It’s true that some of the best things to do in New Jersey are available all year long and entertain everyone in your family. The list of NJ attractions runs deep—whether you’re watching lions roar at the Turtle Back Zoo, spending time on a real wartime NJ Battleship, or hopping on an indoor roller coaster at Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream, you can find a new place to explore or hit again (and again) with your crew. Read on to find fun things to do in New Jersey, places to visit this weekend, and attractions near you for tons of fun in any season. (featured Photo Credit: American Dream Mall)
The Best Things To Do In New Jersey And Places To Visit—Guaranteed Fun For The Whole Family At These NJ Attractions
North Jersey
American Dream
With so many New Jersey attractions under one roof, American Dream is a one-stop shop of entertainment you can go to any time of the year. Kids will make a beeline to the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park with thrilling coasters and themed rides, and the Dreamworks Water Park, where it’s paradise every day. And if you’re up for skiing, you don’t have to pray for snow—this is the only place with a year-round ski and snow resort in the country. Other fun sites at American Dream include the wacky Tilt Museum, Angry Birds indoor mini golf, and Sea Life Aquarium.
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Branch Brook Park
When springtime is about to bloom, Branch Brook Park in Newark is the top spot to visit. With 5,200 cherry trees that peak in early spring, this park is the nation’s first county park and boasts the largest collection of cherry blossoms in NJ and the United States, rivaling the famous Washington, D.C. blooms. In addition, don’t miss the annual Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival, which offers events for the whole family during the peak blooms.
Park Avenue and Lake Street, Newark, NJ 07104
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Heading to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is more than just checking out the amazing landscape—it’s a park that spans 70,000 acres between NJ, Pennsylvania, and the Appalachian Mountains region. Get back to nature while enjoying calming landscapes, rich history, and year-round recreation, including hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping.
Several roads will be closed and will reopen after the winter, and top-priority roads will remain open
Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial
Twin walls transect a gently sloped mound leading directly toward Ground Zero at the Empty Sky Memorial. The length of each division at the memorial is precisely equal to one side of the former World Trade Center Towers, as the wall’s height reflects the proportion of the former buildings turned on their sides. There are 749 New Jersey victims named on the stainless steel walls, and it gives any visitor pause looking at them. This memorial is located at Liberty State Park and is open to visitors.
1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Land of Make Believe
Ready for action? Step into the Land of Make Believe for a day of amusement park fun for all ages. The whole fam will have a blast on the Rockin’ Tug Thrill Ride, or if you’re more daring, try the Scream Machine 360. When it’s time to cool off, check out the water playground featuring Black Beard’s Pirate Ship, where littles can scramble up the plank and practice their best “ahoy there, matey” impressions. This New Jersey attraction is open from May to September.
354 Great Meadows Road, Hope, NJ 07844
Liberty Science Center
Your budding scientist will be thrilled to see Liberty Science Center’s 12 museum exhibition halls, 110 species of animals, and the biggest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. This Jersey City must-see attraction also features hurricane and tornado simulators, aquariums, STEM exhibits, and revolving ones that incorporate interactive science education into fun themes like SUE: The T. Rex Experience or Daniel Tiger. And don’t miss the Infinity Climber—it’s the world’s first suspended play space of its kind.
222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park is a Hudson County gem with breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and ample outdoor space (1,212 acres, to be exact), making it a favorite for families. Pack a picnic lunch, take in views of Ellis Island and The Statue of Liberty, play on the large playground, stroll the 2-mile Liberty Walk Promenade, and enjoy the urban outdoors. Keep an eye on this park becoming even more fun—it’s undergoing a revitalization project with plans for a new area featuring sports fields and an amphitheater.
200 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Mountain Creek
No matter the season, Mountain Creek is a mecca for outdoor fun. In the winter, ski, snowboard, or even take a SNO-Go bike on the mountain in the fresh snow. In the spring and fall, test out their bike park, and in summer, take in the thrills and spills at their water park and Alpine adventure area with zip tours and a ropes course. Because there are so many things to do, plan an overnight stay at the nearby Crystal Springs Resort, one of the top resorts in NJ and the country.
200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ 07462
Nickelodeon Universe
The Largest Indoor Theme Park in the Western Hemisphere is at American Dream, and it has some of the world’s steepest, tallest, and longest rides. You can also take a ride on Blaze’s Monster Truck Rally, the Rugrats Reptar Go-Round, SpongeBob’s Jellyfish Jam, and the Skyline Scream. You can even meet your favorite characters like Blue’s Clues, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and SpongeBob Squarepants. After, you can head to the other parts of American Dream, including shopping, yummy snacks, and an indoor water park.
