10 Best Places to Visit in New Jersey with Family

New Jersey is a perfect destination for families with children of all ages, offering a wide array of activities that cater to their interests. The Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill offers an immersive experience for families with younger children that encourages learning through play. There's also the educational farm Howell Living History Farm, where children can interact with farm animals and learn about farm life. Another popular attraction is the outdoor train ride at Northlandz, a fascinating experience that takes visitors on a scenic tour of Flemington.

Older kids will enjoy the exciting exhibits and rides at the Liberty Science Center, a science museum located in Jersey City. The Northlandz Miniature Wonderland in Flemington offers an impressive display of model trains and intricate dioramas that will delight train enthusiasts of all ages. Additionally, Six Flags Great Adventure offers a thrilling amusement park experience with an impressive collection of roller coasters and other attractions sure to excite older children.

Explore the Northlandz - Miniature Wonderland

Northlandz is a unique destination in New Jersey that boasts the world's largest collection of model trains. Spanning over 16 acres, this museum showcases a miniature world filled with lifelike features and set in a natural environment. Created by Bruce William, who initially used leftover materials from his construction work to build model trains, the museum features over 100 trains traveling an eight-mile route with hundreds of mountains and tunnels. With self-guided tours, a large courtyard, and a life-size outdoor train, Northlandz is an unforgettable attraction recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records and other major media.

Visitors to Northlandz can expect to spend several hours exploring the attraction's many exhibits, including the Miniature Doll Museum, which features over 2,000 dolls in a 94-room dollhouse that adds to the fun for children. The attraction is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for all visitors to enjoy the experience.

For those planning a visit to Northlandz, it's recommended to allocate at least two to three hours to explore the museum's many scenes and exhibits. As there will be a lot of walking, comfortable shoes are a must, and bringing a camera to capture the amazing sights is highly recommended.

Northlandz is located in Flemington and is a must-see destination for visitors to the area. Whether you're a model train enthusiast or just looking for a fun and unique experience with the family, Northlandz offers something for everyone. The Full-size steam locomotive outdoor train also offers rides for all ages, adding to the overall experience of this fascinating attraction. With its impressive collection of model trains, beautiful natural setting, and fascinating exhibits, Northlandz is a one-of-a-kind destination you won't miss.

Visit Thomas Edison National Historical Park

One of the top attractions in New Jersey is the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, located in West Orange. This park is dedicated to honoring the legacy of one of the world's most prolific inventors, Thomas Edison. It is home to his laboratory complex, where he developed some of his most significant inventions, such as the phonograph, motion pictures, and the storage battery. Visitors to the park can explore the laboratory complex, the Glenmont Estate, and the charming Main Street area, all of which provide an immersive experience into the life and work of Thomas Edison.

The Thomas Edison National Historical Park offers a variety of guided tours, including a factory tour that takes visitors through the machine shops, pattern storage area, and the dynamo room. The laboratory tour takes visitors through Edison's research laboratory, where he developed his most famous inventions. Another tour option is the Glenmont Estate tour, which takes visitors through the home where Edison and his family resided. Along the way, visitors can explore the charming Main Street area, which features a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.

The Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, science, and innovation. It offers an educational and inspiring experience that highlights Edison's incredible contributions to society and his significant impact on the modern world. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and informative outing with the family, the Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a top-rated attraction that you won't want to miss.

View Statues at the Grounds for Sculpture

The Grounds for Sculpture is a unique destination located in Hamilton, New Jersey, which features over 270 sculptures spread across 42 acres of stunning landscaped gardens. The park provides visitors with an immersive experience that combines art, nature, and architecture in a breathtaking display. One of the most popular features of the Grounds for Sculpture is the extensive collection of sculptures that are on display throughout the park. The sculptures, which range from abstract to representational, are created by both well-known and emerging artists from around the world.

Visitors to the Grounds for Sculpture can explore the outdoor sculptures, which are integrated into the natural landscape and offer a dynamic and ever-changing experience. The indoor galleries also feature an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and other works of art, making it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts of all ages.

One of the most notable features of the Grounds for Sculpture is the life-sized sculptures of people and animals that are scattered throughout the park. These sculptures are incredibly lifelike and provide an interactive experience for visitors, as they can touch and take photos with the sculptures.

The Grounds for Sculpture is a one-of-a-kind destination that provides visitors with a unique experience that combines art, nature, and architecture in a beautiful and immersive display. The park offers something for everyone, from art lovers to nature enthusiasts, and is a great destination for families and friends to enjoy together.

