New Jersey and its neighbors are home to zoos, planetariums, living history sites, art gardens, museums and more that make for amazing summer day trips!
ADVENTURE AQUARIUM
1 Riverside Dr., Camden
844-474-3474
adventureaquarium.com
The aquarium is home to more than 15,000 aquatic animals— including the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast that you can see from the shark tunnel. See hippos up close, or take a peek at the recently hatched African penguins. Kaleidoscope Cove dedicates an area to bioluminescent sea creatures.
ALICE PAUL CENTER FOR GENDER JUSTICE
128 Hooton Rd., Mt. Laurel
856-231-1885
alicepaul.org
Named after NJ-born suffragist Alice Paul, the institute offers opportunities to learn about how she dedicated her life to gender equality initiatives through K-8 programs, teen education and a Girls Leadership Council.
ALLEY POND ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
229-10 Northern Blvd., Douglaston, NY
718-229-4000
alleypond.org
Explore nature with a walk outside, spend time with animals, and take a lesson on everything from endangered species to animal adaptations.
AMAZING ESCAPE ROOM
Multiple Locations
amazingescaperoom.com
Test your skills by trying to crack the code to unlock the room in under 60 minutes.
AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
200 Central Park W., NYC
212-769-5100
amnh.org
At this uber popular museum (thanks in part to the movie series), The End of the Age of Dinosaurs is now open, Encounters in the Milky Way continues, and the Apex Stegosaurus is back on view.
AMERICA’S GROW-A-ROW
150 Pittstown Rd., Pittstown
908-662-6304
americasgrowarow.org
This non-profit donates over 4 million pounds of fresh produce each year to regional hunger relief agencies and farm markets. Volunteer trips invite families to harvest crops at farms in Hunterdon County.
ARROWHEAD FARMSTEAD
135 Iron Ore Rd., Manalapan
732-977-3607
arrowheadfarmsteadnj.com
When the Tulip & Dinosaur Extravaganza returns in April, this sister farm to the just-as-popular Happy Day Farm will offer lessons on dinosaurs and flowers designed specifically for kids.
AVIATION HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM OF NEW JERSEY
400 Fred Wehran Dr., Teterboro
201-288-6344
njahof.org
Kids will take flight (literally) as they explore a rocket engine, aircraft, airplane models and other displays at the country’s first aviation museum.
BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY
62 Battleship Pl., Camden
856-966-1652
battleshipnewjersey.org
Take a self-guided tour through the sailors’ quarters, administrative offices and mess hall aboard the decommissioned U.S. Navy ship docked in the Delaware River.
BAYSHORE CENTER AT BIVALVE
2800 High St., Port Norris
856-785-2060
bayshorecenter.org
Look for the A.J. Meerwald, a former oyster schooner that now serves as a hands-on sailing classroom. The Delaware Bay Museum offers shore-based programs on campus and along the scenic Maurice River.
BELL WORKS
101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel
732-226-8818
bell.works
The main atrium of the metroburb, called The Block, has areas for shopping, eating, entertaining (like VR and an escape room), exercising and relaxing—plus weekly markets.
BIG BROOK PARK
Main Entrance: 521 Rte. 520, Marlboro
Activity Center: 80 Boundary Rd., Marlboro
732-842-4000, ext. 4312
monmouthcountyparks.com
Families come to hike, cycle or look for wildlife along the rolling hills and open meadows, especially along the southern extension of the Henry Hudson Trail. The real attraction is fossil collecting in Big Brook, where you can hunt for prehistoric treasures.
BRONX ZOO
2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY
718-220-5100
bronxzoo.com
Listen to the roar of tigers, feed animals in the farmyard, watch red pandas from the monorail and see dozens of butterflies in the greenhouse.
BROOKHOLLOW’S BARNYARD
301 Rockaway Valley Rd., Boonton
brookhollowsbarnyard.com
Kids will take a bucket of carrots to feed the animals before riding the tractor around the farm.
BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN
990 Washington Ave., Brooklyn, NY
718-623-7220
bbg.org
While exploring these gardens filled with stunning blooms, use your senses in the Fragrance Garden, learn about soil in the Herb Garden, or go for play-based learning in the Discovery Garden.
BURY THE HATCHET
Multiple Locations
burythehatchet.com
Have you ever wanted to be a lumberjack? Throw axes while you work on team-building skills.
