Jersey Family Fun Day Trips & Destinations Spring 2016

Welcome to the Jersey Family Fun Spring Tourism Guide!

Jersey Family Fun is the go to resource for parents, grandparents, and loved ones in New Jersey looking for things to do and ways to have fun with their children! Our team of moms blog about family travel, family friendly events, activities, and places to go. Whether you’re at home or on the road if it’s a way to have fun with your family, we’re blogging about it.

Nothing pleases us more than seeing how much our readers love what we’re sharing.

Four times a year, we pull our best articles together into family travel guides. Get the benefits of a classic tourism guide but in a version you can read and click on from your computer, tablet, or smart phone. We have so much more to share with you online and we’re always updating events, articles, and listings. With each of these articles you can find more information on JerseyFamilyFun.com. Whether it’s an activity for the day or an idea for getting away for a few days, we know you’ll find lots of ideas for family fun.

Thank you for taking the time to stop by to get to know Jersey Family Fun. We’ll see you online,

Jennifer Auer, Editor

Table of Contents The Jersey Family Fun Team Editor Jennifer Auer Writers & Team Members Melanie Cortese Joanna Gnudi Cortina Michelle Douglas Jillian Fletcher Martina Ferguson Crystal Rodgers Nancy Moore Palutis

Events

2 Free & Discount Adm. Days 4 Free Food & Meal Days 10 Holiday Events 14 Unique Events

17 Concerts & Performances 26 More great events

28 Activities

35 Day Trips 45 Family Travel

79 Best Gear for Family Travel 101 Music for the Road 106

Click the image for our complete calendar of events.

Bank of America’s Museums on Us On the first full weekend of every month, Bank of America's Museums on Us Program allows each card holder to get one free general admission at more than 150 museums nationwide. Look below for a list of museums in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York. Each card holder gets one free general admission. All you need is a photo id and your Bank of America or Merrill Lynch card.

Bank of America Free Admission Weekends Spring Schedule • April 2nd & 3rd • May 7th & 8th • June 4th & 5th Participating Museums in New Jersey Montclair Art Museum Liberty Science Center Newark Museum Aijira, a center for contemporary art (closed Sundays) Morris Museum Wheaton Arts & Cultural Center The Noyes Museum of Art at Richard Stockton College Garden State Discovery Museum Participating Museums in Philadelphia Philadelphia Museum of Art National Constitution Center National Museum of American Jewish History African American Museum in Philadelphia Allentown Art Museum Carnegie Museum of Art

Participating Museums in Delaware Delaware Art Museum (No Sundays) Delaware Museum of Natural History Participating Museums in New York The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Museum of Modern Art Staten Island Children's Museum Brooklyn Historical Society Children's Museum of Manhattan Queens Museum of Art Long Island Children's Museum Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum Long Island Museum of American Art, History, & Carriages (Closed Jan-Feb) Old Westbury Gardens (May - Dec Only)

Please Touch Museum offers $2 Admission Days On the first Wednesday night of each month your family can visit the Please Touch Museum for $2 a person.

Spring Schedule of $2 Admission Days At the Please Touch Museum Schedule Free parking will be offered as well during these times. No advance registration is required.

• Wed., April 6th 4pm to 7pm • Wed., May 4th 4pm to 7pm • Wed., June 1st 4pm to 7pm The Please Touch Museum is located at Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park 4231 Avenue of the Republic, (formerly North Concourse Drive) in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Museum of Art During special Philadelphia Museum of Modern Art Pay What You Wish Days on the first Sunday of the month and Wednesday evenings your family can go to the Philadelphia Museum of Modern Art at at fraction of the price.

On these special days you are invited to the museum and you can pay whatever you can afford, just please pay something as the museum says even if it's just a penny. It is a great way to introduce your family to the arts museum.

Pay What You Wish Days Spring Schedule No advance registration is required.

Sundays 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and pay what you wish is all day.

Wednesdays 10:00 am - 8:45 pm pay what you wish begins after 5 pm.

• • • • • • •

Wednesday, March 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th Sunday, April 3rd Wednesday, April 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th Sunday, May 1st Wednesday, May 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th Sunday, June 5th Wednesday, June 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th

The Philadelphia Museum of Modern Art is located at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19130 Phone Number 215-763-8100

Franklin Institute

Free Admission Days During special Target Community nights you can go to Franklin Institute for Free!

Free Admission nights generally occur on the third Thursday of the month.

No advance registration is required however registration on site might be requested.

Parking is also a discounted rate of $6 during the evening!

FREE Admission Day Spring Schedule • Wed., March 16th, Science of the Ancient World • As of this publication date, there were no other dates announced. Please keep following Jersey Family Fun for updates to this schedule.

For tips on how to make the most of a Franklin Institute Free Admission Day click over to this blog post.

The Franklin Institute is located at 222 N 20th Street in Philadelphia.

Spring Freebies!

It's Spring! It's time to celebrate with some free treats. Did you know all across our area you and your kids can get some great freebies?

If you’re like my family you get VERY excited. when spring begins. When possible we love to celebrate the first day of spring by taking a trip to the park and ending the day with a trip to Rita’s Water Ice for a free frozen treat. Whether you are spending the day indoors or squeezing in some outdoor play time, don’t miss out on these great locations offering free treats.

Spring Freebies ~ Mark your calendar •

Sunday, March 20, 12 - 9 pm, Rita's Water Ice will offer a free regular size serving of water ice to celebrate the first day of Spring. Check out our blog post from a previous year’s Free Rita's event.

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Saturday, March 19, Enjoy free breakfast at Shore Good Donuts where you'll get a free coffee and doughnut.

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Free Ice Cream Day at Dippy's Gloucester County, April 1. No foolin! More details in this issue.

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Free Ice Cream Day at Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, April 2. More details in this issue.

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Ben and Jerry's hands out UNLIMITED free cones on April 12.

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Sunday, April 24, Free Ice Cream Day at Alstede Farm in

Chester. More details in this issue.

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Tuesday, April 26, Get Your Free Pretzels for National

Pretzel Day from the Philly Pretzel Factory and Wetzel's Pretzels, •

Carvel's Free Ice Cream Cone Day, (The 2016 date has not

been announced yet.)

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Saturday, May 7, Too much food for you? Head to your

favorite comic book store for Free Comic Book Day. More details in this issue.

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Haagen Dazs 9th Annual Free Cone day! May 12th, 2016

from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM! Guests get a free scoop in a cup, waffle or sugar cone. More details in this issue.

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Deptford Mall Cinnabon (The 2016 date has not been

announced yet.) Stop by for your free Cinnabon Stix!

cream. While you’re there enjoy lots of fun, farm activities (at an additional cost). Alstede Farms is located at 84 County Route 513 South Chester in Morris County.

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Haagen Dazs Free Ice Cream Cone

Day is Thursday, May 12, 2016 from 4-8 PM. Stop by any participating store and get one free kiddie size ice cream in either a cup, sugar cone, or cake cone. It is recommended to confirm with your local Haagen Dazs location if they are participating in this event prior to attending.

Haagen-Dazs NJ locations Livingston, 79 South Livingston Avenue Rockaway Townsquare Mall, 301 Mount Hope Ave #1900, Rockaway (973) 328-0743 Ridgewood, 22 East Ridgewood Avenue (201) 447-9840 Fairlawn, 23-12 Fairlawn Avenue (201) 7972626

Who doesn’t love FREE ice cream?!

Millburn, 358 Millburn Avenue (973) 3799280 The Mills at Jersey Gardens, 651 Kapkowski Road, Elizabeth (908) 558-9087 Woodbridge Center, 418 Woodbridge Center, Woodbridge (732) 750-1874

Here’s the details you need to know on all the free ice cream days happening in New Jersey this

Bridgewater Commons, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater (908) 722-8700

spring.

Menlo Park Mall, 330 Menlo Park Mall,

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Shops at North Brunswick, 651 Shoppes

Edison, (732) 603-8713 April 1st is “No Foolin'” Free ice cream day at Dippy’s Gloucester County of Mantua Township. All day, Friday, April 1st from 11

Boulevard, North Brunswick (732) 5659090

am to 9 pm you can get a free ice cream cone

Freehold, 3710 Route 9 (732) 577-1195

at the Dippy’s located at 245 Bridgeton Pike

Jackson, 537 Monmouth Road, (732) 928-8660

Rt 45 in Mantua.

Resorts Casino, 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, (609) 449-8905

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Free Cone Day at Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

Rockaway Townsquare Mall, 301 Mount Hope

will be Saturday, April 2, 2016 all you have

Ave #1900, K111-B, Rockaway (973) 551-

to do is dress in your pajamas! There is one

1651

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream location in New Jersey in Washington Township at 305 Greentree Road, Sewell in Gloucester County.

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Alstede Farms Free Ice Cream Day will be Sunday, April 24, 2016. Stop by any time between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm for a FREE cup or cone of their delicious homemade ice

National Doughnut Day is Friday, June 3 From Dunkin' Donuts which dominates the tri-state area for these tasty delicacies to the local and independent shops that offer their own creations, a doughnut flavor exists for everyone and Friday, June 3, you can get one for FREE. The first Friday in June has been National Doughnut Day since 1938. It was created as a fundraiser for the Salvation Army and in Chicago it still is used as a fundraiser for this organization. It is meant to raise awareness for the social programs offered by the Salvation Army and to commemorate the "donut lassies" who are women that in addition to providing various supplies to soldiers also served them coffee and doughnuts on the front lines during World War I. In 2015, these locations participated in National Doughnut Day. Please keep following Jersey Family Fun to see if they will participate again in 2016.

• Dunkin' Donuts (check your local store) • Krispy Kreme Receive a free donut.

• Montclair Bread Company (113 Walnut St., Montclair) • Tim Horton's (1 Hudson Pl, Hoboken) • Top That Donuts (210 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach) • Shore Good Donuts • Duck Donuts So whether you are a traditionalist or a culinary daredevil, stop into one of the above vendors for a breakfast treat.

Give yourself the night off from cooking at a discount! Take advantage of these restaurants in New Jersey offering kids a free meal!

We suggest calling the location to confirm participation and terms. For the specific schedule by day and locations visit our complete listing online.

Atlantic County

Pizza Hut, Denny’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill, IHOP, Mays Landing Diner

Shack, Hooters

Middlesex County

Denny’s, The Station Tavern, IHOP, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Hooters, Pizzeria Uno, Brother Jimmy’s, Moe’s, Arirang, Joe’s Crab Shack, Buffalo Wild Wings, Miller’s Ale House

Monmouth County

Griffin’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill, IHOP, Jalapenos, Rocca, Hooters, Ho-Ho-Kus Inn, Miller’s Ale House, IKEA, Horizon Diner, Lakeside Grille and Bar, Bennigans, Que Pasta

Court Jester, Windmill, Perkins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Joe’s Crab Shack, Perkins, Rosalita’s, All Seasons Restaurant Diner, Court Jester, Valentino’s, Inkanto, Red Oak Diner, Chubby Pickle, IHOP, Nino’s Coal Fired Pizza, Sycamore Grill, Brass Rail, The Burger Shop, Blue Swan Diner, Main Street Bar and Grill

Burlington County

Morris County

Bergen County

Dennys, IHOP, Sonic, Pizzeria Uno, Marlton Tavern, Distrito

IHOP, Montville Inn, Buffalo Wild Wings, Moe’s, Scallopini

Camden County

Water’s Edge, Buffalo Wild Wings, IHOP, Joe’s Crab Shack, Nino’s Coal Fired Pizza, Windmill, Perkins, 21 South, Sandy’s Cozy Corner, Lamp Post Inn, Farrell’s, Burger 25, Four Seasons Diner, Pizza Hut, Sand Castle Diner, Toms River Diner, Tiff’s, Tuscan House

Qdoba, Denny’s, Tortilla Press, Pop Shop, Miller’s Ale House, Bob Evans, IHOP

Cape May County

Oceanside Seafood, Cabanas

Ocean County

Passaic County

Cumberland County Bennigan’s, Denny’s

Chevy’s, Joe’s Crab Shack, Pizzeria Uno, IHOP, Moe’s, IHOP, Firehouse Subs, Hooters, Mothers Ale House

Essex County

Salem County

IHOP, Calandra’s Mediterranean Grill, Moonshine Supper Club, Joe’s Crab Shack, Franklin Steakhouse, Toro Loco, Ricalton’s, Verona Inn

Gloucester County

Pizzeria Uno, Joe’s Crab Shack, Landmark, Val’s Seafood Trattoria, Denny’s

Hudson County

Otaiko, Arthur’s, Elysian Cafe, IHOP, Cheeseburger in Paradise

Denny’s, Elmer Diner

Somerset County

Moe’s, Willie McBride’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, IHOP, Perkins, Trio, Stoney Brook Grille, Stage House, Melting Pot, Uproot

Sussex County O’Reilly’s

Union County

Hunterdon County Lovin’ Oven, The Rail

Molly Maguire’s, Oh’Brian’s on the Green, IKEA, The Station, Chevy’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Arirang, Villa Tequila, Pizza Vita, Tiff’s

Mercer County

Warren County

Town Diner, Moe’s, Pizzeria Uno, IHOP, Moe’s, Joe’s Crab

IHOP

We've been doing this listing for 5-6 years and here we are again helping families have a very Happy Easter! Here is our list of Easter Egg Hunts, Easter Activities, and Easter Bunny Appearances in New Jersey listed by date as well as by type of event Just click the links for the calendar for those events

ALL Atlantic County Easter Events  

Atlantic County Easter Bunny Appearances Atlantic County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Bergen County Easter Events  

Bergen County Easter Bunny Appearances Bergen County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Burlington County Easter Events  

Burlington County Easter Bunny Appearances Burlington County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Camden County Easter Events  

Camden County Easter Bunny Appearances Camden County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Cape May County Easter Events  

Cape May County Easter Bunny Appearances Cape May County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Cumberland County Easter Events  

Cumberland County Easter Bunny Appearances Cumberland County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Essex County Easter Events  

Essex County Easter Bunny Appearances Essex County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Gloucester County Easter Events  

Gloucester County Easter Bunny Appearances Gloucester County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Hudson County Easter Events  

Hudson County Easter Bunny Appearances Hudson County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Hunterdon County Easter Events  

Hunterdon County Easter Bunny Appearances Hunterdon County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Mercer County Easter Events  

Mercer County Easter Bunny Appearances Mercer County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Middlesex County Easter Events  

Middlesex County Easter Bunny Appearances Middlesex County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Monmouth County Easter Events  

Monmouth County Easter Bunny Appearances Monmouth County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Morris County Easter Events  

Morris County Easter Bunny Appearances Morris County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Ocean County Easter Events  

Ocean County Easter Bunny Appearances Ocean County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Passaic County Easter Events  

Passaic County Easter Bunny Appearances Passaic County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Salem County Easter Events  

Salem County Easter Bunny Appearances Salem County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Somerset County Easter Events  

Somerset County Easter Bunny Appearances Somerset County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Sussex County Easter Events  

Sussex County Easter Bunny Appearances Sussex County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Union County Easter Events  

Union County Easter Bunny Appearances Union County Easter Egg Hunts

ALL Warren County Easter Events  

Warren County Easter Bunny Appearances Warren County Easter Egg Hunts

Celebrate Earth Day in New Jersey on April 22nd.

