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 sideways. 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

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Step back to prehistoric times at this northern New Jersey attraction featuring over 30 moving and roaring life-size dinos. Kids will love being paleontologists for the day, and you won’t believe how realistic the T-Rex and other dino species look and react. Beyond the dinos, watch the exciting shows, fossil digging, and a sky-high Jurassic Jump. The Field Station: Dinosaurs is open from May to November.
3 Overpeck Park Driveway, Leonia, NJ 07605

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 has hurricane and tornado simulators, aquariums, STEM exhibits, and revolving ones that feature interactive science education incorporated into fun themes like Curious George or Pixar. And don’t miss the Infinity Climber—it’s the world’s first suspended play space of its kind.
222 Jersey City Blvd., 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—the park is undergoing a revitalization project, with plans for a new area featuring sports fields and an amphitheater.
200 Morris Pesin Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305

Mountain Creek

No matter what season it is, Mountain Creek has 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 nestled within the Passaic River, this landmark and 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 for kids to engage them 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 is a zoo comprising different animal habitats, from the barnyard to the Great Plains, making it one of the best NJ attractions. With multiple species from all over the world, it’s exciting to see the animals hanging out in re-created natural environments. Littles will love the old-fashioned choo-choo, which gives you a scenic ride around the adjoining pond and wooded areas. After, check out the African Adventure section, the newest part of the park, which features lions, giraffes, hyenas, and the recent addition of 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 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 to have been one of the most important navigational points for ships at one time. 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. 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 sandy beaches, marine plants, and wildlife that looks the same 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 to kayak and paddle board, making a day there full of adventure. 
2401 Central Ave, 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 because of its unique ecosystem (it has a beach and a maritime forest with a large population of wildlife), Sandy Hook is where you can 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 and most popular theme parks, Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari Off-Road Adventure, should take a top seed on your list of New Jersey attractions. The main park typically opens in March and stays primarily through Christmas, with Halloween and holiday 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 Flag’s water park, Hurricane Harbor, and spend the rest of the day sliding and splashing on the lazy river and pools.
1 Six Flags Blvd, 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 propellor 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

Lucy The Elephant

The 6-story Lucy The Elephant was built in 1881, and it is the oldest roadside attraction in the world, even 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 Ave, 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 boards 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 keep up with 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 spinning teacups, a carousel, a railroad train ride, and flying elephants and meet their favorite storybook characters in person. Storybook Land is open from March to December, with special events all year round.
6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

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