Articles

Chol Hamoed Local Trip Guide

October 3, 2025

Chol Hamo’ed Sukkos Local Trip Guide 2025/5786

 

Destinations are sorted by age into the following categories:

Little kids (Ages 2–7): Hands-on activities, simple museums, arts-and-crafts centers, and play areas like Chuck E. Cheese and The Crayola Experience. Outdoor locations in this section feature playgrounds, petting zoos, and/or rides.

Big kids (Ages 8–12): More exciting attractions like climbing walls, trampoline parks, and interactive museums. Includes outdoor locations for independent exploration and moderately complex activities.

Teen boys (Ages 13–18): High-energy and/or tech-driven activities such as go-karting, VR gaming, adventure parks, horseback riding, and sailing. Features physical challenges, outdoor sports, action-oriented historical sites, and skill-building experiences.

Teen girls (Ages 13–18): Art-focused activities, unique historical sites, and creative experiences. Includes social opportunities like escape rooms.

For the whole family: Versatile destinations with multi-generational appeal such as bowling alleys, zoos, aquariums, and museums. These attractions offer varied experiences where each family member can find engaging activities.

 

Important notes:

  • Always call locations in advance to confirm hours, availability, and pricing.
  • Many activities appeal across age groups and genders.
  • Discounts may be available at beentheredonethattrips.com, groupon.com, and theoceancountylibrary.org/museum-pass-program.
  • Stay safe and have fun!

The Voice does not take responsibility for any errors listed below nor for the kashrus of any establishment.

 

Little Kids (Ages 2–7)

 

G & G Stables

Details: Petting farm, animal feed, and game area. Pony rides available for $5

Hours: Tues.–Thurs., April 15–17, 1:00–6:00 p.m. Fri., April 18, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Address: G&G Stables, 49 Driftway Road, Howell, NJ

Admission: $10 admission (under 2 free)

 

Deerwood Park

Details: Large and varied playground structures, spacious fields, walking/bike paths

Address: 2740 Lakewood-Allendale Rd., Howell, NJ

Phone: 732-938-4500

 

Dorbrook Recreation Center

Details: Large variety of play facilities, picnic tables, sand play area, and grassy area

Address: 353 County Rd. 537, Colts Neck, NJ

Phone: 732-542-1643

Website: monmouthcountyparks.com

 

Allaire Community Farm

Details: 25-acre farm and petting zoo with rescued animals. Barrel-train ride ($3, weekdays and weekends), hayrides ($3, weekends only).

Admission: Children over age 1 $4; adults $6; animal feed available for purchase.

Hours: Sun. 12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.; Mon.–Fri.: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Address: 1923 Bailey’s Corner Rd., Wall, NJ

Phone: 732-796-3298

Website: allairecommunityfarm.org

 

Jersey Shore Alpacas

Details: Meet, pet, and feed alpacas for a 30-minute guided tour

Hours: Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, online reservation required

Admission: Starts at $25 for two people, up to $60 for six people. Under 2 is free.

Address: 521 Route 47 South, Cape May, NJ

Phone: 609-889-4957

Website: jerseyshorealpacas.com

 

Popcorn Park Zoo

Details: Refuge for wildlife that were sick, elderly, abandoned, abused, or injured. Popcorn available to feed free-roaming birds and farm animals.

Admission: Adults $10, seniors and children under 11 $5, under 3 free.

Address: 1 Humane Way (off Lacey Rd), Forked River, NJ

Phone: 609-693-1900

Website: ahscares.org

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. daily (admission until 4:00)

 

Chuck E. Cheese’s

Details: Various arcade games and kiddie rides

Admission: Pay per game.

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Address: 56 Chambers Bridge Rd., Brick, NJ

Phone: 732-262-9200

Website: chuckecheese.com

 

Jungle Jim & Jane

Details: Geared for younger children; features a huge jungle gym and many jungle-themed rides and fun activities

Admission: Adults and babies 6–24 months $10.35, children $20.70. Call first for hours and availability (by reservation only).

Address: 2399 Route 36 in Eastpointe Plaza, Atlantic Highlands, NJ

Phone: 732-872-4380

Website: junglejimandjane.com

 

Imagine That!

