Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Family-Friendly 23-Day Itinerary in New Jersey

Viewed by 83 travelers

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic pier, enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views. In the afternoon, visit Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier, and ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic vistas. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Third Street Promenade, known for its shopping, dining, and street performers.

Friday, December 22: Arrival in New Jersey

Arrive in New Jersey and check into your hotel. Take the remainder of the day to relax and settle in.

Saturday, December 23: Liberty State Park and Jersey City

Spend the morning exploring Liberty State Park, which offers breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty. In the afternoon, head to Jersey City and visit Liberty Science Center, a family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits. End the day by strolling along the waterfront and enjoying dinner at one of the local restaurants.

  • Liberty State Park: Free admission, 3-4 hours
  • Liberty Science Center: $25 per adult, $19 per child, 3-4 hours
Sunday, December 24: Christmas Eve in New York City

Spend Christmas Eve in the nearby New York City. Visit Rockefeller Center to see the famous Christmas tree and go ice skating. Explore the holiday markets, take a carriage ride in Central Park, and enjoy a festive dinner in the city.

Monday, December 25: Christmas Day

Enjoy a relaxing Christmas Day with your family. You can take a walk on the beach, have a picnic at a local park, or visit one of the Christmas events happening in the area.

Tuesday, December 26: Adventure Aquarium and Battleship New Jersey

Start the day by visiting Adventure Aquarium in Camden, where you can explore various marine exhibits and even have the opportunity to touch stingrays. In the afternoon, head to the Battleship New Jersey Museum in Camden and learn about the history of this famous battleship. End the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Adventure Aquarium: $31 per adult, $23 per child, 3-4 hours
  • Battleship New Jersey Museum: $25 per adult, $15 per child, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Six Flags Great Adventure

Spend a thrilling day at Six Flags Great Adventure, a popular amusement park with exciting roller coasters and other attractions. Enjoy the rides, shows, and delicious food options throughout the day.

  • Six Flags Great Adventure: $79.99 per person, full day
Thursday, December 28: Grounds For Sculpture

Explore the beautiful Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton. This 42-acre sculpture park displays works from renowned artists and provides a tranquil environment for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy lunch at one of the on-site restaurants and embrace the creativity around you.

  • Grounds For Sculpture: $20 per adult, $10 per child, 3-4 hours
Friday, December 29: Cape May

Take a day trip to Cape May, a charming seaside town known for its Victorian architecture. Explore the Cape May Lighthouse, visit the Emlen Physick Estate, and enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach. Before heading back, savor a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

  • Cape May Lighthouse: $10 per adult, $5 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Emlen Physick Estate: $15 per adult, $7 per child, 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 30: Ocean City

Spend the day in Ocean City, a family-friendly destination with a boardwalk, arcades, and beautiful sandy beaches. Enjoy water activities, go shopping, and indulge in delicious treats at the various boardwalk eateries.

Sunday, December 31: New Year's Eve

Celebrate New Year's Eve in style. Attend one of the local events or fireworks displays happening in New Jersey. Enjoy a festive dinner at a restaurant and welcome the new year with your family.

Monday, January 1: Start of the Year

Begin the new year by taking a day of relaxation. Explore the local attractions at your own pace or simply unwind at the hotel.

Tuesday, January 2: Adventureland

Embark on an adventurous day at Adventureland in Farmingdale. Enjoy thrilling rides, go-karting, and arcade games. Have fun with your family and create lasting memories.

  • Adventureland: $34.99 per person, full day
Wednesday, January 3: Newark Museum of Art

Visit the Newark Museum of Art, where you can admire diverse art collections ranging from ancient to contemporary. Explore the planetarium and enjoy interactive exhibits for all ages. Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Newark Museum of Art: $15 per adult, free for children under 17, 3-4 hours
Thursday, January 4: Jenkinson's Boardwalk

Enjoy a day at Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach. Indulge in boardwalk games, rides, and delicious treats. Take a walk on the beach and catch the sunset before heading back.

Friday, January 5: Adventure Aquarium and Camden Children's Garden

Return to Camden and revisit Adventure Aquarium if you wish to explore more. In the afternoon, head to the Camden Children's Garden, an interactive garden that offers various educational activities for kids. Have a delightful time immersing yourselves in nature.

  • Camden Children's Garden: $9 per person, 3-4 hours
Saturday, January 6: Jersey Shore

Spend the day at the Jersey Shore. Visit one of the popular beaches, such as Seaside Heights, Point Pleasant Beach, or Asbury Park. Enjoy the scenic views, build sandcastles, and take a dip in the ocean.

Sunday, January 7: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Embark on a memorable trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take a ferry to Liberty Island, explore the grounds, and learn about the history of this iconic monument. Continue your journey to Ellis Island and discover the immigrant experience through interactive exhibits.

  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: $25 per person, 3-4 hours
Monday, January 8: Adventure Aquarium and Battleship New Jersey

If you want to revisit Adventure Aquarium or Battleship New Jersey, take this day to do so. Otherwise, explore the local area or indulge in some shopping and dining.

Tuesday, January 9: Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Visit the unique Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg. Take an underground tour and learn about the rich mining history of the region. Explore the museum exhibits and discover the world of geology and mineralogy. Wrap up the day by enjoying a meal at a nearby restaurant.

  • Sterling Hill Mining Museum: $13 per adult, $10 per child, 3-4 hours
Wednesday, January 10: Princeton University

Take a day trip to Princeton University. Explore the beautiful campus, visit the Princeton University Art Museum, and take a guided tour to learn about the university's history and traditions. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in the town of Princeton.

  • Princeton University Art Museum: Free admission, 3-4 hours
Thursday, January 11: Adventure Aquarium and Camden Children's Garden

If you wish, return to Adventure Aquarium or Camden Children's Garden for another round of fun. If not, spend the day engaging in family activities of your choice, such as visiting local parks or exploring nearby towns.

Friday, January 12: Cape May Zoo and Beach

Visit Cape May Zoo, a free family-friendly zoo with a variety of animals. Afterward, relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Have dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants and savor the flavors of the coast.

  • Cape May Zoo: Free admission, 2-3 hours
Saturday, January 13: Adventureland

If you're up for another day of adventure, return to Adventureland in Farmingdale. Challenge yourself on the rides and games, and make the most of the attractions this amusement park has to offer.

Sunday, January 14: Departure

Check out of your hotel and depart from New Jersey with wonderful memories of your 23-day family-friendly adventure.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

New Jersey has many off-the-beaten-path attractions and local favorites perfect for families. One such gem is the Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township. This charming amusement park brings classic children's stories to life and offers rides, shows, and interactive experiences for kids of all ages. Another beloved spot is iPlay America in Freehold, a large indoor amusement park with rides, arcade games, go-karts, and more. Families can also enjoy nature at Duke Farms in Hillsborough Township, featuring beautiful gardens, walking trails, and bike rentals for exploring the expansive grounds.

For more hidden gems and local favorites tailored to your family's interests, click here to check hotel and flight prices.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version