Are you looking for fun and affordable family activities in New Jersey? Discover a treasure trove of Family Things To Do In Nj that won’t break the bank, only at hudsonfamily.net. Our guide is packed with exciting destinations, from historic farms and nature centers to beautiful parks and museums, ensuring memorable experiences for your whole family.
With hudsonfamily.net, you’ll find up-to-date information, insider tips, and practical advice to plan the perfect family outing in New Jersey. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the Garden State with your loved ones, creating lasting memories along the way with affordable adventures, family bonding, and kid-friendly activities.
1. Exploring Howell Living History Farm
Looking for an engaging and educational experience for the whole family? Howell Living History Farm in Lambertville, NJ, is a fantastic choice. It’s free to visit, offering a glimpse into farm life with interactive classes available for a small fee. This farm provides a unique opportunity to connect with history and nature, making it a worthwhile day trip for families seeking both fun and learning.
According to research from the American Psychological Association (APA), interactive experiences like those offered at Howell Living History Farm significantly enhance learning and memory retention, especially in children.
2. Discover the Magic of Doylestown Castle
Located just outside of New Jersey in Doylestown, PA, Doylestown Castle is an extraordinary wooden castle playground that will captivate visitors of all ages. The sheer size and imaginative design of the castle make it a must-visit destination for families seeking a unique and adventurous play experience. This impressive structure promises to spark joy and wonder in even the most seasoned playground enthusiasts.
3. Hiking and Learning at the Environmental Education Center
Want to combine outdoor adventure with educational opportunities? The Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge, NJ, is the perfect spot. It features well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all ages and an engaging education center. The center’s location near the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge adds to its appeal, offering extensive trails and wildlife observation opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, spending time in nature reduces stress and improves cognitive function, making it an ideal activity for families looking to unwind and connect with the natural world.
4. The Great Swamp and Raptor Trust: A Dual Adventure
Looking for a combined nature and wildlife experience? Visit The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the nearby Raptor Trust. The Great Swamp offers extensive trails for wildlife observation, while the Raptor Trust is a bird rehabilitation center open to the public. This combination provides an engaging day for families interested in wildlife and conservation.
5. Exploring Trailside Nature Center in Watchung
Are you interested in a blend of nature, education, and recreation? Trailside Nature Center in Watchung, NJ, is an excellent choice. It boasts a comprehensive nature museum, hiking trails, and a playground. The center’s proximity to the Deserted Village and Lake Surprise adds intrigue, making it a destination with something for everyone.
6. Uncover the Wonders of Duke Farms
Duke Farms in Hillsborough Township, NJ, is a true gem that offers a variety of activities for the whole family. With free admission, you can explore its vast grounds, which include bird watching spots, historical sites, and extensive hiking and biking trails. Whether you bring your own bikes or rent theirs, there’s plenty to discover in this beautiful and expansive location.
7. Ringing Rocks Park: A Musical Adventure
Want a unique outdoor experience that combines nature and music? Ringing Rocks Park in Upper Black Eddy, PA, features a field of boulders that ring when struck with a hammer. The park also includes a waterfall and hiking trails, making it a memorable and fun destination for families seeking something different.
8. Discover the Tranquility of Reeves-Reed Arboretum
Looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to unwind? Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, NJ, is an excellent choice. This arboretum offers lovely gardens, quiet hiking trails, and scenic walking paths. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing family outing where you can enjoy nature’s beauty.
9. Immerse Yourself in History at the New Jersey State Museum
Want to spend a day surrounded by history and culture? The New Jersey State Museum in Trenton is an excellent choice. With a small admission fee, you can explore fascinating exhibits and even take a free tour of the capitol building. This museum promises an enriching experience for the entire family.
10. Wander Through Rutgers Gardens
Want to spend a day exploring diverse landscapes and engaging activities? Rutgers Gardens offers something for everyone. From hiking trails and a tall grass maze to pine forests and cultivated garden areas, there’s plenty to discover. The gardens also host various activities throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy a fun-filled day.
11. Discover Musical Treasures at the Morris Museum
Looking for a cultural experience that fascinates both kids and adults? The Morris Museum in Morristown, NJ, is a fantastic option, especially with its renowned collection of music boxes and automatons. Consider visiting on the 2nd and 3rd Thursday of each month from 4 to 8 pm for free admission.
12. Relax and Play at Spruce Run Recreation Area
Are you seeking a beautiful state park with diverse recreational activities? Spruce Run Recreation Area in Clinton, NJ, offers camping, swimming, and a relaxing beach. Keep in mind that there is an admission fee per car, which varies depending on whether you’re a New Jersey resident and whether it’s a weekday or weekend.
