Articles
Chol Hamoed Trip Guide
October 12, 2022
Chol Hamoed is a great time to enjoy meaningful and fun activities together with family.
Please note:
- It’s important to call any location in advance to confirm hours, availability, pricing, and covid-19 protocols.
- Some discounts on admission can be found 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 or the kashrus of any establishment.
Parks and Farms
Deerwood Park
Details: Features large and varied playground structures, spacious fields, walking/bike paths, and lots of parking
Hours: Dawn–dusk
Address: 2740 Lakewood Allendale Rd., Howell, NJ 07731
Windward Beach/Park
Details: Swings,indoor restrooms, picnic tables, grassy area, and beautiful views of the water
Address: 265 Princeton Ave., Brick, NJ
Phone: 732-262-1044
Cattus Island County Park
Details: Features walking trails, a bridge through a marsh, playground area, butterfly garden, and an indoor nature center. Some parts may be open/closed seasonally; call for details.
Hours: Dawn–dusk, environmental center: Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Address: 1170 Cattus Island Blvd., Toms River, NJ 08753
Phone: 732-270-6960
Lake Shenandoah
Details: A beautiful park featuring bike trails, boat rentals, a conservation area, fishing, handicap accessibility, a picnic area, restrooms, a small boat launch (electric motors only), basketball, soccer, and softball
Hours: Daily7 a.m.–dusk
Address: Route 88, Lakewood, NJ
Turkey Swamp Park
Details: A large park with boat rentals, plenty of walking trails, and a playground
Hours: Daily 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Boat rentals: 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. weekends only
Admission/prices: Free admission. Boat rentals begin at $14.54 per hour per boat (includes one set of paddles and a life vest).
Address: 200 Georgia Rd., Freehold, NJ
Phone: 732-462-7286
Mantoloking Bridge County Park
Details: Picnic tables, grassy area, boardwalk, fishing pier, beautiful views of the water, clean indoor restrooms
Address: 70 Herbert St., Brick, NJ
Jakes Branch County Park
Details: Four hundred acres featuring a nature center with live and taxidermy animals, eight-plus miles of walking/biking trails, discovery play trail, open play fields and courts, and playgrounds. Views of the Pine Barrens forest can be seen from the observation deck perched five stories atop the nature center.
Hours: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Address: 1100 Double Trouble Rd., Beachwood, NJ
Phone: 732-281-2750
Website: oceancountyparks.org
Dorbrook Recreation Center
Details: A large variety of play facilities, picnic tables, sand play area, grassy area
Address: 353 County Rd. 537, Colts Neck, NJ
Phone: 732-542-1643
Website: monmouthcountyparks.com
Allaire Community Farm
Details: A 25-acre farm and petting zoo with rescued animals. Barrel-train ride available on weekdays for $2, pony rides available on weekends for $5.
Hours: Sunday 12–4 p.m., Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: Children over age 1, $3; adults $5; animal feed $2 per bag
Address: 1923 Bailey’s Corner Rd., Wall, NJ
Phone: 732-796-3298
Website: allairecommunityfarm.org
Howell Living History Farm
Details: Visitors have the opportunity to experience over 250 years of New Jersey farm life. Pitch in with feeding and watering animals, mixing animal feed, and collecting eggs and enjoy a corn maze. Children can try bottle-feeding lambs, gathering honey, collecting sap, and harvesting ice.
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m., closed on Sundays, Mondays and Mercer County holidays
Admission/prices: Free admission; small fee to attend the classes
Address: 70 Woodens Ln., Lambertville, NJ 08530
Phone: 609-737-3299
Website: howellfarm.org
Manasquan Reservoir and Bike Rentals
Details: Enjoy a serene and beautiful bike ride around the 1,204 acres of land and water of the Manasquan Reservoir.
Hours: First rental at 9:30 a.m.; bikes must be returned by 6:30 p.m.
Admission/prices: Walk/watch/enjoy the views for free.Bike rentals begin at $13 per hour, helmet included.
Address: 311 Windeler Rd., Howell, NJ 07731
Phone: 732-919-0996
Double Trouble State Park
Details: Eight miles of trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and access to boating at Cedar Creek; daily prescheduled guided village tours for viewing a restored sawmill, a cranberry packing house, and a cranberry bog. Tours run from Wednesday to Sunday and are open seasonally and based on staff availability. Call before visiting to book a tour.