CAPE MAY COUNTY PARK & ZOO
707 Rte. 9 N., Cape May Court House
609-465-5271
capemaycountynj.gov/1679/park-zoo
This zoo is a gamechanger because admission is free every day! Aside from hundreds of animals, there’s a huge playground on the 220-acre property.
CAPE MAY POINT STATE PARK
303 Rte. 629, Cape May Point
609-884-2159
dep.nj.gov
Climb to the top of the giant lighthouse, which is 199 steps from the base to an all-around view of the southernmost area of the state. Explore the Nature Center, a small aquarium-meets-museum; bird watch along a wooden path to the beach; and check out World War II bunkers.
CENTENARY STAGE CO.
715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown
908-979-0900
centenarystageco.org
Kids can watch professional theater performances, live music and dance events. If they feel inspired, they can join the touring company or take a Young Performers workshop.
CHARLES J. MUTH MUSEUM
Hinchliffe Stadium, 186 Maple St., Paterson
thehinchliffestadium.com/museum
The New Jersey Jackals’ home stadium is one of the country’s last remaining Negro League ballparks. Inside the museum, learn about Paterson’s Larry Doby, the first Black player in the American League; see tons of baseball artifacts; and watch a documentary inside the theater.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MANHATTAN
The Tisch Building, 212 W. 83rd St., New York, NY
212-721-1223
cmom.org
Exhibits here are all about kids’ learning, and include topics like Adventures with Dora and Diego, Right to Vote, Superpowered Metropolis: Early Learning City, Dynamic H20, and PlayWorks.
CIRCLE LINE SIGHTSEEING CRUISES
Pier 83, W. 42nd St., NYC
212-563-3200
circleline.com
From the outdoor deck you’ll have unmatched views of NYC’s landmarks as you sail toward the Statue of Liberty.
COOPER GRISTMILL
66 Rte. 24, Chester Twp.
908-879-5463
morrisparks.net/parks_trails/cooper-gristmill
Nathan Cooper built this gristmill in 1826, and it’s one of the only remaining restored water-powered mills in NJ. During a 45-minute tour led by a costumed master miller, you’ll see the machinery run in action.
DA VINCI SCIENCE CENTER
PPL Pavilion, 815 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, PA
610-841-1875
davincisciencecenter.org
See what your muscles, organs and ligaments look like from the inside at the temporary Body Worlds: A Journey Under the Skin exhibit. Other sections include Lehigh River Watershed, Science in the Making, and Curiosity Hall.
DEMAREST FARMS
244 Werimus Rd., Hillsdale
201-666-0472
demarestfarms.com
Grab a map of the activities for the day and take a self-guided tour of the farm, including a hayride, visit to the petting zoo and stop inside the farm market.
DINOSAURS ROCK
Multiple locations
917-375-4248
dinosaursrock.com
The museum comes to you—whether at a school, camp, library, or your kid’s birthday party—with info on dinosaurs, oceans, sharks, gems, minerals and insects.
THE DISCOVERY CENTER AT POINT BREEZE
101 E. Park St., Bordentown
609-924-4646
drgreenway.org
The 200-year-old house-turned-museum is located on land that was occupied by Lenape tribe members for thousands of years. Joseph Napoleon Bonaparte, the exiled King of Spain, took residence in the 1880s. Inside, there are archaeological displays; and outside, 27 heritage crops that were grown by the earliest settlers are still thriving.
DREAM WHEEL NJ
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
833-263-7326
dreamwheelnj.com
It may look like a Ferris wheel, but it’s actually a 300-foot-tall observation wheel experience that offers views of the NYC skyline.
DUFFIELD’S FARM
280 Chapel Heights Rd., Sewell
856-589-7090
duffieldsfarm.com
During Many Hats of a Farmer, kids experience the many jobs a farmer has in a day. Easter time sees hayrides to Bunny Egg-cres. Stop into the Learning Barn for a craft project.
DRUMTHWACKET
Stockton Street (Rte. 206), Princeton
609-683-0057
drumthwacket.org
The official residence of our governor, the mansion was built around 1834 for Charles S. Olden, the governor during the Civil War. The building is open for free tours on Wednesdays.
DUKE FARMS
1112 Dukes Parkway W., Hillsborough
908-722-3700
dukefarms.org
Considered a “living lab” among 2,700 acres, nature activities include birding, outdoor classrooms and field journaling. Schedule a trip around the grounds with an instructor, or take a self-guided tour for free.
