Epic theme parks with rides for thrill seekers. Classic seaside boardwalks boasting old-school amusements. Water parks. Dinosaurs. Fairy tales. Construction. Cowboys. Whatever makes your heart race, there’s an exciting theme park adventure waiting for you in the Garden State.
Each park has its unique season, so be sure to check websites for specifics on dates, hours, height requirements, park rules, closed rides, and other pertinent details before making plans.
THE CLASSICS
Six Flags Great Adventure
Jackson
Even without Wild Safari and the massive Hurricane Harbor water park, Six Flags Great Adventure would be the ultimate amusement park destination in the state. For starters, it’s massive—the ride park covers 160 acres, and when you include the water park and safari, the entire area spans over 500 acres. The sheer variety of attractions is impossible to match, and the park continues to top itself year after year with ever more elaborate ways to delight and excite guests. Each summer, everyone from young families to post-prom teens make a pilgrimage here for heart-stopping rides, engaging entertainment, themed experiences, and fun and games. Some come here as a once-a-summer tradition, others visit several times a week. The latter, of course, know that a season pass pays for itself in as little as two visits—and a Flash Pass is a must on busy days. And of course, there are themed events hosted throughout the season that are legendary, particularly the freaky Fright Fest and festive Holiday in the Park.
Best for: Everyone from adrenaline junkies to energetic young kids (the sprawl can be exhausting for some littles).
Must-do: El Toro (the stomach dropper was voted the No. 1 ride in America by Newsweek) and Nitro for thrill seekers; Runaway Mine Train and Saw Mill Log Flume for nostalgia.
What’s new: The Flash™ Vertical Velocity, a Super Boomerang coaster that’s the second of its kind in the world and the first in North America. Holy Batman! The first-ever DC Heroes & Villains Festival will transform the park into Gotham City on select dates from August 8-September 1. Kicking off at 5pm, an immersive theatrical experience will unfold throughout the evening. Expect live entertainment, DC character meet-and-greets, themed dining options, and more.
Know before you go: Cash is not accepted. Fanny packs and zippered pockets are recommended to secure phones and credit cards on rides (though lockers are also available). Guests 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older.
Open: Great Adventure and Wild Safari: select weekends from late March through mid-May, then daily through Labor Day, then weekends and select dates for Fright Fest, Holiday in the Park and other seasonal events. Hurricane Harbor: Select dates mid-May and mid-June (weather dependent), then daily through Labor Day.
Land of Make Believe
Hope
Iconic. World’s greatest. Best in New Jersey. These are just a few of the media accolades the Land of Make Believe has earned in recent years. So what makes this family-owned and-run amusement and water park in rural Warren County so deserving of the love? It’s the magic of a place that, after 70 years, still maintains a reputation as safe, wholesome, and uniquely dedicated to parental participation.
Here, no one sits it out: LOMB harkens back to an old-school idea of what family engagement at an amusement park should be like. Families are invited to bring a cost-saving picnic lunch or buy superior park fare (think real cheddar on cheese fries) at a reasonable price. They can play boardwalk games or pet farm animals. Attractions appeal to a range of ages and tolerance for thrills, many with a historical bent befitting the park’s educator founder. Some families even take a break to lounge on the grass and stare at the clouds. When the grounded fun is done, head over to the water park to chill and thrill.
Best for: Parents and kids. The sweet spot is kids ages 14 and under, but older teens and adults will find plenty to hold their attention.
What’s new: Bark-o-Round, an adorable dog-themed children’s ride replacing the classic favorite Frog-o-Round; Pirates Fury, a ship-shaped ride where you swing back and forth so you feel like you’re caught in the middle of an ocean storm.
Must-do: Pirate’s Escape, an exhilarating floor-dropping racing experience; Scream Machine 360, which spins, turns, and flips upside down; the Off Road Safari Adventure offers a narrated exploration of the past 300 years in an authentic 4×4 vehicle, and the Sidewinder, an exhilarating half-pipe water-style slide that’s the only one of its kind in the Tri-State area.