Details: A children’s learning and play center to touch, explore, climb, and create

Admission: Adults $6.99, children (ages 1–10) $21.99. Closed Mondays.

Address: 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, NJ

Phone: 973-966-8000

Website: imaginethatmuseum.com

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Sun. 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

 

The Crayola Experience

Details: The huge, colorful place to explore the making of everyone’s favorite crayons. Features various art giveaways and activities, a multimedia presentation, and a soft play/climbing area.

Admission: From $30.99 online. Unlimited 12-month pass $44.99 each. Save $2 per ticket under Plan Your Visit/Special Offers.

Address: 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA

Phone: 610-515-8000

Website: crayolaexperience.com

Hours: Typically 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (check calendar for specific dates)

 

Insectropolis

Details: Everything you ever wanted to know about bugs. Exhibits plus hands-on activities.

Admission: $12 plus tax per person over 2 years old, group discount for 15 or more visitors, call to schedule.

Address: 1761 Route 9, Toms River, NJ

Phone: 732-349-7090

Website: insectropolis.com

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Sun. 12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Climbing and Trampoline Parks (Climbing/trampoline park options are listed in the Big Kids section.)

Zoos and Aquariums (Zoos and aquariums are listed in the Family section.)

 

Big Kids (Ages 8–12)

 

Holmdel Park and Longstreet Farm

Details: Trails, playgrounds, and historic farm with animals and staff in period costumes

Admission: Free

Address: 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel, NJ

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (The historic farmhouse is open from 12:00–3:30 p.m. on Sundays, or by reservation.)

Phone: 732-946-3758

Website: monmouthcountyparks.com

 

Turtle Back Zoo

Details: Large zoo with animals from various regions plus extra activities

Admission: Under age 2 free, ages 2–12 and over 62 $17, ages 13–61 $19.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Address: 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ

Phone: 973-731-5800

Website: turtlebackzoo.com

 

iPlay America

Details: New Jersey’s largest indoor amusement park includes go-karts, laser tag, thrilling rides, an indoor boardwalk, and more than 250 arcade games.

Admission: Prices and packages vary. Group rates available for 25 or more people. Must book in advance to receive discount.

Address: 110 Schank Rd., Freehold, NJ

Phone: 732-577-8200

Website: iplayamerica.com

 

Playland’s Castaway Cove

Details: A complex of amusement park rides, a mini golf course, a go-kart track, and arcades.

Admission: Mini golf: $8 per game; go-karts: $7 per rider; amusement park: pay per ride. Packages available. Address: 1020 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ

Phone: 609-399-4751

Website: oceancityfun.com

 

Funplex

Details: An indoor and outdoor amusement park with arcades, bumper cars, bowling, go-karts, laser tag, and some outdoor rides

Admission: Purchase a wristband for access to a package deal of rides or pay per attraction.

Address: 3320-24 Route 38, Mt. Laurel, NJ

Phone: 856-273-9666

Website: funplexmountlaurel.com

Additional location: East Hanover, 973-428-1166, funplexeasthanover.com

 

Play Big Zone

Details: An activity center geared for children aged 4–14, featuring a two-story obstacle course, human foosball, a laser maze, arcades, bumper cars, arts and crafts, a toddler area, and more.

Admission: Play according to the amount you put onto your game card; bonus for $25 or more. $10 admission per child.

Hours: Sun. 12:00–8:00 p.m., Mon.–Fri. 12:00–7:00 p.m.

Address: 300 Campus Dr., unit H, Morganville, NJ

Phone: 732-991-1993

Website: playbigzone.com

 

HotSand Glass Studio

Details: Watch live glassblowing demonstrations or try your hand at glass art in a walk-in session. Fascinating for kids and adults.

Admission: Walk-in session prices vary; call ahead for availability.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Address: 123 Main St., Millville, NJ

Phone: 856-555-1234

Website: hotsandglass.com

 

Climbzone

Details: If your kids are climbing the walls, bring them to Climbzone! Attractions include 68 different climbing walls, a two-level ropes course, a zip line, soft play, and more. Reserve time slots online.