EDELMAN FOSSIL PARK & MUSEUM
66 Million Mosasaur Way, Mantua
856-284-DINO (3466)
efm.org
Get your prehistoric fix here, digging for real fossils outside in the quarry or climbing on a pteranodon-shaped playground. Inside, explore exhibits of dino replicas, play in the Discovery Forest, and challenge others in the virtual reality room.
ESSEX COUNTY TURTLE BACK ZOO
560 Northfield Ave., West Orange
973-731-5800
turtlebackzoo.com
Take a behind-the-scenes tour to get up close with giraffes, sea lions, penguins and butterflies. Other attractions include mini golf, the Children’s Regatta Playground, paddle boats and the TreeTop Adventure Course.
FOSTERFIELDS LIVING HISTORICAL FARM
73 Kahdena Rd., Morris Twp.
973-326-7645
morrisparks.net/parks_trails/fosterfields-living-historical-farm
Kids can experience life as it was in the 1920s when Cara Foster—whose father, Charles, purchased the land in 1881—ran the farm. They’ll collect eggs, ride on wagons and see antique autos.
FRANKLIN MINERAL MUSEUM
32 Evans St., Franklin
973-827-3481
franklinmineralmuseum.com
Start your visit inside the Fluorescent Room, with its 32-foot-long display of glowing minerals; and then move on to the American Indian Room, which has Native American tools on display.
FRELINGHUYSEN ARBORETUM
353 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Twp.
973-326-7601
arboretumfriends.org
The scenic areas include a number of gardens, the Haggerty Center and the mansion. Families can sign up for the 30-minute Getting To Know Us Stroll to see the grounds in person.
THE FUNPLEX
182 Rte. 10, East Hanover
3320-24 Rte. 38, Mt. Laurel
thefunplex.com
Aside from the indoor amusement park with a boardwalk, arcade, bowling alley and rides, there’s an outdoor Splashplex waterpark.
GAME SHOW CHALLENGE
916 Park Ave., Building 9, Ste. 2, Freehold Borough
732-372-0900
gameshowchallengenj.com
Test your smarts, speed and luck in a series of battles that will make you feel like you’re on TV. It’s located inside Bury the Hatchet, so plan a doubly fun night of some axe throwing, too.
GREAT SWAMP WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown
973-538-3500
greatswamp.org
Sign up for a Nature Detective Hike, go horseback riding or kayaking, lean toward eco-friendly living, and learn about the mission of The Riverkeepers.
GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE
80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton
609-586-0616
groundsforsculpture.org
Grounds For Sculpture spans 42 beautifully landscaped acres dotted with more than 270 largescale works. Families can sign up for Tots for Art classes or drop in for Family Open Studio days.
THE GROWING STAGE
7 Ledgewood Ave., Netcong
973-347-4946
growingstage.com
Part of The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey inside The Historic Palace Theatre, kids can watch a matinee performance from the main stage. There are Q&As with the artistic team members, plus activity guides for all students.
GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
1071 Fifth Ave., NYC
212-423-3500
guggenheim.org
In case the incredible collections of Impressionist, Post- Impressionist and modern French masterpieces aren’t enough incentive to visit, the building itself is one of eight Frank Lloyd Wright designs designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
HEALTHBARN USA
1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood
201-444-2955
healthbarnusa.com
Learn about composting, go on an herb adventure, plant peas in a recyclable pot, and test your nutrition IQ during your visit.
HIDDEN BROOK RANCH ALPACA AND LLAMA FARM
196 State Park Rd., Blairstown
908-543-4808
hiddenbrookranchalpaca.com
The owners love to share their knowledge of the small herd that lives on 10 acres at the foot of Jenny Jump State Park. Make an appointment for a guided walk, meet-and-greet or chores tour.
HISTORIC LONGSTREET FARM
44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel
732-946-3758
monmouthcountyparks.com
Go back to the farming life of 1890s Monmouth County. Tour the farmhouse (from 1775), milk a cow, play games from the Victorian period, shear sheep, and use a wood stove for cooking.
HISTORIC NEW BRIDGE LANDING
1201 Main St., River Edge
201-343-9492
bergencountyhistory.org/discoverhnbl
This former factory town and battleground during the Revolutionary War is now a living history experience where kids get a glimpse into the 19th century via historical interpreters and weekend festivals.
THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE
4263 Atlantic Ave., Farmingdale
732-919-3500
allairevillage.org
Originally known as Howell Iron Works, Co., because it was an iron-producing factory town, the village’s original buildings are open for tours of 19th-century life.
HOLLAND RIDGE FARMS
108 Rues Rd., Cream Ridge
hollandridgefarms.com
This spectacular springtime tulip farm offers u-pick flowers, weekend markets, hayrides around the fields, and tours of the Dutch windmill.
HOWELL LIVING HISTORY FARM
70 Woodens Ln., Hopewell Twp.
609-737-3299
howellfarm.org
Trips to this farm from the 1700s include hands-on experiences that engage kids in the chores of a working farm, like spring plowing, field work, potato planting and beekeeping.
INDIAN ACRES TREE FARM
111 Tuckerton Rd., Medford
609-953-0087
indianacrestreefarm.com
Take a 20-minute wagon ride around the 151-acre preserved farm, meet the goats and alpacas, and spend time in the play area.
INFOAGE SCIENCE & HISTORY MUSEUMS
2201 Marconi Rd., Wall Twp.
732-280-3000
infoage.org
Exhibits about space exploration, electronic warfare, radio technology, military communications, World War II artifacts and the Lenni-Lenape tribe are spread out over 20 museums in six historic buildings.
INSECTROPOLIS
1761 Rte. 9, Toms River
732-349-7090
insectropolis.com
Known as the Bugseum of New Jersey, this is the place where your kids can learn all about tiny insects and creatures.
INTREPID MUSEUM
Pier 86, W. 46th St. and 12th Ave., NYC
877-957-7447
intrepidmuseum.org
Visitors to the legendary aircraft carrier will see the Space Shuttle Pavilion, where they’ll get a close-up look at a retired NASA space shuttle, a former military submarine kids can walk through, and the interactive Exploreum.
iPLAY AMERICA
110 Schanck Rd., Freehold Twp.
732-577-8200
iplayamerica.com
Consider this the indoor answer to a Jersey Shore boardwalk. There are arcade games, go-karts, a giant jungle gym, laser tag, virtual reality, rides, and even a candy shop.
IRON PEAK SPORTS & EVENTS
137 Mountain View Rd., Hillsborough
908-758-2739
ironpeakse.com
Whether the kids like soccer, lacrosse, football, basketball, volleyball or baseball, there’s a sport for them at this indoor and outdoor complex. There are also climbing walls, an arcade, duckpin bowling and aerial ropes.
JENKINSON’S AQUARIUM
300 Ocean Ave., Pt. Pleasant Beach
732-892-0600
jenkinsons.com/aquarium
Aside from seeing the awesome aquatic animals, kids can join the Junior Keepers, Aquatic Adventures or various science programs.
JOHNSON’S LOCUST HALL FARM
2691 Monmouth Rd., Jobstown
609-353-9000
johnsonslocusthallfarm.com
This preserved farm from the 17th century comes alive during the spring with u-pick flowers, a farm market, fruit festivals, and Pick & Play Mornings with Barnyard Buddies.
LAKOTA WOLF PRESERVE
89 Mt. Pleasant Rd., Columbia
908-496-9244
lakotawolf.com
Take a Wolf Watch tour or sign up to see majestic wolves, bobcats, lynxes and foxes at play inside the largest natural-habitat animal preserve in the Northeast.
LIBERTY HALL MUSEUM
1003 Morris Ave., Union
908-527-0400
libertyhall.kean.edu
This 50-room mansion offers a hands-on look into the daily life of a colonial child of the 1700s through their toys, school, games and chores.
LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER
222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City
201-200-1000
lsc.org
The kids will get hands-on experience with electricity, bounce around an Infinity Climber, crawl through the Touch Tunnel, and see a show in the biggest planetarium in the western hemisphere. The newest display is the 40-foot-long, 13-foot-high SUE T-Rex skeleton, and the Izzo Family Touch Tank is now open.
MACCULLOCH HALL
45 Macculloch Ave., Morristown
973-538-2404
maccullochhall.org
The Federal-style mansion from 1812 is open for the Please Touch Tour, self-guided walkthroughs, access to historic gardens, and a collection of political cartoons.
MAD SCIENCE
Multiple Locations
609-737-0313
wnj.madscience.org
Mad Scientists keep kids ages 3-12 interested in a variety of topics about how the world works through school assemblies, science shows and fun stations.