Know before you go: Long lines are not an issue here, so there’s no need for an elaborate ride strategy. Tickets can be purchased online using Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover, but only cash and the Discover Card are accepted in the park (an ATM is available on-site).
Open: Weekends from Memorial Day weekend through June 8; daily from June 14 through Labor Day weekend, plus weekend after Labor Day.
SHORE THING
Steel Pier
Atlantic City
Back in the early 20th century, Atlantic City was the resort destination in the United States. Steel Pier, the city’s iconic seaside amusement pier, captures some of the charm of that bygone era. Visitors will find a heady mix of nostalgia coupled with contemporary experiences. Sweet retro kiddie rides vie for space with heart-stopping attractions that sling, soar, fly and drop. Steel Pier is the largest amusement pier in the country at 1,000 feet long and has something no other seaside park has: easy access to upscale restaurants, hotels, concerts, shopping and, of course, casinos.
Best for: All ages — from mild to wild, there’s a ride for every age and comfort zone.
What’s new: The Crazy Crab, a spinning roller coaster boasting tight turns and quick changes in direction.
Must-do: The 227-foot-tall observation Ferris wheel leaves even jaded riders awestruck by the panoramic skyline and coastal views. Locomotion is a family-friendly steel roller coaster that delights even kids and adults. Also, be sure to grab a drink to go and groove to the live music coming from the Tiki Bar.
Know before you go: The Ocean Reef Bar, located at the back of the pier, is set 1,000 feet over the ocean and offers amazing 360-degree views (as well as great drinks). Savvy fun seekers visit on Tuesdays and Thursdays when all rides are just two tickets from 1 to 6 p.m. (starting June 23, exclusions apply).
Open: Open weekends from Easter weekend through June 8; daily from June 13 through Labor Day weekend; weekends from September 6 through mid-October.
Playland’s Castaway Cove
Ocean City
Wholesome fun for everyone defines Playland’s Castaway Cove, which offers all levels of thrills — from sweet retro experiences to exhilarating new attractions. You’ll also find mini-golf courses, a go-kart speedway and classic games like Skee-Ball and air hockey. The park, founded more than 60 years ago, was recently updated to accommodate potentially bigger crowds after rival Gillian’s Wonderland closed last summer. They also added more family-friendly rides, reopened the arcade after a devastating fire in 2020, and reinstalled the iconic rooftop pirate ship to the delight of boardwalk strollers.
Best for: It’s a family affair catering to everyone from preschoolers to seniors.
What’s new: WindStarz, an interactive swing ride that lets riders control their motion as they swing back and forth while spinning 360 degrees. Storm, a spinning ride where you sit in cars that move in two ways at once as you go round-and-round.
Must-do: Double Shot, a heart-stopping vertical drop tower ride; GaleForce, a 125-foot roller coaster with a seriously steep plunge; and the whimsical, hand-painted merry-go-round, a must for nostalgia seekers and anyone looking for the perfect photo op.
Know before you go: Tickets, which never expire, can be snapped up each Christmas and Easter for 50 percent off.
Open: Open daily June 11 to September 15. From June 23 to September 1 rides open at 4 pm (3 pm on September 1). From September 2-21, rides open evenings only during the week, and afternoons and evenings on weekends. From September 27 to October 12, rides open at 1 pm on weekends only.
Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach
Seaside Heights
Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach have always embraced fun for the entire family. Here, that means moms and dads can stroll with adult beverages (there are five bars), while the kids roam the compact Casino Pier amusement park and sister water park Breakwater Beach. Guests consistently rave about the array of rides that are jam-packed into the manageable space, which also makes it easier to keep eyes on their kids (who love the independence). Guests can also enjoy miniature golf and go-karts, along with acrobatic acts, magic shows, princess parties and other special events throughout the season.
Good for: All ages. Classic family rides and attractions for littles really shine here. However, teens and adults will find plenty of energizing fun, too.
What’s new: Fun Factory, an immersive, illusion-packed fun house, is spread across three levels and caters to adults and kids 48 inches and up (or 42 inches with an adult).
