New Jersey is a densely diverse Mid-Atlantic state known for its 130-mile Atlantic coastline, Victorian shore towns, the famous Jersey Shore boardwalks, and a rich Revolutionary War heritage. From the glittering casinos of Atlantic City and the genteel beauty of Cape May to the cultural buzz of Hoboken and the forests of the Pine Barrens, New Jersey packs extraordinary variety into one of the nation's smallest states.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Six Flags Great Adventure
One of the nation's largest theme parks with 50+ rides; Hurricane Harbor water park adjacent; kids' area Bugs Bunny National Park for under-10s
Adventure Aquarium (Camden)
Touch a shark, see hippos, and explore the 2-million-gallon shark realm; stroller-friendly throughout
Liberty State Park (Jersey City)
Sprawling waterfront park with a free science center (Liberty Science Center), vast open lawns, and Statue of Liberty ferry — perfect for all ages
Island Beach State Park
10 km of undeveloped ocean beach with gentle waves ideal for small children; picnic areas; excellent birding; no commercial distractions
Jenkinson's Boardwalk (Point Pleasant Beach)
Family-oriented boardwalk with rides, games, mini golf, a small aquarium, and safe ocean beach with lifeguards
Morey's Piers (Wildwood)
Three oceanfront amusement piers with 100+ rides; water parks; baby rides to major coasters; season-long wristbands available
Duke Farms
2,740-acre free nature estate with walking trails, a butterfly house (seasonal), barn habitat, and stroller-friendly paved paths
Turtle Back Zoo
Essex County family zoo with African safari, train ride, bald eagles, and a reptile house; very manageable size for young children
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Congress Hall
Crystal Springs Resort
Borgata Hotel (family alternative: Ocean Casino Resort)
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
NJ diners are ideal for families — huge menus with something for every age, enormous portions, and low prices ($8–$15/person); locals love the Tick Tock Diner (281 Allwood Rd, Clifton) and the Mastori's Diner (144 US-130, Bordentown)
Many Shore restaurants allow children to eat free before 5pm — ask when booking or calling ahead
Boardwalk food culture (pizza, funnel cake, frozen custard, hot dogs) is beloved by children of all ages; avoid peak 11am–2pm to skip long queues
Atlantic City casino resort restaurants require guests under 18 to be accompanied by an adult at all times and cannot linger in gaming areas
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Summer Shore parking fills fast — arrive at any Shore beach town before 9am on weekends in July–August
Keep children's lifejackets for any boat or kayak activity; NJ law requires children under 13 to wear lifejackets on motorized boats
Apply sunscreen generously before beach time — summer UV index in NJ regularly reaches 7–9 (High to Very High)
Download the NJ Transit MyTix app before travel so children can board trains without cash transactions
Cape May is one of the best family shore towns — it has good infrastructure for strollers, clean beaches, and no commercial casino gambling