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–dusk
Admission/prices: No entrance fee for the park; there is a small fee for guided tours.
Address: 581 Pinewald Keswick Rd., Bayville, NJ 08721
Phone: 732-341-4098
Holmdel Park and Longstreet Farm
Details: A beautiful state park with trails, playgrounds, and a historic farm with animals, old machinery, and staff dressed in period costumes
Hours: Park open daily 7 a.m.–8 p.m., farm open daily 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free
Address: 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel, NJ
Phone: 732-946-9562
Website: monmouthcountyparks.com
Whitesbog Historic Village and Old Bog Nature Trail
Details: A five-mile automobile loop around a system of bogs, blueberry and cranberry fields, canals, reservoirs, and pine forests
Hours: Dawn–dusk
Address: 120 W. Whites Bog Rd., Browns Mills, NJ 08105
Phone: 609-893-4646
Website: whitesbog.org
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Details: An expansive historic park with trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and seasonal pick-your-own orchards
Hours: Sunday–Friday 8 a.m.–8 p.m., visitors’ center: Wednesday–Sunday 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free
Address: 16 Business Route 33, Manalapan, NJ 07726
Phone: 732-462-9616
Duke Farms
Details: A 2,740-acre property with historical farm buildings, orchid displays, a waterfall, and a 1.25-mile self-guided nature trail through a series of different habitats. Teens and adults can also rent bikes.
Hours: Tuesday–Friday8:30 a.m.–6 p.m., bike rental: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free admission; bike rentals (for 2 hours): adults $7, children (under 18) $5
Address: 1112 Dukes Parkway W., Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
Phone: 908-722-3700
Washington Crossing State Park
Details: A museum, trails, playgrounds, a nature center, and a historic ferry house at the site of George Washington’s Delaware River crossing
Hours: Park open daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m., visitors’ center: Thursday–Sunday 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1–3 p.m., nature center: Sunday 12–4 p.m., tours: Thursday–Friday 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Admission/pricing: Free entry for the 2022 season
Address: 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd., Titusville, NJ 08560
Phone: 609-737-0616
Barclay Farmstead Museum
Details: A restored farmstead and 32-acre property built in 1816. In addition to tours of the farmhouse, spend some time wandering interpretive nature trails and admiring garden plots.
Hours: Wednesdays 12–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: Children under 12 free, adults $5, seniors and students $3
Address: 209 Barclay Ln., Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Phone: 856-795-6225
Tenafly Nature Center
Details: A nature preserve where one can observe wildlife, take beautiful nature pictures, and more
Hours: Trails are open all year from dawn to dusk; visitors’ center is open daily 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free for members, $2 for non-members
Address: 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ 07670
Phone: 201-568-6093
Website: tenaflynaturecenter.org
Palisades Interstate Park and Historic Fort Lee Park
Details: Gorgeous overlooks, scenery, trails, and historic Kearny House and exhibits at a Revolutionary War site
Hours: Park open during daylight hours; visitors’ center open Wednesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–4:45 p.m.
Admission/prices: Metered parking at Fort Lee Park
Address: Palisades Interstate Pkwy., Alpine, NJ 07620
Phone: 201-461-1776
Van Saun County Park
Details: 130 acres featuring ball fields and tennis courts, picnic areas, state-of-the-art playgrounds and splash pads, and Bergen County Zoo. (Pony rides, a millennium carousel, and a miniature train ride open seasonally—call to confirm.)
Hours: Zoo open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Admission/prices: Zoo: adults $8, children (3–14) $5, seniors $2
Address: 216 Forest Ave., Paramus, NJ 07652
Phone: 201-336-7275, zoo: 201-634-3100
Website: www.co.bergen.nj.us/parks-recreation-areas/van-saun-county-park
Wharton State Forest
Details: The largest NJ state park, it’s also the site of Batsto Village, a restored former bog, iron, and glassmaking industrial center from 1766–1867; the restored Atsion 1826 mansion; as well as rivers, streams; trails; playgrounds; and picnic areas.
