HomeFeaturesFamily8 Fun Father's Day Activities for NJ Families

8 Fun Father's Day Activities for NJ Families

Father’s Day can be especially meaningful in a young child’s life. Most kids don’t spend every day with their dads, so it’s nice to have a special holiday to create memories and honor the father-child relationship. Looking to plan a fun Father’s Day outing with the dad in your life this June 18? New Jersey is home to lots of great options for families, with choices for kids (and dads) of all ages. Here are our top picks for fun Father’s Day activities in the Garden State. [bibblio style=”bib–default bib–hover bib–white-label bib–row-2 bib–title-only bib–size-16 bib–font-arial” query_string_params=”e30=” recommendation_type=”optimised”]


Father's DayCatch a local baseball game.
Is your dad a NY Mets fan? Get tickets for the Mets vs. Nationals game on June 18 and receive a special Father’s Day cap. If you want to stay local, watch the Trenton Thunder take on the Erie Seawolves at Arm & Hammer Park in Trenton or cheer on the Somerset Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater.
See a movie in the theater.
My son is barely three years old and he already bonds with my husband over their love of Star Wars. I guess it’s a guy thing! Why not treat Dad to a movie and some popcorn? There are a bunch of films opening just before Father’s Day, with choices for kids of all different ages. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (PG-13) is out now, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (PG-13) premieres May 26 and Cars 3 (G) debuts on June 16.
Father's DayCheck out the racetrack.
Take Dad out to watch some horse races and maybe even win a few bucks at Monmouth Park. Admission is just $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under. You can pack your own picnic lunch or treat Dad to a special brunch in the Dining Terrace. On June 18, enjoy live music from Tim McLoone featuring The Shirleys, plus free children’s activities including pony rides, face painting and bounce houses.
Bond over a burger.
If Mother’s Day is all about the brunch, Father’s Day should be all about the burger. Take Dad out to lunch and enjoy a delicious hamburger and some crispy fries. If you want to try one of the best-tasting burgers in America (according to a Consumer Reports survey), check out one of The Habit Burger Grill’s four New Jersey locations: Eatontown, Fair Lawn, Parsippany and River Edge.
Father's DayGo fly a kite.
Guys like kites. Who knew? I didn’t, until I paid attention to who is usually flying them at the beach. Find a fun kite that can do tricks and hope for a windy day. Head to the beach or the nearest park and let ‘er rip! Cobra Kites in Toms River offers a wide selection of fliers, along with knowledgeable staff who will help you pick the perfect kite for your dad.
Try your hand at fishing.
Does Dad enjoy fishing? Find out where his favorite fishing hole is, pack a lunch and set out to enjoy a relaxing Father’s Day along the water. Not sure of the nearest location? Check out the Division of Fish & Wildlife’s website to view a list of places by county. Just make sure you plan ahead and get the proper permit and/or license if necessary.
Father's DayEnjoy a brunch cruise.
Set sail on The River Belle and enjoy a two-hour cruise while taking in the sights of the Manasquan River, Point Pleasant Canal and Barnegat Bay. Guests will be treated to a delicious brunch buffet featuring omelettes, french toast and other specialties. The River Belle sails from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm on June 18. Visit the website for more details on how to purchase tickets.
Visit a NJ brewery.
If everyone is over 21, take Dad to one of the Garden State’s many microbreweries for a Father’s Day celebration. You’ll find locations all over New Jersey, such as Demented Brewing Company in Middlesex and Departed Soles Brewing Company in Jersey City. Sample their latest selections and discover a new favorite!


Hero (Top) Feature Image: © BlueOrange Studio/Adobe Stock
Additional Body Images (in order) Courtesy:
Facebook/Trenton Thunder
Monmouth Park Racetrack
bst2012/Adobe Stock
The River Belle

Newsletter Signup Prompt