MANASQUAN RESERVOIR
Visitor Center: 311 Windeler Rd., Howell
732-919-0996
Environmental Center: 331 Georgia Tavern Rd., Howell
monmouthcountyparks.com
Inside the Environmental Center, you’ll find activities for kids, plus live animals like turtles and snakes. Outside, take a hike, rent a kayak or rowboat, or spend time at the playground.
MARINE MAMMAL STRANDING CENTER
3625 Atlantic Brigantine Blvd., Brigantine
609-266-0538
mmsc.org
Marine mammals and turtles that need rehab and rescuing stay here. Kids can learn about their recovery at the Sea Life Museum.
MATCHBOX ROAD MUSEUM
15 Pearl St., Newfield
609-381-2332
facebook.com/MatchboxRoadMuseum
It’s like a toy store come to life! Kids will see a huge collection of Matchbox cars and rare products made by the brand.
MEDIEVAL TIMES
149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst
201-933-2220
medievaltimes.com
The “castle” is home to knights, falcons and horses who’ll put on a show complete with hand-to-hand combat and jousting. Take a look at medieval weaponry in the Hall of Arms. Then feast on a four-course meal fit for the Queen.
MONMOUTH MUSEUM
765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft
732-747-2266
monmouthmuseum.org
Kids can climb a replica of the Sandy Hook Lighthouse; learn STEAM concepts through fossils, a paleo lab and recycled arts; check out space gear; and see pollinators in the gardens. This spring brings in a Smithsonian exhibit on the narwhal.
MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM
3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair
973-746-5555
montclairartmuseum.org
There are more than 14,000 paintings, ceramics, basketry, sculptures and works on paper you can explore.
MORRIS MUSEUM
6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown
973-971-3700
morrismuseum.org
The galleries touch on everything from dinosaurs and Native American art to earth science and model trains. A real highlight is the Spark!Lab, where you can be an inventor for the day.
MORRISTOWN NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
30 Washington Pl., Morristown
973-539-2016, ext. 210
nps.gov/morr
Located at the site where the Continental Army survived the winter of 1779 are 27 miles of hiking trails; go on a scavenger hunt to become a Junior Ranger.
MUSEUM OF EARLY TRADES & CRAFTS
9 Main St., Madison
973-377-2982, ext. 10
metc.org
Aside from monthly Makerspace events at the annex where kids can immerse themselves in STEM activities, the museum has its own share of early American toys, simple machines, dragons, and info on the American Revolution in NJ.
MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
558 Broadway, NYC
866-665-1018
museumoficecream.com
Learn about the beloved treat’s history, play in the colorful sprinkle pool and take a trip down NYC’s highest indoor slide.
NAS WILDWOOD AVIATION MUSEUM
500 Forrestal Rd., Cape May
609-886-8787
usnasw.org
You’ll travel back in time to the days of World War II as you step inside a real WWII hangar. Kids can learn history in a fun way, as they explore aviation and military history through hands-on exhibits.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MATHEMATICS
225 Fifth Ave., NYC
212-542-0566
momath.org
Games and activities at MoMath— like doodling, puzzles, visual effects, formulas, drawing and group theory—are all based on fostering a love of math.
NEWARK MUSEUM OF ART
49 Washington St., Newark
973-596-6550
newarkmuseumart.org
Travel around the world through exhibits of Asian, African and Mediterranean art. Lie inside a kaleidoscope, stand before a Tibetan Buddhist altar, and admire Native American clothing.
NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
njhalloffame.org/entertainmentlearning-center
Express your Jersey pride through a series of interactive exhibits where you’ll learn about our state’s heroes. Join a hologram of a famous singer on stage, take a journey to the moon, see Edison’s Model T, and host an interview on Late Night TV.
NEW JERSEY MARITIME MUSEUM
428 Dock Rd., Beach Haven
609-492-0202
njmaritimemuseum.org
Give kids a taste of life under the sea through exhibits showcasing old marine uniforms, SCUBA diving equipment, info on shipwrecks dating back decades, and lighthouse postcards collected over the years.
NEW JERSEY SEA GRANT CONSORTIUM
Various locations
732-872-1300
njseagrant.org
Every Kid Outdoors lets kids in grades 3 to 5 learn about NJ’s coastal ecosystems—for free! Or check the schedule for Ocean Fun Days, with eco tours, crab races, exhibits and crafts.
