Simplified Locations for Family-Oriented Strolls in New Jersey
Cape May, New Jersey, is a popular Jersey Shore vacation destination for families, offering a unique blend of outdoor nature activities, animal encounters, amusements, and historical sites that cater to all ages.
Cape May Point State Park
A must-visit is the Cape May Point State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, wildlife spotting, and climbing the iconic Cape May Lighthouse with 199 steps. For a historical experience, don't miss a visit to the World War II Gun Battery 223 [1][4].
Cape May County Zoo
The Cape May County Zoo is a free, year-round zoo with over 550 animals from 250 species, including cheetahs, red pandas, and bears. The zoo offers animal encounters and summer camps for an enriched visit [1][3].
Storybook Land
Families with young children will enjoy Storybook Land, a classic amusement park where they can walk through nursery rhyme-themed attractions and enjoy unlimited rides [3].
Revolution Rail
For an eco-friendly exploration of local nature, try Revolution Rail, unique pedal bike rides on old railway tracks through scenic marshes and forested areas [3].
Washington Street Mall
The Washington Street Mall, a pedestrian shopping and dining area, is great for family outings and casual strolls [2][4].
Dolphin Watching Tours
Boat tours such as the Spirit of Cape May offer opportunities to see dolphins in their natural habitat, providing an educational and entertaining experience for kids [4].
Other options include visiting the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum for history enthusiasts, swimming in family-friendly heated pools at resorts, and exploring nearby beaches for classic seaside fun [4][5].
These activities offer a balanced combination of education, adventure, and relaxation to ensure an engaging Cape May trip for families.
Day Trips for Families: Ridgewood, Red Bank, and More
Ridgewood
Ridgewood is a day trip destination for families, with the famous Country Pancake House, East Coast Burger, Kilwins Ridgewood, Cupcakes by Carousel, and Ridgewood Coffee Company [6]. Bookends Bookstore carries a great selection of books and toys, plus celebrity and author visits [7].
Red Bank
Red Bank is a cultural hub with over 100 restaurants, independent boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront parks. The Windmill serves hot dogs, while YESTERcades is a retro arcade. The Robinson Ale House serves American fare, and Carlo's Bakery is famous for Cake Boss. Bazaar Star Beadery offers jewelry making, and Jayce Baudry French Pastry is a dessert option [8].
South Orange
South Orange Village has a state-of-the-art performing arts center, SOPAC, and gaslight-adorned, tree-lined streets. Spiotta Park features instruments, a fountain, and newly painted rainbow lampposts. Casa di Pizza, Inspiration Roll, and Vicki's are dining options [9].
Exploring these towns is best done via a breezy trolley ride in Cape May or by foot in the other towns [10][11].
More Family-Friendly Destinations in New Jersey
Maplewood, Montclair, and Westfield
Maplewood Avenue in Maplewood is jam-packed with restaurants, small-town boutiques, and a centrally-located park. Montclair has three downtown areas, with Bloomfield Avenue being the center of the downtown action. Westfield has Morano Gelato and Bouvella's Pastry Shoppe as dessert spots [12].
Jersey City and Hoboken
Jersey City's downtown is on par with nearby Hoboken as a hip cultural metropolis. Pier C in Hoboken has a sand and water park and stroller-friendly sidewalks. Ambeli Greek Taverna, Garlic Rose Bistro, and Urban Burger are local eats in Cranford. Grimaldi's and Mamoun's are pizza and falafel wrap options in Hoboken [13].
Playgrounds and splash pads pop up throughout Jersey City, and there's even a man-made urban beach at Newport Green [14].
Princeton
Princeton is a college town with family-friendly attractions, including PJ's Pancake House, Jammin' Crepes, The Bent Spoon, and Princeton University Art Museum [15].
These locations offer a variety of dining, shopping, and recreational options for families seeking a fun-filled day trip in New Jersey.
[1] Cape May County Tourism [2] Cape May City [3] Cape May County Zoo [4] Spirit of Cape May [5] Cape May Beaches [6] Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce [7] Bookends Bookstore [8] Red Bank RiverCenter [9] South Orange Village Center Alliance [10] Cape May Trolley Company [11] Westfield Downtown [12] Maplewood Township [13] Jersey City [14] Hoboken [15] Princeton University Art Museum
- After exploring the Cape May Point State Park and its various activities, families can venture to the Cape May County Zoo for a free, educational experience with over 550 animal species.
- For a change of pace, families might enjoy a day trip to Ridgewood, where they can dine at the Country Pancake House and visit Bookends Bookstore, known for its great selection of books and author events.