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free admission to the park; $5 per car to Batsto Village on weekends
Address: 31 Batsto Rd., Hammonton, NJ 08037
Phone: 609-561-0024, 609-268-0444 for mansion tour availability
Holland Ridge Farms
Details: A breathtaking 300-acre farm with 8 million fresh flowers to enjoy, take gorgeous photos of, and pick. Also features hayrides around the farm and a petting zoo.
Hours: Must reserve online for timed slots
Admission/prices: Stems are $1 each. Check website for schedule and pricing.
Address: 86 Rues Rd., Cream Ridge, NJ 08514
Website: hollandridgefarms.com
Norz Hill Farm and Market
Details: Farmer’s market with hayrides and corn mazes. Pony rides on weekends.
Hours: Weekdays 12–6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Admission/prices: Weekdays $12, children (under 36 inches) free; weekends/holidays $15, senior discount
Address: 120 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Phone: 908-371-2697
Website: norzhillfarm.com
Other Outdoor Activities
Quail Ridge Golf World
Details: An outdoor golf- and mini golf-practice facility featuring a 50-stall covered driving range with seven hitting targets
Hours: Weather permitting; call for hours.
Admission/prices: Call for details.
Address: 4130 Hurley Pond Rd. and Route 34, Wall Township, NJ
Phone: 732-681-0918
Website: quailridgegolfworld.com
Tuckerton Seaport
Details: A village that brings maritime traditions of the past to life through exhibits and hands-on activities. The seaport and on-site Baymen’s Museum feature live aquatic displays, animals, as well as recreated and historical buildings and demonstrations.
Hours: Call to confirm schedule of demonstrations. Seaport is open daily to the public.
Admission/prices: Varies depending on activity
Address: 120 West Main St., Tuckerton, NJ 08087
Phone: 609-296-8868
Website: Tuckertonseaport.org
Absecon Lighthouse
Details: Climb the 228 steps upNew Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, the third tallest in the US, and enjoy the view!
Hours: Thursday–Monday 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: Children under 4 free; ages 4-12, $6; adults $10; cheaper for groups of 10 plus
Address: 31 South Rhode Island Ave., Atlantic City, NJ
Phone: 609-449-1360
Website: abseconlighthouse.org
Deep Cut Gardens
Details: 54 acres of gardens and greenhouses featuring 52 varieties of roses
Hours: 8 a.m.–dusk
Admission/prices: Free
Address: 152 Red Hill Rd., Middletown, NJ
Phone: 732-671-6050
Website: monmouthcountyparks.com
Cape May Ferry
Details: An 85-minute ferry ride (one way; 3 hours round trip) the whole family can enjoy. The ferry can hold approximately 100 vehicles.
Hours: Ferry departs daily at various times. Confirm schedule in advance.
Admission/prices: Adults $10, children (6 and up) $4. Fares start at $39 per car; return trips and additional passengers subject to additional charge.
Address: 1200 Lincoln Blvd., Cape May, NJ 08204
Phone: 800-643-3779
Website: cmlf.com
Rutgers Gardens
Details: A beautiful 180-acre botanic garden with designed gardens, farms, plant collections, natural habitats, and a farmer’s market. Rutgers Gardens is a botanic laboratory for Rutgers University.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free
Address: 130 Log Cabin Rd., New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Website: rutgersgardens.rutgers.edu
Cape May Lighthouse
Details: A lighthouse and museum with spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean
Hours: Park open sunrise–sunset daily; call for lighthouse schedule.
Admission/prices: Adults $12; children (3–12) $8
Address: 215 Light House Ave.,Cape May Point, NJ 08212
Phone: 800-275-4278, 609-884-5404, 609-224-6066
The World War II Lookout Tower Museum and Memorial
Details: A restored lookout tower used to defend the area during World War II
Hours: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $8, children (3–12) $5
Address: 1200 Sunset Blvd., North Cape May, NJ 08204
Phone: 609-884-5404
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
Details: Visit a 77-foot giant waterfall in America’s first planned city. Tours of the mills and the city’s history available.
Hours: Sunrise–sunset. Tours: Wednesday–Sunday 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., no reservation required. Meets at the Alexander Hamilton in Overlook Park, main address.