Fun and Simple Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with Kids        

Kids love dirt! Plant shrubs or trees in your backyard or start a vegetable garden in pots or a small plot Organize a cleanup day at your school Read an Earth Day story Don't leave the water running while brushing your teeth or washing your face and hands Go on an Earth Day scavenger hunt search for pine cones, flowers, rocks and sticks Spend the day outdoors with your family Make a bird house or feeder Have a picnic!

NEW JERSEY EARTH DAY EVENTS Atlantic County Earth Day Events

Middlesex County Earth Day Events

Bergen County Earth Day Events

Monmouth County Earth Day Events

Burlington County Earth Day Events

Morris County Earth Day Events

Camden County Earth Day Events

Ocean County Earth Day Events

Cape May County Earth Day Events

Passaic County Earth Day Events

Cumberland County Earth Day Events

Salem County Earth Day Events

Essex County Earth Day Events

Somerset County Earth Day Events

Gloucester County Earth Day Events

Sussex County Earth Day Events

Hudson County Earth Day Events

Union County Earth Day Events

Hunterdon County Earth Day Events

Warren County Earth Day Events

Mercer County Earth Day Events

Here is a link to our New Jersey Memorial Day Events listed county Some events may require a fee or advanced registration, we will let you know if we know, but we recommend following the links for the most up-to-date information

We are currently updating this for 2016

New Jersey Memorial Day Events Atlantic County Memorial Day Events

Mercer County Memorial Day Events

Bergen County Memorial Day Events

Middlesex County Memorial Day Events

Burlington County Memorial Day Events

Monmouth County Memorial Day Events

Camden County Memorial Day Events

Morris County Memorial Day Events

Cape May County Memorial Day Events

Ocean County Memorial Day Events

Cumberland County Memorial Day Events

Passaic County Memorial Day Events

Essex County Memorial Day Events Gloucester County Memorial Day Events

Salem County Memorial Day Events Somerset County Memorial Day Events Sussex County Memorial Day Events

Hudson County Memorial Day Events

Union County Memorial Day Events

Hunterdon County Memorial Day Events

Warren County Memorial Day Events

Big Wheels Day in Woodbridge is Big Fun for Everyone!

Big Wheels Day returns to the Woodbridge Center Mall parking lot on Wednesday, March 30th, from 11 AM - 2 PM!

Every year we have a great time at Big Wheels Day at the Woodbridge Center Mall!

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We explore plenty of emergency vehicles.

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There are the biggest tractors and snow plows I've ever seen!

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Do you have train fans instead? There's something for them too! We climbed high into a Conrail vehicle that pushes railcars (and plows snow off the tracks).

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The PSE&G trucks give demonstrations on how they do some of their line work. We even got to help use a pole!

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This year there will be a Hess oil tanker too.

My daughter enjoys it as much as my son, and with local schools closed for Spring Break, it is usually well attended. The trucks and sirens can be loud, so if you have some ear protection, bring it along (earplugs were provided as well). We're excited to go again and will plan to make a day out of it at Woodbridge Center Mall. Don't miss out on some great giveaways courtesy of Woodbridge Center, Woodbridge Fire Department, and the Township of Woodbridge.

The New Jersey State Museum SMASH Series: Spectacularly Merging Art, Science & History Let's Have a SMASH-ing Good Time!

The NJ State Museum is unveiling a brand-new SMASH Series, the exciting evolution of their Super Science event! SMASH stands for Spectacularly Merging Art, Science & History. Each SMASH date will explore the fascinating intersection of science, art and history throughout the Museum and in our daily lives. Visitors will discover an array of hands-on activities, experiments, demonstrations and shows, meet the Museum’s experts, and examine collections through the lens of science.

SMASH Series KICK OFF! March 19th, 2016: In conjunction with New Jersey Maker’s Day, you can focus on how engineering and making beautifully entwine with New Jersey’s history of decorative arts, sculpture and architecture. Exercise your creativity!

Activities include: •

Mold and shape at a pottery station! Learn techniques from Native American tradition and modern pottery factories to create your own piece and explore New Jersey’s rich ceramics history.

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Construct kinetic sculptures from recycled materials! (all ages)

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Making workshops with specially designed projects for younger (9 and younger) or older kids (10 and up).

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Get inspired - Meet members of YOUR community who are making extraordinary things!

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Exciting Planetarium shows

UPCOMING SMASH EVENTS May 14th, 2016 Our spring SMASH is all about Natural History! The natural world is full of extraordinary science for families to explore. Meet our Paleontologists and see what fossils we’re preparing in the Paleo Lab. Warning: there may be dinosaurs!

Then celebrate International Astronomy Day with our Planetarium crew. Additional special family activities will be in the Discovery Den. The New Jersey State Museum is located at 205 West State Street in Trenton within walking distance of the State House.

General Admission Adults: $5.00. Children 12 and under: Free.

The following receive FREE general admission with valid ID: Members, Teachers, Veterans, Active Duty Military and their families.

The Philadelphia Science Festival is back!

The Philadelphia Science Festival is a nine-day, community-wide celebration of science that takes place annually in April, featuring lectures, debates, hands-on activities, special exhibitions and a variety of other informal science education experiences for all ages many of which are FREE. This year the Philadelphia Science Festival runs from Friday, April 22 -Saturday, April 30, 2016.

Some of the events this year are even taking place on our side of the river in New Jersey including astronomy night activities in Camden & Gloucester counties. We have attended the Science Festival in the past and had a great time. The Science Festival is a unique event perfect for families who are looking for something new and exciting to do.

One of the main events of Philadelphia’s Science Festival is the Philadelphia Science Carnival On the Parkway.

You’ve never experienced an outdoor carnival like this one! The carnival features more than 140 exhibitors offering non-stop, family-friendly experiments, interactive activities, games, and a packed line-up of live entertainment. Enjoy liquid nitrogen ice cream, make gak, meet live zoo animals, check out the inner-workings of robots, take a tour of a helicopter, extract DNA from a strawberry, test a “crime scene” for forensic evidence, and so much more!

To learn more about this year’s Philadelphia Science Festival, click over to their site.

New Jersey Beach Cleanups Summer is right around the corner and there is no better time to clean up the beaches and get ready for fun in the sun!

Clean Ocean Action has the following beach clean ups set for Saturday, April 30, 9:00 am - 12:30pm (unless noted below).

Most of the groups will supply the gloves and garbage bags needed for the sweeps all you supply are the hands. For the little ones we suggest grabbing an old pair of winter gloves or mittens and let them wear those while doing the sweep. The latex gloves most likely won’t come in toddler size. see the next page for beach cleanup locations.

2016 Clean Ocean Actions Annual Beach Sweeps Dates (Subject to Change)

ATLANTIC COUNTY BEACH CLEANUPs Atlantic City •

Albany Avenue - 199 S. Albany Avenue

•

Gardner’s Basin - 800 N New Hampshire Ave.

Oceanville - Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge - 800 Great Creek Rd. *cleanup April 16th* Longport - 33rd and Atlantic Avenue Beach Library: 2305 Atlantic Ave. Margate - Granville Avenue Beach Library: 8100 Atlantic Ave. Ventnor City - Newport Avenue Beach Community Building: 6500 Atlantic Ave, Brigantine - 17th St. Beach, South Brigantine Beach Patrol, 1700 17th Street

CAPE MAY COUNTY BEACH CLEANUPS Avalon - 32nd St. South. Uncle Bill’s Cake & Steak House: 3189 Dune Drive - meeting location will be south of this restaurant closer to the beach on the

MIDDLESEX COUNTY BEACH CLEANUP

ocean side.

Old Bridge Waterfront Park - Pirate Cove (parking

Cape May -

area for this location is 500 Raritan Blvd.)

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Nature Center of Cape May (1600 Delaware Avenue)

MONMOUTH COUNTY BEACH CLEANUPS

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2nd Avenue Beach (Jetty Motel: 2nd Beach Ave)

Aberdeen - Fisherman’s Parking Lot at Cliffwood

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Cape Island Preserve

Beach

Del Haven - Sunray Beach (meeting at Sunray Beach-

Allenhurst/Loch Arbour - 105 Euclid Avenue

at the end of N. Delaware Ave, and follow the path to

Asbury Park -

the beach.)

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North Wildwood - 15th Avenue at Beach Patrol Building (Lifeguard Building: 15th Avenue

Convention Hall at the Boardwalk. 1300 Ocean Avenue

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Ocean City - Music Pier - 825 Boardwalk

North Beach meet at the dirt lot near Asbury Towers

Sea Isle City - John F. Kennedy Boulevard Beach

Atlantic Highlands - Harbor (parking lot on First

Stone Harbor - 96th Street Beach (Stone Harbor

Avenue)

Womens Civic Club- 96th Street

Avon - Avon Pavilion at Norwood & Ocean (North

Wildwood - Poplar Avenue Beach. Groff’s Restaurant -

End of the Beach)

423 E. Magnolia Avenue

Belmar -

Wildwood Crest - Centennial Park. E. Fern Avenue

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and Ocean Avenue Villas - Village Rd. and Bay Drive (meet at the dead end by the beach access)

First Avenue Beach. Belmar Fishing Club: 100 Ocean Avenue

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16th Avenue Beach. Dunkin’ Donuts: 1601 Ocean Avenue,

Bradley Beach - Gazebo at 5th and Ocean Ave (Brinley

ESSEX COUNTY BEACH CLEANUPS

Manor- 108 Brinley Avenue. 5th avenue is the next

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block over to the south)

Glen Ridge/Montclair - Toney’s Brook at Glenfield Park (meet near entrance at Woodland Avenue and Pierson Place)

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“The Glen” (at Bloomfield and Ridgewood Avenue)

Continued on next page

Deal - Hathaway Avenue Highlands •

Snug Harbor Avenue Beach - (south of Highlands Borough Community Building – 22 Snug Harbor Avenue) *cleanup until 11am*

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Popamora Pt. on Shore Drive. 369 Shore Drive.

Keansburg - Batting Cages. 275 Beachway Avenue Keyport - Cedar Street (Cedar Street is perpendicular to Pine Street) Long Branch -Pier Village (meet at public access point, at Melrose Terrace and Ocean Avenue) Manasquan - Main Street Beach (East Main Street and beachfront) Middletown Twp •

Leonardo Public Beach South (1 Concord Avenue & the beach. North side of Leonardo State Marine Launch ramp)

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Ideal Beach (Ideal beach entrance at Ocean and Bayside)

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Bayshore Waterfront Park (719 Port Monmouth Rd. Port Monmouth)

Monmouth Beach - Bathing Pavilion (Monmouth Beach Bathing Pavilion: 29 Ocean Avenue) Ocean Grove - Boardwalk Pavilion (One block to the north of Ocean Vista Hotel- 13 Ocean Avenue, --directly on the boardwalk on the corner of Ocean Avenue and Ocean Pathway) Red Bank - Maple Cove (end of Maple Avenue)

Lakewood - Lake Carasaljo (meet across from St. Mary’s Church on Route 9) Lavallette - Philadelphia Avenue Beach (North of Ben Fraklin 5-10 Store: 1205 Grand Central Avenue) Long Beach Island - Alliance for a Living Ocean office (1101 Central Ave. Suite A. Ship Bottom) Ocean Gate - Wildwood Avenue Pier Pt. Pleasant - Maxson and River Avenue (near Riverfront Park – River Rd.) Pt. Pleasant Beach •

Jenkinson’s Aquarium on the Boardwalk (300 Boardwalk)

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Maryland Avenue

Seaside Heights - Grant Avenue, Ocean Beach (just north of Jimbo’s - 715 Boardwalk) Seaside Park •

Second Avenue

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Island Beach State Park - Bathing Pavilion #1 (Central Ave)

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Stockton Avenue (The Sawmill - 1807 Boardwalk)

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Midway Beach - (48 South Ocean Avenue, )

Toms River •

Brown’s Wood Preserve (meet at Barnegat Bay Partnership Office: 117 Haines Road)

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Ortley Beach at 3rd Avenue (St. Elisabeth’s Chapel - 5 3rd Avenue)

Sandy Hook - Lot D Sea Bright •

Borough Hall (1067 Ocean Avenue)

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Public Beach (1099 Ocean Avenue -meet in

Volunteers must register using this link to Clean Ocean Action.

parking lot) •

Public access across from old Anchorage Building (just north of Public Beach parking lot)

Sea Girt - Boardwalk at Beacon Boulevard (Sea Girt Lifeguard Headquarters- 2 Ocean Avenue) Spring Lake - South End Pavilion (north of Spring Lake Beach department - 410 Ocean Avenue) Union Beach - Front and Florence Avenues West Long Branch - Franklin Lake Park *cleanup will be 9:00 am - 11:00 am OCEAN COUNTY BEACH CLEAN UP LOCATIONS Bay Head - Central Market (intersection of Ocean Avenue and Main Street in Bay Head) Brick - Brick Beach 2

A great excuse for an early beach day and a great way to teach your kids how to make a difference!

Get Fishing With Your Kids Grab your pole and head to the fishing hole on Saturday, June 11!

New Jersey’s Free Fishing Days are a no-risk way to introduce your kids to freshwater fishing.

• Children under 16 don't need a license.

• All other regulations, including size and daily catch limits, remain in effect.

Anticipated Free Fishing Day Locations Atlantic County: Hammonton Lake, Birch Grove Park Ponds, Lake Lenape & Mill Pond.

Bergen County: Liberty Park Pond, Indian Lake Pond, Wild Duck Pond, & Scarlet Oak Pond.

Middlesex County: Bissets Pond, Green Acres Park, Hooks Creek Lake, & Milltown Pond.

Burlington County: Atsion Lake, Bastso Lake, Crystal Lake & Monmouth County: Allentown Pond, Deal Lake, Echo Lake, & Shadow Lake.

Strawbridge Lake.

Camden County: Blackwood Lake, Cedar Pond, Cherrywood Lake & Cooper River Park Lake.

Morris County: Atwater Lake, Budd Lake, Speedwell Lake & Mt. Hope Lake.

Cape May County: Cape May Park Ponds, Dennisville Lake, East Creek Pond & West Pond.

Ocean County: Butterfly Bogs Pond, Turn Mills Pond, Success Lake, & Wells Mill Lake.

Cumberland County: Cumberland Pond, Cedar Lake, Sunset Lake & Union Lake.

