or Carousel at Mariner’s Pier. Surfside Pier is home to kiddie rides like the Balloon Race or family rides, including The Runaway Tram. If your crew wants action, head to Adventure Pier, with the Great White wooden roller coaster and the Skyscraper. Want to get a feel for all the rides? Check out our guide to Morey’s Piers before you go.
Cool off at a waterpark
When the temps heat up and you need to cool off, Raging Waters Water Park and Ocean Oasis Water Park & Beach Club are located directly on the beach, giving your family multiple ways to get wet. With thrilling features like Rocket Raft Run and Shotgun Falls, daring kids can exercise their sense of adventure while littles hang in the family-friendly Shipwreck Shoals. And when mama needs a drink, head to the adults-only Water Lilies Swim-Up Bar.
Get a hole-in-one at miniature golf
End the day with something sweet