13. Ascend to High Point State Park
Looking for breathtaking vistas and scenic hiking trails? High Point State Park in Montague, NJ, is a must-visit. As the highest point in New Jersey, it offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. Just remember that there is a small fee per car to enter the park, similar to other state parks in the area.
14. Sun, Sand, and History at Sandy Hook Beach
Want to combine a beach day with historical exploration? Sandy Hook Beach, part of a national park, offers beautiful beaches and the historic Fort Hancock. Arriving after 5 pm means free admission, allowing you to enjoy the beach and even catch a free beach concert. This destination provides a perfect blend of relaxation and education.
15. Discover Nature’s Beauty at the NJ Botanical Garden
Seeking a serene escape into nature? The NJ Botanical Garden in Ringwood, NJ, is one of the best options. The gardens are great: quiet, shady and beautiful. This State Park requires an admission fee per car. But between Memorial Day and Labor Day, all other months the parking is free.
16. Appreciate Art at the Zimmerli Art Museum
Looking for a family-friendly art experience? The Zimmerli Art Museum, located at Rutgers University, offers a diverse collection and free admission days. With low admission fees and engaging scavenger hunts for kids, it’s an accessible and enriching cultural destination.
17. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Colonial Park
Looking for a park with a variety of activities for the whole family? Colonial Park in Somerset, NJ, offers hiking, biking, a playground, beautiful gardens, and even paddle boats. This park ensures a fun-filled day for everyone.
18. Unearth Fossils at Big Brook Park Fossil Site
Want to embark on a unique adventure searching for fossils? Big Brook Park Fossil Site in Marlboro, NJ, offers just that. This stream is filled with fossils from the late Cretaceous Period, making it a thrilling and educational experience for kids and adults alike.
19. Explore Geological Treasures at Rutgers Geology Museum
Interested in archaeology and geology? Rutgers Geology Museum is filled with all sorts of archaeological and geological treasures to explore. Also, it is free to visit, but donations are much appreciated.
20. Escape to Nature at Double Trouble State Park
Want to experience a unique blend of nature and history? Double Trouble State Park in Lacey Township, NJ, features an active cranberry farm, a creek for canoeing or kayaking, and a historical village. It’s a great place to cool off on a hot summer day and enjoy outdoor activities.
21. Bowman Hill Wildflower Preserve and Bowman Hill Tower
Do you enjoy seeing nature preserves? Bowman Hill Wildflower Preserve in New Hope, PA, offers a great day of hiking. Make sure to visit Washington Crossing State Park, and the Bowman Tower as well.
22. Learn About Innovation at Thomas Edison Center in Menlo Park
Looking for an educational experience that celebrates innovation? The Thomas Edison Center in Menlo Park, Edison, offers an insightful tour into the life and work of the famous inventor. With free admission and engaging tours, it’s a perfect destination for families interested in science and history.
23. Discover History at Thomas Edison National Historic Park
Want to delve deeper into the life and inventions of Thomas Edison? The Thomas Edison National Historic Park offers an immersive experience with a small admission fee. Exploring this park promises an enriching and educational outing for the whole family.
24. Explore Princeton Campus and Princeton University Art Museum
Have you been to Princeton University? As a matter of fact, there is a free admission to the museum.
25. Drumthwacket Mansion in Princeton
Drumthwacket Mansion in Princeton offers a glimpse into New Jersey’s history and culture. While it may not be as kid-friendly as some other attractions, it’s still worth a visit if you’re in the area and interested in historical sites.
26. Find Peace at Willowwood Arboretum
Want to escape to a tranquil and beautiful natural setting? Willowwood Arboretum is an amazing place to visit. It is lovely. There is no admission fee on regular days, however on special events there is.
27. Discover Beauty at Leonard J Buck Garden
Want to explore a delightful garden in the heart of NJ? Leonard J Buck Garden is an excellent choice. The admission is free, and the grounds are beautiful. One thing to remember is that the parking is limited, and on the weekend during spring, summer and fall it fills up very quickly.
28. Presby Memorial Iris Gardens
Interested in visiting a beautiful garden in full bloom? Presby Memorial Iris Gardens is only a short time in May and June when you can visit this garden in full bloom, and it’s definitely worth it! It is a suggested donation of $8.00, but give what you can.
29. Montclair Art Museum
Looking for an awesome museum to take the kids to? Montclair Art Museum is the best option. They have Free First Thursday Nights: a free family event complete with a full service bar, life music and art activities.
30. Van Vleck House and Garden
Van Vleck House and Garden is a great place to visit. It is free to visit. Their garden is lovely. Just large enough to explore fully in a single visit. They also offer a variety of programs for children and adults.
