12 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in New Jersey This Winter

The Garden State is beautiful in spring and summer – from farms to lakes to going “down the Shore” there’s so much to do. But there’s still plenty of fun to be had in Jerz when the weather gets cold. Check out our pick of the best kid-friendly things to do in New Jersey, whether you’re looking for fun indoor spots (like Medieval Times or Liberty Science Center) or an outdoor adventure (followed by hot chocolate, natch!).

Kids and adults can get their energy out at a rock-climbing gym. Rockville Climbing Center in Hamilton has auto belays that take up the slack as you scale high walls and slowly lower you to the ground. The Gravity Vault has multiple locations in NJ, with more opening soon. Get a day pass or for even more thrills, try competing against friends on their Augmented Reality Climbing Wall which offers a variety of games.

Bundle up your crew and head to Grounds for Sculpture after dark for an immersive sound and light show that’s like nothing you’ve ever seen. The museum and sculpture garden, set on 42 beautiful acres in Hamilton, changes into a feast of sound + vision when the sun goes down and Night Forms: Infinite Wave takes over. Kids and adults will get a kick out of this multi-sensory show that’s interactive and awe-inspiring.

Just when you thought that bathing suit was stowed away until Memorial Day, there are multiple reasons to break out the bikinis and speedos (ok, black one-pieces) to slip, slide and swim in an indoor water wonderland. DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream mall in East Rutherford has a lazy river, a wave pool and a giant Shrek overseeing the fun. Plus, it’s a tropical 81 degree inside all year round (nice!).  

Ice skating is the perfect family activity for when it’s cold outside but you still need get your bodies moving. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a budding Brian Boitano – rent a pair, lace ‘em up and go for a spin! The Rink at Winter Wonderland in Bergen County’s Van Saun Park features ice skating AND Ice Bumper Cars. Newport Skates in Jersey City is right on the waterfront and offers both lessons and open skate.

At Adventure Aquarium in Camden, your brood will make a new buddy – Charlie, the new giant Pacific octopus has taken up residence and because they are missing part of their third arm, the team isn’t sure if it’s a boy or a girl! You can also see 15,000 aquatic animals including Button and Genny, the aquarium’s hippos. If you dare, walk the longest shark bridge in the world to view what is the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast. Consider buying a discounted membership so admission won’t take a bite out of your wallet.

Join the royal court with a trip to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst. Kids will have a ball cheering for the knights as they joust and show off their skills in an epic tournament. Witness horsemanship and falconry while feasting on a four-course meal of chicken, garlic bread, sweet buttered corn and more. When the queen, the knights and the squires take to the stage, you’ll be transported to the 11^th century. Bonus: parents can also enjoy an adult bevvie here.