Admission: $14.99 for soft play only, $21.99–$36.99 for climbing

Address: 5369 Route 9 North, Howell, NJ

Phone: 732-813-8300

Website: climbzone.us/howell

 

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Details: Indoor trampoline park plus zipline, ninja course, foam pits, virtual reality, and more

Admission: 90 minutes $27.99 (4 and under $18.99); all-day pass $32.99. Socks are $5.99 a pair. Discounts available through groupon.com.

Address: 1001 New Hampshire Ave., Lakewood, NJ

Phone: 609-398-4SKY (4759)

Website: skyzone.com/Lakewood

 

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

Details: An action-packed trampoline and adventure park with an indoor playground, climbing walls, a spin zone, virtual reality, a battle beam, and more

Admission: Packages start at $36.49 for all attractions or $27.99 for trampoline areas use only. Children 40 inches and below pay $15.99. Socks are $3.99 a pair.

Address: 1256 Indian Head Rd., Toms River, NJ

Phone: 732-659-9060

Website: urbanair.com/new-jersey-toms-river

Hours: 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Ceramic Painting (Ceramic painting options are listed in the Teen Girls section)

 

Teen Boys (Ages 13–18)

 

Lake Shenandoah

Details: Bike trails, conservation area, fishing, picnic area, restrooms. Basketball, soccer, and softball facilities.

Address: 660 Ocean Avenue and 300 New Hampshire Avenue, Lakewood, NJ

Phone: 732-506-9090

 

Double Trouble State Park

Details: Eight miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Canoe and kayak access to Cedar Creek. Self-guided tours of historical buildings including sawmill and cranberry packing house.

Address: 581 Pinewald Keswick Rd., Bayville, NJ

Phone: 609-726-1191

 

Monmouth Battlefield State Park

Details: Historic park with trails, picnic areas, playgrounds. Seasonal pick-your-own orchards.

Admission: Free

Address: 20 State Route 33, Manalapan, NJ

Phone: 732-462-9616. Call before visiting to verify visitor center and restroom availability.

 

Miss Chris Fishing

Details: Four-hour fishing trips, bait and tackle provided

Admission: Adults $60, children (under 12) $45, toddlers $20, seniors $45

Address: 1210 Wilson Dr., Cape May, NJ

Phone: 609-849-9453

Website: capemayfisherman.com

 

High Exposure Climbing

Details: A 26,000-square-foot extreme sports facility featuring a giant 40-foot Rubix cube, ninja obstacles, a zip line, a rock-climbing wall, and a NERF target range

Admission: Various packages available; standard day pass is $30. Specials are available depending on the day of the week; check website info.

Address: 266 Union St., Northvale, NJ

Phone: 201-768-8600

Website: Highexposureclimbing.com

Hours: Open until 10:00 p.m. weeknights, 8:00 p.m. Sundays

 

Breezy Meadow Equestrian Centre

Details: Horseback riding lessons and guided trails. Call for pricing and reservations. Guided trail riding: $50 for half an hour ($60 holidays), $80 for an hour ($100 holidays); 2–5 people per ride; ages 7 and up. Riding lessons begin at $50 for a 1-hour lesson ($40 with a package of four).

Address: G&G Stables, 49 Driftway Rd., Howell, NJ

Phone: 609-752-5617

Website: breezymeadowequestriancentre.com

 

Circle A Riding Academy

Details: Horseback riding lessons and trails (ages 7 and up)

Address: 116 Herbertsville Rd., Howell, NJ

Phone: 732-938-2004

 

Quail Ridge Golf World

Details: Outdoor golf and mini golf practice facility. 50-stall covered driving range with hitting targets.

Address: 4130 Hurley Pond Rd. and Route 34, Wall, NJ

Phone: 732-681-0918; call for hours.

Website: quailridgegolfworld.com

 

K1 Speed (formerly Speed Raceway)

Details: Fast-paced electric go-karts for all ages, arcades

Admission: A $7.95 annual membership is required. Packages for activities range from $26.95–$64.95. Minimum height requirement of 48 inches

Address: 1103 Route 130 South, Cinnaminson, NJ

Phone: 877-757-7333

Website: k1speed.com/Cinnaminson-location

 

iFLY Indoor Skydiving (Paramus, NJ)

Details: Experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe indoor vertical wind tunnel. Perfect for teens and adults seeking an adrenaline rush.

Admission: Prices start around $65 for one flight; packages available.