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is a cultural institution for the city of Newark and the state of New Jersey, offering world-class performances on its stage. From concerts to children’s programming to comedians, you can stay updated with NJPAC events on their calendar. There are also educational programs, free events, and sponsored festivals across the city.
1 Center Street, Newark, NJ 07102
Paterson Great Falls
Reconnect with nature at this national historical park and New Jersey tourist attraction. Home to the awe-inspiring Paterson Great Falls, a 77-foot-high waterfall on the Passaic River, this landmark and its surrounding park are rich in history. Additionally, Paterson Great Falls is home to Alexander Hamilton’s plan to make Paterson the center of the Industrial Revolution. On a gorgeous day, you can bring a picnic and take in the breathtaking sights.
72 McBride Avenue Extension, Paterson, NJ 07501
The Newark Museum of Art
Explore galleries with art from Global Africa to a Museum Garden with rotating exhibits at The Newark Museum of Art. There is no shortage of interactive activities to engage kids in geology, fire safety, renewable energy, and outer space. They won’t want to miss Family Saturdays, where little ones are introduced to the museum’s collections through songs, art, and storytelling. And if you are looking for things to do in New Jersey to fill up your calendar, don’t miss their special family events, such as movie nights and community art projects.
49 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07102
Turtle Back Zoo
The Turtle Back Zoo features habitats ranging from the barnyard to the Great Plains, making it one of the best NJ attractions. With animals from all over the world, it’s exciting to see them hanging out in recreated natural environments. Littles will love the old-fashioned choo-choo, which gives you a scenic ride around the adjoining pond and wooded areas. After that, check out the African Adventure section, the newest part of the park, which features lions, giraffes, hyenas, and, most recently, penguins. But don’t forget to finish the day with a Zootopia Box Meal.
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
Wild West City
At the western heritage-themed Wild West City, littles can get their cowboy fix and travel back to Dodge City circa 1880. The train, pony ride, mini-golf course, barnyard zoo, and select “living history” stations are perfect for your little cowboy or cowgirl. This Wild West town is open from May through October and has special events throughout the year, like the Haunted Wild West Fest in October.
50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope, NJ 07874
Central Jersey
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Heading down to LBI? Be sure to stop by Barnegat Lighthouse State Park at the northern tip. The Old Barney is known for having been one of the most important navigational points for ships during the 19th and 20th centuries. With a historic lighthouse that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s at the top of the list for NJ tourist attractions. This 32-acre park makes for a great day trip any time of the year, and with a recent renovation, it’s worth a visit to learn more about our state’s nautical history. The lighthouse is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006
Casino Pier in Seaside Heights
Boardwalks are some of the best things to do in New Jersey, and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights is iconic, especially since it was rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Take a spin on the Ferris wheel, find speed in the roller coasters, or whirl around in family-friendly coasters. Additionally, if you need a break from the rides, putt-putt at one of two mini golf courses, test out the Go-Kart track, or let your kiddos win big at the carnival-style games. Starting Memorial Day, you can get wet and wild at Breakwater Beach, the waterpark at Casino Pier, with a wave pool, lazy river, and thrilling slides.
800 Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights, NJ 08751
Grounds For Sculpture
Your kids will be in awe of this interactive museum, which showcases life-size art in an unusual way. This unique NJ attraction has nearly 300 contemporary sculptures in a park-like setting covering 42 landscaped acres. Check out the larger-than-life art, or wander through the landscape to view ponds, wildflowers, and architectural reflecting pools.
80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619
Island Beach State Park
This narrow barrier island stretches 10 miles between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. It features dunes, freshwater wetlands, tidal marshes, white-sand beaches, marine plants, and wildlife that looks much as it did thousands of years ago. But Island Beach State Park is more than just a beach—it also has hiking trails, biking paths along the main road, and areas for kayaking and paddleboarding, making a day there full of adventure.
2401 Central Avenue, Seaside Park, NJ 08752
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Aquarium
With games and rides, a long sandy beach, diverse food stands, and an aquarium worth checking out, Jenkinson’s is an entertaining way to spend the day or weekend. Whether your littles like to play boardwalk games or take a spin on a train ride in their ride park, you can find plenty to do, even if you don’t step on the sand. Sample some boardwalk food like Kohr’s ice cream, crispy fries, or fresh seafood, and then cool down with some indoor arcade games or step outside to take a swing at mini golf. And if you’re up for more exploring, Point Pleasant Beach has an adorable downtown area with shops, restaurants, and more.
Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Sandy Hook—Gateway National Recreation Center
One of the most popular national parks in the country, Sandy Hook is known for its unique ecosystem (a beach and a maritime forest with a large population of wildlife), making it a great place to spend a family day connecting with nature. There are designated picnic areas, basketball and tennis courts, and, of course, the beach.