Admission/prices: Free
Address: 72 McBride Avenue Extension, Paterson, NJ 07501
Aquariums/Zoos
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk and Aquarium
Details: Arcade rooms, rides, and an aquarium with many interesting fish and aquatic creatures
Admission/prices: Rides/arcades: pay per activity. Aquarium: children (3–11) $10, adults $16, seniors (65 plus) $11
Hours: Aquarium 10 a.m.–5 p.m., rides 12 p.m.– 6p.m.; may change; call or check online to verify.
Address: 300 Ocean Ave., Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ
Phone: 732-892-0600
Website: jenkinsons.com
Adventure Aquarium
Details: Voted the best aquarium in the Northeast with over 15,000 aquatic animals, including a walk-through shark tank
Admission/prices: Varies depending on day/time; starts at $26.99 for adults, $18.99 for children, $24.99 for seniors
Hours: Weekdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sunday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Address: 1 Riverside Dr., Camden, NJ
Phone: 1-844-474-3474 (FISH)
Website: adventureaquarium.com
Space Farms Zoo and Museum
Details: A 100-acre zoo-and-museum complex with over 500 live wild animals; nine large museum buildings with over 50 antique cars, motorcycles, old horse-drawn carriages and sleighs, antique dolls, one of the largest private antique firearms collections, old farm machinery, and Indian artifacts; a large picnic area; and a playground
Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (last ticket at 4 p.m.)
Admission/prices: Ages 3–12, $18; ages 13–64, $22
Address: 218 Country Rd. 519, Sussex, NJ 07641
Phone: 973-875-5800
Website: spacefarms.com
Popcorn Park Zoo
Details: This family-oriented zoo was established to provide a refuge for wildlife that were sick, elderly, abandoned, abused, or injured and could no longer survive in their natural habitats. It also includes exotic and domestic animals. Popcorn may be purchased to feed free-roaming birds and some of the farm animals.
Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; ticket purchases stop at 4:15 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $7; seniors and children under 11, $4; children under 3 free
Address: 1 Humane Way (off Lacey Rd.), Forked River, NJ
Phone: 609-693-1900
Website: ahscares.org
Turtle Back Zoo
Details: A large, beautiful zoo that features many animals from various regions plus extra activities. Playground and train ride are included in admission; mini golf, pony rides, and other rides cost extra.
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m., rain or shine
Admission/prices: Under age 2 free; ages 2–12 and over 62, $14; ages 13–61, $17. Free parking. Strollers are available for rent.
Address: 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ
Phone: 973-731-5800
Website: turtlebackzoo.com
Six Flags Drive-Thru Safari
Details: A 350-acre habitat with five miles of roadway to safely observe 1,200 amazing animals from six continents. Takes between 1.5 and 3 hours. Make sure to fill up with gas and use the restroom in advance.
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: $24.99 per person; under 2 free. Reserve tickets online.
Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ 08527
Website: sixflags.com/safari
Cape May Zoo
Details: This 120-acre zoo and park features 200 species of animals, birds, and reptiles; a playground; a carousel; nature and bike trails; a pond for fishing; and picnic facilities.
Hours: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Check website for closings due to inclement weather.
Admission/prices: Freeadmission; donations welcome
Address:707 Route 9 N., Cape May Court House, NJ, 08210
Phone: 609-465-5271
Website: CMCzoo.com
Philadelphia Zoo
Details: The first zoo in the US, this 42-acre zoo is home to 1,300 animals from around the world and features a system of mesh tunnels for animals to roam overhead. Carousel, SkyRail, and Nature Scavenger Hunt available for an extra fee.
Hours: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Advance online reservations required.
Admission/prices: Under 2 free, adults $24, children (2-11) $19, parking $17
Address: 3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 215-243-1100
Website: philadelphiazoo.org
Jersey Shore Alpacas
Details: Meet and mingle with alpacas. Learn about, pet, and feed these interesting critters.
Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday by appointment; can book online
Admission/prices: $25–$45
Address: 521 Route 47 South, Cape May, NJ 08204
Phone: 609-889-4957
Website: jerseyshorealpacas.com
Skimmer Salt Marsh Safari
Details: Take a wildlife boat tour and explore the many species of wildlife found in New Jersey.
Hours: Daily trips at 10 a.m. and some days at 1:30 p.m. or 6 p.m.
Admission/prices: Call for rates, to verify times, and to make reservations.