Passaic County: Dundee Lake, Mill Pond, Sally's Pond & Surprise Lake.

Essex County: Clarks Pond, Diamond Mill Pond, Orange Pond & Lake Vincent.

Salem County: Avis Mill Pond, Daretown Lake, Rainbow Lake & Salem Canal.

Gloucester County: Alcyon Lake, Franklinville Lake, Mullica Hill Lake & Logan Pond.

Somerset County: Best Pond, Spooky Brook Lake, Spring Lake & Powder Mill Pond.

Hudson County: Duck Pond, Lincoln Park Lake, W. Hudson County Park Pond, & Woodcliff Lake.

Sussex County: Blue Mountain Lake, Cranberry Lake, Jefferson Lake & Saw Mill Lake.

Hunterdon County: Amwell Lake, Echo Hill Pond, Dermott Pond, & Deer Path Park Pond.

Union County: Milton Lake, Brookside Park Pond, Seely's Pond & Surprise Lake.

Mercer County: Baldwin Lake, Grovers Mill Pond, Erta Lake & Whitehead Mill Pond.

Warren County: Blair Lake, Catfish Pond, Sunfish Pond & Delaware Lake.

Does your child love to read?

Do you want to encourage him/ her to read more?

Take a look at what FREE Comic Books Day is all about!

My oldest who is in now in Fifth Grade just keeps getting better and better at reading.

He has been an avid reader for years. What books does he love the most? ... his daddy's comic books still rank high with him, but now he's developing his own collection.

There's something about those pictures; the vibrant colors catch their attention. The colorful words in bubbles, yell "READ ME!" The action that moves page to page, keeps them turning the pages. Even if they aren't yet able to read all the words, kids can put the pictures together to form a story. It's why even my youngest, now 7, has been trying to get his hands on daddy's comic books for as long as I can remember. It's why babies start with picture board books, it's the pictures that get them to pick up the book.

While it's the pictures that catch their attention, it's the words that keep them hanging on. Find the right comic book and not only will your child really enjoy their reading they will build their vocabulary and literacy skills.

Those skills are something your child needs for the rest of their life. As they grow up, their comic books will grow with them. Today, it may be Mickey Mouse, next year it may be superheroes, and from there it will go on. When you're child is struggling with reading, take them to find a comic they can get excited about. They will get practice without really thinking about it. Have a teen too COOL to get unplugged and read? Connect them with a comic. There is something about the artistry that will have your COOL teen hooked. (Plus, they will be building their SAT vocabulary skills along the way.)

Of course, if your teen becomes anything like my husband he'll still be reading comics well into his adulthood, which isn't necessarily bad. After all it's something my husband can do and enjoy with the kids.

If you're ready to introduce your kids to comics or keep their love for comics growing check out Free Comic Book Day. Free Comic Book Day is a single day - the first Saturday in May each year - when participating comic book shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely FREE* to anyone who comes into their stores. *Check with your local comic book shop for their participation

and rules.

From the FREE Comic Book Day website I'll share this: "Comic books began in the 1930s as a unique American art form that has grown - like so many American forms of entertainment - to spread around the globe. From Japanese businessmen reading manga on the subways of Tokyo to French artists re-interpreting Proust with words and pictures, comics have changed entertainment and challenged perceptions. These days, there are comic books for every taste, from slam-bang super-hero adventures and thoughtful slice-of-life to thrilling science fiction and intense drama."

So get out there Saturday, May 7 for FREE Comic Book Day! Take a few minutes to connect with your local comic store and pick up a few books for your kids. Click over to our Free Comic Book Day article to see some of the titles that will be available and what stores will be participating.

Live Butterflies invade the Paramus Park Mall NYC Butterfly is delighted to be back at Paramus Park Mall this spring 2016. This year it will be there for two months, March 30 through May 31st. Come feed the butterflies again inside a butterfly house and see a new chrysalis habitat and if you are lucky you might just witness the incredible last stage in the metamorphosis.

This year there are brand new butterfly products including REAL beautiful exotic butterfly species mounted in stylish display boxes, orbs, as well as butterfly jewelry. Hours this year are from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Visit their website NYCbutterfly.com for further information.

Local Upcoming Family Theater Productions I admit that I love living so close to New York City, for the mere fact that I can enjoy the lights and magic of a Broadway show in less than a 2 hours drive. However, New Jersey has a plethora of theaters that offer top notch children's performances of all genres. From magic shows, to bands, to plays and musicals, these fun performances offer something for even the youngest audience member. Why not take a break from all of today's technical entertainment and introduce your children to the wonderful world of the performing arts.

For venues and others interested in promotional opportunities on Jersey Family Fun, please contact Jennifer, Publisher.

Upcoming Atlantic County Theater

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Productions

Henry & Mudge: June 12 (autism friendly performance)

Eagle Theater, Hammonton

New Jersey Performing Arts center, Newark

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Jane and the Humongous Pear: March 4-5

Dr Seuss The Cat in the Hat: March 19

South Orange Performing Arts Center, South Upcoming Bergen County Theater Productions

Orange

Porch Light Theater, Glen Rock

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Pinkalicious the Musical: March 19

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Footloose: March 18-20

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The Big Friendly Giant: April 2

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Beauty and the Beast: May 13-15

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Story Pirates: May 14

Bergen Performing Arts Center, Bergen

Studio Playhouse, Upper Montclair, NJ

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Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy: March 13

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Clifford the Big Red Dog: April 10

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Goodnight Moon & Runaway Bunny: May 1

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Curious George & Golden Meatball: May 22

Snow White and the Seven Fairy Godmothers: April 30-May 8

UpcomingGloucesterCountyTheaterProductions Broadway Theater of Pitman, Pitman

Upcoming Cape May County Theater Productions

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The Lost Little Fish: March 9-12

Robert Shakleton Playhouse, Cape May

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Beauty and the Beast- May 6 -7

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Alice in Wonderland: June 3-4

Pippi Longstocking, the Family Musical: April 9, 10, 16, & 17

Upcoming Mercer County Theater Productions Upcoming Essex County Theater Productions

McCarter Theater, Princeton

Papermill Playhouse, Millburn

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Sing Along with The Muppet Movie: April 2

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Charlotte's Web: March 13

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Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood: April 30

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Alexander Who is Not Not Not Not Not Not

Kelsey Theater @ Mercer County Community

Not Moving: March 19

College, West Windsor

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SkippyJon Jones, Snow What: May 7

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Mary Poppins: Select dates April 17-May 1

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Junie B Jones: Guide to School: May 13

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Little Red Riding Hood: May 14

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Seussical: June 11

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Junie B's Essential Survival Guide to School:

June 4 UpcomingMiddlesexCountyTheaterProductions

Brundage Park Playhouse, Randolph •

Doctor Doolittle Jr.: Select dates, July 8-24

Plays in the Park, Edison •

The Little Mermaid: June 15-June 25

Upcoming Passaic County Theater Productions

The State Theater, New Brunswick, NJ

Rhino Theater, Pompton Lakes

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FREE Mr. Ray-Music for the Kid in Us-March

Oliver: April 8-May 1

19 UpcomingSomersetCountyTheaterProductions UpcomingMonmouthCountyTheaterProductions

Villagers Theater, Somerset

Brookdale Performing Arts Center, Lincroft

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The Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee:

Raritan Valley Community College Theater,

Selected dates, April 7-17

North Branch, NJ

Dear Edwina: March 12-20

Two River Theater, Red Bank

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Live Wire! Doctor Kaboom: March 11

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Big Bad Wolf: April 16

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Love That Dog: April 29

Where the Wild Things Are: June 9-12

Monmouth University Performing Arts Center, Long Branch •

Charlotte's Web: March 22

Upcoming Union County Theater Productions

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Curious George: May 18

Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway

Count Basie Theater, Red Bank

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Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could:

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Popovitch Comedy Pet Theater: April 10

March 20(sensory friendly performance)

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Clifford the Big Red Dog: April 21

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Clifford the Big Red Dog: April 22

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The Little Mermaid: April 29-30, May 1, 6-8

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Sleeping Beauty Ballet: May 1 (sensory

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No SHUSH-A Symphony Experience for

friendly performance)

Children: June 11 Paper Moon Puppet Theater, Atlantic Highlands

Upcoming Warren County Theater Productions

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Centenary Stage Company, Hackettstown

Rumpelstiltskin: Beginning April 16

Axelrod Performing Arts Center, Deal

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The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe: April 2

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Miss Nelson is Missing: April 16

Mister G: March 27

Upcoming Morris County Theater Productions MAYO Performing Arts Center, Morristown •

Charlotte's Web: March 15

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Sleeping Beauty: March 20

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Rumplestiltskin: April 3

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Seussical the Musical: April 11

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Piff the Magic Dragon: April 17

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Peter Rabbit Tales: April 24

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Cinderella: May 22

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Mary Poppins: June 3-5

Click these links to see what’s new in these series:

Bickford Theater, Morristown •

Hadrosaurus Rocks: April 30

The Growing Stage Theater, Netcong •

James and the Giant Peach March 11- April 3

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How I Became a Pirate: May 13-22

Pax Amicus Theater, Budd Lake, NJ •

The Frog Prince and the Peas: March 5-13

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The Little Mermaid: July 9-23

• Family Friendly Concerts • Family Friendy Performances • Concert Calendar of Events • Performance Calendar of Events

Minor League Baseball in New Jersey Baseball is not only America's favorite pastime, but New Jersey's as well. Spring is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and watch some good old fashioned baseball! New Jersey is home to three minor league baseball teams. New Jersey minor league baseball games provide a chance for family fun at half of the cost of heading to a major league game.

The minor league baseball season runs from April - September. Throughout the season all of our local minor league stadiums offer special promotion and themes events.

Minor League Baseball Team Stadiums •

First Energy Park-Lakewood, NJ. This

stadium is home to the Lakewood BlueClaws.

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Arm and Hammer Park-Trenton, NJ. This stadium is home to the Trenton Thunder.

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Patriot Stadium-Bridgewater, NJ. This stadium is home to the Somerset Patriots.

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Yogi Berra Stadium-Montclair, NJ. This stadium is home to the Montclair Jackals.

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Skylands Stadium - Augusta, NJ. This stadium is home to the Sussex County Miners.

A few of New Jersey's Minor League Baseball teams are hosting free season opening events to come out meet the team, have some unique experiences, and even watch the teams practice. This is a great way to introduce your family to minor league baseball. Take a look at the Opening Day schedules below and what other events NJ Minor League Baseball teams are hosting this year.

New Jersey Minor League Baseball Teams' Opening Day & Other Upcoming Events

Lakewood BlueClaws Upcoming Events

to children 14 and under. Provides various

•

Fan Fest: March 19th, 10am-2pm-face

specials throughout the season such as

painting, free hot dogs, chips and soda,

FREE general admission to every Sunday

inflatable rides, Buster the mascot, live Irish

game, chances to run the bases, 10 % off

music and corned beef and cabbage to help

merchandise, kids eat FREE Sunday and

celebrate St. Patrick's day.

Monday vouchers and much more.

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Opening Day: April 14th

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Kids Eat Free on Sunday and Mondays- Every

Trenton Thunder Upcoming Events

Sunday and Monday kids 12 & under get a free

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hot dog, chips and beverage •

Post Game Fireworks- May 13th & 20th

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Star Wars Night-June 4th see your favorite

& older will receive Arm and Hammer knit hats.

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Star Wars characters at the stadium •

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Kids Sundays - Kickoff April 10th with a youth replica jersey giveaway for the first 1,000 fans

Father & Son Night - June 19th Father's and sons play catch on the field, the first 1000

Opening Day-April 7th first 2,500 fans age 12

age 5-15. Kid friendly giveaways every Sunday •

Dollar Dog Night & Kids Eat Free - During

dads in attendance get a free t-shirt

Tuesday home games enjoy ballpark dogs for

BlueClaw Kids Club: Free to enroll. Open

$1, Kids age 12 & under receive a voucher for a

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hot dog, popcorn and soda

Includes 6 game tickets,VIP passes to special

Super Hero Night-May 6th Come dressed as

events, logo baseball, inflatable slider doll,

your favorite Superhero, take a break from

membership badge and lanyard and 20% off

saving the world, and experience an action-

of store merchandise.

packed night of fun during our Superhero •

•

Night! Post game fireworks

Montclair Jackals Upcoming Events

Star Wars Night - May 25thDress up as

(promotional schedule has not been released)

your favorite Star Wars character, jump in

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Opening Day-May 27th

your Millennium Falcon, and head to ARM

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Jr Jackals Kids Club: Membership is $30.

& HAMMER Park for a fun-filled night in a

Includes: 8 ticket vouches, autograph sessions

galaxy far, far away! Please keep your light

with the team, birthday card, 10% coupon to

sabers to yourself.

the stadium store and a special gift pack when

Boomer Kids Club:Free to enroll. Open to

you sign up!

children 12 and under. Provides various specials throughout the season such as free

Sussex County Miners Upcoming Events

food, player autographs, giveaways, field

(promotional schedule has not been released)

passes, and much more.

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Somerset Patriots Upcoming Events (promotional schedule has not been released) •

Opening Night- April 21st

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Somerset Sluggers Club: Membership is $15.

Opening Day - May 20th

Which New Jersey Minor League Baseball Team will you be checking out this year?

Kids Bowl Free with the

Kids Bowl Free Program Kids Bowl Free provides bowling games to children nationwide age 15 and under at participating centers. It’s a great way to start a busy day of fun or to wind down after a long day of running. The free bowling is also a great perk on a rainy day. It gave the kids a reason to get some exercise and get out of the house for a bit. Many programs started this month.

How The Kids Bowl Free Program Works: •Complete the FREE registration form on KidsBowlFree.Com for the bowling alley you want to attend.

(Please note you can go to more than one participating alley but you will need to register for each one separately using a different email address as per the KidsBowlFree.Com website).

•Kids get to bowl up to 2 free games per day, all summer long. Some of the alleys are actually starting their free game passes this month. You can find out start and end dates on each location’s registration page or the Jersey Family Fun website.

•The Kids Bowl Free playing times are available 7 days a week. Check the registration page for the times your alley allows.

•Kids must be 15 years old or younger.

•Shoe rentals are not included, but some of the bowling alleys do offer a shoe rental pass for purchase. You would have to check with your bowling alley for fees.

•Some alleys offer a discount on food, check with each individual alley.

•You’ll receive an email every Sunday containing a link to the coupons for that week. Just print them out and bring them with you.

•There’s also a Family Pass that allows up to 4 adults to bowl all summer. The pass costs $24.95 and can be added on to your account at any time. An adult is considered anyone 16 and up.

Find participating bowling alleys at these sites:

• Jersey Family Fun • Kids Bowl Free

Kids Skate Free this Spring Did you know there are roller skating rinks around the country that offer FREE roller skating for kids?