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Address: 100 Crossroads Dr., Paramus, NJ

Phone: 201-225-4359

Website: iflyworld.com

 

Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Details: Explore a real mine on a guided underground tour and see amazing fluorescent minerals. After Labor Day, tours are offered only on Sundays.

Admission: Adults $18, children 6–12 $12, under 6 free.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Address: 30 Plant St., Ogdensburg, NJ

Phone: 973-209-7212

Website: sterlinghillminingmuseum.org

 

Top Golf

Details: An indoor sports entertainment complex featuring high-tech golf that players of various skill levels can enjoy. Up to six players play in each of over 100 hitting bays.

Admission: $5 for new members. Time slots range from $40–$65 per hour, per bay. Reserve slots online.

Address: 1013 US Route 1, Edison, NJ

Phone: 732-374-4097

Website: topgolf.com

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.

 

Swing Loose Indoor Golf

Details: Personalized indoor golf simulator featuring 100 course options and professional instructors

Admission: Non-member rates are $69 per hour per bay (up to six players per bay). Can reserve online.

Address: Bell Works Complex, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ

Phone: 732-444-6333

Website: swingloosegolf.com

 

Fireball Mountain

Details: Outdoor laser tag features 15 acres with 30 structures—tunnels, towers, forts, and more. Used by the US military for training.

Admission: $310 for 10 players, individuals $38 (both join public groups). Private group options are available as well, with variations like gelblast ($350 for a private party of ten)

Address: 295 Meany Rd., Wrightstown, NJ

Phone: 800-600-3086

Website: fireballmountain.com

 

InfoAge Science Center

Details: “NJ’s mini Smithsonian,” this history/tech museum is located at a 100-year-old national historic landmark. Exhibits on radio, computers, electronics, and warfare technology are housed at a former military base.

Admission: Adults $12, ages 4–12 $8, children under 4 free

Address: 2201 Marconi Rd., Wall, NJ

Phone: 732-280-3000

Website: infoage.org

Hours: 12:00–5:00 p.m. on Sundays only

 

Thomas Edison Center in Menlo Park

Details: Set on a 36-acre park with trails, this attraction includes a small two-room museum and the Edison Memorial Tower and Commemorative Monuments. The museum contains artifacts and interpretive exhibits relating to Thomas Edison’s major inventions at Menlo Park. Artifacts include a model of Edison’s laboratory, early phonographs and light bulbs, historic photographs, and a Menlo Park-era electric generator.

Admission: Adults $7, Youth (17 and under) $5. Tours required; book in advance.

Address: 37 Christie St., Edison, NJ

Phone: 732-549-3299

Website: menloparkmuseum.org

Hours: Open Thursdays through Saturdays (last admission at 3:00 p.m.)

 

Battleship New Jersey

Details: A retired battleship that serves as an interactive museum

Admission: Standard tours: adults $30, seniors and children 8 and up $25, children under 8 $5. “Fish ‘n’ Ship” combo tickets available when visiting Camden Adventure Aquarium. Open daily with last ticket mid-afternoon. Parking fee applies.

Address: 100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ

Phone: 856-966-1652 or 866-877-6262 x1 to purchase tickets in advance

Escape Rooms (Escape room options are listed in the Teen Girls section)

 

Teen Girls (Ages 13–18)

 

Ceramics and Painting

 

The Paintbrush

Details: A ceramics and art studio offering ceramic, plaster, and canvas painting right here in Lakewood. Items available for kids, tweens, teens, adults, and families.

Admission: Pay per project.

Address: 1700 Madison Ave. (Gourmet Glatt Plaza), Lakewood, NJ

Phone: 732-385-3400

Email: [email protected]

Website: thepaintbrushnj.com

 

Color Me Mine

Details: Your budding artist can choose a ceramic item and paint it; the studio fires it. Pickup is at a later date. Color Me Mine is certified nontoxic, and all glazes are lead-free. Paint washes off with water.

Admission: $10 per person plus the cost of the ceramic piece. Reservations must be made in advance.

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. (closed Mondays). Address: 1877 Hooper Ave., Toms River, NJ

Website: tomsriver.colormemine.com

Additional location: Freehold Raceway Mall, 3710 Route 9, Freehold, NJ.

Hours: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun. 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Last seating is two hours before closing.

