Family Fun In New Jersey

When you’re looking for all-ages good times, the Garden State features a whole host of places to play, awesome adventures to tackle and exciting things to see and do.

Historic Sites: Lady Liberty, Ellis Island and More

Many cities are known for their landmark attractions and unique array of cultures and community—and Jersey City is one of them. This bustling urban playground features Liberty State Park, a lush oasis in the middle of the city. The park has served a vital role in the development of New Jersey's metropolitan region and the history of the nation. Boasting Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island views, the park showcases the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal (CRRNJ), the heart of our state's transportation history. Other park features include Liberty Walk, an outdoor performance area and the state-of-the-art Liberty Science Center with fascinating exhibits for the whole family. Nestled on the bank of the Hudson River, Liberty State Park is the only location in New Jersey operating ferry service to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Beautiful Beach Towns

The Wildwoods in southern New Jersey are renowned for their days and nights of fun and celebration for visitors of every age. In addition to an expansive beach, there are 38 blocks of exciting boardwalk attractions, restaurants and shopping, including three incredible amusement piers that have delighted families for years. And there are water parks, water sports, fishing, concerts, special events and much, much more. Other Jersey Shore towns that create equally ideal settings for memorable vacations include Seaside Heights with its lively boardwalk and water park, charming Victorian Cape May and family-friendly Point Pleasant Beach. Another two coastal destinations—Ocean Grove and Spring Lake—bring visitors back year-after-year, thanks to their peacefully elegant settings.

Spectacular Outdoor Sites

For good times in the great outdoors, visit Mountain Creek in Vernon. This resort boasts a massive water park and bike park, a premier destination for cycling rugged trails. Nearby is Crystal Springs Resort, which offers fabulous accommodations and dining, plus six golf courses nestled within some of the state's most idyllic landscapes. This picturesque region of the state is dotted with farms that feature pick-your-own Jersey Fresh produce, and the area is also home to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, encompassing over 70,000 acres of breathtaking scenery along the Delaware River, which winds through the Appalachian Mountains. There are waterfalls and many outdoor activities, including canoeing, hiking, camping, biking, fishing and more.

For fun on the water, try tubing down the Delaware River. Or hit Jackson, host to Six Flags Great Adventure & Wild Safari, a massive seasonal theme park with rides of all sizes and speeds, shows and attractions, plus Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, where you can slip and slide into fun at their thrilling water park.

For family time along New Jersey's west coast, the Camden Waterfront delivers a mix of history, underwater mystery and entertainment. It’s home to the Battleship New Jersey, America’s most decorated warship, which now serves as a museum. There's the not-to-be-missed Adventure Aquarium with its walk-through 40-foot shark tunnel and a Waterfront Music Pavilion, the site of major year-round live concerts. 

The Roar of the Track

Start your engines at the New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) in Millville. Situated on more than 500 acres, NJMP offers an incredible number of dynamic attractions. This state-of-the art park features two separate world-class road courses plus a first-class karting circuit, where kids of all ages can experience the thrill and excitement of real kart racing. For teen and adult fun off the track, groups can hit the target with an axe throwing experience.

No matter what your interests or passions, New Jersey has a destination that will thrill, enlighten, entertain and enrich all visitors. For even more ideas, check out our things to do page, download a free travel guide or sign up for our e-newsletter. As always, we recommend visiting the official website or social media channels for your preferred attraction before heading out the door for the latest visitor information.