Must-do: Musik Express is a high-energy spinning ride with cars that rotate and tilt to blasting tunes. Hydrus is an exhilarating sleek coaster boasting spectacular views of the shimmering ocean and electric boardwalk below.
Know before you go: Free parking is available near the bayside on Bay Boulevard. Ride wristbands exclude a small handful of attractions such as go-karts, Sky Ride, Skycoaster and the Skyscraper (which slings riders 170 feet in the air at speeds up to 70 mph).
Open: Ride and water parks open daily from mid-June through Labor Day Weekend. Select days and attractions open late April through November.
Morey’s Piers
Wildwood
Go big at the largest seaside amusement park on the Jersey Shore. It ticks all the classic boxes—rides for all ages, midway and arcade games, funnel cake and frozen custard—but takes it to the next level. Family-owned and run since 1969, Morey’s Piers spans three amusement piers and two beachfront water parks across six beach blocks. Guests come for more than 100 rides and attractions but keep coming year after year for the park’s stellar reputation for cleanliness, safety, and overall quality. Events like Friday night fireworks and live music also reel in the crowds. Visitors to The Wildwoods in general rave about the increasingly elevated eateries and funky-chic hotels, many of which have package stay-and-play deals (for example, Blue Palms hotel guests get unlimited park access during their stay). If you’re looking for more of a vacation vibe, this is it.
Best for: Multi-generational families with toddlers through teens; adults looking for a good time.
What’s new: Beloved wooden roller coaster The Great White has been updated with new trains and a rebuilt track to ensure a smoother, faster, more sensational spin. Foodie fave PigDog Beach Bar has upgraded cabanas, a new game area and a refreshed interior (it’s also pup-friendly).
Must-do: Classic coaster Sea Serpent is a must for loop lovers. Zoom Phloom is a soaking journey with an unusual deep dive under the boardwalk. And the beautifully rendered carousels exemplify nostalgia done right. Don’t miss the fireworks held every Friday night at 9 pm.
Know before you go: Kids under 3 must wear swim diapers in the water park. Admission is free for children under 3, but they must have a swim diaper, which is available to purchase on-site. Download the Morey’s Piers app before you visit to buy tickets, book a cabana, view a park map, get details on rides and dining options, and more.
Open: Water parks open early June through Labor Day. Amusement piers open from early May through mid-October (for Oktoberfest), with limited operations at the beginning and end of the season.
THRILLS FOR LITTLES
Storybook Land
Egg Harbor Township
Step through the castle facade into Storybook Land, a family-owned and -operated children’s theme park that has been sparking joy since 1955 (this year marks 70 years!). A fantastical setting full of wonder and whimsy, the meticulously maintained complex (it’s a point of pride) is centered around iconic fairy tales, nursery rhymes and fables. It’s an ideal first amusement park experience. Staff are notably patient and supportive, especially with youngsters awed by the wonderful array of age-appropriate rides (19 in all) and dozens of interactive exhibits that make the leap from page to park. And with two full-service snack bars and two quick-service options, families are never far from something sweet or savory.
Best for: Kids ages 1 to 8; a few rides will appeal to slightly older kids.
What’s new: The CindeRoller Coaster, which takes princes and princesses on a spin in a pumpkin-shaped coach.
Must do: Bubbles the Coaster, a gentle ride with smooth dips and turns. Alice in Wonderland Tunnel & Maze, a vibrant walk-through attraction featuring hand-painted murals inspired by Lewis Carroll’s story.
Know before you go: Bring a towel—a summertime splash pad helps kids beat the heat. Homemade fare is welcome, but deliveries and commercially prepared food are not permitted.
Open: Early April through December.
Diggerland USA
West Berlin
Diggerland USA is the only construction-themed park and water park combo in the United States. Builder-obsessed kids truly delight in the chance to drive, ride and operate heavy machinery (or sit on a lap and just enjoy the view). Don’t worry about overexertion or getting greasy—everything has been engineered for a clean, safe and enjoyable one-of-a-kind experience. Play games on real excavators, soar 60 feet in a modified telescopic handler, take a spin in a “carousel” made from digger buckets, navigate a four-story ropes course or race rubber duckies—the activities here are truly eclectic. Then cool off at the Water Main (the on-point attraction names are fantastic). There’s no barrier between park areas, so you can soak and slide, then dig and ride and go back again. When splash season ends, look for fall festivities, machine parades, a campout with an evening run of the park, a holiday light show, and other events that keep the fun rolling.