Admission: $12 per person plus the cost of the ceramic piece ($20–$35).

Phone: 732-864-9300 and 732-780-7811

Website: freehold.colormemine.com

 

Around the Corner Art Center

Details: Test out your artistic abilities! Walk-in activities include ceramic painting, canvas painting, tote bag painting, wood painting, pottery wheels, and wine glass painting. Can call in advance to reserve a private room. Admission: $20 and up

Address: 290 Mounts Corner Dr., Freehold, NJ

Phone: 732-308-4666

Website: aroundthecornerartcenter.com

 

Jackson Skating Center Roller Magic

Details: Skate and rollerblade rentals and arcades

Address: 2270 West County Line Rd., Jackson, NJ

Admission: $15 (non-skating adults pay $5 admission); skate rental $6; roller blade rental $7

Phone: 732-363-2222

Website: unitedskates.com/Jackson

Hours: Schedule varies; Chol Hamo’ed hours are Thurs. 6:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Fri. and Mon. 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. ($7 admission special), 12:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m.; 3:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

 

Emlen Physick Estate

Details: A restored historical Victorian mansion. Tours last approximately 45 minutes. Various trolley tours (including a children’s ride) are another option.

Admission: Adults $20, children $15

Address: 1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ

Phone: 609-884-5404

 

Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center

Details: Wheaton Arts is home to the Museum of American Glass, the Creative Glass Center of America International Fellowship Program, the largest folk-life center in the Garden State, a hot glass studio, several traditional craft studios, and a beautiful pond-side picnic grove. In addition to daily glassblowing and artist demonstrations, Wheaton Arts features special exhibitions, programs, workshops, performances, and several weekend festivals throughout the year.

Admission: Adults $12, seniors (62 and up) $11, students $7, age 5 and under free. Shopping and strolling are free (except during special outdoor events).

Address: 1000 Village Dr., Millville, NJ

Phone: 856-825-6800

Website: wheatonarts.org

Hours: Thurs.–Sun., 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

 

American Dream Mall

Details: A sprawling indoor entertainment center and shopping mall spread over a 3 million-square-foot complex. Attractions include Legoland, Sea Life aquarium, ice-skating, indoor skiing, black-light mini golf, a Ferris wheel, an amusement park, shopping, and kosher food.

Admission/prices: Varies by attraction. Parking is $5 for the day after the first 30 minutes.

Address: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ

Website: americandream.com

 

Escape Rooms

 

Escape101

Details: Frum escape room with two themed, family-friendly options

Admission: Pricing varies per group

Address: 1001 West Kennedy Blvd., Lakewood, NJ

Phone: 732-523-4218

Email: [email protected]

Website: escape101lkwd.simplybook.me

 

OasisVRX

Details: Virtual reality entertainment and escape rooms with over 50 options. Closed Mon.–Wed.

Admission: VR play starts at $29 for 30 minutes, $49 for 60 minutes; arena game and escape room options start at $35.

Address: 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ

Phone: 833-627-4787

Website: oasisvrx.com

 

Escapology

Details: Premium real-life escape game experience. Choose your own escape room with your own team of two to ten players. Choose from six exciting room options.

Admission: Varies according to game and number of players; pricing varies, beginning around $36 per person

Address: 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ

Phone: 732-490-7175

Website: escapology.com/en/holmdel-nj

 

Escape the Puzzle Room

Details: Eight exciting escape rooms to choose from. Sixty minutes to solve the puzzle, clues, and locks. Can accommodate two to eight players, depending on the room.

Admission: Pricing varies according to number of players, around $35 per person. Kids six and under play free

Address: 473 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ

Phone: 732-995-9004

Website: Escapethepuzzle.com

 

Amazing Escape Room

Details: One room. One mission. One hour. Can you escape? Choose from six exciting room options.

Admission: Adults and children age 8 and up $33

Address: 2 Monmouth Ave., Freehold, NJ

Phone: 732-333-0448

Website: Amazingescaperoom.com/freehold

 

For the Whole Family

 

Parks and Outdoor Activities

 

Rutgers Gardens

Details: 180-acre botanic garden with designed gardens, farms, plant collections

Admission: Free

Hours: Tues.–Sun. 8:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; closed Mondays

Address: 130 Log Cabin Rd., New Brunswick, NJ

Phone: 848-932-7000

Website: rutgersgardens.rutgers.edu

 

Van Saun County Park

Details: 130 acres with ball fields, tennis courts, state-of-the-art playgrounds. Features Bergen County Zoo (open from 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.), pony rides ($5 per ride), carousel, and miniature train (seasonal).