Kids Skate Free has a nationwide listing of where kids can skate for free. We’re sharing the listing of New Jersey locations.

New Jersey locations where Kids Can Roller Skate for Free in New Jersey

To view more details or register for a center please click on their name. You will then be brought to their page where you will be able to sign up and start skating for free. About once a week you will get an email with information to download your free passes. You can register up to 4 children under the age of 12.

Roller Skating Rinks in Mays Landing, Atlantic County, New Jersey Young’s Skating Center, 763 Park Rd., 609-625-1191 Roller Skating Rinks in Mt. Laurel, Burlington County, New Jersey International Sports, Skating, and Fun Centre of Mt. Laurel, 1 Hovtech Blvd, 856-273-2828 Roller Skating Rinks in Cherry Hill, Camden County, New Jersey International Sports, Skating, & Fun Centre, Cherry Hill, 600 Kresson Road, 856-428-8588 Roller Skating Rinks in Deptford, Gloucester County, New Jersey Deptford Skating & Fun Center, 510 Deptford Ave, 856 845 7353 Don't see your local skating center? Try to recruit them to be part of the program.

Click here to print out a letter from Kids Skate Free for your local skating center.

New Jersey Roller Skating Rinks Most parents have fond memories of spending their childhood years at the town roller skating rink. Roller rinks are great places to go and spend some time together while burning off some energy. Check out our list of roller skating rinks across New Jersey and head out to one with your family!

•

No need to buy skates - rentals are available at all rinks.

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Unsure of your own skating skills? Call your local rink to see if they offer skating lessons.

Atlantic County Roller Rinks •

Rollway Skating Rink, Hammonton, 609-561-8061

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Young's Skating Center, Mays Landing, 609-837-9741

Bergen County Roller Rinks •

Fun Force, Wallington, 973-777-0767

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Inline Skating Club of America, North Arlington, 201-998-4722

Burlington County Roller Rinks •

Holiday Skating & Fun Center, Delanco, 856-461-3770

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International Sports, Skating, & Fun Centre, Mt. Laurel, 856-273-2828

Camden County Roller Rinks •

Cherry Hill Skating Center, Cherry Hill, 856795-1919

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Millennium Skate World, Camden, 856-7579460

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International Sports, Skating, & Fun Centre, Cherry Hill, 856-428-8588

Cumberland County Roller Rinks •

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Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center,

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Deptford Skating and Fun Center, Westville,

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Roosevelt Park, Edison, 732-494-3785

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Pro Skate, Monmouth Junction, 732-9406400

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Choice Inline Arena, Sewell, 856-582-1600

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Franklin Skating Center, Franklinville, 856694-0600

Hunterdon County Roller Rinks •

Frenchtown Roller Rink, Frenchtown, 908996-6313

Kendall Park Roller Skating, Kendall Park, 732-297-3003

Morris County Roller Rinks •

Florham Park Roller Rink, Florham Park, 973-377-0465

Ocean County Roller Rinks •

Jackson Skating Center, Jackson, 732-3632222

856-845-7353 •

Woodbridge Community Center, Woodbridge, 732-596-4000

Newark, 973-482-8900 Gloucester County Roller Rinks

South Amboy Arena, South Amboy, 732-7271122

Skate 2000, Bridgeton, 856-459-3666

Essex County Roller Rinks •

Middlesex County Roller Rinks

Union County Roller Rinks •

Skate 22, Union, 908-686-6838

Warren County Roller Rinks •

Villa Roller Rink, Broadway, 908-689-6155

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Excel Roller Skating Center, Hackettstown, 908-852-6029

Ice Skating Rinks Spring doesn’t have to mean the end of ice skating.

Many of these locations are open year round!

•

Ice skates rentals are available at most rinks.

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Unsure on the ice? Consider enrolling your child in a class before heading out to an open skate.

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Ice rinks are cold! Bundle up!

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Be ready to take a break in the middle for ice cleaning. But the Zamboni can be fun to watch!

Atlantic County Ice Rinks •

Flyers Skate Zone, Atlantic City, 609-441-1780

Bergen County Ice Rinks •

Fritz Dietl Ice Rink, Westwood, 201-666-9883

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Ice House, Hackensack, 201-487-8444

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Ice Rink at Mackay Park, Englewood, 201-5683133

Burlington County Ice Rinks

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Rock Ice Center, Dunellen, 732-752-8600

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Roosevelt Park Rink, Edison, 732-494-2980

Igloo Ice Rink, Mt. Laurel, (856) 638-0801

Camden County Ice Rinks

Monmouth County Ice Rinks

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Flyers Skate Zone, Pennsauken, 856-488-9300

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Red Bank Armory, Red Bank, 732-450-9001

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Flyers Skate Zone, Voorhees, 856-309-4400

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Jersey Shore Arena, Wall, 732-919-7070

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Howell Ice World, Farmingdale, 732-378-6600

Essex County Ice Rinks •

Clary Anderson Arena, Montclair, 973-744-6088

Morris County Ice Rinks

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Richard J. Codey Arena at South Mountain, West

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Aspen Ice At Randolph, Randolph, 973-927-9122

Orange, 973-731-3828

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Mennen Sports Arena, Morristown, 973-326-7651

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Twin Oaks Ice Rink, Morristown, 973-292-5699

Gloucester County Ice Rinks •

Hollydell Ice Arena, Sewell 856-589-5599

Ocean County Ice Rinks

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Winterland Ice Rink, Glassboro, 856-723-9069

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Winding River Skating Center, Toms River, (732) 244-0720

Hudson County Ice Rinks •

Ocean Ice Palace, Brick, (732)-477-4411

Richard J. Korpi Ice Rink, Bayonne, 201-8586000

Hunterdon County Ice Rinks •

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Passaic County Ice Rinks •

Floyd Hall Arena, Little Falls, 973-746-7744

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Ice Vault Arena, Wayne, 973-628-1500

Aspen Ice at Flemington, Flemington, 908.237.1423

Somerset County Ice Rinks •

732-627-0006

Mercer County Ice Rinks •

Ice Land, Hamilton, 609-588-6672

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Mercer County Skating Center (seasonal), West

Bridgewater Sports and Ice Arena, Bridgewater,

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ProTecHockey Ponds Ice Center, Somerset, 732868-9181

Windsor, 609-371-1766 Sussex County Ice Rinks Middlesex County Ice Rinks

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Skylands Ice World, Stockholm, 973.697.1600

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Old Bridge Ice Arena, Old Bridge, 732-607-7971

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Aspen Ice Arena, Randolph, 973-927-9122

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ProSkate , Monmouth Junction, 732-940-6400

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Arenas at Woodbridge, Woodbridge, 732-596-

Union County Ice Rinks

4000

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Union Sports Arena, Union, 908-687-8610

Michael’s Kids Club & Family Craft Time Upcoming Events Are you looking for a fun and affordable activity for your kids? Do your children love making crafts and being creative?

Michaels Kids Club offers interesting and unique crafting experiences every Saturday from 10:00am 12pm. The best part is that it is only $2 per child to participate!

Here is some information about the Michaels Kids Club and why we LOVE it so much: •

Each week kids will make & take a new craft with all supplies provided by Michaels Craft Stores.

•

Employees are on hand to assist you and your child in making their masterpieces.

•

Each craft is unique and involves different skills and supplies.

•

Children learn a variety of art skills as well as an appreciation for different cultures.

•

The crafts often go along with upcoming holidays.

•

The finished products make great decorations in your house as well as fun gifts for grandparents.

•

Registration can be done in advance, but it is not required.

•

Michaels Kids Club Tickets can be easily purchased at any Michaels register.

•

Children ages 3 and up are welcome, but I have also seen 2 year olds enjoy the projects as well.

Here is the upcoming Michaels Kids Club schedule of Saturday Craft Projects your kids can enjoy: Please note these projects cost $2 to complete and also require registration •

Easter Tic Tac Toe Date: Saturday, March 26

•

Paper Kite Date: Saturday, April 2

•

Butterfly Clip Canvas Date: Saturday, April 9

For more information, please go to http://www.michaels. com.

Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinics Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics are the perfect Saturday morning activity for kids ages 4 and up.

Here is what you need to know about Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics: • Available two Saturdays a month from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm (some exceptions may apply) • Registration is highly recommended.

• Waivers must be signed for each child participating.

• The Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics are FREE! • Great for children ages 4 and up.

• At every Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics each child gets a free building kit, goggles, apron and patch.

• Each Lowe's Build and Grow Kids kit comes with easy to follow directions.

• Friendly Lowe's employees are on hand to help parents and children.

• If you don't have time to the Lowe's Build and Grow Kids project that day, you can pick up a kit to take home (They make great projects for a snow day or school vacation.)

Why we LOVE Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics:

• These Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics are a great option for play dates and family days. Kids have such a fun time working together and showing each other their finished projects.

• Each clinic has a theme that is usually associated with an upcoming movie or event.

• Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinic participation helps children develop valuable skills. Building these amazing kits helps children enhance fine motor control and strength, increase eye-hand coordination and improve listening skills as they learn to follow directions. Social skills are also enhanced as children work together with friends and parents to make the projects.

We have made so many fun and interactive projects last year at the Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics. We are really looking forward to all the great projects Lowe's Build and Grow Kids Clinics will offer this upcoming year.

Registration usually opens the Monday after the last workshop, and it is highly recommended as the clinics fill up very quickly.

Upcoming Clinics

• Jimmie Johnson Pullback Car, Thursday, March 24 To find the latest Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics visit our Calendar of New Jersey Events or the Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics Schedule.

Home Depot Kids Workshops From race cars to boats to desktop calendars, Home Depot Kids Workshops offers a different workshop the first Saturday of the month intended for children ages 5-12. You can drop in between 9 am - 12 pm and have your kids create that month’s project. While Home Depot requests the Kids Workshop attendees register online, they can accept walk ins.

Here is some information about the Home Depot Kids Workshops and why we enjoy them.

• Free and fun Home Depot Kids Workshops are for children ages 5-12.

• Home Depot Kids Workshops are offered the first Saturday of the month at your local Home Depot store between 9 am – 12 pm.

• All children keep their craft, receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron (for new attendees), and a commemorative pin.

• Home Depot staff are there to assist with the projects.

• This is first come, first serve. The apron and workshop kit is given to those who arrive earlier so there may not be sufficient supplies towards the end of the workshop.

• Children need to be present at the store to participate in the Home Depot Kids Workshops.

• At some stores, paint is offered for each project so it might be best to dress the kids for mess.

• Registration for the Home Depot Kids Workshops is available online and is requested to ensure that there is sufficient supplies for all the attendees.

• Finished projects can make great gifts for grandparents, godparents, or other relatives.

• Summer workshops may be held outside.

Make sure to register for Home Depot Kids Workshops on Home Depot’s website.

Home Depot Kids Workshops Spring Schedule

• April 2, 2016 • May 7, 2016 • June 4, 2016 Click over to read more about Jersey Family Fun’s experiences at the Home Depot Kids Workshops.

Lakeshore Learning Store

Free Make & Takes for Kids Every Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm Lakeshore Learning Store hosts a free craft and registration is not required. The crafts are for children 3 and older. The crafts are based on themes like current events or the season.

Upcoming Make and Take Events March 26th Cheerful Chick Basket April 2 April 9 April 16 April 23 April 30 May 7 May 14 May 21 May 28 June 4 Lakeshore also offers: • A giant smart board where your children can play interactive multi-player educational games.

• They also have tons of toys around the store that are open that your kids can test out before they buy them.

NJ Lakeshore Learning locations Cherry Hill Marketplace at Garden State Park 2020 Marlton Pike West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 856-910-0888 East Brunswick 275 State Route 18 East Brunswick, NJ 08816 732-967-8585 The East Brunswick Lakeshore also offers FREE crafts on Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.

Hackensack 449 Essex St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-441-9214

Currently listing events for A.C. Moore Michael’s Home Depot Lowe’s Lakeshore Learning Stores Libraries

Currently listing events for Shoprite Whole Foods Market Wegmans & More

Check out one of these free places during spring break!

The kids might be off from school but that doesn't mean spring break has to be boring or full of costly activities. Check out these local museums with free admission and free events. All of them would make great activities while your kids are off for spring break. Considering spring break falls over Easter Weekend, if you plan to visit on either Good Friday, Easter Sunday, or Easter Monday please confirm with the location their schedule for the day.

New Jersey Museums & Attractions with Free Admission 25 New Jersey Museums & Attractions with free admission everyday •

Cape May Zoo

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Cohanzick Zoo

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Cape May Point State Park nature trails & buildings

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US Coast Guard Training Center free admission and tour (Restrictions do apply)

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The Korean War Memorial

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Zimmerli Art Museum

Several Free events are listed on our Calendar of Events, take a look.

Or travel across the bridge into Philadelphia to enjoy these free attractions. New York attractions

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Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve

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Howell Living History farm

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Barnegat Lighthouse

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Heritage Glass Museum

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New Jersey State Police Museum

11 Philadelphia Museums & Attractions

•

Princeton University Art Museum

with Free Admission Everyday

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Atlantic City Art Center

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Independence Hall

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Southern New Jersey All Sports Museum and

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Congress Hall

Hall of Fame

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Old City Hall

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Hopewell Museum

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Liberty Bell

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Cape May County Museum

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Carpenter's Hall

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Princeton Arts Museum

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Franklin Court

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Princeton Historical Society

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Elfreth’s Alley

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State House

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Fireman’s Hall Museum

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Twin Lights Historic Site

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Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

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Somers Point Mansion

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Institute of Contemporary Art

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Sea Girt Lighthouse

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Franklin Square

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C.A. Nothnagle Log House (856) 423-0916

The Philadelphia Museum of Modern Art has the

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Fort Hancock Historic District (732) 872-0115

following Pay What You Wish Days during spring

•

Kuser Farm Mansion (609) 890-3630

break Sunday, April 3, and Wednesday evening,

•

Batsto Village

March 30.

with free admission are listed in our family travel section.

New Jersey Towns

Selling Discount Amusement Park Tickets Last year it was so great to release this listing to our readers. Communities started selling tickets in the last spring. This list below is an idea of what towns may sell again this year. Tickets sales may be limited to residents only.

Atlantic County Egg Harbor Township had tickets for Adventure Aquarium, Morey’s Piers, Steel Pier, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Philadelphia Zoo, Hershey Park, Splash Zone, Clementon Park, Sahara Sam’s, and IPlay America.

Bergen County Rutherford had tickets for Crayola Experience, IPlay America, Action Park, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Dorney Park, Diggerland, and Hershey Park.

Sahara Sam’s, and Steel Pier.

• Harrison Township had tickets for Hershey Park, Splash Zone, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, Morey’s Piers, Philadelphia Zoo, Adventure Aquarium, Steel Pier, Sahara Sam’s, Clementon Park, Crayola Experience, Diggerland, and Medieval Times.