31. Kips Castle
Looking for an interesting building to visit? Kip’s Castle is a lovely place to visit. It is free. The castle is impressive, and they offer tours Tuesday to Friday 12 to 3 pm. The view of the city from that spot can’t be beat!
32. Escape to the Shore at Island Beach State Park
Want to experience the natural beauty of the Jersey Shore? Island Beach State Park offers a pristine and untamed landscape with silky sand, lush dunes, and clear blue waters.
33. Sourland Mountain Preserve
Sourland Mountain Preserve is a wonderful place to go for a hike in NJ. It has a path that explores the mountain (read: goes upwards and has lots of awesome boulders), so wear good hiking boots and be prepared.
34. Stairway to Heaven Hike
Ready for a challenging and rewarding hike with breathtaking views? The Stairway to Heaven Hike, part of the Appalachian Trail, offers just that. The views were worth every step.
35. Hacklebarney State Park
Hacklebarney State Park is one of the state parks that doesn’t charge an entrance fee. It also has some great hiking trails.
36. Batsto Historic Village
Batsto Historic Village gives you the chance to stop and explore Batsto Historic Village recently. You should absolutely give this place a go! It was fantastic. There was so much to explore: from nature trails to historical buildings.
37. Columbia Trail Hike
Columbia Trail has so much you can see. It is a fairly short and easy hike, but on your way you pass gnome homes, a historic bridge, and abandoned house, an iron forge, a gorgeous lake with a huge dam.
38. Cape May Zoo
Looking for a free and family-friendly zoo experience? The admission to this zoo is free and it looks like a wonderful place to visit.
39. Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park It is a wonderful park with many hiking trails and a lot of history. Actually, I think it’s one of the few state parks that we haven’t been to, so this year I will try and make it there with the kids.
40. Bridgeton Hall of Fame All Sports Museum
Do you like sports? Head down to Bridgeton Hall of Fame All Sports Museum.
41. George Woodruff Museum of Indian Artifacts
Located in the Bridgeton Free Public Library this museum houses more then 30,000 pieces of Native American Relics. The admission is free.
42. Cumberland County Pre-historical Museum
The Cumberland County Pre-historical Museum is run by the Cumberland County Historical Society. From the brochure they have online, it looks like the admission is free as well.
43. Noyes Museum Of Art
Noyes Museum Of Art is a part of Stockton College. Their admission is not expensive: it is $5.00 for adults, $4.00 for students and seniors, and the kids go free.
44. Cohanzick Zoo
Located in Bridgeton NJ, it is another free zoo. It is the first zoo of NJ. The admission is free, but they do accept donations. Next to the Cohonzick Zoo there is a Splash Zone.
45. Tenafly Nature Center
Tenafly Nature Center is a non-profit independent member-supported nature preserve. The admission to the center is free.
46. Estell Manor Park, Atlantic County, NJ
Estell Manor Park is located in Atlantic County, NJ. It does look amazing.
47. The James A. McFaul Environmental Center
You should check out James McFaul wildlife Center in Wyckoff, NJ. Trails, the admission to the center is free. Small fee for some programs and classes (I believe?).
48. The Barnegat Lighthouse
The Barnegat Lighthouse admission is free, gorgeous scenery, you can walk on the beach. Even has a gift shop, snack place and picnic areas.
49. The Hunterdon Art Museum
The Hunterdon Art Museum is located in Clinton, has Art Zone, a room for kids to come in and make art. There’s a small suggested fee to enter the museum.
50. Popcorn Zoo
Popcorn Zoo is located in Forked River, NJ. There is a small fee, but it was only a few dollars.
51. Lenape Indian Village at Waterloo
Lenape Indian Village at Waterloo is a great historical place, it is located in North Jersey, Sussex county, and I believe are a part of Kittatinny Valley State Park.
52. Holmdel park
Holmdel park is located in Holmdel NJ. This is a free park, it has a free working farm to explore, playgrounds and hiking trails. Excellent day trip for family. Updated bathrooms. Please check this one out. Not to miss.
53. The Roebling Museum
The admission is not expenisve, $6.00 for adult, and kids under 12 are free. It is located just South of Trenton. You get to learn all about how the Brooklyn Bridge was built.
54. Whippany Railway Museum
Whippany Railway Museum offers a piece of railroad history for anyone that loves trains. The general admission is $1.00 for kids and $0.50 cents for adults.
55. Wawayanda State Park
Have been going to Wawayanda State Park for the last 30 years. They bring in sand from the Jersey Shore. Absolutely beautiful. They have fishing, boating, hiking besides the beach.
