My family calls Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township the most magical place in New Jersey, and it lives up to the name—they’ve made classic children’s stories like Snow White and Jack and the Bean Stalk come to life in their pristine theme park for over 60 years. The whimsical atmosphere caters to ages 1 to 8, but older siblings will be at home here, too (we brought my 10-year-old nephew, who loved it). With unlimited rides included in your admission, an enchanting tram, a water area called the Seaport, hidden wonders that make it feel like you’ve landed in a fairytale, and special events all year long; there are so many magical memories you can create during each visit. Read on for more info on our visit and tips for making it a special day for your family at Storybook Land, and be sure to check out our Best Things To Do In New Jersey Guide for more fun ideas. (feature photo taken at Storybook Land)
Holiday at the park
From now until December 30, 2023, see the magic of the holidays at Storybook Land come to life. Every day that the park is open before Christmas, Santa will wave his magic wand at 5 PM, and the entire park will light up in an array of colors. After Christmas, the lights stay on and it’s the perfect time to ride Santa’s Fantasy Flight with red sleds that lift in the air. Or take the J & J Railroad and sit back and enjoy the lights around the park. Seeing all our favorite Storybook Land rides lit up and open for the holidays was thrilling, and we had a great time riding them after dark. And the best part? It snows in the park (thanks to the snow-making machines in the trees), turning the whole scene into a festive and magical experience.
Admission includes unlimited rides
Once you pay the one-price admission, kids can experience as many rides as their little hearts desire. Since Storybook Land caters mainly to their youngest guests, all ride attendants are specially trained to ensure safety and comfort—the staff at Storybook Land realizes this may be your family’s first theme park experience together. Bubbles the Coaster, Out on a Limb tree swings, Tick-Tock Clock Drop, Beanstalk Bounce, and Happy Dragon are just some of the colorful, themed rides to expect for your visit.
Take a ride on the whimsical tram
Plenty of unique attractions are available for visitors who aren’t quite ready to take on the whirling and faster rides. Kids can step right into their favorite storybook and become immersed in the world of fantasy, nursery rhymes, and curiosity on a Storybook Land Tram Ride (available on select dates). From Cinderella’s Pumpkin Coach and Alice in Wonderland’s Tunnel & Maze to Snow White’s House and The North Pole, there are over 40 attractions that encourage young minds to imagine, pretend, and explore.
Celebrate all seasons at Storybook Land
From an Easter Bunny visit at the park to their Fall Festival, there are always special seasonal events hosted by Storybook Land to ensure every visit feels brand new. Autumn at Storybook Land means Happy Hayrides, pumpkin decorating, Elmer’s Hay-Mazin’ Maze, Trick-or-Treat Weekend, and much more. The Christmas Fantasy with Lights event has become a South Jersey tradition, with families attending yearly. Storybook Land also specializes in creating unique and memorable birthday parties—what’s more fun than rides and all of your kids’ favorite characters?
Say “Cheese“
While walking around the grounds, keep your eyes peeled. You never know when you might spot one of your favorite storybook characters. Every costumed character is excited to greet your little one, share a hug, and pose for a photograph to make the memory last. From live characters to colorful statues that have become beloved icons at Storybook Land, families have countless photo opportunities to strike a pose.
Pack your lunch and eat in their cute (and super clean) garden area
Five unique eateries make it easy for families to grab a snack or enjoy a meal together in between adventures. Visit The Gingerbread House for Mother Goose Meals for kids, the Caboose Cafe while cooling down at Water Works, The Dining Depot, and The Watering Can. New for 2023 is Bubbles Bites Food Truck, which is located in the picnic area.
What to know before you go
From the moment Mother Goose greets you at the gates of Storybook Land, it’s a guaranteed adventure for story lovers and kids. Full of themed rides and interactive attractions, even parents can enjoy being a kid again during this fun day trip that exercises the imagination. Parking is free, and if you visit on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, purchasing a Christmas Weekend Ticket will automatically make a reservation for the date you selected. A reservation is required for the weekend days. Holiday tickets are $32.95+tax online and $35.95+tax if you buy at the gate. Tickets are required for adults and children ages 2 and up.
Storybook Land
6415 Black Horse Pike (Routes 40/322)
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
(609) 646-0103
Learn more about Storybook Land by visiting their website, Facebook, and Instagram.
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