Fun Family Outings in New Jersey Worth the Journey from NYC
Exploring beyond the bustling city of New York, families can find a wealth of entertainment options just a stone's throw away in New Jersey. Here are some family-friendly day trips within two hours that cater to various interests, including theme parks, zoos, and botanical gardens.
**1. American Dream, East Rutherford, NJ**
Located approximately 30 minutes from NYC, American Dream is a vast entertainment complex that offers a plethora of activities for all ages. Highlights include:
- Nickelodeon Universe: An indoor theme park packed with rides and attractions inspired by beloved Nickelodeon characters. - DreamWorks Water Park: The largest indoor water park in North America, featuring slides, wave pools, and splash zones. - Sea Life Aquarium: Underwater exhibits showcasing thousands of fish, sharks, and rays. - Big Snow American Dream: Indoor ski and snow activities for winter fun, regardless of the weather.
Additional attractions include Angry Birds Mini Golf and the Dream Wheel, offering stunning views of the New York skyline.
**2. Cape May Zoo, Cape May, NJ**
A highly recommended zoo, Cape May Zoo offers a variety of animals in a family-friendly setting. Located within a two-hour drive from NYC, it is a favourite family destination.
**3. Longwood Gardens (nearby NJ or PA border region)**
Known for its stunning botanical gardens, seasonal flower displays, and family-oriented events, Longwood Gardens provides a beautiful day trip for families interested in gardens and nature.
**Additional Options in New Jersey:**
- Morey’s Piers in Wildwood: A boardwalk amusement park with rides and attractions suitable for kids, about 2 hours away. - Various petting zoos and alpaca farms scattered throughout New Jersey cater to animal lovers and younger kids.
These destinations offer diverse experiences — from thrilling rides at theme parks to interactive animal encounters and serene botanical gardens — all reachable within a two-hour drive or transit ride from New York City, making them ideal family-friendly day trips in New Jersey.
Other noteworthy attractions include Bubble Planet, an whimsical attraction filled with themed rooms filled with bubbles and fun photo sessions, located at the American Dream Mall. For those who love adventure, Diggerland USA allows visitors to drive and operate big machines like construction vehicles. Additionally, the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City's Liberty State Park is a popular educational destination for families, featuring over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space, including a hurricane and tornado force wind simulators.
Lastly, Storybook Land is a magical themed park in Egg Harbor Township, NJ, featuring childhood story characters and attractions. Meanwhile, Skylands Botanical Garden in Ringwood, NJ, offers walking trails, well-maintained gardens, and guided walks for families. Big Kahuna's Water Park + Arcade, located approximately an hour by car and 2 hours by train/bus, offers indoor and outdoor water activities, arcade games, and more.
The city of New York is often considered an ideal playground for families, but these day trips in New Jersey offer a refreshing change of pace and a world of new experiences just a short journey away.
- Despite the thrill of Nickelodeon Universe and the underwater wonders of Sea Life Aquarium, families might find relief from the pace of the city at Big Snow American Dream, where indoor winter activities provide a unique home-and-garden experience.
- When a break from city life and travel is desired, Cape May Zoo in Cape May, NJ offers aFamily-friendly day out, integrating various animals into a serene and relaxing lifestyle setting.