Admission: adults $8, children (3–14) $5, seniors $2.

Address: 216 Forest Ave., Paramus, NJ

Phone: 201-336-7275, zoo: 201-634-3100.

Website: co.bergen.nj.us/parks-recreation-areas/van-saun-county-park; for the zoo, friendsofbergencountyzoo.org

 

Cattus Island County Park

Details: Walking trails, bridge through marsh, playground area, butterfly garden, indoor nature center (seasonal)

Address: 1170 Cattus Island Blvd., Toms River, NJ

Phone: 732-270-6960

 

Mantoloking Bridge County Park

Details: Picnic tables, grassy area, boardwalk, fishing pier, water views

Address: 70 Herbert St., Brick, NJ

 

Turkey Swamp Park

Details: Walking trails and playground

Admission: Free

Address: 200 Georgia Rd., Freehold, NJ

Phone: 732-462-7286

 

Jakes Branch County Park

Details: Four hundred acres with nature center, eight-plus miles of walking/biking trails. Discovery play trail, open play fields and courts, and playgrounds. Five-story observation deck with views of Pine Barrens Forest.

Address: 1100 Double Trouble Rd., Beachwood, NJ

Phone: 732-281-2750

Website: oceancountyparks.org

 

Manasquan Reservoir

Details: 1,204 acres of land and water with walking paths. Boat rentals available through October.

Rentals: Rowboats/kayaks $16/hour, double kayak $22/hour

Address: 311 Windeler Rd., Howell, NJ

Phone: 732-919-0996

Website: monmouthcountyparks.com

 

Duke Farms

Details: 2,740-acre property with historical buildings, orchid displays, waterfall. 1.25-mile self-guided nature trail through different habitats

Admission: Free; bike rentals: adults $15, children $10 (2 hours)

Address: 1112 Dukes Parkway W., Hillsborough Township, NJ

Phone: 908-722-3700

Website: dukefarms.org

 

Washington Crossing State Park

Details: Museum, trails, playgrounds, and a nature center (plus a historic ferry house, currently undergoing renovations).

Admission: Free

Address: 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd., Titusville, NJ

Phone: 609-737-0623

 

Holland Ridge Farms

Details: 300-acre farm with 8 million fresh flowers to enjoy and pick. Features hayrides and petting zoo. Timed tickets required for U-Pick Tulips (spring) & Sunflowers (fall). Stems priced per flower (historically ~$1 each).

Admission: $17 per person weekdays, $20 on weekends

Address: 86 Rues Rd., Cream Ridge, NJ

Website: hollandridgefarms.com

 

Sayen House & Gardens

Details: Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy seasonal flowers, and explore the historic Sayen House.

Admission: Free

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Address: 155 West Parkway, Hamilton, NJ

Phone: 609-587-4856

Website: sayenhouseandgardens.com

 

Hacklebarney State Park

Details: Scenic park along the Black River featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and rock formations. Perfect for nature walks and light outdoor adventure.

Admission: Free

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Address: 569 Chesterbrook Rd., Long Valley, NJ

Phone: 908-876-5941

Website: njparksandforests.org

 

Colonial Park (Edison, NJ)

Details: Expansive park with walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. Beautiful park.

Admission: Free

Hours: Dawn–dusk.

Address: 156 Mettlers Rd., Edison, NJ

Phone: 732-248-7275

Website: colonialpark.org

 

Cape May Zoo

Details: 120-acre zoo and park with 200 species of animals, birds, and reptiles. Playground, carousel, nature trails, fishing pond, picnic facilities.

Admission: Free (carousel is a separate fee), donations welcome

Address: 707 Route 9 N., Cape May Court House, NJ

Phone: 609-465-5271

Website: capemaycountynj.gov

 

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Aquarium

Details: Arcade rooms, rides, and aquarium with fish and aquatic creatures.