Address: Trips depart from the Cape May Inlet Marina at Ocean Dr. between the bridge and Fish Dock Rd., Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260. Wednesday trips depart from the Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor, as do Thursdays’ 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. trips.
Phone: 609-884-3100
Cohanzick Zoo
Details: New Jersey’s first zoo, located in a 1,100-acre park, featuring over 200 animals
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free (donations suggested)
Address: 45 Mayor Aitken Dr., Bridgeton, NJ 08302
Phone: 856-453-1658
Miss Chris Fishing
Details: Head out fishing for the day. Four-hour fishing trips on the Miss Chris boat. Bait and tackle provided.
Hours: Sundays 8 a.m., 1 p.m., 6 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $55, children (under 12) $40, toddlers $20, seniors $45, rod rental $5
Address: 1210 Wilson Dr., Cape May, NJ 08204
Phone: 609-849-9453
Website: capemayfisherman.com
A Day on the Bay
Details: Private charter sailboat trips. Three-hour duration.
Hours: Call to reserve or email [email protected].
Admission/prices: Call for pricing; ask for last-minute and weekday specials.
Address: Trips depart from The Inn at Rivers Edge Marina, 223 E. Lacey Rd., Forked River, NJ 08731
Phone: 609-234-8046
Website: adayonthebay.net
Circle A Riding Academy
Details: Horseback riding lessons and trails
Address: 116 Herbertsville Rd., Howell Township, NJ 07731
Phone: 732-938-2004
Breezy Meadow Equestrian Centre
Details: Horseback riding for all. Lessons and guided trails.
Hours: Wednesday–Friday 10:00 a.m.–4 p.m. Text to schedule.
Admission/prices: $50–$90
Address: G&G Stables, 49 Driftway Rd., Howell, NJ 07731
Phone: 609-752-5617
Website: breezymeadowequestriancentre.com
Indoor/Outdoor Amusement Centers
Chuck E. Cheese’s
Details: Various arcade games and kiddie rides
Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Admission/prices: Pay per game; 20 free tokens if booking online
Address: 56 Chambers Bridge Rd., Brick, NJ
Phone: 732-262-9200
Website: chuckecheese.com
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.
Hours: Mall is open weekdays 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Some attractions have different hours.
Admission/prices: Varies by attraction. Parking is free for the first hour and $5 for the day.
Address: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ
Website: americandream.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.
Hours: Hours vary; call for details.
Admission/prices: 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
Swingtime
Details: A family-fun center with two outdoor 18-hole mini golf courses with waterfalls and a river (closed when raining), indoor arcades, and two batting cages with five different speeds
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–11 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $10/$14.50, children and seniors $9/$12.50 for 1/2 golf games. Arcade tokens are 25 cents each.
Address: 2390 Route 9 South, Howell, NJ
Phone: 732-845-0093
Website: swingtimefamilyfun.com
Speed Raceway
Details: Electric go-karts for all ages, arcades, axe throwing, and virtual reality
Hours: Weekdays 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Admission/prices: $9 annual membership is required. Packages for activities range from $7–$69.
Address: 1103 Route 130 South, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077
Phone: 877-757-7333
Website: speedraceway.com
Top Golf
Details: An indoor sports entertainment complex featuring high-tech golf which players of various skill levels can enjoy. Up to six players play in each of over 100 hitting bays.
Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10–12 a.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Admission/prices: $5 for new members. Time slots range from $35–$55. Tuesdays are half price. Reserve slots online.
Address: 1013 US Route 1, Edison, NJ
Phone: 732-374-4097
Website: topgolf.com
VRtual Nexgen Gaming Arcades
Details: Virtual reality, PC gaming, simulators
Hours: Advance booking required. Opens 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
Phone: Toms River 732-375-2002 / Lanoka Harbor 609-879-0335
Website: vrtual.io
Swing Loose Indoor Golf
Details: Personalized indoor golf simulator featuring 100 course options and professional instructors
Hours: Monday–Tuesday 8 a.m.–10 p.m., Wednesday–Friday 8 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission/prices: $69 per hour per bay or $22 per person per hour. Can reserve online.
Address: Bell Works Complex, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ
Phone: 732-444-6333
Website: swingloosegolf.com
Slime Light
Details: An interactive slime playland
Hours: Wednesday–Thursday 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., Friday and Sunday 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Admission/pricing: $24.99 per person
Address: 1580 US 9, Toms River
Phone: 732-800-6007
Website: slimelightnj.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.
