When school lets out and summer rolls in, New Jersey becomes one giant playground for kids and families. Whether your crew is into sandy beaches, shady farms, thrilling amusement rides, or hands-on museum adventures, the Garden State has something to keep every age smiling all season long.
At Explore New Jersey, we know families are always looking for fun, affordable, and memory-making experiences, so we’ve handpicked more than three dozen of our favorite summer adventures across the state. From splash-worthy water parks to charming small-town festivals, here’s your ultimate bucket list of things to do in New Jersey with kids this summer.
👉 Be sure to also check out our Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide for even more family-friendly fun!
🌊 Hit the Jersey Shore
You can’t talk summer in New Jersey without heading down the shore. Build sandcastles in Ocean City, stroll the boardwalk in Point Pleasant, or ride the Ferris wheel in Wildwood. Looking for something a little quieter? Cape May’s beaches are just right for a chill day by the waves with a side of dolphin spotting.
Don’t Miss:
- Jenkinson’s Aquarium & Boardwalk – Point Pleasant Beach
- Cape May Whale Watcher Tours
- Morey’s Piers – Wildwood
🚜 Visit a Farm
Farms across New Jersey turn into interactive summer wonderlands. From berry-picking to petting zoos, kids can get hands-on with nature and animals. These spots are great for little explorers (and Instagram-worthy family photos).
Favorite Picks:
- Alstede Farms – Chester (don’t skip the hayrides!)
- Johnson’s Corner Farm – Medford
- Happy Day Farm – Manalapan (sunflower and lavender fields = magic)
🎢 Ride the Rides
Whether it’s classic coasters or pint-sized thrills, New Jersey is packed with amusement parks perfect for family fun. Kids of all ages can find their thrill level—from toddlers to teens.
Top Stops:
- Six Flags Great Adventure – Jackson (plus, the Wild Safari!)
- Land of Make Believe – Hope (ideal for younger kiddos)
- Keansburg Amusement Park – Keansburg (a shore gem)
💦 Cool Off at a Water Park
When the temps climb, there’s no better way to beat the heat than a trip to a water park. From splash pads to wave pools, these destinations are essential summer escapes.
Dive Into:
- Mountain Creek Waterpark – Vernon
- The Splashplex – East Hanover and Mt. Laurel
- Runaway Rapids – Keansburg
🦕 Explore Museums with a Twist
Museums don’t have to be stuffy. New Jersey’s got loads of kid-approved spots where hands-on fun meets learning. Rainy day? Museum day!
Brainy Fun:
- Liberty Science Center – Jersey City (giant climbing structure included)
- Newark Museum of Art – Newark
- Garden State Discovery Museum – Cherry Hill
🏕️ Get Outside and Explore
From waterfalls and lakes to stroller-friendly hiking trails, New Jersey’s outdoor spaces are full of surprises. You don’t have to travel far to find nature that feels like a world away.
Try These:
- Turtle Back Zoo – West Orange
- Duke Farms – Hillsborough (bike rentals + butterfly house)
- Van Saun Park – Paramus (train rides and a carousel!)
🍦 Treat Yourself
No summer is complete without cold treats. From boardwalk soft serve to old-school ice cream stands in the suburbs, make it a mission to try a new sweet spot every week.
Local Favorites:
- The Bent Spoon – Princeton
- Sundae Times – Spring Lake
- Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream – Ledgewood
☀️ Make This Summer One to Remember
New Jersey shines brightest in the summer, and it’s never been easier to plan a season full of unforgettable moments with your kids. Whether you’re hopping between lakes and parks or road-tripping down the coast, there’s always a new adventure waiting.
For even more ideas and hidden gems, bookmark our Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide and keep the good times rolling all summer long. 🌞
Want more family guides, event roundups, and must-see spots around the Garden State? Explore more, enjoy more, and experience the best of New Jersey—right here with us.