Best for: Kids ages 3 to 10 and at least 36 inches tall (though even adults dig it); everyone loves the water park.
What’s new: Spin Dizzy, which hoists riders 360 degrees in both directions, recently had its gondola redesigned for quicker boarding and exiting–meaning less time waiting in line.
Must-do: The Soaring Eagle, a 700-foot zipline with seats for two, offers panoramic park views. The Lumberjack Claw, a unique joystick-controlled forestry tool, lets guests of any age pick up and stack wood blocks. The Clawhammer Cove, a massive new wave pool, features swells up to four feet high. Hook & Ladder lets kids climb on several emergency vehicles on display.
Know before you go: For safety reasons, proper footwear and apparel are required at the construction adventure area—check the website for details.
Open: The Water Main is open mid-May to Labor Day; the construction theme park from mid-March to November.
INDOOR FUN
iPlay America
Freehold
If Times Square were set on a seaside boardwalk, you’d have something close to iPlay America, a buzzing entertainment destination complete with bright neon lights, booming tunes, themed storefronts and a frenetic energy that sends hearts racing instantly upon entry. IPA’s four-acre venue blows minds with 250 arcade games (from VR video games to classics like Whack-a-Mole), a two-story laser tag arena, boosted go-karts and a spinning, soaring selection of attractions that fill the immersive space with screams of joy. Every weekend, families come to get their kicks in a space that’s never cold or rainy—and always a blast.
Best for: Families and kids ages 5-12; high-energy attractions like Topgolf Swing Suite draw teens and even adults.
What’s new: The Bistro’s renovation and updated menu. Holiday and seasonal pop-up experiences (like a summer tiki bar). Newly launched arcade games Godzilla: Kaiju Wars (a VR shooting game) and Surf League (a wave-riding racing game).
Must-do: Ballocity, a magnetic, multi-level play space that’s irresistible to younger guests. Reverse Time, a wild ride that lifts, dips and dives in every direction. Kite Flyer, which gives riders a unique face-first, Superman-style flying experience.
Insider tips: Join IPA’s Insiders Club before you go—you’ll score immediate discounts, including 50 percent off ride passes. Also, laser tag fills up quickly on busy days, so book early if it’s on your must-do list.
Open: Year-round.
Funplex
East Hanover and Mount Laurel
For over 20 years, kids (and more than a few adults) needing to get their yayas out have headed to Funplex, an indoor/outdoor amusement park with locations in North and South Jersey. Each location has its own vibe but both offer over 100 arcade and VR games, bumper cars, go-karts, bowling, laser tag, play zones, indoor rides, and Splashplex Waterpark. East Hanover features a larger indoor area with an expanded boardwalk and thrilling rides. Mount Laurel is a destination spot with an on-site hotel offering family suites, plus a bigger outdoor area with seasonal mini-golf, classic bumper boats, and a 50-foot family roller coaster, among other outdoor rides. For those 21 and up, “Funplex After Dark” is a monthly boozy bash held all year long.
Best for: Families with kids ages 4 and up, with a sweet spot for ages 7 to 13 (though adults and teens have fun, too).
What’s new: A brand-new bar will debut in both locations for parents in need of a cocktail.
Must-do: The exhilarating XD Dark Ride, a multisensory 4D interactive attraction featuring cutting-edge technology and special effects. Foam Frenzy, a multilevel play space filled with foam balls and air blasters, burns off energy like no one’s business.
Know before you go: Come when the park opens, and you’ll have three to four hours to enjoy the attractions before lines start forming. Kids under 12 must be accompanied by an adult—yes, that means you need a ticket too.
Open: Indoors year-round. Splashplex from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Outdoor rides from mid-June to Labor Day; weekends only mid-April to mid-October.
