Looking for some great ideas for day trips and vacations with your family in New Jersey? From attractions, museums, shopping, and some wonderful hotel accommodations, New Jersey is a great place to vacation with families.
First things first, I have to admit that I am a native New Yorker. I had lived in New York for 30 years! But New Jersey has always been the best place for fun and close getaways, day trips and vacations.
After spending many summer weekends at all different places on the Jersey shore, last summer my family and I made the move! We couldn’t be happier. I mean, 15 minutes from the beach. Does it get any better than that?
Top Friendly Family Things to do in New Jersey
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Long Beach Island’s Sea Pirate Campground
The Long Beach Island’s Sea Pirate Campground is one of my absolute favorite campgrounds. When I was growing up, we went camping all the time. Camping is a great way to get away from technology and spend quality time together. There is so much to do for families and I promise everyone in the family will be able to find something they love. There is an awesome pool, arcade, playground, volleyball, horseshoes, crabbing, fishing, golf, bike rentals and kayaks. There is always a full day of activities planned. Movies, bingo, hayrides, arts and crafts and ceramics. Every member of the family will be happy with all these options to spend the day their way. I love what this campground has to offer because it covers all age ranges! But the best part? It is just a short drive to the beach.
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Tuckerton Seaport and Baymen’s Museum
Just a few minutes from the campground, Tuckerton Seaport and Baymen’s Museum is one of my kids’ favorite places. We love coming here because it is the perfect mix of inside and outside fun. The main museum always has an arts and craft section. Always with new and different projects every time we go. There is a lovely boardwalk above the water with all little houses and exhibits that you can pop in and out of it. The mini golf and pirate playground is what sold me and my littles. I took my son here while my daughter was off at school and we were looking for an adventure not too far away. We loved it so much that I ended up buying a year membership for our whole family.
Atlantic City
So I know when you think of Atlantic City, the first thing that comes to mind is JACKPOT. And definitely not a family vacation. But I have a whole list of places that will change your mind.
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Atlantic City Aquarium
The Atlantic City Aquarium is a great aquarium because it is on the smaller side so you are able to see everything without needing to rush around. Also, if you have young children, like myself, they can have a little freedom to check things out themselves without worrying about them wandering too far. I am able to take my son here for a few hours while his sister is at school. A few restaurants in walking distance making it the perfect little day date.
Shopping
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Tanger Outlets – Atlantic City NJ
For my shopping lovers. There is a great selection of stores at the Tanger Outlets in Atlantic City. Puma Outlet, Gap Outlet, Carter’s Babies and Kids, H&M, Michael Kors, Coach, Old Navy Outlet, Nike Factory Store and much more. I am always finding great deals and it is always worth the trip. There are also a bunch of nice places to eat or grab a quick bite before you head home.
Favorite Hotels Accommodations
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Ocean Resort Casino
The best part about Ocean Resort Casino is the big, beautiful indoor and outdoor heated pool. We even go here in the winter and the kids love swimming in the outdoor section with the fresh air in our faces. All of the rooms have a perfect ocean view.
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Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City has great amenities, a convenient location and of course our favorite place to eat.
Great indoor pool. Lots of comfy seating.
Easy access to the boardwalk.
Dining nearby
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Cereal Town
Looking for a special treat that your kids can create on their own? Create your own cereal sundae at Cereal Town. Pick your favorite cereal, milk and of course all the toppings you want. This place has a special place in our heart because we were the very first customers!
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YouYu Noodle Bar
The best noodle place is the YOUYU Noodle Bar
Fun Day Trip
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Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
We’re going to the zoo zoo zoo.
If you are not near the jersey shore or just looking for a fun day trip especially in the winter. The Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is the perfect zoo. We love to bundle up and come here on a milder winter day. There is a great prehistoric playground, take a ride on the train, have a dance party with the sea lions, indoor touch tanks, visit with some friendly farm animals and of course many other exhibits. I love the baby sea turtles.
I hope Tales of a Tired Mom gave you some great ideas for day trips and vacations with our Top Friendly Family Things to do in New Jersey.
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