10 Family Activities To Enjoy In New Jersey This Winter
Winter in New Jersey brings a magical opportunity for families to create lasting memories together. Cold weather doesn’t mean staying cooped up indoors when the Garden State offers so many exciting adventures.
From snow-covered mountains to cozy indoor attractions, I’ve gathered activities that will keep everyone smiling all season long.
1. Hit the Slopes at Mountain Creek
Snow-covered hills and fresh mountain air create the perfect backdrop for your family’s skiing adventure. Mountain Creek offers runs for every skill level, so beginners and experts alike can enjoy the thrill.
Lessons are available if your kids are just starting out. The resort also features snow tubing, which is pure joy for younger children who aren’t ready for skis yet.
2. Explore the Adventure Aquarium
When freezing temperatures make outdoor play tough, I recommend heading to Camden’s incredible underwater world. Penguins waddle across ice, hippos splash around, and sharks glide overhead in mesmerizing tunnels.
Your children will be captivated by touch tanks where they can feel stingrays. Interactive exhibits teach ocean conservation while keeping everyone entertained for hours, making it an educational escape from winter’s chill.
3. Ice Skate at Rockefeller Center-Style Rinks
Nothing captures winter magic quite like gliding across ice under twinkling lights. New Jersey has numerous outdoor rinks that bring that classic holiday feeling right to your hometown.
Places like the rink at Prudential Center or local parks offer affordable skating sessions. Pack hot chocolate in a thermos and make an evening of it, creating traditions your family will cherish for years.
4. Discover Liberty Science Center
Curiosity comes alive when you step into this Jersey City wonderland of discovery. Hands-on exhibits let kids launch rockets, explore the human body, and even touch real moon rocks.
The planetarium shows are absolutely breathtaking and transport your family across the universe. With constantly rotating exhibits, there’s always something new to spark imagination, making repeat visits worthwhile throughout the cold months.
5. Warm Up at Indoor Trampoline Parks
Cabin fever doesn’t stand a chance against wall-to-wall trampolines and foam pits. Places like Sky Zone and Urban Air let your children burn endless energy while staying toasty warm indoors.
Dodgeball courts and obstacle courses add variety to the bouncing fun. I find these parks perfect for birthday parties or just a random Saturday when everyone needs to move and laugh together.
6. Visit Historic Grounds for Sculpture
Art takes on a whole new beauty when dusted with snow and framed by bare winter trees. This Hamilton treasure features over 270 sculptures scattered across 42 acres of stunning gardens.
Bundle up and wander the peaceful paths, playing I-spy with unusual art pieces. Indoor galleries provide warm-up spots, and the on-site restaurant makes a lovely lunch stop during your cultural adventure.
7. Experience Turtle Back Zoo’s Winter Wonders
Animals become extra playful in cooler weather, making winter zoo visits surprisingly delightful. West Orange’s beloved zoo keeps most exhibits open, and you’ll find smaller crowds mean better viewing opportunities.
Red pandas frolic in the snow while penguins seem right at home. The indoor reptile house offers a tropical break from the cold, and seasonal events often include special animal encounters your kids won’t forget.
8. Cozy Up at Local Libraries for Story Time
Sometimes the simplest activities create the warmest memories. Libraries throughout New Jersey host special winter story times with themed crafts and songs that captivate young listeners.
Many branches offer free programs featuring puppets, musical instruments, and holiday tales. After story time, browse for books together and head home for an afternoon of reading snuggled under blankets with cookies and milk.
9. Build Snowmen and Sled at Local Parks
Your own neighborhood transforms into a winter playground after a good snowfall. Grab sleds and head to nearby hills for old-fashioned outdoor fun that costs nothing but creates priceless joy.
Pack building tools for snow forts and snowmen competitions. Hot cocoa tastes even better after rosy-cheeked playtime outside, and exhausted kids sleep wonderfully after fresh air and exercise fill their day.
10. Tour Historic Morristown National Historical Park
History comes alive when you walk the same grounds where Revolutionary War soldiers endured harsh winters. Morristown’s park offers ranger-led programs that make learning feel like adventure rather than a lesson.
Kids love exploring the museum exhibits filled with authentic artifacts and weapons. The winter landscape mirrors what Washington’s troops experienced, giving your family a tangible connection to America’s founding story.