Hours: Office open weekdays 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; game open by appointment only
Admission/prices: $280 for 10 players, individuals $35 (both join public groups)
Address: 295 Meany Rd., Wrightstown, NJ
Phone: 800-600-3086
Website: fireballmountain.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, and a toddler area
Hours: Weekdays 4:30–8 p.m., Sunday 12–8 p.m.
Admission/prices: Play according to the amount you put onto your game card; bonus for $25 or more
Address: 300 Campus Dr., unit H, Morganville, NJ
Phone: 732-991-1993
Website: playbigzone.com
Fun Station USA
Details: Featuring 100 arcade games, exciting rides, laser tag, a three-story maze, and much more. Catered to children aged 2–12.
Hours: Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–11 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Admission/prices: Call for pricing.
Address: 3555 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY
Phone: 718-370-0077
Website: Funstationsi.com
Playland’s Castaway Cove
Details: A complex of amusement park rides, a mini golf course, a go-kart track, and arcades
Hours: Hours vary; call for details.
Admission/prices: Mini golf: $7 per game, go-karts: $7 per rider, amusement park: pay per ride. Packages available.
Address: 936–1020 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ, 08226
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
Hours: Bowling and arcades: times vary; call for details or visit the website.
Admission/prices: Purchase a wristband for access to a package deal of rides, or pay per attraction.
Address: 3320-24 Route 38, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054
Phone: 856-273-9666
Website: funplexmountlaurel.com
Additional location: East Hanover, 973-428-1166, funplexeasthanover.com
Diggerland USA
Details: A construction-themed attraction where children can drive, ride, and operate real heavy machinery. All attractions require a minimum height of 36 inches to ride, some with the assistance of a parent; some attractions require a 42-inch height. Children under 36 inches can enjoy the KidZone and the Excavation Center Arcade or view one of the daily machine stunt shows around the park.
Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Closed Friday.
Admission/prices: $49.95 per person, children under 36 inches—free. Park fills up quickly, so it’s best to reserve tickets in advance. Free parking.
Address: 100 Pinedge Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091
Phone: 856-768-1110
Website: diggerlandusa.com
Tree to Tree Adventure Park
Details: Zip line and adventure course with climbing walls, wobbly bridges, rope swings, and more
Hours: Call to reserve or book online.
Admission/prices: Adult course $50, children’s course $30, discounts for seniors and groups of 10 or more
Address: 707 Route 9 North, Cape May Courthouse, NJ 08210
Phone: 609-388-8289
Website: treetotreecapemay.com
Arts/Crafts
Make It Glass
Details: A hands-on glass studio specializing in glass fusion right here in Lakewood. Open to the public to design your own creations, or join a class or club.
Hours: Call for Chol Hamoed hours.
Admission/prices: No sitting fee or entrance fee; prices vary per item. Starting price is $10.50.
Address: 40 Chestnut St., Lakewood, NJ
Phone: 732-994-5000
Website: makeitglassbyus.com
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.
Hours: Call for Chol Hamoed hours.
Admission/prices: Pay per project; prices starting at $10
Address: 1700 Madison Ave. (Gourmet Glatt Plaza), Lakewood, NJ
Phone: 732-385-3400
Email: [email protected]
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.
Hours: Call for hours.
Admission/prices: $8 per person plus the cost of the ceramic piece
Address: 1877 Hooper Ave., Toms River, NJ 08753
Additional location: Freehold Raceway Mall, 3710 Route 9, Freehold, NJ 07728. Open Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
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.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Admission/prices: Ceramics start at $4.99, painting $20–$29.99
Address: 290 Mounts Corner Dr., Freehold, NJ 07728
Phone: 732-308-4666
Website: aroundthecornerartcenter.com
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.
Hours: Week of Chol Hamoed 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Admission/prices: Age 3 and up $24.99 online, regular price $27.99. Save $3 per ticket under Plan Your Visit/Special Offers.
Address: 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA 18042
Phone: 610-515-8000
Website: crayolaexperience.com
Bowling
Howell Lanes
Hours: 9–12 a.m.
Admission/prices: Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.: $3.75 per person per game; 6 p.m.–12a.m.: $5.75 per person per game. Shoe rental $4.50.