View the Exhibit at the Newark Museum of Art

The Newark Museum of Art is one of the most highly regarded cultural destinations in New Jersey, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of exhibits and collections. The museum's extensive collection of American and international art includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts from a wide range of cultures and time periods.

The museum is home to one of the most significant collections of Tibetan art in the world, featuring over 5,000 objects. Visitors can explore the Tibetan galleries, which include intricate sand mandalas, thangkas, sculptures, and other works of art.

The museum also features a wide range of contemporary art exhibits, including works by emerging and established artists. Visitors can explore the contemporary art galleries, which showcase a range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, video, and installation art.

In addition to its art collections, the Newark Museum of Art also features exhibits on natural history, science, and technology. The Dreyfuss Planetarium, located within the museum, offers visitors the chance to explore the wonders of the cosmos and learn about astronomy through immersive shows and interactive exhibits.

The Newark Museum of Art also hosts a range of educational programs, events, and activities for visitors of all ages. From hands-on workshops for children to lectures and tours for adults, there is always something to see and do at the museum.

Visit Liberty Science Center with your family

The Liberty Science Center is a must-visit destination in New Jersey for families looking for a fun and educational experience. The interactive science museum is located in Jersey City and features hands-on exhibits and programs that explore a wide range of scientific topics.

One of the center's most popular attractions is the Touch Tunnel, where visitors crawl through a pitch-black maze to reach the other side. The Infinity Climber, a suspended play space, is also a favorite among visitors.

The museum also features a range of exhibits on topics such as robotics, engineering, and health and wellness. Visitors can explore the world of science through interactive exhibits that allow them to build and test structures, simulate earthquakes, and learn about the human body.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Liberty Science Center also hosts a range of traveling exhibits throughout the year. Past exhibits have included "Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice" and "The Science of Pixar."

The Liberty Science Center is also home to the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can experience immersive shows that explore the cosmos and take them on virtual journeys through space.

The center offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages, including summer camps, after-school programs, and field trips. There are also programs specifically designed for toddlers and preschoolers, as well as special events and activities for families.

With its engaging exhibits, educational programs, and state-of-the-art planetarium, the Liberty Science Center is a perfect destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience.

Go to Six Flags Great Adventure

The Six Flags Great Adventure is a thrilling amusement park Located in Jackson, New Jersey, and offers fun and excitement for the whole family. With over 12 roller coasters, live shows, and a water park, there's no shortage of entertainment options for visitors.

Thrill-seekers will love the park's collection of roller coasters, which includes some of the tallest and fastest in the world. The Kingda Ka, for example, is the world's tallest roller coaster, standing at a towering 456 feet. The park's other popular coasters include the Nitro, Bizarro, and El Toro, which feature the steepest drop in the world.

Families with young children can enjoy the park's selection of family-friendly rides, such as the Big Wheel, Skyway, and Runaway Mine Train. The park also has a water park, Hurricane Harbor, which offers a range of water attractions, including a lazy river and a wave pool.

In addition to its rides and attractions, Six Flags Great Adventure also hosts a variety of live shows throughout the day. Visitors can watch performances by singers, dancers, and acrobats, or catch one of the park's signature stunt shows.

The park offers a variety of dining options, including traditional amusement parks fare such as hot dogs and funnel cakes, as well as sit-down restaurants and snack stand. Visitors can also purchase a souvenir bottle that can be refilled throughout the day at any of the park's drink stations.

The Six Flags Great Adventure is open seasonally from April to December, with special events and activities throughout the year. With its wide variety of rides, shows, and attractions, Six Flags Great Adventure is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and thrilling day out.

Go to Hurricane Harbor with your family

Hurricane Harbor, located in Jackson, New Jersey, is a premier water park that provides a refreshing escape for the whole family. The park boasts a wide range of water rides and attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors of all ages.

The park's collection of water rides includes thrilling slides and wave pools, as well as a lazy river and a large family play area. The park's signature ride, Big Wave Racer, features six lanes where riders can race each other to the finish. For those who want to take it slow and relax, the Taak It Eez Ee Creek offers a tranquil float through the park.

Hurricane Harbor also offers a variety of food options, from quick bites like hot dogs and burgers to full-service restaurants. Visitors can take advantage of the park's dining plan, which allows them to pre-purchase meals and snacks for the day.