128 South Hartshorne Drive, Highlands, NJ 07732
Six Flags Great Adventure
New Jersey’s largest theme park, Six Flags Great Adventure, should take a top seed on your list of New Jersey attractions. The main park typically opens in March and stays primarily through the Fall, with Halloween events. Aside from thrilling rides for kids of all ages, their Safari Off-Road Adventure allows the whole family to learn about animals and conservation efforts firsthand—up close and personal, from the comfort and safety of a Safari Truck. From May to September, get wet and wild at Six Flags’ water park, Hurricane Harbor, and spend the rest of the day sliding and splashing on the lazy river and pools.
1 Six Flags Boulevard, Jackson, NJ 08527
South Jersey
Adventure Aquarium
Sink into the ocean and go deep diving at Adventure Aquarium in Camden. As you meander through the aquarium (rated #4 in the country by USA Today), you’ll see tropical and colorful fish, lovable hippos, super-sized sea turtles, and the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast. Plus, it’s one of only six facilities in the United States to have Little Blue Penguins, the smallest species of penguins in the world. Get up the courage to walk down the V-shaped rope shark suspension bridge hovering above the 21-foot-deep Shark Realm exhibit, and you’ll be rewarded with amazing up-close views of the 550,000-gallon tank with sharks swimming underneath your feet.
1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103
Battleship New Jersey
Hop aboard “Big J,” “BB 62” (for Battleship #62), “Black Dragon,” or what we all know today as Battleship New Jersey (America’s most decorated Battleship). Tour this historical ship, exploring everything from the crew’s mess to turbines and propeller shafts.
62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ 08103
Cape May County Park and Zoo
The Cape May County Park and Zoo is one of the must-do attractions in New Jersey, and it’s free (donations are appreciated). Start the adventure, where you’ll see animals like alpacas, snow leopards, and everything in between, and then end with a ride on the zoo-themed carousel. You can even take a private zoo tour or “adopt” an animal where your family can provide its care for a year (and receive an official adoption certificate, too). The zoo is open daily, but check ahead because hours change with the seasons.
707 North Route 9, Cape May, NJ 08210
Diggerland USA
Kids who love dump trucks and watching construction vehicle YouTube videos will be in awe at Diggerland USA —America’s only construction theme and water park. Families can operate specially engineered machinery and swim, soak, and slide in the themed water park area. In the fall, check out the annual Diggerfest from September to November, and starting in mid-November, get into the holiday spirit at the Holiday Light Show.
100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ 08091
Jen & Ric Edelman Fossil Park and Museum at Rowan University
This new museum, located above a quarry filled with 66-million-year-old marine and terrestrial fossils, will display a record of the final moments of the dinosaur world. The museum features exhibit galleries, full-scale reconstructions of extinct creatures, hands-on learning experiences, live animal attractions, virtual reality, connections to the natural world, and gathering spaces to build a community around the themes of exploration, discovery, and responsible stewardship of our planet.
625 Woodbury Glassboro Road, Mantua Township, NJ 08080
Lucy The Elephant
The 6-story Lucy The Elephant was built in 1881, and it is the oldest roadside attraction in the world, earning the honor of being a US National Landmark. Sign up for a tour of this historical NJ attraction, which once housed a tavern and has also been an Airbnb. Don’t miss Lucy’s birthday party every July when she gets a new pedicure for the big event.
9200 Atlantic Avenue, Margate City, NJ 08402
Morey’s Piers
Morey’s Piers in Wildwood is the quintessential Jersey Shore boardwalk—with three separate oceanfront piers, two water parks, and plenty of spots to have an afternoon snack—everyone can have a blast on the boards. Hop from pier to pier filled with attractions where you can splash down a water slide, reach the sky on the Ferris wheel, or test your mini-golf skills at the Starlux. Above all, there is no shortage of summertime fun at Morey’s Piers, one of our favorite things to do in New Jersey.
3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260
Steel Pier
Rides, amusements, games, food, and drink — Steel Pier in Atlantic City is the most historic boardwalk in NJ (it opened over a century ago) and is world-famous, having been the backdrop to countless movies and TV shows. Additionally, you can take a pedicab on the boardwalk and stop by the rides, including the carousel and 277-foot-tall Ferris wheel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Also, during the summer, Steel Pier heats up with festivals and specials—check their Facebook page to stay up to date on upcoming events.
100 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Storybook Land
Timeless childhood tales come to life in rides and kid attractions at this beloved 20-acre family amusement park. You’ll love seeing your kids’ faces as they ride the spinning teacups, a carousel, a railroad train, and the flying elephants, and meet their favorite storybook characters in person. Storybook Land is open from March to December, with special events year-round.
6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
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