Middlesex County • Middlesex had tickets for Adventure Aquarium, Morey’s Piers, Six Flags Great Adventure, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Dorney Park, Philadelphia Zoo, Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach, Mountain Creek Water Park, Hershey Park, and The Steel Pier.

• South River had tickets for the Somerset Patriots.

Burlington County Pemberton had tickets for Adventure Aquarium, Morey’s Piers, Crayola Experience, Hershey Park, Six Flags, Diggerland, Iplay America, Philadelphia Zoo, Sahara Sam’s, and Splash Zone – Wildwood.

Morris County Montville had tickets for Action Park, Adventure Aquarium, Casino Pier, Clementon Park, Crayola Experience, Digglerand, Dorney Park, Hershey Park, iPlay America, Morey’s Piers, Philadelphia Zoo, Sahara Sam’s, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Splash Zone, and Steel Pier.

Camden County Gloucester had tickets for Adventure Aquarium, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Morey’s Piers, Philadelphia Zoo, Hershey Park, Sahara Sam’s, Steel Pier, Dorney Park, and Clementon Park.

Ocean County • Brick had tickets for Philadelphia Zoo, Morey’s Piers, Hershey Park, Dorney Park, Crayola Experience, Diggerland, Great Adventure, and Casino Pier.

• Jackson had tickets for Great Adventure.

Essex County Roseland had tickets for Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Morey’s Pier, Casino Pier, Hershey Park, Philly Zoo, IPlay America, Dorney Park Splash Zone, and Adventure Aquarium.

Passaic County Clifton had tickets for Hershey Park, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Dorney Park, Philadelphia Zoo, Diggerland, Action Park and the Crayola Experience.

Gloucester County • Deptford had tickets for Hershey Park, Dorney Park, Philadelphia Zoo, Morey’s Piers, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Splash Zone, Adventure Aquarium, Clementon Park, and Dutch Wonderland.

• East Greenwich had tickets for Camel Beach, Clementon Park, and Sahara Sam’s.

• Glassboro had tickets for Sahara Sam’s, Philadelphia Zoo, and Adventure Aquarium.

• Washington Township had tickets for Adventure Aquarium, Clementon Park, Splash Zone, Hershey Park, Dorney Park, Dutch Wonderland, Great Adventure, Morey’s Piers, Mountain Creek, Philadelphia Zoo

Union County • Berkeley Heights had tickets for Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Dorney Park, Mountain Creek Water Park, and Hershey Park.

• Clark had tickets for Great Adventure, Morey’s Piers, Hershey Park, and Dorney Park.

• Westfield had tickets for Morey’s Piers, Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor, Hershey Park, Dorney Park, Medieval Times, Clementon Park/SplashWorld, Action Park, Steel Pier, Sahara Sam’s, IPlay America, Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach, Adventure Aquarium, and Diggerland.

Please keep following this post where we’ll share our 2016 updates.

Put Your Library Card to Great Use with the Museum Pass Program Many New Jersey libraries are participating in museum pass programs. The museum pass program varies from library to library contact your library for more information. The basic way it works is to visit your library and sign out passes to take your family to visit your favorite museums. Some libraries allow you to sign out the passes for 3 days at a time though some may require a refundable cash deposit.

The New Jersey counties that have libraries that participate in the Museum Pass Program are listed below. Click here to see our complete listing that lists and links to participating libraries.

• Bergen County • Burlington County • Camden County • Essex County • Gloucester County • Hudson County • Hunterdon County • Middlesex County • Monmouth County

• Morris County • Passaic County • Somerset County • Sussex County • Union County • Warren County

Check out these

NJ Day Trip locations with Free Admission Cape May Zoo Cohanzick Zoo Cape May Point State Park nature trails & buildings Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve Howell Living History farm Barnegat Lighthouse Heritage Glass Museum New Jersey State Police Museum Princeton University Art Museum Atlantic City Art Center Southern New Jersey All Sports Museum and Hall of Fame Hopewell Museum Cape May County Museum Princeton Arts Museum Princeton Historical Society New Jersey State House Twin Lights Historic Site Somers Point Mansion Sea Girt Lighthouse C.A. Nothnagle Log House Fort Hancock Historic District Kuser Farm Mansion Historic Batsto Village US Coast Guard Training Center The Korean War Memorial Zimmerli Art Museum

Gardens & Arboretums In Atlantic County Egg Harbor Twp Arboretum 609-926-4093 In Bergen County Theilke Arboretum 201-447-0452 James McFaul Environmental Center Garden 201-891-5571 In Burlington County Butterfly Garden 609-265-5858 Smithville Mansion Garden 609-265-5858 Barton Arboretum 609-654-3000 Sculpture Garden 609-894-9311

In Camden County Camden Children’s Garden 856-365-8733 Barclay Farmstead 856-795-6225 In Cape May County Emlen Physic Estate 609-884-5404 Butterfly Garden 609-861-0700 Leaming’s Run 609-465-5871 Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Garden 609-898-2300 In Essex County Presby Iris Gardens 973-783-5974 Avis Campbell Gardens 201-746-9614 Cora Hartshorn Arboretum 973-376-3587

Greenwood Gardens 973-2584026

In Ocean County Edith Duff Gwin Gardens

In Hunterdon County Hunterdon County Arboretum 908-788-1202

In Passaic County New Jersey Botanical Garden 973-962-9534 Laurelwood Arboretum 973-202-9579

In Mercer County Grounds for Sculpture 609-5860616 Sayen Park Botanical Garden 609-890-3630 Drumthwacket Garden 609-609-683-0057 Herrontown Woods Arboretum 609-303-0700

Morven Museum & Garden 609-924-8144 In Middlesex County Bucceluch Mansion Gardens 732-745-5112 Rutger’s Gardens 732-932-8451 In Monmouth County David Shaw Arboretum Deep Cut Gardens 732-671-6050 In Morris County Willowwood Arboretum 973-326-7600 Frelinghuysen Arboretum 973-326-7603

In Somerset County Cross Estate Gardens 973-5392016 Leonard J. Buck Garden 908-234-2677 Duke Gardens 908-722-3700

Colonial Park Arboretum & Rose Garden 732-873-2459 Wagner Farm Arboretum 908-350-7383 In Union County Cedar Brook Park Shakespeare Garden 908-527-4900 Reeves Arboretum 908-273-8787 In Warren County Merrill Creek Reservoir Butterfly Garden 908-454-1213 Pohatcong Native Arboretum 908-343-5274

Woods Environmental New Jersey Nature Centers Huber Center In Atlantic County Edwin B Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Warren E. Fox Nature Center In Bergen County Closter Nature Center Demarest Nature Center Flat Rock Brook Nature Center Lorrimer Sanctuary Meadowlands Environmental Center Ridgefield Nature Center Tenafly Nature Center James A McFaul Environmental Center In Burlington County Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Preserve Rancocas Nature Center Paws Nature Center Palmyra Cove Nature Center In Camden County Camden Co. Environmental Center In Cape May County Cape May Bird Observatory Nature Center of Cape May Cape May Point State Park The Wetlands Institute

In Cumberland County Albert J. Kolonich Jr. Nature Trail Meadow Wood Environmental Facility Maurice River Bluffs Nature Preserve

Poricy Park Allaire State Park Nature Center

In Morris County Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center Kay Environmental Center In Essex County Bamboo Brook Outdoor EducaEssex Co. Environmental Center tion Center Cora Hartshorn Bird Sanctuary Schiff Nature Preserve The Raptor Trust In Gloucester County Scotland Run Park Nature Cen. In Ocean County Greenwich Lake Park Jakes Branch County Park Lighthouse Center for Natural In Hudson County Research Liberty State Park Interpretive Island Beach State Park Nature Center Center Cooper Environmental Center In Hunterdon County Wells Mills Nature Center Whittemore Wildlife Sanctuary In Mercer County Lawrence Nature Center Stonybrook Millstone Watershed Washington Crossing State Park Nature Center In Middlesex County Plainsboro Preserve In Monmouth County Manasquan Reservoir Env. Cen.

In Passaic County Garret Mountain Reservation In Salem County Alloway Creek Watershed In Somerset County Somerset Co. Environmental Center Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary Bernardsville Duke Farms In Sussex County Kittatinny Valley State Park In Union County Trailside Nature & Science Center In Warren County Pequest Trout Hatchery Merrill Creek Reservoir

watching, nature trails, Fort Hancock and the Sandy Hook lighthouse await!

Delaware Water Gap Warren County. No entrance fee but amenity fees may apply from April - October. Mountains, streams, and the 1000 foot deep water gap are available for outdoor fun.

Thomas Edison Historical Park - West Orange, Essex County. Explore Thomas Edison’s home and laboratory.

Entrance fee $10, 16 and under free.

The National Park Service maintains 9 National Parks as well as other protected areas in New Jersey to explore, learn, and enjoy the outdoors!

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ADMISSION FEES • Fees vary, but there are free entry days at each park (mainly holidays and National Public Lands Day).

• A park entrance pass can be purchased for $80/year or $10 for senior citizens (lifetime).

• Free for military.

• With the “Every Kid in a Park” initiative, all 4th graders get free admission to all National Parks.

NATIONAL PARKS IN NEW JERSEY Ellis Island - take ferry from Jersey City, Hudson County. No entrance fee but various ferry fees apply as well as fees for advanced tours. Visit the hall where 12 million immigrants entered on their way to an American life.

Gateway National Recreation Area Sandy Hook, Monmouth County. Parking fees in summer only, no entrance fees. Beach, bird

Paterson Great Falls Paterson, Passaic County. No entrance fee. View the majestic falls and explore the Great Falls Historic District Cultural Center.

Morristown National Historical Park Morristown, Morris County. $7 to enter, 15 and under free. Encompasses the sites of George Washington’s winter encampment from 17791780. Explore trails, museums, and the Ford Mansion.

NON PARKS, MAINTAINED BY THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE • Washington - Rochambeau Trail. Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Union, Middlesex, Mercer, No fees. The trail preserves the march of the American-French allied forces in 1781-1783.

• Appalachian Trail - Sussex and Warren Counties. No fees. The trail extends more than 2000 miles through 14 states.

• New Jersey Pinelands Reserve - No fees.

Biosphere reserve: 0ver a million acres over 56 communities.

Check out the Junior Ranger program for added educational fun while visiting your National Park!

Which National Park will you visit?

NEW JERSEY STATE PARKS

Do you know about New Jersey’s State Parks?

We’re all familiar with local town and county parks, many of which are reviewed on Jersey Family Fun. New Jersey State Parks are run by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection and lands were acquired for providing outdoor recreational opportunities. They might have historic buildings within their confines, or have lakes or streams, but most do not have playgrounds so be ready for some walking and exploring.

State parks offer lots of special events. Many are at an additional fee, but most are still a bargain!

Find them here.

NEW JERSEY STATE PARKS ADMISSION FEES State parks generally charge a parking fee, usually $5 or $10 per car depending on the day. It is higher for out of state residents, so be sure to have your ID with you. Click here for the list of specific fees. State park passes are $50 for the year and free to senior citizens so be sure to sign up grandparents!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• Allaire State Park - Wall, Monmouth County • Allamuchy Mountain State Park - Allumuchy • Barnegat Lighthouse State Park - Long Beach Island, Ocean County • Cape May Point State Park Cape May, Cape May County • Cheesequake State Park - Old Bridge, Middlesex County • Corson’s Inlet State Park Cape May County • Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park - Spans multiple western counties • Double Trouble State Park Lacey and Berkeley Township, Ocean County Edison State Park - Menlo Park, Middlesex County Farny State Park - Rockaway, Morris County Fort Mott State Park- Pennsville, Salem County Hacklebarney State Park - Long Valley and Chester, Morris County High Point State Park - Montague, Sussex County Hopatcong State Park - Landing, Morris County Island Beach State Park - Berkeley, Ocean County Kittatinny Valley State Park - Andover, Sussex County Liberty State Park - Jersey City, Hudson County Long Pond Ironworks State Park - West Milford, Passaic County Monmouth Battlefield State Park - Manalapan and Freehold, Monmouth County Parvin State Park - Pittsgrove Township, Salem County Pigeon Swamp State Park - South Brunswick, Middlesex County Princeton Battlefield State Park - Princeton, Mercer County Rancocas State Park - Hainesport, Burlington

• County • Ringwood State Park - Ringwood, Passaic County • Stephens State Park - Hackettstown, Morris County • Swartswood State Park - Stillwater Township, Sussex County • Voorhees State Park - Glen Gardner, Hunterdon County • Washington Crossing State Park - Hopewell, Mercer County • Washington Rock State Park - Green Brook, Somerset County • Wawayanda State Park - Vernon and West Milford, Sussex and Passaic Counties

NEW JERSEY STATE FORESTS The NJDEP also maintains the following state forests.

Forest lands were acquired for conservation of natural resource (trees); timber production; watershed protection; soil erosion control; and demonstration areas for forestry practices. Many offer recreational

park activities such as camping, fishing and hiking.

• Abram S. Hewitt State Forest- West Milford, Passaic County • Bass River State Forest - Tuckerton, Ocean and Burlington Counties • Belleplain State Forest - Woodbine, Cape May and Cumberland Counties • Brendan T. Byrne State Forest - New Lisbon, Burlington County • Jenny Jump State Forest - Hope, Warren County • Norvin Green State Forest - Bloomingdale, Passaic County • Penn State Forest - Jenkin’s Neck, Burlington County • Ramapo Mountain State Forest - Ringwood, Bergen and Passaic Counties • Stokes State Forest - Branchville, Sussex County • Wharton State Forest - Hammonton, Atlantic, Burlington and Camden Counties • Worthington State Forest - Columbia, Warren County

New Jersey Zoos Turtle Back Zoo (Essex County) - 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange. 973-7315800. Our review Space Farms Zoo & Museum (Sussex County) - 218 County Road 519, Sussex. 973-875-5800.

Bergen County Zoo (Bergen County) - 216 Forest Ave, Paramus. 201-2623771. Our review Popcorn Park Zoo (Ocean County) - 1 Humane Way, Forked River. 609-6931900. Our review Cape May County Zoo (Cape May County) - 707 Route 9 North, Cape May. 609-465-5271. Our review Cohanzick Zoo (Cumberland County) - 45 Mayor Aitken Drive, Bridgeton. 856-453-1658. Our review

Other NJ Places to View Animals Lakota Wolf Preserve (Warren County) - 89 Mt Pleasant Road, Columbia,. 908-496-9244.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (Morris County) - 568 Tempe Wick Road, New Vernon.

973-538-3500.

Pequest Trout Hatchery (Warren County) - 605 Pequest Road, Oxford. 908-637-4125.

Six Flags Great Adventure (Ocean County) - 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson. (732) 928-2000

Pennsylvania Zoos Elmwood Park Zoo - 1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA. 610-277-3825.

