Moving to a new town or even going on vacation in a new town can be scary, especially when you have a family. When you live in a big city such as New York, it is hard to imagine life in a small city in New Jersey. The first time my family and I visited New Jersey, we were crossing our fingers, hoping it wouldn’t be as boring as we suspected. Fortunately, it was a fun-filled galore, and we even came back several more times. If you are thinking of going on a vacation to New Jersey or even moving there permanently, don’t worry, there are a lot of activities to keep your whole family busy. Here are a few.
Aquariums
Kids love aquariums, so this is a part of New Jersey your whole family will enjoy.
1. Jenkinson’s Aquarium
The Jenkinson’s Aquarium is amazing and is located on the boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach. It will provide a fun learning experience for the whole family. Here you can find penguins, parrots, monkeys, sharks, and even sea horses.
It is open throughout the year, only closing on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. Apart from the aquarium, they have a bar and grill where you can get a bite to eat. They also host birthday parties for kids.
2. Adventure Aquarium
This aquarium was formerly known as the New Jersey State Aquarium. It provides a beautiful exhibit for you and the kids. There is a tunnel where you get to see sharks swim over your head allowing you to literally touch one. It is huge and will fill your kids with awe and wonder. It is one of the few places where you will find the hammerhead shark and the Little Blue penguins. The penguins are utterly adorable. They even allow you to host birthday parties for kids, and the exhibitions are endless. This is an ideal location for some quality family time.
Water parks
If you are looking for a fun place to cool off, New Jersey is the place to be. There is an assortment of water parks for the whole family. If you love water as much as I do, you will not be disappointed.
1. Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach Waterpark
This place is located at the heart of Jersey Shore. The Breakwater Beach Waterpark has an assortment of activities. It has a wave pool where both adults and kids can enjoy themselves thoroughly. It also has an aqua drop free fall and a body slide among other fun activities. Just across the Breakwater Beach Waterpark is the Casino Pier. This is a place for every thrill seeker, kids and adults alike. This place has roller coasters and Ferris wheels to give you a shot of adrenaline. This place also comes with bumper cars and air races This place is a dream come true. It comes with boats and motorbikes for little kids. It has almost any family fun activity you could think of. The Pier grill and food stands offer delicious food that will keep you content throughout your visit. Needless to say, you won’t want to leave this place.
2. Mountain Creek Water Park
Found in the northern part of New Jersey, this water park is the place to be. It is located in a place with mountains, making it utterly beautiful. There are over 30 fun activities for both adults and kids, making this a family affair. This place is fantastic. It has a zero gravity loop thrill slide that you will not soon forget. Apart from the water park, the resort also offers other activities such as golf, a treescape rope course, a zip tour, skiing, biking, and a kids’ camp. They also offer dining facilities. You will definitely be back for more!
Amusement parks
If you have kids, amusement parks are definitely a must. Fortunately, in New Jersey, you are spoiled for choice.
1. iPlay America
This is a large indoor amusement park that has something for everyone. Located in central Jersey, it is full of fun activities. Activities here include laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, mini bowling, a carousel, and an arcade with hundreds of video skill and crane games. Food is also readily available here, and I must say it’s quite good. There is amazing pizza sold at Rob’s Pizza, while those with a sweet tooth can get tons of candy at Broadway Sweets. The Mixx caters to lovers of yogurt, and there are scrumptious toppings available too. Game Time Bar & Grill is also an amazing restaurant found within iPlay America. Here you get to watch a game while enjoying your burger and fries. You also get to play pool if you want to, and there is plenty of entertainment. This amusement park offers a variety of party packages for kids, teens, and even adults wanting to host parties here. You definitely want to visit this place when in New Jersey.
2. Lucky Leo’s
Located in Seaside Heights’ busy boardwalk on the Jersey shore, this is a place every kid should get to visit at least once. The indoor amusement arcade offers several games such as Deal or no deal, cranes, and little speedy. Kids generally love this place. You can easily arrange for your kid’s birthday party to be held here. They offer amazing packages consisting of cake, pizza, soda, free video games, a party host, and a t-shirt for the birthday child. It’s bound to be a memorable experience.
Zoos
There are several zoos in New Jersey to keep your whole family both educated and thoroughly entertained.
1. Cape May County Park and Zoo
This is a place for all animal lovers. It is located near the Cape May court house and is loved for its proximity to the Jersey shore. Did I mention that admission is free? Well, it is, and it’s open 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. During fall and winter, it closes at 3:30 p.m., while during summer and spring it closes at 4:30 p.m. It is only closed on Christmas. There are a variety of animals to see here such as lions, cheetahs, and alpacas. You can also go cycling or hiking here. Fitness buffs will love this place. They also have a gazebo that overlooks the park lake and water fountain. This breathtaking scene is popular for weddings. If you want to renew your vows, this is a beautiful option.
Sports centers
New Jersey is home to many sports facilities. Sports lovers will not be disappointed. In fact, they will be thrilled. After all, New Jersey is home to many athletic people.
1. Lefty’s sports academy
Located in Clifton, Lefty’s Sports Academy is all about baseball and softball. My husband and sons are obsessed with this place. Here they offer top-notch training with amazing coaches who are very attentive. This is the best place to nurture your child’s talent while allowing them to enjoy themselves. The facilities are high caliber, and they also offer camps and clinics. Parties are also included in the activities. Individual and team training are offered, and a shop with all equipment you may need is available. Camps and clinics are also endless. Children love this place.
2. Speed Raceway
This is for the love of all things speed. This place is located in central New Jersey and is the largest indoor electric go-kart facility on the East Coast. It has two European-inspired race tracks which are constantly full of little boys and their dads. If you have sons, you definitely should look into taking them here. They can even have their birthday party here. It offers a first come first serve service, and at the end of the races provides the racer with statistics on their performance. Registration is computerized. This place is quite organized, if you ask me.
3. New Jersey Rock Gym
For a complete workout plus family time, this is the perfect place. New Jersey Rock Gym is found in Fairfield and has over 12,000 square feet of climbing surfaces. Here you get to enjoy the endless joy of indoor rock climbing. Training is available for children at different levels, ranging from beginners to advanced level. Competitions are also held here, making it even more enjoyable. Bouldering is also offered for those who may be unsure about heights. There is a refreshment room and lounge with wireless Internet access, highly increasing its appeal.
Conclusion
Apart from these activities, there are many more things to do in New Jersey. It is definitely a family paradise that you can’t afford to miss out on. If you are planning to move there or just vacation with the family, worry not, this place will give you memories to last you a lifetime.
