If you have been following me on stories recently or if you have been a follower of mine for some time, you know I love to explore new day trip destinations around New Jersey with my little ones. If you have kids, or know anyone that has kids, I’m sure you have quickly realized that having a plan for the day is much easier than not. The days I think we are going to stay home and “chill” turns into a day where I want to pull my hair out. After many days of having to learn (and relearn) this lesson, I have compiled a list of day trip activities that need little to no planning. Some of these places do book up fast so it’s helpful to purchase tickets ahead of time but most of these places can be game time decisions. Also noteworthy, in the current climate where health is a top priority, the majority of these places are outdoors.
Van Saun Park, Paramus, NJ - this is quite literally in our backyard and we are frequent visitors. This park packs a big punch and is super manageable if you’re flying solo. They also have a variety of seasonal offerings and activities. They are best known for an awesome playground (it’s huge), a small zoo featuring a variety of animals, a carousel, and a train (my kids’ favorite). This is a great place to visit on a day where you hadn’t thought of what to do.
Abma’s Farm, Wyckoff, NJ - I grew up in Wyckoff which meant we were frequent visitors of this gem. In the recent years they have built out the zoo portion and my kids really loved going. They especially love feeding the animals. In the fall they offer Jay rides and pumpkin picking. Also a great, manageable spot to go if you’re flying solo. Full disclosure it does get crowded on the weekends. You can pre-purchase tickets!
Field Station Dinosaur, Leonia, NJ - this hidden gem is tucked deep into Overpeck Park. We found this place a few years ago when we were trying to book a birthday party for JJ & Westyn. My kids had the best birthday. We just returned as day trippers and my kids loved it even more. Also super manageable if you’re flying solo!
Wild West City, Stanhope, NJ - from where I am in Bergen County, this is a bit of a hike but well worth the trip. This is a long time attraction in New Jersey. I went when I was little and vividly remember it. It’s a “town” staged as a Western town equipped with robbers and sheriffs on horseback. You can tour an old jail, watch a show down and visit the local watering hole. Go dressed up in your favorite western gear (everyone does).
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Aquarium, Point Pleasant, NJ - we are frequent visitors for a few reasons, first, my in laws live pretty close so it’s a great activity if we need to skip the beach. Also, it’s open all year round. We have bundled the kids up on mild winter days and done a beach day (donning our favorite snow gear), and toured the aquarium. Smaller scale but manage. It does get crowded so during times of social distancing its best to go during off peak.
Sea Life Aquarium located in the American Dream Mall, East Rutherford, NJ - see my full post on this HERE.
American Dream Waterpark, located in the American Dream Mall, East Rutherford, NJ - see my full blog post HERE
Alstede Farm, Chester, NJ - this is a gigantic farm located in NJ about an hour from where I live. It was well worth the drive as it had a large variety of activities for the kids. Their farm includes pony rides, a bounce house, sunflower maze, a haystack for climbing, wagon rides, and several animal pens where you can feed them. They also have the largest selection of “Pick Your Own” veggies and fruits. Full disclosure this part of the farm is vast and can be a bit overwhelming (in my opinion). Be prepared for lots of sun and being on the schedule of the tractors (they come every 15-20 minutes). You also can order food and ice cream or bring your own! Highly recommend this place! Beware if you’re going on the weekend, I have been told it gets mobbed. Legoland, located in the American Dream Mall, East Rutherford, NJ - we have not been but plan to go. It’s attached to the Sea Life Aquarium so it’s a good thing to do in 1 day.
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Township, NJ - I went as a little girl but haven’t been back. My plan is to take the kids this summer so I will update once we go!
Diggerland, West Berlin, NJ - we have this planned for later this summer. Will report back!
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