NEW JERSEY STATE HOUSE
145 W. State St., Trenton
609-847-3150
njstatehousetours.org
Younger kids learn about state symbols and county flags; while older kids learn about how laws are made, visit the Senate and General Assembly chambers, and explore the building’s architecture.
NEW JERSEY STATE MUSEUM
205 W. State St., Trenton
609-292-1382
nj.gov/state/museum
Dive into fascinating pieces of Garden State history like Native American artifacts and dinosaur and shark fossil records. Visit the planetarium or see gigantic-sized toys from years gone by.
NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE
47-01 111th St., Corona, NY
718-699-0005
nysci.org
See the inner workings of architecture at CityWorks, learn about ecology in the animated Connected Worlds, and watch science in action during The Big Bubble Experiment.
NORTHLANDZ
495 Rte. 202, Flemington
908-782-4022
northlandz.com
Along the self-guided walkthrough of the world’s largest miniature train wonderland, you will see over 100 trains running along eight total miles of track. Look for 200 dolls, 200 pipe organs and 250 art pieces as well.
OAK HILL FARMS
177 Stillwell Rd., Holmdel
oakhillfarmsnj.com
On the first and third Wednesdays of the month, make an appointment to see chickens, alpacas and donkeys play during a farm tour, then peek into the hives to learn about pollinators.
OLD BARRACKS MUSEUM
101 Barrack St., Trenton
609-396-1776
barracks.org
Head to the state’s capital to see where soldiers lived during the Revolutionary War, and experience what life was like in Washington’s Army.
PAINT GROUND
57 S. Broadway, Pitman
856-597-0185
paintground.art
The fully adaptive space lets kids get messy by using water balloons, sponges, spatulas and bubble wrap to paint the entire room (and themselves).
THE PALEY MUSEUM
25 W. 52nd St., NYC
212-621-6600
paleycenter.org
The Paley Center for Media focuses on the history of TV, radio and advertisements. There’s an exhibit on the 45th anniversary of PAC-MAN in addition to storytimes, radio recreations, and free podcasting workshops.
THE PAPER BAG PLAYERS
1120 Avenue of the Americas, NYC
212-353-2332
thepaperbagplayers.org
This season’s “Hey There, Howdy, Everybody!” is geared toward preschoolers through fourth graders who like dancing, sing-alongs and storytelling.
PATERSON GREAT FALLS
72 McBride Ave., Paterson
973-523-0370
nps.gov
This stunning natural attraction has magnificent waterfalls that you can marvel at while learning about the history of Paterson and its industrial renaissance.
PHILADELPHIA ZOO
3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA
215-243-1100
philadelphiazoo.org
If you want to up your zoo visit, Behind-the-Scenes Experiences are semi-private meet-and-greets with your favorite animals and the keepers who care for them.
PLAY BIG ZONE
300 Campus Dr., Morganville
732-991-1993
playbigzone.com
Super-active kids will burn up energy on The Spin Zone Bumper Cars, playing Human Foosball, inside the Laser Maze, and combatting obstacles in The Amazing Race.
PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM
4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA
215-581-3181
pleasetouchmuseum.org
Here, kids are required to get hands-on by exploring new exhibits like Shaun the Sheep, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and PAW Patrol: Adventure Camp. Special events will be planned for America’s 250th birthday.
POPCORN PARK ANIMAL REFUGE
1 Humane Way, Forked River
609-693-1900
ahscares.org/education-programs
At this sanctuary for injured, ill or elderly farm animals, birds and wildlife, Animal Refuge Outreach Programming includes lessons on NJ’s wildlife, reptiles, and the life of the animal keepers.
QUEENS COUNTY FARM MUSEUM
73-50 Little Neck Pkwy., Queens, NY
718-347-3276
queensfarm.org
The School to Farm Education Programs have a “menu” by season, including springtime animal adventures, compost exploration, rainforest terrariums and beekeeping lessons.
RAMANESSIN CREEK
Holmdel Park, 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel
732-946-9562
co.monmouth.nj.us
Walk the Ramanessin Trail along the brook or the Steeplechase Trail near the site’s old farm routes. You can access Bayonet Farm, as well as an area to collect Cretaceous marine fossils and shark teeth.
RAPTOR TRUST
1390 White Bridge Rd., Millington
908-647-2353
theraptortrust.org
Learn about hawks, eagles, owls and other birds of prey that are rehabilitated on site, dozens of which are housed in aviaries you can view along the walking trails.
RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE PLANETARIUM
118 Lamington Rd., Branchburg
908-231-8805
raritanval.edu/private-showsplanetarium
Journey through the solar system, ride alongside a star or enter a black hole while inside the planetarium. Sign up for a scavenger hunt, then treat the kids to astronaut ice cream after.
RED MILL MUSEUM
56 Main St., Clinton
908-735-4101
theredmill.org
STEAM-focused tours give kids a glimpse into what life was like in the 1800s and early 1900s through visits to the schoolhouse, mill and quarry. Or, they’ll learn about colonial life in the 1700s with a trip to the log cabin, herb garden and springhouse.
REEVES-REED ARBORETUM
165 Hobart Ave., Summit
908-273-8787
reeves-reedarboretum.org
Wander at your own pace through the gardens and trails of this pretty 13.5-acre arboretum. Kid-friendly education focuses on bugs, food and cooking, seeds and plants, and info on the original Lenape inhabitants of the area.
RISENY
160 W. 45th St., NYC
718-701-4998
riseny.co
Experience the Big Apple from different views: Fly 30 feet above ground on a simulation ride, sit down for an immersive film about the New York subway, and walk around seven interactive exhibits at the museum.
ROCKINGHAM STATE HISTORIC SITE
Laurel Avenue (Rte. 603), Kingston
609-683-7132
rockingham.net
Did you know General George Washington’s final headquarters during the Revolutionary War (back in 1783!) is in NJ? Learn about history while standing inside the house, or attend a special presentation in the barn.
RUTGERS FARM TOURS
College Farm, 65 Sheepfold Ln., New Brunswick
farmtours.rutgers.edu
Farm staff or a student farmer will lead you on a tour of the Cook Campus farm to see cattle, goats, horses, sheep and pigs.
RUTGERS GEOLOGY MUSEUM
85 Somerset St., New Brunswick
848-932-7243
geologymuseum.rutgers.edu
Take a guided tour to learn about dinosaurs, geology, the Ice Age and mummies, with special attention given to NJ-based exhibits.
SCHAEFER FARMS
1051 County Rte. 523, Flemington
908-782-2705
schaeferfarms.com
Take a tractor-drawn hayride through 200+ acres of a working farm, where you can play with the farm animals.
SCHIFF NATURE PRESERVE
339 Pleasant Valley Rd., Mendham
973-543-6004
schiffnaturepreserve.org
Dubbed the place “where wild things happen naturally,” the 12 miles of trails and 780 acres of protected land include the Great Meadow and a plant garden.
SEA LIFE NEW JERSEY
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
551-234-6382
visitsealife.com/new-jersey
Kids will come face-to-face with 3,000 different exotic aquatic creatures in more than 20 marine exhibits—and get closer to some, thanks to the Touchpool. There are also educational workshops covering subjects like habitats and animal behavior.
SILVERBALL RETRO ARCADE ENTERTAINMENT, EATERY & MUSEUM
Third Avenue Pavilion, Asbury Park
732-774-4994
silverballmuseum.com/asburypark
Part playtime, part history lesson, families can spend hours playing the different antique and modern pinball machines while learning about the history of the game.
SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM
12 Fulton St., NYC
212-748-8600
southstreetseaportmuseum.org
This museum offers tours of historic buildings and ships and interactive learning activities. Kids can ride a tugboat or schooner after learning about the 19thcentury port of New York.
SPACE FARMS ZOO & MUSEUM
218 County Road 519, Sussex
973-875-3223
spacefarms.com
Spread throughout 11 buildings dedicated to American history, you can see 50+ antique cars and motorcycles, a series of dolls, a hand-built train set, a mini circus, and 500 live wild animals.
STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY
15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick
732-246-7469
stnj.org
Check the schedule of shows and concerts. The Symphony Scholars program teaches kids about classic music, then lets them experience a live orchestra concert. Milk & Cookies introduces kids ages 3 to 8 to live theater.
STATEN ISLAND CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
1000 Richmond Terrace, Building M, Staten Island, NY
718-273-2060
sichildrensmuseum.org
Located on the grounds of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Gardens, there are lots of hands-on experiences for kids here, including indoor and outdoor exhibits, dance and art workshops, science, and storytimes.
STATUE OF LIBERTY
Liberty Island, NYC
212-363-3200
nps.gov/stli
Take the ferry to this crossroads to America, where you can climb the pedestal to access Lady Liberty’s crown, stop by the Statue of Liberty Museum and theater, then head to the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island.
