Spring break. Just the thought of having the kids home for a full week strikes fear in the hearts of even veteran moms. They are likely to be bouncing off the walls from all the extra energy they have, yet it’s still a bit too cool to shoo them outside for the entire day. But have no fear! Even if you’re stuck home this year, there are still plenty of exciting spring break day trip options in NJ.
Check out our list of eight great spring break day trips offering lots of kid-friendly fun!
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Explore Liberty Science Center
I remember thinking this place was the coolest when I was a kid, and it’s only gotten better since! The Liberty Science Center in Jersey City is New Jersey’s largest museum and features interactive exhibits, 3D films and special events like “Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit,” where kids can explore life through Sid’s eyes.
Head to the Zoo
Did you know that admission to the Cape May Zoo is free? Donations are what keep this South Jersey menagerie open to the public seven days a week. If North Jersey is more your neck of the woods, check out Turtle Back Zoo and spend the whole day in the South Mountain Recreation area, which also boasts a treetop adventure course, mini golf, swan boats and an awesome playground.
DIY Candy? Yum!
Yes, I know. You’re trying to get rid of the leftover candy in your house. But delicious homemade candy is another story. Visit The Chocolate Belles in Brick, where kids can make their own candy treats. Call ahead to see when classes are being offered or register for the Children’s Springfest Candy Making Class on April 9th.
Play All Day at the Discovery Museum
I can personally attest to the fact that children love Cherry Hill’s Garden State Discovery Museum. My kids have spent hours here playing with the various scenes, like the California Pizza Kitchen restaurant, the 1950s diner or the pirate ship. There’s even a real-life Subaru car for the kids to “drive,” courtesy of the national Subaru headquarters located minutes away.
Visit the Jersey Shore
Is it summer yet? Well, you can pretend it is by visiting any number of seaside towns with attractions open all year long. Go for a stroll or bike ride along Casino Pier in Seaside Heights and then visit the arcade, which is currently open Fridays through Mondays. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk also has its arcade and aquarium open year-round. If you feel like heading down to Long Beach Island, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. The lighthouse itself is only open on the weekends in the spring, but you can still admire its majestic beauty from down below.
Get Wet at Sahara Sam’s
At Sahara Sam’s Oasis in West Berlin, it’s always a balmy 84 degrees! Your kids will enjoy water slides, tubing, arcades, and pools at this super-fun indoor/outdoor water amusement park. If you stay for the weekend, be sure to check out Diggerland, located right next door. The construction-themed amusement park offers tons of rides and attractions for kids to explore.
Check Out Your Local Farms
People usually think of fall as the prime time to visit a local farm, but there is just as much to do in the springtime. Hayrides, farm animals and freshly-baked farm treats are available at Johnson’s Corner Farm in Medford. If you’re craving fresh air and an outdoorsy excursion, look no further than Hillsborough’s Duke Farms. Hiking, biking, geocaching and more are all on the menu at this natural living habitat. You can even print out your own Family Activity Sheet on the website to guide your visit.
Adventure Aquarium
Enjoy a day filled with aquatic adventures at Adventure Aquarium on Camden’s waterfront. Observe the sharks, touch a sting-ray and get up close and personal with sea turtles and penguins! The aquarium has exciting exhibits for kids of all ages, plus a full cafeteria and a gift shop your kids won’t want to miss…nor will they be able to, since you have to walk through it to exit the aquarium.
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Additional Body Images (in order) Courtesy:
Liberty Science Center
Facebook / Turtle Back Zoo
Facebook / The Chocolate Belles
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
Sahara Sam’s Oasis
Johnson’s Corner Farm
Adventure Aquarium