Admission: Aquarium: Adults $18, Children (3–11) $12, Seniors $13

Address: 300 Ocean Ave., Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ

Phone: 732-892-0600

Website: jenkinsons.com

 

Cape May Lighthouse

Details: Lighthouse and museum with panoramic ocean views.

Admission: Adults $12, children (3–12) $8

Address: 215 Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point, NJ

Phone: 800-275-4278

Website: capemaymac.org

 

Cape May Ferry

Details: 85-minute ferry ride (one way; 3 hours round trip). Admission: Adults $10 one way/$18 round trip, children $3 one way/$5 round trip; children 5 and under ride free. Car fares start at $37.

Address: 1200 Lincoln Blvd., Cape May, NJ

Phone: 800-643-3779

Website: cmlf.com

 

Bowling

 

Howell Lanes

Admission: Sun. 9:00–12:00 a.m. $6.25 per person per game. Mon.–Fri. 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. $4 per person per game; Tues.–Thurs. 6:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. $6.25 per person per game. Mon. 6:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. $3.50 per person per game. Shoe rental $5. Note: Open bowling is not available from 5:30–9:30 p.m. on weeknights and 9:00–11:30 a.m. on Sunday mornings. Address: 1002 Route 9, Howell, NJ

Phone: 732-462-6767

Website: howelllanes.com

 

Finnigan’s Lanes

Admission: 1 hour: $13 per person; 1½ hours: $18 per person; 2 hours: $25 per person; includes shoe rental

Address: 101 Locust St., Lakewood, NJ

Phone: 732-364-8080

Website: finnigansfun.com

 

Ocean Lanes

Address: 2085 Lanes Mill Rd., Lakewood, NJ

Phone: 732-363-3421

Website: oceanlanes.com

 

Playdrome Lanes

Admission: Rates per game: Adults $7; children 14 and under $6 (until 5:00 p.m.); shoe rental $5.

Hours: Mon.–Fri. 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., 9:00–11:30 p.m.; Sun. 9:00 a.m.–11:30 p.m.

Address: 821 Conifer St., Toms River, NJ

Phone: 732 349-5345

Website: playdromelanes.com

 

Bowlero

Address: 1 Carolier Ln., N. Brunswick, NJ 08902

Phone: 732-846-2424

Website: bowlero.com

 

Jersey Lanes

Admission: Pricing per hour: Mon.–Fri. $9.00; after 5:00 p.m. $12.50; Sundays $12.50, after 5:00 p.m. $15

Address: 30 Park Ave., Linden, NJ

Phone: 908-486-6300

Website: jerseylanes.com

 

Museums and Aquariums

 

Adventure Aquarium

Details: Over 15,000 aquatic animals, including walk-through shark tank

Admission: Dynamic pricing starting from: Adults $34.99, Children $29.99, Seniors $32.99. Reservations strongly encouraged.

Address: 1 Riverside Dr., Camden, NJ

Phone: 844-474-3474

Website: adventureaquarium.com

 

New Jersey State Museum

Details: Over 2 million artifacts of New Jersey’s history, science, and art, including fossils and hands-on activities.

Admission: Free (planetarium pay separately, only open on weekends; $10 adults, $5 children 12 and under)

Address: 205 West State St., Trenton, NJ

Website: nj.gov/state/museum

 

Old Barracks Museum

Details: An educational center for colonial and American history

Admission: Adults $10, seniors and students $8, children (age 5 and younger) free

Address: 101 Barrack St., Trenton, NJ

Phone: 609-396-1776

Website: barracks.org

Hours: Closed Sun.–Tues.

 

Liberty Science Center

Details: A combination museum, zoo, and aquarium that’s exciting for adults and children alike. Try the new Infinity Climber hanging gym. New exhibits feature butterflies, movement for children, animals, and more. Afterward, enjoy a picnic at Liberty State Park.

Admission: Adults $36, children $31. Reserve in advance for discounted pricing ($5 off each ticket). Discount for groups of 10 or more. Parking is $7 for the day.

Address: 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City, NJ

Phone: 201-200-1000

Website: LSC.org

Tip: Holders of Ocean County library cards in good standing (not more than $25 in fines) can partake of museum passes to 14 museums and attractions in New York and New Jersey for free. Visit theoceancountylibrary.org/museum-pass-program for details.