Address: 1002 Route 9, Howell, NJ
Phone: 732-462-6767
Website: howelllanes.com
Finnigan’s Lanes
Hours: Sunday–Friday 12–11 p.m., Sunday 2–10 p.m.
Admission/prices: 1 hour: $12 per person; 1.5 hours: $18 per person; 2 hours: $24 per person; includes shoe rental
Address: 101 Locust St., Lakewood, NJ
Phone: 732-364-8080
Website: finnigansfun.com
Ocean Lanes
Hours: Call for hours and open lanes availability.
Address: 2085 Lanes Mill Rd., Lakewood, NJ
Phone: 732-363-3421
Website: oceanlanes.com
Playdrome Lanes
Hours/prices: Call for details.
Address: 821 Conifer Ave., Toms River, NJ
Phone: 732 349-5345
Bowlero
Details: Exciting, updated bowling plus laser tag, arcades, and billiards
Hours: Weekdays 12–11 p.m. Sunday 12–10 p.m.
Address: 1 Carolier Ln., N. Brunswick, NJ 08902
Phone: 732-846-2424
Website: bowlero.com
Jersey Lanes
Hours: Weekdays 10–12 a.m., Sunday 1 p.m.–12 a.m.
Admission/prices: Through 6 p.m. $30 per hour per lane; after 6 p.m. $45 per hour per day; includes shoe rental for up to five people
Address: 30 Park Ave., Linden, NJ
Phone: 908-486-6300
Website: jerseylanes.com
Jackson Skating Center Roller Magic
Details: Skate and Rollerblade rentals and arcades
Address: 2270 West County Line Rd., Jackson, NJ
Phone: 732-363-2222
Website: sk8rollermagic.com
Soft Play/Climbing/Trampoline Parks
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.
Hours: Wednesday–Thursday 11:00 a.m.–9:00p.m., Friday 11:00 a.m.–6:00p.m.
Admission/prices: $12.99 up to age 4 for soft play only, $18.99–$35.99 for climbing
Address: 5369 Route 9 North, Howell, NJ 07731
Phone: 732-813-8300
Website: climbzone.us/howell
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Details: Indoor trampoline park plus zip line, ninja course, foam pits, virtual reality, and more
Admission/prices: 60 minutes $28, 90 minutes $30, 120 minutes $32; VR: 30 minutes $20, 60 minutes $30. Discounts available through groupon.com.
Address: 1001 New Hampshire Ave., Lakewood, NJ
Phone: 609-398-4SKY
Website: skyzone.com/lakewood
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
Details: An action-packed trampoline and adventure park with an indoor playground, climbing walls, spin zone, virtual reality, battle beam, and more
Hours: Monday–Tuesday 3:30–9 p.m., Wednesday–Thursday 3–9 p.m., Friday–Sunday 10 am.–10 p.m.
Admission/prices: Packages start at $25.99 for all attractions or $20.99 for trampoline use only. Age 5 and under pay $15.99. Virtual reality $5.99. Socks are $3.49 a pair.
Address: 1256 Indian Head Rd., Toms River, NJ
Phone: 732-659-9060
Website: urbanair.com/tomsriver
Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park
Details: A trampoline park with huge open jump arenas, a foam pit, rock-climbing walls, ninja courses, and more
Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Admission/prices: 90 minutes: $24.99 for age 7 and up, $19.99 for age 6 and under; all day: $29.99 for 7 and up, $23.99 for 6 and under
Address: 77 Willowbrook Blvd., Wayne, NJ
Phone: 973-302-3340
Website: rockinjump.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 NERF target range
Hours: Monday–Thursday 12–10 p.m., Friday 12–8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Admission/prices: Various packages available.
Address: 266 Union St., Northvale, NJ 07647
Phone: 201-768-8600
Website: Highexposureclimbing.com
Jungle Jim & Jane
Details: Geared for younger children, featuring a huge jungle gym and many jungle-themed rides and fun activities
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. by reservation only
Admission/prices: Adults and babies 6 months–24 months $10, age 2 and up $20
Address: 2399 Route 36 in Eastpointe Plaza, Atlantic Highlands, NJ
Phone: 732-872-4380
Website: junglejimandjane.com
Escape Rooms
OasisVRX
Details: Virtual reality entertainment and escape rooms with over 50 options
Admission/prices: Starts at $29 for 30 minutes
Address: 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ 07733
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 eight players. Choose from six exciting room options.