56. Sunset Beach in Cape May
Don’t forget to add Sunset Beach in Cape May. The bay and ocean meat and you can look for Cape May Diamonds while waiting for the sunset. This is free.
57. Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center
While there is an admission price, the admission is free during the months of January, February and March.
58. InfoAge Science Center
The InfoAge Science Center is located in Wall, New Jersey. The suggested donation is just $5.
59. Paterson Museum
This place does have a small fee of $2.00 for adults and the kids are free. The museum has several pieces of period textile technology which also includes the first use of punch cards.
60. Dorbrook Park
Dorbrook Park in Colts Neck NJ has free admission. Great park with a huge playground and a spray ground in the summer.
61. Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park
The admission to the park is free, the Paterson Museum admission is $2.00 a person, and the children are free.
62. Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk falls is located in Delaware water gap, Jersey side. Every time we go camping in Dingman’s Ferry, we visit some of the other falls in that neighborhood.
63. East Jersey Olde Towne Village
This place looks absolutely amazing. The admission is free.
64. Washington’s Headquarters Museum
Located in Morristown, this museum is free to visit. It is open Wednesday-Sunday in the spring and summer.
65. The Red Mill Museum Village
If you visit The Red Mill during the weekday, your admission will be nominal: $5.00 for anyone 6 and up.
66. Quiet Valley Historical Farm
The admission price is probably the highest on this list: $10 for adults, and $5 for kids, but it just looks like so much fun!
67. Branch Brook Park In Newark
Who knew that right here in NJ, you can find a park that has more cherry blossoms that Washington D.C.
68. Deep Cut Garden
Deep Cut Garden is a gem of a place located in Middletown NJ. It is free to visit, and they offer some fun programs to visitors throughout the year.
69. The Waterloo Village
The Waterloo Village is an open air historical museum. It is quiet, not crowded, and overall, a wonderful place to explore.
Family Fun In NJ: Your Questions Answered
What are some free family activities in NJ?
New Jersey offers numerous free family activities, including visiting Howell Living History Farm, hiking in the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, exploring Trailside Nature Center, and enjoying the beaches at Sandy Hook after 5 pm. These locations provide opportunities for outdoor adventures and educational experiences without costing you a dime.
Where can I take my kids in NJ for a day trip?
For a memorable day trip with your kids in NJ, consider visiting Duke Farms for its extensive grounds and activities, Rutgers Gardens for its diverse landscapes, or the New Jersey State Museum for a dose of history and culture. Each of these destinations offers a unique and engaging experience for families.
What are some indoor activities for families in NJ?
When the weather isn’t cooperating, NJ has plenty of indoor options for families. The Morris Museum, Zimmerli Art Museum, and Thomas Edison Center in Menlo Park offer enriching cultural experiences. Additionally, the Rutgers Geology Museum provides an intriguing look at archaeological and geological treasures.
What are some unique places to visit in NJ with kids?
For a unique outing, take your kids to Ringing Rocks Park, where the boulders ring when struck, or explore the Big Brook Park Fossil Site, where you can search for real fossils. These unconventional destinations promise memorable and exciting experiences for the whole family.
What are the best parks in NJ for families?
New Jersey is home to many fantastic parks for families. Colonial Park in Somerset offers a variety of activities, while Island Beach State Park boasts pristine beaches and natural beauty. Holmdel Park features a working farm, playgrounds, and hiking trails, making it another excellent choice.
Are there any free zoos in NJ?
Yes, New Jersey has a couple of free zoos that are perfect for families. The Cape May County Park & Zoo and the Cohanzick Zoo both offer the opportunity to see a variety of animals without paying an admission fee, making them budget-friendly options.
What historical sites can families visit in NJ?
Families interested in history can explore Batsto Historic Village, Thomas Edison National Historic Park, and Washington’s Headquarters Museum. These sites offer a glimpse into New Jersey’s past and provide educational experiences for children and adults alike.
Where can families go hiking in NJ?
New Jersey offers numerous hiking trails suitable for families. The Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge, Sourland Mountain Preserve, and Hacklebarney State Park all feature trails with varying levels of difficulty, allowing families to choose a hike that fits their abilities and interests.
What are some lesser-known gems in NJ for family outings?
Some hidden gems in NJ include the Willowwood Arboretum for its peaceful gardens, Deep Cut Garden for its fairy tale-like setting, and the Lenape Indian Village at Waterloo for a historical perspective. These destinations offer unique and less crowded experiences for families.
What are some tips for planning affordable family outings in NJ?
To plan affordable family outings in NJ, take advantage of free admission days at museums, pack your own meals and snacks to avoid costly food purchases, and check local libraries and town halls for discounted tickets and passes. Additionally, consider visiting parks and natural areas that offer free or low-cost activities.
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