In addition to its rides and attractions, Hurricane Harbor hosts a variety of events throughout the season, including dive-in movies and live music performances. The park also offers private cabanas for rent, which provide a comfortable and shaded place to relax and enjoy the water park.

Visitors should plan to arrive early, as the park can become quite crowded on hot days. The park offers a variety of ticket options, including season passes and group rates. Visitors can also purchase a Quick Queue pass, which allows them to skip the lines on some of the park's most popular rides.

Overall, Hurricane Harbor is a great destination for families looking to beat the summer heat and enjoy a day of fun in the sun. With its exciting rides and attractions, delicious food options, and various events, Hurricane Harbor offers something for everyone.

Take Your Family to the Turtle Back Zoo

The Turtle Back Zoo, located in West Orange, New Jersey, is a perfect destination for families looking to enjoy a fun-filled day. The zoo features over 100 different species of animals from all around the world, with a special emphasis on animals that are native to New Jersey.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the park and observe a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and bears, as well as reptiles, birds, and many other creatures. The zoo also offers a number of educational exhibits and programs, including an animal hospital where visitors can see how injured or sick animals are cared for and treated.

One of the highlights of the Turtle Back Zoo is the Essex County Reptile House, which houses a variety of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles. Visitors can see up close and learn about many species, including the massive Burmese python and the colorful chameleon. Another popular exhibit is the Sea Lion Sound, where visitors can observe and learn about these fascinating marine mammals.

The zoo also features a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities for children. Kids can feed the goats and sheep at the petting zoo, and enjoy the playground and the carousel. The zoo offers several events and programs throughout the year, including nighttime safaris, behind-the-scenes tours, and animal encounters.

In addition to its animal exhibits and programs, the Turtle Back Zoo offers various dining and shopping options. Visitors can choose from a variety of food and beverage stands, and browse the gift shop for souvenirs and other items.

Overall, the Turtle Back Zoo is an excellent destination for families looking to spend a day exploring and learning about the animals of the world. With its diverse collection of creatures, engaging educational exhibits, and fun-filled activities, the zoo offers something for visitors of all ages.

Visit the Adventure Aquarium

The Adventure Aquarium, located in Camden, New Jersey, is an exciting and educational destination that the whole family can enjoy. The aquarium features over 15,000 animals from all over the world, including sharks, penguins, sea turtles, and a variety of fish.

One of the highlights of the Adventure Aquarium is the Shark Realm exhibit, which features a 550,000-gallon tank that is home to a wide variety of shark species, including sand tiger sharks and black tip sharks. Visitors can walk through a glass tunnel and observe the sharks swimming around them. The aquarium also offers a shark touch exhibit, where visitors can touch and learn about the smaller sharks.

In addition to its animal exhibits, the Adventure Aquarium offers a variety of interactive experiences and programs. Visitors can feed and touch stingrays, take a behind-the-scenes tour, or participate in a sleepover event where they can spend the night in the aquarium and observe the animals after dark.

Overall, the Adventure Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families looking to explore and learn about the world's oceans and their inhabitants. With its diverse collection of aquatic creatures, engaging educational exhibits, and fun-filled activities, the aquarium provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Catch the View of Lighthouse State Park

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park Located on the northern tip of Long Beach Island, New Jersey, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. The park is home to Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as "Old Barney," which stands at 165 feet tall and is a popular destination for visitors

Visitors can climb the lighthouse's 217 steps to reach the top and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The climb can be strenuous, but the panoramic view of the beach and bay is well worth it.

In addition to the lighthouse, the state park features a museum that tells the history of the lighthouse and the surrounding area. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the maritime history of Barnegat Lighthouse and its importance to seafarers.

The park also offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. Visitors can fish along the beach or the jetty, and the beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The park has picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic.

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with a variety of species that can be spotted throughout the year. The park also hosts various educational programs and events, including guided nature walks and stargazing sessions.

Overall, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the New Jersey shore. With its stunning views, historic lighthouse, and variety of recreational opportunities, the park provides a fun and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

No matter what your family's interests are, New Jersey has something for everyone. Theme parks, movie theaters, county fairs, and sports fields are just a few of the many attractions that provide endless entertainment for families. New Jersey is an excellent vacation destination for families and friends to spend quality time together, create lasting memories, and experience the state's unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. With its diverse offerings and endless possibilities, it's no wonder that New Jersey is a top family-friendly destination.