Hey, all you awesome parents out there looking for fun things to do with the kids this summer… I see you! Here’s a list of a few great places in Central and Northern New Jersey that I thought you’d like. Enjoy!
Free Waterpark for a hot summer day
Dorbrook Recreation Area’s Sprayground in Colts Neck, NJ
A waterpark for young children – the “sprayground” – is amazing and completely free! The perfect place to play and cool down this summer. This park also has a few jungle gyms and an awesome sand pit! Surrounding the park is a paved pathway to walk/jog on which is also perfect for the kids to ride their bikes on. Definitely a must-do this summer!
Don’t forget your bikes, bathing suits, shovels/pail, picnic lunch and sunscreen!
Do you believe in Magic? Do your kids?
The Fairy Trail at the South Mountain Reservation in Millburn, NJ
A local artist has been making fairy homes and placing them along a hiking trail in Millburn, NJ. They’re inside of logs and under trees. There are fairy benches and ladders everywhere. You can bring the kids here for a magical afternoon searching for the mythical creatures along the trail. It’s so much fun and makes an awesome family adventure!
Don’t forget to dress up with sparkles and fairy wings, and bring your camera to capture the excitement and oddities!
For the Train-Obsessed kids
The Whippany Railway Museum in Whippany, NJ
Do you have a toddler who loves trains and cars? (Who doesn’t? – that’s the real question.) This is the place to bring them! It features a railway with multiple trains on it that your child will LOVE. It is totally free to walk around and look at and makes a great activity for the family. Throughout the year there are many events planned for holidays in which you can take a quick train ride. Check their webpage for info around Christmas and Easter, as well as their summer events!
Don’t forget to bring all your car and train toys and a picnic lunch!
For the Nature Enthusiast
Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown, NJ
54 acres of greenhouses and gardens makes for a great day of exploring with the little ones!
They even have a Garden Safari Adventure you can go on for free if you head to the front desk and ask for the backpack.
For you garden lovers, they also offer a variety of classes throughout the spring and summer months which are so amazing.
Don’t forget your magnifying glass, a waterbottle, some snacks, and your sunscreen!
Did I miss one of your favorite activities? Tell me about it in the comments below so I can head out and explore somewhere new this year!