Nickelodeon Universe
East Rutherford
Its very existence is a testament to the American Dream vision—making the impossible a reality. Roller coasters covered by a roof? Sure, why not? Nickelodeon Universe, the Western Hemisphere’s largest indoor theme park, gives ticket holders all-season (and weather) access to heart-pounding excitement, character-driven entertainment and arcade games galore. Giddy young fans get to meet SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and other cinematic characters; older kids and adults rave about the park’s surprisingly intense, record-breaking rides (including the world’s tallest indoor spinning drop tower and steepest coaster).
Best for: Preschoolers through teens, plus roller coaster-obsessed adults.
What’s new: An expanded PAW Patrol-themed play area with interactive activities launched last fall.
Must-do: Ride the Shredder, the world’s tallest and longest spinning coaster. Savor the stomach drop on the TMNT Shellraiser, the world’s steepest roller coaster. Then climb the Legends of the Hidden Temple Challenge, the world’s tallest indoor ropes course with nine different levels.
Know before you go: Don’t have all day for fun? A points pass lets you squeeze in a ride or three instead of spending the whole day. Parking Deck B or C is recommended.
Open: Year-round.
WATER PARKS
DreamWorks Water Park
American Dream, East Rutherford
DreamWorks Water Park holds the title of North America’s largest indoor water park, clocking in at an impressive 8.5 acres. Shopping mall visitors gaze in envy through glass panes overlooking this water-soaked scene that’s sunlit via a glass dome. Guests can rent luxury cabanas or skyboxes (designed by Jersey native Jonathan Adler) as family bases to enjoy the world’s largest indoor wave pool, a lazy river, more than 40 water slides and dozens of attractions, many based on Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and other cinematic characters.
Best for: Frolicking toddlers to adult daredevils.
Must-do: Dreamworks Dream Runner, the world’s tallest and longest hydro-magnetic water coaster, and Thrillagascar & Jungle Jammer, a terrifying 14-story trapdoor-style water slide.
What’s new: Gabby’s Dollhouse: Kitty Splash Garden, a sprawling new splash pad for the park’s youngest guests.
Know before you go: Prepaid parking passes are available online; Lot B is best.
Open: Year-round.
Island Waterpark at Showboat
Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s iconic family-friendly hotel has truly made a splash down the shore. Island Waterpark at Showboat, which opened in summer 2023, is a 120,000-square-foot indoor beachfront oasis — the largest of its kind in the world. The park features a retractable glass roof, allowing visitors to hit 11 rip-roaring waterslides, surf the Wild Wave Flowrider and coast along the Island Drift Lazy River, no matter the season or weather. There’s something for everyone here: the youngest guests adore the interactive Kids Cove water play space, while adults can get away to Paradise Adult Island, a 21+ pool club featuring Atlantic City’s only swim-up bar. Guests also have access to the world’s largest arcade, Lucky Snake arcade, raceway and sports bar, which offers bowling, mini golf, go-karting, roller skating, luxury prizes and more than 1,000 games to enjoy.
Best for: Ages 5 to 13 (but it’s really an all-ages affair).
What’s new: Island Mining Co., an in-park sluicing adventure where guests can pan for real gemstones, fossils, and hidden treasures — and take home a sparkling keepsake.
Must-do: The Sonic Serpent and Barracuda Blaster slides offer slippery twists and turns for adrenaline junkies. Tidal Races lets competitive types race their friends head-first on mats to the bottom.
Know before you go: Towels are not provided free, so pack your own. (If you forget, you can buy one for $20.) Book online to get a code for free parking.
Open: Year-round.
RIDE-FREE FUN
Wild West City
Stanhope
Saddle up for a one-of-a-kind experience. Designed to evoke the spirit of the American West, Wild West City is truly a “theme” park in every way. Step back in time to the 1880s, and stroll down the frontier-inspired main street complete with classic storefronts like a saloon and a general store. It’s impossible not to envision gunslingers, barroom brawls, and bank robberies here. Like stepping into a film, the surroundings set the scene for inspired storytelling, live-action performances, stagecoach and train rides, and demonstrations, along with historic artifacts on display throughout. And be sure to saddle up for seasonal events such as Summer Stampede, Harvest Fest, and Spooky Days & Haunted Nights, among others.