STERLING HILL MINING MUSEUM
30 Plant St., Ogdensburg
973-209-7212
sterlinghillminingmuseum.org
For an underground experience, tour the Zobel Hall Museum, the mine and the Warren Museum of Fluorescence. Sluicing lets kids sift sand for minerals and fossils through the water trough.
STONE HARBOR MUSEUM
9410 2nd Ave., Stone Harbor
609-368-7500
stoneharbormuseum.org
Trained volunteer docents will teach your kids through Stone Harbor Stories, which are oral histories that take you back to the 1930s. There are hundreds of stories and thousands of photos within the museum, plus a timeline display. They even featured Taylor Swift’s summer memories spent in Stone Harbor.
STORM KING ART CENTER
1 Museum Rd., New Windsor, NY
845-534-3115
stormking.org
Kids will marvel at the large-scale works of art and on-site commissions at this 500-acre outdoor museum located in NY’s Hudson Valley.
TEAM MAKERS
400 Tenafly Rd., Tenafly
201-500-8076
teammakersnorthjersey.com
Kids are divided into teams so they can work on engineering, skills games and experiments at different stations.
TENAFLY NATURE CENTER
313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly
201-568-6093
tenaflynaturecenter.org
Spend time along the Bellflower Faerie, bird or storywalk trails; or bring animal lovers to see frogs, salamanders and birds of prey. Kids can go geocaching, backpacking, letterboxing and wildlife watching on the grounds.
THOMAS EDISON CENTER AT MENLO PARK
37 Christie St., Edison
732-549-3299
menloparkmuseum.org
While taking a tour of the 1938 Edison Memorial Tower, see the inventor’s original works and 120-year-old phonographs. Then, walk through the 36-acre state park, with its nature trail and informative kiosks.
THOMAS EDISON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
211 Main St., West Orange
973-736-0550, ext. 11
nps.gov/edis/index.htm
Your kids may know Thomas Edison invented the lightbulb, but what about his other works? Here, they can explore his chemistry lab and tour the Black Maria, Edison’s first film studio.
TiLT MUSEUM
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
833-263-7326
americandream.com/venue/tiltmuseum
Become one with the art at TiLT, which offers an immersive art experience and optical illusions designed by award-winning artist Tracy Lee Stum.
TOPGOLF
104 Centerton Rd., Mt. Laurel
856-793-4086
1013 Rte. 1, Edison
732-374-4097
topgolf.com
Test your precision skills at the indoor driving range, or sign up for a golf package that includes swing tips and a science lab curriculum, plus snacks and goodie bags.
TWO RIVER THEATER
21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank
732-345-1400
tworivertheater.org
Arts education supports the artist in each student and builds future audiences. There are student matinees for kids, or lessons on social justice for teens.
VALLEY SHEPHERD CREAMERY
50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley
908-876-3200
valleyshepherd.com
During a guided farm tour, young cheesemongers will see lambs and sheep, then take a wagon ride up the mountain to learn about the cheesemaking process.
THE WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION CENTER
303 Midland Ave., Garfield
201-257-2231
thebatcave.org
New Jersey’s “bat cave” introduces kids to the importance of bats to the ecosystem. They’ll watch presentations on reptiles and rainforest critters, plus see other animals front and center. Note: the center is currently closed while it moves to a new location.
WOODFORD CEDAR RUN WILDLIFE REFUGE
4 Sawmill Rd., Medford
856-983-3329
cedarrun.org
The 171-acre non-profit wildlife refuge and rehab hospital down in the Pine Barrens cares for more than 7,000 wild animals every year, some of which your kids can see in their permanent homes. The nature center (with animals + activities for kids) and hiking trails are open every day.
YOGI BERRA MUSEUM & LEARNING CENTER
Montclair State University, 8 Yogi Berra Dr., Little Falls
973-655-2378
yogiberramuseum.org
This museum is dedicated to the New York Yankees legend, but also has exhibits on New York City’s Golden Boys and vintage catchers’ mitts, plus an interactive pitching mound.
ZIMMERLI ART MUSEUM
71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick
848-932-7237
zimmerli.rutgers.edu
See thousands of pieces of art across several mediums as you go on interactive educator-led discovery tours. Art Together is the museum’s free, monthly dropin family art workshop series.
—Jennifer Amato, Amanda Clark, James LaForge, Sunny Sequeira and Nia Sylva contributed to this story.
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