Lehigh Valley Zoo - 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, PA. 610-799-4171.

Philadelphia Zoo - 3400 W. Girard Ave, Philadelphia,

PA. 215-243-1100. Our review

New York Zoos Bronx Zoo - 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY. 718-3671010.

Central Park Zoo - 64th Street and 5th Avenue, New York, NY. 212-439-6500.

Prospect Park Zoo - 450 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. 718-399-7339.

Staten Island Zoo - 614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY. 718-442-3100. Our review

Dive into fun without getting wet at

New Jersey’s Aquariums Who doesn't love exploring an aquarium? There are so many great animals living under the sea, and an aquarium is a great place to check them out. Fish, seals, dolphins, and sharks! How can you pick a favorite? You have to check them all out. We are lucky enough to have several local aquariums for families to visit. We've listed them here to help you plan your spring adventures.

Aquariums in New Jersey

• Adventure Aquarium (Camden County) 1 Riverside Dr. Camden, NJ 08103 (856) 3653300, Click over to read our Adventure Aquarium review.

• Jenkinson's Aquarium (Ocean County) 300 Ocean Ave. Point Pleasant, NJ 07842 (732) 892-0600, Click over to read our Jenkinson's Aquarium review.

• Atlantic City Aquarium (Atlantic County) 800 North New Hampshire Ave. Atlantic City, NJ 08401 (609) 348-2880, Click over to read our Atlantic City Aquarium review.

• Marine Mammal Stranding Center (Atlantic County) 3625 Brigantine Boulevard, Brigantine, NJ 08203 (609) 266-0538. This is not an aquarium but does teach about aquatic life and may have other rescued animals in shallow pools.

Aquariums in New York

• New York Aquarium 2300 Southern Boulevard Bronx, New York 10460 (718) 2205100 • Long Island Aquarium 431 East Main Street Riverhead, NY 11901 (631) 2089200

New Jersey Lighthouses

In Atlantic County

Absecon Lighthouse 31 S Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City Admission adults $7 to climb, seniors $5, children 4-12 $4, Atlantic City residents with ID $3, Active military & kids under 4 free.

In Cape May County

Cape May Lighthouse 215 Light House Ave, Cape May Point Admission adults $7, children 3-11 $3, free for under 3 (If you go the visitor’s center they give you free tickets to children 12 and under.) Our review Hereford Inlet Lighthouse 111 N Central Ave, Wildwood Oct. 20 - May 23 Open Wednesday - Sunday 10 AM - 2 PM. Please call to confirm hours during these months. May 24 - Oct 21 Open daily from 9 am – 5 pm. Admission adults 12 yrs. and up $4, 11 yrs. and under $1. Call 609 522-4520. Buy combination tickets for both Cape May County lighthouses at Hereford Lighthouse. Our review

In Cumberland County

East Point Lighthouse 10 Lighthouse Rd, Heislerville There is no online available information about admission but you can call (856) 546-7810.

In Gloucester County

Tinicum Rear Range Lighthouse 2nd St, Paulsboro No fee to climb but they ask for a donation. Our review

In Monmouth County

Twin Lights Lighthouse 2 Light House Rd, Highlands There is no fee to climb.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse Gateway National Recreation Area, Highlands There is no online available information about admission but there is a number to call.

Sea Girt Lighthouse 9 Ocean Ave, Sea Girt There is no online available information about admission but you can call (732) 974-0514.

In Ocean County

Tuckerton Seaport Tucker’s Island Lighthouse 120 W Main St #1, Tuckerton Climb is included in Tuckerton Seaport admission. Our review Barnegat Lighthouse 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light Admission is free before Memorial Day and after Labor Day. Our review

In Salem County

Finn’s Rear Range Lighthouse Old Fort Mott Rd, Pennsville No fee to climb but they ask for a donation. Our review

New Jersey Beaches Below is a list of New Jersey Beaches by county and information about their daily/weekly beach Badges/ Tags rate from 2015. More detailed information & 2016 rates for each beach and their tags will be available on our site. Many towns discount their tags before Memorial Day. Keep in mind, many beaches don’t require tags till Memorial Day so take advantage of the warmer spring days with some beach fun.

Atlantic County Beaches • Atlantic City - Free • Brigantine - Daily $8, Weekly $14.

• Longport- No daily information available.

Season long badges available.

• Margate - $10 weekly.

• Ventnor - $10 weekly. Margate badges are honored in Ventnor.

Cape May County Beaches • Wildwoods - Free • Avalon - $12.00 weekly and daily $6.00. Beachtag reciprocity between Avalon and Stone Harbor • Cape May - Daily $6, Three-day $12, Weekly $18, • Cape May Point - Daily $10, Weekly $20 • Ocean City - Daily $5, Weekly $10 • Stone Harbor - Daily $6, Weekly $12. Beach-tag reciprocity between Avalon and Stone Harbor.

Monmouth County Beaches • Allenhurst - Daily badge $7 • Asbury Park - Weekday $5, Weekend $6 • Avon-By-the-Sea - Daily $9 • Belmar- Daily $8.

• Bradley Beach - Daily $8 • Deal - Weekday $8, Weekends/holiday badge: $10 • Highlands - Free for river beaches • Keansburg - 732 787-0214, call to see if bay beaches will be open.

• Loch Arbour - Monday- Thursday $5, Friday - Sunday and holidays $8 • Long Branch - No daily information available. Season long badges available.

• Manasquan - Daily $9 Weekly $40 • Monmouth Beach - Daily $9 •Ocean Grove - Daily $8, Weekend special: $12, Weekly special $40 • Sandy Hook (Gateway National Recreation Area)- There is no entrance fee to Sandy Hook, there is a $15.00 per car parking fee • Sea Bright - Daily, $8 • Sea Girt- Daily $10 • Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park - Weekdays $8 Weekends and holidays, $8 for individuals.

Daily parking is $8 • Spring Lake - Daily $10 • Union Beach - Bay beach is free; parking available Ocean County Beaches • Point Pleasant Beach - Daily-Weekdays- $2.50 (children 5-11) $8.50 (children 12-adult), children under 5 are free. Weekends- $2 (children 5-11) $9.50 (children 12-adult), children under 5 are free.

• Barnegat Light - Daily $5, Weekly $20 • Beach Haven - No daily information available.

Season long badges available.

• Brick - Daily $5, • Harvey Cedars - Daily $6, Weekly $20, Seniors $9 for season. Badges needed for age 11 and older • Long Beach Township - Weekly $20, Daily $5, • Ship Bottom - Daily $7, Weekly $20 • Surf City - Daily $7, Weekly $17 • Seaside Heights - $6 daily • Seaside Park - Season long badges available.

• Lacey Township - $5 daily for children 5-adult

Wonderful Indoor Water Parks New Jersey is home to 20 water parks both indoors and outdoors making it easy to find a place to splash within a short drive. There is nothing like splashing in a wave pool or hearing your child scream with delight as your family conquers the family raft ride or a giant water slide at their favorite water park. While it might still be a bit too chilly for the outdoor water parks, you can visit these indoor water parks for presummer water fun.

Burlington County Water Parks • CoCo Key Indoor Water Park, 915 rt 73, Mt Laurel (856) - 234-7300 *See our review, please note the giveaway is over* Camden County Water Parks • Sahara Sams Oasis Indoor/Outdoor Water Park, 535 North Rt 73, West Berlin (856) 767-7580 *JFF Partner in Fun* See our reviews Cape May County Water Parks • Montego Bay Indoor Waterpark, 1800 Boardwalk, North Wildwood (800) 962-1349 Sussex County Water Parks • Biosphere Pool Complex at Crystal Springs Resort, Route 94 Hamburg (855) 842-0558

Sahara Sam’s

MORE water fun coming!

Sahara Sam’s Oasis indoor and outdoor water park is has broken ground on a 10,000-square-foot expansion to the indoor year-round section of the complex. The four million dollar expansion is the New Jersey-based water park’s second major capital growth project in two years and is expected to open in six months.

The new section of Sahara Sam’s will be connected to the existing 70,000-square-foot indoor water park and include two additional water slides as well as a family leisure pool.

The slides are head-first, mat racers manufactured by Proslide Technology Inc. and will allow guests to race one another down 300-foot-long courses, dispatching from an enclosed 4 story indoor tower.

This pair of colorful Twister slides will be the first of their kind in New Jersey and will be visible to travelers on Route 73, where the park is located.

The other part of the addition, the family pool, will provide guests a place to lounge and swim recreationally. The entire expansion, designed by Aquatic Development Group, will be included with the park’s general admission ticket and accessible to annual pass holders at no additional cost.

“We are really looking forward to breaking ground on this expansion,” said Ilya Girlya, CEO of Sahara Sam’s. “As a leading entertainment destination, it’s paramount that we continue to build upon the experience we provide our guests.

The addition of two high speed slides and a new integrated family pool is exciting for our visitors and ensures every visit to Sahara Sam’s is a new experience.”

The latest expansion is the park’s first since joining Apex Parks Group and is tentatively scheduled to open May of 2016. Similarly, three years ago Sahara Sam’s announced the addition of a two acre outdoor expansion. The Beach Club opened Memorial Day weekend in 2013 and includes a leisure pool, wave pool, child’s splash area, tiki bar, cabanas and volleyball court.

Guests who want to enjoy the newest expansion of the park during its May 2016 debut can take advantage of discounted memberships and day tickets during by purchasing online.

There is something magical about trains for kids. Boys and girls alike always stop to stare as a train glides into the station, and think taking a ride on a train is way cooler than hopping in the car. We have rounded up our favorite places to see all kinds of trains in New Jersey to share with you.

From museums to parks to historic terminals, pick your favorite destination and take your family for a train-tastic day!

NEW JERSEY MUSEUM OF TRANSPORTATION ~ THE PINE CREEK RAILROAD AT ALLAIRE STATE PARK Monmouth County Founded in 1952, New Jersey Museum of Transportation’s Pine Creek Railroad is one of the oldest operating narrow gauge railway exhibits in the country. Trains run every weekend from noon to 4:30 (4:00 in November and December), weather permitting, from Easter until Christmas.

Train rides are approximately 15 minutes long.

Cost: $4 per person ages 3 and up. (See our Allaire State Park review.)

MAGNOLIA TRAIN STATION MUSEUM Camden County If you are interested in learning the history of this local train station and seeing miniature train sets, Magnolia Train Station Museum is the place to go. The Museum operates by appointment only, and you may call to schedule an appointment.

Cost: FREE! (See our Magnolia Train Station Museum review.)

BLACK RIVER & WESTERN RAILROAD Hunterdon County The Black River & Western Railroad is an independently owned and operated railroad located in rural Hunterdon County, New Jersey.

From South to North, the railroad connects the towns of Lambertville, Ringoes, Flemington, and Three Bridges. Schedules and events vary, see the website for more details. Cost: Varies per event. (See our Black River & Western Railroad review.)

WHIPPANY RAILWAY MUSEUM Morris County At the Whippany Railway Museum, you can enjoy an operating O-gauge model railroad layout, railroad artifacts, a gift shop, and outdoor railroad equipment. On the Whippany Railway, you and your family can enjoy various trips and events throughout the calendar year. All rides depart from and return to the Whippany Railway Museum site. Museum Cost: $1 for adults, $.50 for children 12 and under. Train Ride Cost: Varies by event. (See our Whippany Railway Museum review.)

PATCONG VALLEY MODEL RAILWAY Atlantic County The Patcong Valley Model Railway hosts open houses where the railroad will be running and there are recently completed new track and

scenery changes that can be seen. Cost: The Railway is free (donations are accepted). (See our Patcong Valley Model Railway review.)

CENTRAL RAILROAD OF THE NEW JERSEY TERMINAL Hudson County Located at Liberty State Park, the terminal is now the focal point of the three-part historic centerpiece that it shares with Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty on the Jersey City waterfront.

The partially restored terminal is used as a visitors’ center and for exhibits and social and cultural events. The “Blue Comet” Auditorium on the first floor was formerly a ladies’ waiting room and part of the ticket office; it is used for interpretive programs about the facility. Cost: FREE! DELAWARE RIVER RAILROAD EXCURSIONS Warren County All year long you can ride along the beautiful Delaware river departing from Phillipsburg New Jersey or join one of the many themed excursions such as the Easter Bunny Train Rides, Corn Maze Train, Mine Train, The Great Pumpkin Train, The Warren County Winery Train, A Day Out With Thomas and The Polar Express. Cost: Train Ride Only $10 for children, $17 for adults.

(See our Delaware River Railroad Excursions review.)

Friar Mountain Model Railroad Museum

Sussex County This model railroad museum contains both historical information and model train sets like Thomas and Friends, and holiday-themed trains.

The museum is open on weekends only from April through the end of December. Cost: $6 per person, children under 4 are free. (See our Friar Mountain Model Railroad Museum review.)

RAILROAD PLAZA PARK – ALLENHURST TRAIN STATION Monmouth County Looking for an easy, free way to see trains? Visit Railroad Plaza Park, a playground located right next to a NJ Transit train station. Trains come and go regularly (see the NJ Transit website for a specific schedule) while your children play on the playground. Cost: FREE! (See our Railroad Plaza Park review.)

ARROW RIVER TRAIN – CAMDEN CHILDREN’S GARDEN’ RAILROAD GARDEN Camden County In the Railroad Garden is the 600′ long Arrow River Train Ride. It holds up to 38 children or 22 adults. As you travel on the train, for a small extra fee (after the admission fee), you’ll see: • Expanded “G” scale display of model trains running at different elevations • Miniature landscapes which includes a 10-foot high waterfall, several buildings made from natural products, and flowers • A village of custom houses and “Wally World”, a collection of storefronts.

• A full-sized, 25-ton “Camden Caboose.”

Originally used in 1942 for the New Haven Rail Line, this caboose was donated by Conrail.

Written by Nancy Palutis

Who has a child who loves dinosaurs?

They may have gone extinct over 65 million years ago, but children are still fascinated with them. I know my house is full of dinosaur books, puzzles, toys, and movies. If your family is like mine, you are always looking for new places to learn about dinosaurs. Well, New Jersey is full of opportunities for learning about dinosaurs.

Here is a list of some of our favorite places to see dinosaurs in New Jersey and nearby.

8 PLACES TO SEE DINOSAURS IN NEW JERSEY Morris Museum: Morristown. The Morris Museum has an entire exhibit dedicated to dinosaurs called “Dinosaur Den.” In the Dinosaur Den children can view dinosaur fossils, touch a dinosaur egg, follow dinosaur tracks, and many more fun interactive activities.

• Open Tuesday- Sundays • Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for children Camden Children’s Garden: Camden.

The Camden Children’s Garden hosts the “Dinosaur Garden” exhibit. In this area of the garden children can visit with the Apatosaurus made from recycled car parts, or check out the Hadrosaur and his nest.