Hours: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Admission/prices: Varies according to game and number of players, about $30 per person
Address: 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ
Phone: 732-490-7175
Website: escapology.com
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 10 players, depending on the room.
Admission/prices: Pricing varies according to number of players.
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.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 12:15–9:30 p.m., must book in advance
Admission/prices: Adults and children age 8 and up $30
Address: 2 Monmouth Ave., Freehold, NJ
Phone: 732-333-0448
Website: Amazingescaperoom.com
Escape 101
Details: Frum escape room
Hours: 10:30 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
Admission/pricing: $29.99 per person
Address: 1001 West Kennedy Blvd.
Phone: 732-569-1219
Museums
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.
Insectropolis
Details: Everything you ever wanted to know about bugs. Exhibits plus hands-on activities.
Hours: Friday–Sunday 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; presentations at approximately 2 p.m.
Admission/prices: $10 per person over 2 years old; group discount for 15 or more visitors
Address: 1760 Route 9, Toms River, NJ
Phone: 732-349-7090
Website: insectropolis.com
Imagine That!
Details: A children’s learning and play center to touch, explore, climb, and create
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $6.99, children (ages 1–10), $21.99
Address: 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, NJ 07932
Phone: 973-966-8000
Website: imaginethatmuseum.com
New Jersey State Museum
Details: Features 2 million artifacts of New Jersey’s history, science, and art, including fossils and hands-on activities
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9 a.m.–4:45 p.m.
Admission/prices: Free (planetarium extra, only open on weekends)
Address: 205 West State St., Trenton, NJ
Website: nj.gov/state/museum
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.
Hours: Thursday–Sunday 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: 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
Battleship New Jersey
Details: A retired battleship that serves as an interactive museum
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (can board at 4 and stay until 5:30 p.m.)
Admission/prices: Standard tours: adults $25, seniors $20, children (ages 5–11) $20. “Fish ’n’ Ship” combo tickets available when visiting Camden Adventure Aquarium.
Address: 100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ 08103
Phone: 856-966-1652 or 866-877-6262 x108 to purchase tickets in advance
Old Barracks Museum
Details: An educational center for colonial and American history
Hours: Wednesday–Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $8, seniors and students $6, children (age 5 and younger) free
Address: 101 Barrack St., Trenton, NJ 08608
Phone: 609-396-1776
Note: Masks are required while on the museum premises.
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 housed at a former military base.
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday Oct 12–13 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $10; age 12 and under $12
Address: 2201 Marconi Rd., Wall Township, NJ
Phone: 732-280-3000
Website: infoage.org
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.
Hours: Thursday–Friday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Call to schedule large group tours.
Admission/prices: Adults $7, children $5
Address: 37 Christie St., Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: 732-549-3299
Website: menloparkmuseum.org
Liberty Science Center
Details: A combination museum, zoo, and aquarium, exciting for adults and children alike. Try the new Infinity Climber hanging gym. New exhibits featuring butterflies, movement for children, animals, and more. Afterward, enjoy a picnic at Liberty State Park.
Hours: Sunday, Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $31.99, children $26.99. Reserve online for discounted pricing. Discount for groups of 10 or more.
Address: 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City, NJ 07305
Phone: 201-200-1000
Website: LSC.org
Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Details: Ripley’s unique odditorium, full of rare artifacts from around the world. Also featuring The Vault, a challenging laser maze.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
Admission/prices: Ages 5–12, $14.99; 12 and up $18.99; age 4 and under—free
Address: 1441 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ
Phone: 609-347-2001
Website: Ripleys.com/atlanticcity
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Details: An aircraft museum that also features a 9/11 memorial exhibit
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission/prices: Adults $14, children (ages 3–12) $10
Address: 500 Forrestal Rd. (Cape May County Airport), Rio Grande, NJ 08242
Phone: 609-886-8787
Website: usnasw.org
Emlen Physick Estate
Details: A restored historical Victorian mansion. Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
Hours: Call for hours and reservations.
Admission/prices: Adults $20, children $15
Address: 1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ 08204
Phone: 609-884-5404