Monmouth County: Spend The Day With The Family
Allaire Community Farm
Allaire Community Farm offers a unique blend of equine therapy, animal therapy, and vocational training. This non-profit farm is open to visitors from April through November, and during the holiday season, there is a joyous Old-Fashioned Christmas with indoor and outdoor petting zoos, Santa, model trains, wagon rides, and lots of twinkling lights.
Allaire State Park
Imagine walking into a 19th-century village frozen in time, taking a train ride on the vintage Pine Creek Railroad, or discovering a secret path through the trees; it’s all at Allaire State Park in the Monmouth County town of Farmingdale. Take a ride on the bike trail, get a glimpse into the past at historic Allaire Village, or just go chill with nature. And you won’t want to miss their seasonal events like the Christmas Lantern Tour or the All Hallows’ Eve Celebration.
Asbury Park
Asbury Park is an iconic stop with historic buildings, swan boats, art, and, of course, its rich musical heritage. Check out the boardwalk with its adorable Splash Park and giant tipping water can, playground, and mini golf. From Convention Hall to eye-popping art to the eateries and Asbury Fresh Market, this is a town you will not be bored with anytime soon.
Carm’s Farm
This Colts Neck-based farm is family-owned and operated, with everything from a petting zoo and kid-friendly activities to a farmer’s market and even a camel (yup, you read that right). It’s the kind of place where families go to make memories, especially during seasonal holidays where you can visit the pumpkin patch in the fall, see the Christmas display with snow flurries in the winter, and frolic around the farm in the summer. In spring, when Carm’s Farm opens, there is an egg hunt and the Easter Bunny visits. You can also host your own event at the farm, such as a Mommy and Me event or a birthday party.
Deep Cut Gardens
A Monmouth County attraction is a lush 54-acre garden filled with cultivated varieties and native plants. Kids will love exploring the grounds, viewing the century-old bonsai trees, and observing the small-scale replica of the Italian volcano Mount Vesuvius. The gorgeous pond, complete with dozens of brightly colored, friendly Koi, makes this a dreamy spot to spend a day. 
Eastmont Orchards
If you’re looking for a farm fruit-picking experience without the pricey agro-entertainment, a visit to Eastmont Orchards in Colts Neck is a must. In late summer, it’s the ideal spot to stop by to pick fresh peaches. In the fall, you can roam the grounds to find the perfect apples to make fresh apple crisp and sweet apple pie. And Delicious Orchards is nearby for some more farm treats.
Happy Day Farm
Happy Day Farm has something for every season, from blueberry picking and lavender fields in the summer to a corn maze and a fall wonderland in the autumn, and even maple syrup events in the winter. They are also known for their photo spots with stylish details that will make your selfies pop. This farm also has tractor rides, kids’ activities, specialty foods, and seasonal picking, depending on when you visit.
Historic Longstreet Farm
The 1890s are re-created on 9 acres at Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel Park. See interpreters in period dress show both daily and seasonal agricultural and domestic activities on this historic farm. Don’t miss their weekend activities throughout the year; events include 19th-century Woodworking Demonstrations or intricate Lacemaking Demonstrations.
InfoAge Science and History Museums
The InfoAge Science and History Museums in Wall are both educational spots with over two dozen museums and exhibits, as well as community groups and volunteer organizations. The campus is a National Historic Landmark with artifacts, documents, tools, and machines spread across 20 exhibits in six renovated historic buildings on 30 acres that were once the famed Camp Evans Signal Corps. 
iPlay America
Located in Freehold, NJ, this indoor activity center features boardwalk games, laser tag, an XD Dark Ride, go-karts, and an arcade. It is also an ideal place to host a birthday party. It’s four acres of indoor fun, and the go-karts are easily a favorite. There is also an indoor restaurant and candy shop (one of the largest in NJ). The Top Golf Swing Suite is also there for some fun for the adults.
Long Branch
If you are looking for a beach, nightlife, and kid-friendly areas, Long Branch checks all those boxes. At the center is Seven Presidents Park with its 38-acre beach park, Tony’s Place playground, and skateplex. Or head down the street to Pier Village, an oceanfront community with unique shops, retail, dining, live public events, and a carousel.
Monmouth Museum
This Lincroft museum is a hub where kids can learn about history and science through interactive exhibits; littles can get busy without even realizing they are honing motor skills and gaining STEAM knowledge. This 15,000-square-foot museum has two children’s wings, galleries with rotating exhibits, and a whale of a slide.
Monmouth Park Racetrack
Monmouth Park has been a Shore tradition since 1870, and today, it’s full of life with horse racing, family activities, festivals, and food. They also have Bluegrass Mini Golf, Family Fun Days, and Dawn Patrol, where you can get an inside peek at what racing is all about.
Sandy Hook
This Monmouth County gem is nestled between Sandy Hook Bay and the New York/New Jersey Bight, giving this popular national park a distinct ecosystem that features a beach and a maritime forest populated by a wide range of wildlife. Plus, it has a rich history, from Henry Hudson’s exploration of Sandy Hook in 1609 to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, America’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse. With seven miles of pristine beaches, a sparkling bay, dedicated bike paths, and peaceful hiking trails, Sandy Hook, NJ, is a must-visit for anyone visiting the shore.
Sea Bright
This special barrier island community, just a few miles beyond the Sandy Hook Gateway, is home to eight private beach clubs, but you don’t need to be a member to enjoy the beauty and low-key charm of the gorgeous white sand beaches with lots of spots to have a cocktail and meal across the street along the Shrewsbury River. But what makes Sea Bright unique is the library with ocean views located at the Beach Pavilion, where kids can take a sand break and find a beach read.
Spring Lake
If you are looking for charm in Monmouth County, look no further than Spring Lake. Known for its adorable downtown, wide beach, stately homes, and picturesque lake in the middle of the town, Spring Lake, NJ, lives up to its name, “The Jewel of the Jersey Shore.” Divine Park is a must with the kids, with its cool wooden bridges and playgrounds. Other highlights include taking a walk on its 1.9-mile no-frills boardwalk or taking in a show at the Spring Lake Community House, whose Tudor-style architecture and immaculate landscaping make it stand out on Madison Avenue.
Red Bank
With tasty restaurants, sweet shops, and wonderful theaters, there is plenty to do in Red Bank, making this Monmouth County destination a day trip for the whole family. Set against the picturesque Navesink River, this town gives off a laid-back city-meets-shore vibe. Kids will love it for the playgrounds and spaces to hang out (oh, did we mention Yestercades, which will fulfill any gamer’s dreams?), and you’ll like strolling the sidewalks with quaint storefronts, exciting restaurants, and, of course, the Count Basie Theatre.
Wall Stadium
Since 1950, Wall Stadium has been the place for kids to see race cars zoom around the track all summer long. Sit in the grandstands where every seat is a good one to hear the engines roar, or stop by for special events. Be sure to look out for their special events, such as the Banner Night Contest and Hall of Fame Night.
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