• Open Wednesday - Sunday • Admission: $8 per person ages 3 and up Hadrosaurus Foulkii Site: Haddonfield.

This historic site is a perfect destination for the future paleontologists in your family. It is the spot where the first nearly complete dinosaur skeleton was discovered. In 1858, William Parker Foulke unearthed a skeleton of New Jersey’s official dinosaur, the hadrosaur. During your visit you can see the spot where the discovery was made and visit the “Ground Zero” of dinosaur paleontology.

New Jersey State Museum: Trenton. Another great spot to check out dinosaur fossils and learn more about these amazing creatures is the natural history exhibit at the New Jersey State Museum.

• Open Tuesday- Sunday • Admission: $5 for ages 12 and older Sterling Hill Mine: Ogdensburg, NJ. While you are touring the mine you can add on a visit to the Fossil Discovery Center. Visitors can dig through the fossil area and see what types of fossils they can discover. Each paid participant gets to keep 6 of the fossils they discover. This is a perfect way to experience what it’s like to be a paleontologist.

• Open daily. Tour times and discovery center hours vary • Costs: Tours of the mine $8-$11 for adults.

The fossil discovery center costs an additional $4.50 per person.

Garden State Discovery Museum: Cherry Hill. Any little dinosaur lover will have a blast in the Dinosaurium section of the museum.

Children can climb inside a T-rex skeleton, dig for bones, hear what they sound like as dinosaurs, and explore the scientist’s tent. This would definitely be a fun and interactive way to learn

about dinosaurs and paleontologists.

• Open daily • Admission: $12.95 for ages 1 and older.

Rutgers Geology Museum: New Brunswick.

The Rutgers Geology Museum contains several dinosaur-related artifacts that have been discovered in New Jersey. They also host several special events related to dinosaurs.

• Open Tuesday- Saturdays Turtle Back Zoo: West Orange. Find some dinosaur fun for your little ones while you are visiting the zoo by checking out their dinosaur themed playground. The playground equipment is designed to look like dinosaur bones and there is a dinosaur skeleton to climb through and play on.

• Open Monday- Sundays • Admission: $13 for adults, $10 for children

2 Nearby Places to See Dinosaurs The Natural History Museum in New York City. Every dinosaur lover needs to check out the Hall of Ornithischian Dinosaurs at the museum. It is full of fossils from one of the two main groups of dinosaurs. The museum is home to close to 100 specimens.

• Open daily • Admission: Pay what you wish donation The Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. During a visit to Dinosaur Hall children can view over 30 dinosaur specimens.

They can also dig for fossils and participate in interactive dinosaur activities.

• Open Monday- Sunday • Admission: $17.95 for adults, $13.95 for children As you can see there are so many different opportunities to learn about dinosaurs in New Jersey.

New Jersey Museums Our list of New Jersey Museums was so extensive we just couldn’t fit it in this guide. Please click over to see our listing on Jersey Family Fun with New Jersey’s museums listed by county.

The Sky is the Limit at New Jersey Planetariums When the leaves start to fall and the air becomes a bit crisper, my family and I prefer to find indoor events to attend. There is no better way to combine science and fun than by gazing at a sky full of stars. Whether it be a laser filled light show at a planetarium or a taking a closer look through a telescope at an observatory, New Jersey has some awesome places where families can explore space and the great beyond! So go ahead bring a little bit of the outside in, and head to your nearest planetarium!

Bergen County

Ocean County College, Toms River, 732-255-

•

0343, Open to public on weekends.

William D McDowell Observatory, Meadowlands Environment Center,

Somerset County

Lyndhurst, 201-460-8300, Public viewing

•

Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium, North Branch, 908-231-8805,

hours Wednesday nights, weather dependent.

Essex County

3M Observatory and planetarium, Public

•

Dreyfuss Planetarium, Newark Museum,

shows offered. Observatory open evenings

Newark, 973-596-6529, Interactive theater

during public show hours.

and planetarium Hunterdon County •

Cranford, 908-276-STAR, Open to the public ever Friday- 7:30-10:30 pm (weather

Astronomical Center, Voorhees State Park,

permitting-please check website). Informal

Glen Gardner, 908-638-8500, Daytime &

presentations every Friday night at 8:30 pm.

March for public events.

New Jersey State Museum Planetarium, Trenton, 609-292-6464, Largest planetarium in New Jersey. Open to the public weekends during the school year.

Middlesex County Robert A. Schommer Observatory, Serin Physics Lab, Busch Campus of Rutgers, Piscataway, 848445-8973, Open to the public on the 2nd & 4th Thursday monthly (weather dependent) Morris County •

Longo Planetarium, Morris County College, Randolph, 973-328-5076, Digital theater & planetarium, Astronomer available for questions and give tours. Weekend shows.

Ocean County •

Sperry Observatory, Union County College,

sessions weather dependent), Buzz Aldrin

Mercer County

•

•

Paul H. Robinson Observatory, (viewing

nighttime sky viewing and tours. Opens in

•

Union County

Robert J. Novins Planetarium,

Terrific Times Ahead with

the Tuckerton Seaport Whether it’s a great event or an interactive exhibit, there’s always so much to explore with the kids. Event admission includes access to the Seaport’s 40 acres of family fun, featuring maritime activities, historic and recreated buildings, live animals, boardwalk, miniature golf course and exhibits.

Tuckerton Seaport Upcoming Events 2016 Annual Easter Egg Hunt, March 26 @ 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Free Come meet the Easter Bunny and hunt for Easter Eggs on Saturday, March 26! Registration for the Easter egg hunt starts at 10:30 am. The egg hunt will start at 11:00 am and will be held on the Seaport grounds. Please contact Joanne at 609-296-2937 if you have additional questions.

“Truck”erton Food Truck & Brew Fest, April 30th 11 am - 7 pm, May 1st 11 am - 5 pm, $8.00 per person Drive to the Tuckerton Seaport on April 30 and May 1 for the spring edition of our “Truck”erton Food Truck & Brew Fest. The Seaport will host more than a dozen gourmet food trucks from all over the region to bring a flavorful food blast that will satisfy every taste bud. Choose from fresh sandwiches and salads to fried alligator legs and everything in between. Live music all day will keep you dancing and working up a healthy appetite. Music begins at noon and lasts throughout the day. You definitely do not want to miss this food lovers event! Load the family in the car and set the GPS for the Tuckerton Seaport!

Event admission is $8 and free for Seaport Members and children under 5. Save $1 on admission by bringing an item to donate to the Tuckerton Food Pantry. Buy a beer mug for $8 and get the first beer on us! Food, and drink prices are set by the individual vendors.

Boat Show & Armed Forces Day, May 21 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, $8.00 per person Enjoy a boat show and honor our armed forces at Tuckerton Seaport!

Join us at the Tuckerton Seaport for a boat show on Saturday, May 21 from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. The Seaport will offer demonstrations, tours, and hands-on activities focused on the rich maritime heritage of the Jersey Shore. The Seaport will also be honoring our Armed Forces during the day.

The Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum is located at 120 West Main Street in the heart of historic Tuckerton. Adults $8, seniors $6, children 5-12 $5, children under 5 and Seaport members are free.

What kid doesn’t love planes?

Writen by Traci Murn If you are looking for some different type of family fun and your kids love planes, check out these great New Jersey places to watch airplanes take off and land. Below are some of the best airports for plane spotting in New Jersey. They provide excellent viewing angles and lots of space for your family to enjoy the thrill of watching beautiful aircrafts in flight.

TIPS FOR WATCHING PLANES WITH YOUR KIDS • Find your nearest airport and check out their website to see if they have an observation

park or area.

• The best time to visit your local airport is in early morning or late afternoon on a weekday.

• While plane spotting share your own stories about air travel and experiences you have had with your children.

• Don’t forget your binoculars and camera.

NEW JERSEY PLACES TO WATCH AIRPLANES Bergen County Teterboro airport is located in Teterboro and has some playing fields located east of the airport on Redneck Drive. Bring some snacks and a picnic blanket.

Burlington County Flying W Airport is located in Medford and has a restaurant located on Fostertown Road. In the back of the restaurant you’ll have a gazebo and some benches. On a nice day its common to see small airplanes and helicopters.

Union County Ikea cafeteria is located in Elizabeth and offers the best views for huge airplanes. It is right across the highway from Newark International Airport.

Hunterdon County Sky Manor is located in Pittstown and is a fabulous location for for watching aircrafts. It even has a restaurant and you can sit right near the runway with some yummy snacks.

Solberg Airport is located in Whitehouse Station and offers lots of great space for your family to enjoy watching small aircrafts take off and land.

Amusement Parks in New Jersey • Six Flags Great Adventure (Ocean County) - 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson, NJ. 732-928-2000. Read our reviews.

• Morey's Piers (Cape May County) - 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ. 609-729-3700.

• Casino Pier (Ocean County) - 800 Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights, NJ. 732-793-6488.

• Action Park (Sussex County) - 200 NJ-84, Vernon Township, NJ. 973-827-2000.

• Bowcraft Amusement Park (Union County) 2545 US 22 W, Scotch Plains, NJ. 908-389-1234.

• Clementon Amusement Park (Camden County) - 144 Berlin Road, Clementon, NJ. 856783-0263.

• Gillian's Wonderland Pier (Cape May County) - Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ. 609-399-7082.

• Land of Make Believe (Warren County) - 354 Great Meadows Rd, Hope, NJ. 908-459-9000.

Read our review.

• Steel Pier (Atlantic County) - 1000 Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ. 609-345-4893.

• Diggerland USA (Camden County) - 100 Pinedge Ct, West Berlin, NJ. 856-768-1110. Read our series about Diggerland USA. • Keansburg Amusement Park (Monmouth County) - 275 Beachway Ave, Keansburg, NJ. 732495-1400.

• iPlay America (Monmouth County) - 110 Schanck Road, Freehold, NJ. 732-5778200. Read our series of blog posts on iPlay America.

• The Funplex (Burlington County) - 3320-24 Route 38, Mt Laurel, NJ. 856-2739061.

• Fantasy Island Amusement Park (Ocean County) - 320 7th Street, Beach Haven, NJ. 609-492-4000.

• Wild West City (Sussex County) - 50 Lackawanna Dr, Stanhope, NJ. 973-3478900.

• Jenkinson's Boardwalk (Ocean County) - 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ. 732-892-0600.

• Eagleswood Amusement Park (Ocean County) - 597 Main Street, West Creek, NJ. 609-978-6606.

• Storybook Land (Atlantic County) - 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ. 609-646-0103.

• Blackbeard's Cave (Ocean County) 136 Atlantic City Blvd, Bayville, NJ. 732-2864414.

Amusement Parks in Pennsylvania • Knoebels Amusement Resort - 391 Knoebels Blvd, Elysburg, PA. 570-672-2572.

• Sesame Place - 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA. 215-752-7070. Read our reviews.

• Hershey Park - 100 W Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA. 717-534-3900. Read our review.

• Dorney Park - 3830 Dorney Park Rd, Allentown, PA. 610-395-3724.

• Dutch Wonderland - 2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA. 866-386-2839. Read our series of blog posts on Dutch Wonderland.

Amusement Parks in New York • Luna Park, Coney Island - 1000 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. 718-373-5862.

• Darien Lake - 9999 Alleghany Road, Darien Center, NY. 585-599-4641.

• Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park 3059 Deno Vourderis Place, Brooklyn, NY. 718372-2592.

• Rye Playland - 1 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY. 914813-7010.

• Adventureland - 2245 NY-110, Farmingdale, NY. 631-694-6868.

Are Your Kids Ready to Shake N’ Roll at Diggerland?

“The crazier the concept or more unique the machine – the better,” said Ilya Girlya, co-owner of Diggerland USA. “By adding the Shake N’ Roll to our line-up of attractions, children and their parents can really get the full experience of driving, riding, or operating an endless range of heavy equipment.”

rollers featuring front drum vibration and articulated steering.

The double drum rollers, manufactured

by Wacker Neuson, are bitesize versions of the massive asphalt rollers one might associate with highway construction. The RD12 models, making a new home at Diggerland this year, are one-ton hydrostatic vibrating

The Shake N’ Roll ride will become the 26th attraction! WE CAN’T WAIT! This comes after the launch of 3 new rides last year including the ARGO amphibious vehicles, the WorkMax UTVs and the World’s Fastest Backhoe, the JCB GT. Guests can operate the new rollers on the Diggerland course as early as March 19th when the park re-opens for the season. Guests at the Philadelphia Auto Show got a sneak peak on this new surprise coming to Diggerland, but from what we here it’s not the only surprise this year.

Hmm, wonder what else they are up to.....

Click over to learn more about Diggerland USA from (their site). our blog post series, and our videos of their rides and shows.

afraid of police officers.

Nursing Homes This is a great and simple way for children to give back to the community. There are many elderly individuals who do not have any family. Call the activities director and set up something fun for the children to do with the senior citizens, perhaps a craft or singing. I love to take my children Christmas Caroling every year during the holidays. The children and the senior citizens really enjoy it.

Sometimes it's good to have them get out of their normal schedule and see the young faces.

Restaurants Some restaurants offer free or low cost restaurant/kitchen tours. Some will include making pizza or having a dessert there as well.

Chick-fil-a often does group kitchen tours

More free fun is right in your neighborhood Did you know there are many free places to visit in your community only a few miles away, perhaps even

for children, just contact your local restaurant and ask if they do something like this. You will be amazed at the things you didn't even know existed in your own community!

walking distance, that you and your children can visit?

Libraries

Sometimes it seems like exciting activities are a far

We have many posts breaking down what exactly

drive away or cost a lot of money, but sometimes fun

a library does for the community. Libraries are no

can be anywhere. Check out these local places that you

longer places of hushes and shushes but a place

can visit and tour for free!

for children to learn, grow, and explore. There are times to bounce, play with Legos, meet authors,

Fire Stations

and learn about different cultures. Check out

Firefighters are looking for children who will one

our listing of local library events and look out for

day be future volunteer firefighters. Firefighters

future posts on what the library has to offer.

hope to inspire and motivate children to follow their dreams. They hope that they can do this

Grocery Stores

by inviting them in to tour one of your local fire

It seems that more often, grocery stores are

houses. It may take a little bit of work but you can

becoming a community hub. Stores now offer

research local fire houses, get a group together,

cooking classes for adults and children, craft

and call your local fire chief. It is the perfect event

sessions, store tours and scavenger hunts. There

for one of those days off of school and your child

are even childcare rooms in some! Many larger

will learn something about how the local men and

stores have dietitians on staff that can help you

women save lives.

and your child to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Next time you're doing your food shopping, look for

Police Stations

signs for upcoming events, or just ask!

Another place that is tons of fun for children to tour. Call your local police station and see if

This is just a small sampling of some free

they will set something up. Police officers are

places to visit in your community. From the

usually glad to demonstrate how they help the

librarian, police officer, to the cook at your local

community and why children should not ever be

restaurant, learning is everywhere!

