Fun Family Things to Do in New Jersey

No mater what time of the year it is, there's always something fun to do in New Jersey! From North Jersey all the way down to South Jersey, here are a few fun family things to do in the great Garden State.

North Jersey

Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange (Essex County)

There are pony rides, face painting, a treetop adventure course, butterfly tent, penguin tours, sea lion tours, giraffe house tours, and more. See jaguars, cougars, alligators, black bears, prairie dogs, and the list goes on. Entry is $15 for adults (ages 13 and over), $12 for children (2 to 12), and $12 for seniors (ages 62 and over). Turtle Back Zoo is located at 560 Northfield Ave. in West Orange.

Mountain Creek Waterpark in Vernon Township (Sussex County)

The Mountain Creek area is most commonly known for skiing, but in the summer, its waterpark is hopping seven days a week. It has more than 20 rides and attractions such as:

• Lil Dippers the place where little ones can go to splash around in fountains.
  
• Lost Island River a gentle lazy river.
  
• Spray Ground an interactive place to run around and cool down.
  
• High Anxiety only the brave will dare to take a ride down this dark tunnel waterslide.
  

Daily tickets start at $29.99 each.

Central Jersey

Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson (Ocean County)

When visiting Six Flags, plan to spend the whole day this Central, New Jersey amusement park offers so much to do! Ride one of its many roller coasters such as the popular Batman, get a great view of the park on the Big Wheel, take a splash with Congo Rapids, race your friends at the Great American Road Race, then experience some magic at Houdini's Great Escape. Six Flags also has plenty of shows check out Events for details. Ticket prices start at $71.99.

Grounds of Sculpture in Hamilton (Mercer County)

The Grounds of Sculpture, located near Princeton, is a scenic display of ever-changing art and gardens that will be easier for older children and adults to appreciate. Ticket prices range depending on time of year but are affordably, under $20 per person. During your trip the Grounds, dine at the scenic Rat's Restaurant, Van Gough Caf, or Gazebo then shop for unique gifts at the Museum Shop.

Allaire Village in Wall Township (Monmouth County)

Allaire Village has been a long-time staple for locals and is a place with historic buildings portraying early 19th century industrial community life. Attractions include:

• The Row House
  
• Bakery
  
• General Store
  
• Chapel
  
• The Foreman's Cottage
  
• The Carriage House
  
• The Blacksmith Shop
  
• The Manager ' s House
  
• Mr. Allaire ' s House
  
• The Enameling Building
  
• The Carpenter Shop
  

Admittance is normally a few dollars per car. Look out for fun Allaire events such as the Summer Flea Market, Ducky Derby, Antique Auto Show, and Haunted Allaire.

South Jersey

Adventure Aquarium (Camden County)

This is the largest and most popular aquarium in New Jersey and its easily accessible via any part of the state (take I-95 or I-295). At Adventure Aquarium, there's so much to see such as:

• Jersey Native Sharks
  
• Penguins
  
• Hippos
  
• Sea Turtles
  
• Sting Rays
  
• And more!
  

If you get hungry during your trip, check out the aquarium's newly opened marketplace for an eco-friendly dining experience. Save money on your entrance ticket with a Family Four Pack, which for a limited time costs $89.96.

Cape May Light House

Cape May in and of itself offers so many different things to do. One of the most popular attractions is the Cape May Lighthouse that opened in 1859. For just $8 for adults and $5 for children ages 3 to 12, climb the lighthouse then explore nature surrounding the lighthouse such as via the Hawk Watch Platform. The Lighthouse area also has plenty of spaces for picnics. If you're a history buff, don't leave without exploring the World War II Bunker located on the beach.