Best for: Kids ages 5 to 13, nostalgic adults sharing with the next generation.
What’s new: Egan’s Gold Mine, re-designed this year for a more immersive, camp mining experience, gives lucky “miners” the chance to sift for real gold flakes (they can also purchase mining rough and sluice for gemstones and other precious finds).
Must-do: Cowboy Corral-Western Experience, a lasso-throwing attraction that lets guests put their west to the test by roping a (faux) steer head. Soda floats and old-timey candy at Pilsner’s Candy Shoppe never fail to delight.
Know before you go: Some guests get really into the vibe and come dressed in their Western best. Should inspiration strike, hats and apparel are sold at the General Store and Trading Post, respectively.
Open: Select days May to June, and Labor Day through the end of October. Daily from the end of June through Labor Day.
Field Station: Dinosaurs
Leonia
Forget going to a museum—here, kids get to actually experience what it’s like to travel 90 million years into the past. Set in Overpeck County Park, the woodsy terrain is now the stomping ground for more than 30 hand-sculpted, life-sized animatronic giants set along winding trails. It’s mesmerizing. Upon entry to the park, kids are given a credentials booklet meant for collecting stamps by participating in live shows, games, workshops, crafts, and other interactive, hands-on experiences. Kids can go on scavenger hunts, dig for faux fossils, climb Stanley Stegosaurus, a jungle gym, hit the T-Rex bounce house called Jurassic Zoo Bouncer (extra fee applies) and learn about scientific theories in an environment informed by experts in the field. Visit while you can–Field Station: Dinosaurs[JA4] plans to close this fall after 14 years.
Best for: Kids ages 3 to 10.
What’s new: Triceratops Round-Up, where kids saddle up on inflatable dinosaurs (think rodeo meets Jurassic Park). Dinosaur BINGO, a paleontology-themed take on the classic game with prizes (including actual fossils) up for grabs.
Must-do: The T-Rex Feeding Frenzy, a musical review with audience participation—get there 10 minutes early to snag a seat. The all-ages Raptor Maze lets guests navigate twists and turns while keeping an eye out for predators.
Know before you go: Prepare to be outdoors, rain or shine. That means comfy walking shoes, sun protection, and dressing for the day’s weather.
Open: Weekends, May 24 to June 22; Tuesdays through Sundays, June 24 to August 31; Weekends, September 6 to November 9 (plus November 6 and 7)
Fairy Tale Forest
Oak Ridge
Dream a little dream at the story-inspired Fairy Tale Forest. Founded in 1957 with a nod to Grimm’s fairy tales, the whimsical family-owned and run park slumbered for much of the 2000s, only to be awoken last summer—not with a kiss but a thoughtful renovation. As before, guests will find nary a flashing light or whizzing ride but rather winding pathways that lead to more than 20 artistically rendered cottages and statuary displaying classic fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Activities on the Enchanted Lawn, character meet-and-greets, and interactive story time on The Bluebird Stage are offered daily. Plus, on any given day, guests may encounter a surprise pop-up event such as face painting, themed crafts, a potion bar, music, and more.
Best for: Toddlers to young tweens in their storybook phase; young-at-heart teens and adults.
What’s new: An ever-changing lineup of professional entertainers and special guest appearances; a whimsical shop specializing in handmade local crafts and fairytale-inspired gifts that spark the imagination.
Must-do: School of Rhymes, a little red schoolhouse where visitors can gather outside to listen to or sing along with classic rhymes; and the animated Big Top Three Ring Circus. Snow White & The Seven Dwarves’ and Pinocchio’s houses are also beloved, but everyone has a favorite.
Know before you go: Strollers are recommended for toddlers. Outside food is prohibited, but The Gnomes Nest is itself a draw, offering classic park fare that’s way better than you would expect.
Open: Weekends, Memorial Day to mid-June; Wednesdays to Sundays, mid-June to Labor Day.
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