Get

E D I S IN !

N U F E H T

No one else gives you ALL this, ALL INDOORS! • • • • •

Go karts, bumper cars, mini-bowling, and rides!

Cosmic Battle Laser Tag! 4-D theater, boardwalk, and arcade games!

Live music and events!

Game Time Bar & Grill with big screen TVs and billiards!

• Four more eateries and Boardwalk Sweets candy store!

• Land of the Free Birthday Child, Home of the Best Birthday Bash!

iPlay America Plans $4 Million Expansion to Include 28,000 Sq. Foot of MORE fun and the Largest Indoor Ropes Course in New Jersey The expansion will take place in three phases through this May. Phase I is the opening of The Grind Coffee Shop inside iPlay America. Phase 2 provides for an additional 20,000 square feet to iPlay America’s event center. Phase 3 is an 8,000 square foot addition to the indoor theme park.

Phase 1 Phase 1 has been completed with the grand opening of The Grind Coffee Co. featuring hot and iced Nespresso lattes, cappuccinos and espressos, as well as teas and fresh-brewed Bucks County coffees.

The Grind also carries specialty frozen treats like Oreo Blasts, Strawberries and Cream and S’Mores, and a fresh assortment of delicious, fresh-baked pastries, breads, muffins, grab-n-go sandwiches and salads.

Phase 2 Phase 2 is the addition of warehouse-style event space unlike any other. Called Warehouse 100, this phase tacks on an additional 20,000 square feet to the accommodating 3,500 guests Phase 3 iPlay America’s Phase 3 is the addition of 8,000 square feet in the theme park to accommodate the all-new Freedom Rider spinning coaster and the largest indoor high-ropes course in New Jersey. The Freedom Rider features a figure-eight track design and free spinning vehicles that gives riders a unique riding experience. The high-ropes course features 16 different thrill-elements like a swaying bridge, wobbly logs, zip lines, ladders, and high-wires.

“The iPlay America experience just keeps getting better and better,” McDaid said. “The spinning coaster and ropes course are great for the whole family and team-building groups, too. And, of course new birthday party and team-building packages include these two new fun features.”

He also said that the Phase 3 addition will include new arcade games and food outlets featuring healthy options like grilled chicken and gluten-free choices.

Rain or Shine find more fun at these places

Coming to the Tuckerton Seaport the

Jersey Family Fun Kids’ Quarters with themed make & take craft projects from Oriental Trading, Alex Toys, and more and books for all ages from Scholastic Books, local children’s authors, and donations.

The days are

long but the years are short, make the most of your vacations.

Complimentary concierge travel planning services - Full-service travel agency - specialized in families, couples & Groups - Payment plans available - Itinerary planning (dining reservations, tours, etc.)

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Check out these

New York City Museums with Free Admission Enjoy our listing of New York City museums with free admission. You can learn more about each of these museums in our detailed listing here.

New York City Museums with FREE Admission Everyday (or pay what you wish) • American Folk Art Museum • American Museum of Natural History (PWYW) • Bronx Museum of Arts (PWYW) • Brooklyn Museum (PWYW) • The Cloisters (PWYW) • El Museo del Barrio (PWYW) • Metropolitan Museum of Art (PWYW) • Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology • Nuseum of American Illustration • Museum of Biblical Art (PWYW) • National Museum of the American Indian— Smithsonian Institution • New York City Police Museum (PWYW) • P.S.1 MoMA (PWYW) • Socrates Sculpture Park • Staten Island Museum (PWYW) • Studio Museum in Harlem (PWYW) Museums with FREE Admission days or hours Monthly free hours • Bronx Museum (First Friday, 6-10 pm) • Brooklyn Children’s Museum (Second Weekend, before 11 am) • Brooklyn Museum (First Saturday, 5-11 pm) • El Museo del Barrio (Third Saturday, 11 am-8 pm) • Neue Gallerie (First Friday, 6-8 pm) • Noguchi Museum (First Friday, (PWYW)) • South Street Seaport Museum (Third Friday, 6-8:45 pm) Weekly free days or hours Mondays • Yeshiva University Museum Tuesday • Brooklyn Botanic Garden • China Institute 6-8 pm

• Staten Island Museum 12-2 pm • Wave Hill 9 am-noon Wednesday • Bronx Zoo (PWYW) • Brooklyn Children’s Museum 2-5 pm • Museum of Jewish Heritage 4-8 pm • New York Botanical Garden • Queens Botanical Garden April-October, 3-6 pm • Van Cortlandt House Museum • Yeshiva University Museum 5-8 pm Thursday • China Institute 6-8 pm • Museum of Arts and Design 6-9 pm (PWYW) • Museum of Chinese in America • New Museum of Contemporary Art 7-9 pm • Trinity Church: Concerts at One 1-2 pm (September through May) Friday • International Center for Photography 5-8 pm (PWYW) • Japan Society 6-9 pm • Morgan Library & Museum 7-9 pm • Museum of Modern Art 4-8 pm • Neue Galerie 6-8 pm • New-York Historical Society 6-8 pm (PWYW) • New York Aquarium 3 pm-closing (PWYW) • New York Hall of Science 2-5 pm (September through June) • Rubin Museum of Art 7-10 pm • Staten Island Museum 12-2 pm • Whitney Museum of American Art 6-9 pm • Yeshiva University Museum Saturday • Brooklyn Botanic Garden 10 am-noon • Jewish Museum • New York Botanical Garden 10 am-noon • Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum 5:45-7:45 pm (PWYW) • Wave Hill 9 am-noon Sunday • Frick Collection 11 am-1 pm (PWYW) • New York Hall of Science 10-11 am (September through June) • Queens Botanical Garden April-October, 4-6 pm • Studio Museum in Harlem

Eat, Stay, and Play in Cortland New York Our Family Travel to Cortland Series was written by Melanie Cortese

There’s more to Cortland, New York Than Just Skiing!

Before being invited to Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a stay, I had no idea where Cortland New York was. I didn't know there was a SUNY campus there, that they were in the Finger Lakes region, or that the New York Jets train there (in addition to their Florham Park, NJ facility). The downtown of Cortland is about a 20 minute ride from the Greek Peak Mountain Resort, and while we had everything we needed at Greek Peak, we were up for an adventure to see a new town.

I traveled a lot through the US with my parents at a young age, but my children have been limited to the tristate area. New Jersey is great, but a lot of the small towns have been updated, expanded and homogenized. They aren't familiar with a true rural area, or a true small town. Our drive to Cortland was surprising to them, as we drove through rural roads and up and down hills surrounded by farms. At one point, in the distance the town appeared just like a postcard!

We knew we weren't in New Jersey anymore and we were immediately charmed by the town of Cortland. The architecture of some of the homes associated with the college were so impressive we had to pull over and take a closer look. Downtown Cortland looks like a movie set! I loved pointing out the names on some of the older buildings, and the kids were enchanted by the park bench that was shaped like an animal on the sides. The town is the type where you just want to stroll through it and soak it up, knowing that at least where we live, there's nothing like it.

Enjoy great family friendly dining at these Cortland restaurants The Downtown Cortland area offers a lot of food choices. We passed by RiLi Bubble Tea, a unique spot that highlights local artists, and the Finger Lakes Tasting Room, which offers wine and beer produced in the Finger Lakes region. We weren't able to spend time at either establishment because it was dinner time! We were off to Central City Bar and Grill.

At 6:00 pm on Saturday Central City Cortland was busy! Upon entering you may think it's just a bar, but there are plenty of tables inside and there were plenty of families dining. We had a table quickly, and the friendly staff remained available to us despite the crowd. Our children were given crayons (how can you get through a meal without them?) and a kids meal, and they felt right at home. Everything we ordered was delicious and our meal was timed so well, there were no frustrated kids. They enjoyed their chicken nuggets, and the adults were impressed with some more sophisticated dishes. The Rigatoni ala Vodka and Caprese Salad were delicious and we completely cleared our plates. There's more than the traditional pub food at Central City AND, there are nightly specials. Check out their appealing menu! With bellies full we headed back to our room at Hope Lake Lodge.

The next day, before our trip home we returned downtown. It was quiet on a cloudy Sunday afternoon, but Hairy Tony's was ready to serve us and we were welcomed and amused by the large wooden carving outside.

Like Central City Cortland, Hairy Tony's has a bar down one side inside, but plenty of tables for dining. The atmosphere was calm and classy, and the hostess sat us right away. The owner greeted all patrons, and spent some time speaking with us while we visited.

Continued on Next Page

The Hairy Tony's menu was more sophisticated than

you based on your interest and skill level. Take some

you might expect - but that's not a bad thing! We were

time to learn about the ecosystem of the Finger Lakes

able to order from the regular menu or brunch and

region at this picturesque spot not far from Downtown

when I saw the Nutella crepes I couldn't resist. There

Cortland or Greek Peak Mountain Resort.

is no kids menu, but we were offered the option of pizza, mozzarella sticks or chicken fingers from their

While we had a full vacation just at the Hope Lake

next door pizzeria. No need though, as they chose a

Lodge and Greek Peak Mountain Resort it wouldn't

hamburger and a flatbread pizza - and loved them

have been complete without a stop in Cortland. Next

both! We also tried the chicken wing dip and my

time we plan to spend extra days, and we'd love to see

husband found the quesadillas to be among the best

it in the warmer weather!

he'd ever had. There's so much to choose from though, from sandwiches to steaks and pastas and stir fry.

Make a visit to Cortland your family's next

We were very impressed by the food, the atmosphere

vacation.

and the service. If you visit, read "the legend" so you understand the decor! And if you visit in the warmer

For more photos from our visit to Cortland, see our

weather, enjoy some dining al fresco. Their menu

Facebook Album.

changes seasonally, what a great reason to visit often!

Have some family fun playing at these Cortland locations

Hope Lake Lodge at Greek Peak Mountain Resort Convenience, Service, Comfort and Luxury Sometimes when taking a trip you want everything in one place. You want to park the car But there's more than the downtown merchants.

and not move until it's time to leave. That would

Don't miss the Lime Hollow Nature Center and its

require meals and activities be in one place,

430 acres. While the visitors center was closed when

and possibly a shuttle to get you to a nearby

we visited on Sunday, the trails are clearly marked.

Cars in the parking lot indicated the trails were getting some use, and a runner or two passed us by. They offer plenty of events too, or will suggest trails for

attraction. We found that place at Hope Lake Lodge, part of the Greek Peak Mountain Resort in Cortland NY. Our recent ski weekend included two nights at the Hope Lake Lodge, and we

wished it could have been longer!

loft arrangements and rooms that sleep 10, you will find your perfect accommodations there.

When you drive up to the Lodge - a 3 1/2 hour drive from our central NJ home - it looks exactly

We were placed in the Hope Lake Lodge River

as you would imagine a ski resort to be. A large

Rock Suite and it was all we could ask for! For

wooden structure on top of a hill and directly

a family of four it fit us with so much room to

across from the Greek Peak ski trails, the lodge

spare. See our room tour video here. Our room

is welcoming and impressive. Parking and

included:

valet services is available, so we pulled up and

•

Queen Murphy Bed

unloaded our car and began our stay!

•

Full appointed kitchen

•

2 bathrooms - one with tub, one with stall shower

•

Dining table and chairs (even a leaf in the closet)

•

Queen sleeper sofa

•

Multiple closets

•

Two televisions

•

Fireplace

The lobby of Hope Lake Lodge is so inviting!

With a large fireplace, the Acorn Grill and a loft area, you need a few minutes to take it all in. The Lodge was built in 2009 and is LEED Certified, meaning it was designed and built

•

Dresser

with high environmental standards. The lobby

•

Two balconies

decor is rustic with a nod to the nature of the

•

Extra pillows and blankets

area. Comfortable couches await, but we were waterpark bound!

It was great to not have to wait for a bathroom!

We all fought over who could sleep on the couch.

We returned to check in around 4 PM, and the

The fireplace was so perfect no one wanted to

lobby was crowded as there was 100% occupancy

leave the room! The full kitchen is such a great

that night! It was great to see Bearfoot Den

help when you're trying to cut back on eating out,

Activities Room staff offering facepainting to the

or to save money or time. It was stocked with

children in the lobby which helped the wait go

everything you could need for cooking/serving.

quickly. There's also a gift shop/Starbucks just

There is wi-fi throughout the hotel (though it

off the lobby so with some coffee; we had a happy

was spotty as to be expected on the top of a

wait to check in. But if you're thinking of checking

mountain), and a phone in the room.

in in the 4:00 hour - take some extra time skiing or at the waterpark to let the crowd subside.

You'll love your room but if you want to venture out, you'll find plenty to do in the lodge. It felt

Hope Lake Lodge offers a room type for every

like a safe and protected environment; we were

need. From your typical studio with one bath, to

comfortable enough to let our 10 year old take the elevator alone, or sit on the couch near our floor's elevator. There was live music in the lobby on our weekend nights, and lots of activities offered by the Bearfoot Den Activities Center. There was a campfire outside one night, and we heard a smart hotel guest say she brought the fixings for smores! There's room service of course, but we loved our breakfasts at the Acorn Grill, and our midday Starbucks breaks at the gift shop in the lobby.

Don't hesitate to book your getaway at Hope Lake Lodge, whether you ski or not.

You and your family will feel welcomed, relaxed and like you could stay for weeks!

So Much To Do At Greek Peak Mountain Resort We are so excited to share this long list of Greek Peak Mountain activities, because there was so much to do at Greek Peak Mountain Resort/Hope Lake Lodge!

We arrived at Hope Lake Lodge at noon on Friday after a 3 and a half hour ride from our central NJ home. Check in was at 4:30 pm so what to do while we wait? No worries as there was plenty to choose from! Ski? Snow tube?

Cascades Indoor Waterpark?

My kids can't resist a waterpark, so Cascades won! The hotel staff happily stored our luggage and we headed down the hall from the Hope Lake Lodge lobby to Cascades Indoor Waterpark. A quick change and we were ready to splash! But read on - there was so much to choose from at Hope Lake Lodge, you won't be bored at all!

Splash at Cascades Indoor Waterpark Cascades is located inside the confines of the Hope Lake Lodge. While it might be freezing outside, the temperature in Cascades is 84 degrees so wear your swimsuit with no worries and prepare to get wet!

41,000 square feet of water fun await so pick a day (they're open every day) and enjoy. Not going to splash? Spectator passes are available at a reduced rate so no need for anyone to wait in the room and miss the fun.

After we had a quick lunch at the Edgewater Cafe inside the waterpark, we put our belongings in a locker (a one time cost of $5 and accessible by a wristband) and got wet!

My son is 42" and was thrilled that he was able to ride the slides (one needed an adult companion)! Cascades is a manageable size, so that if you find a seat and your children want to play, you can let them without worry. Lifeguards were attentive and visible throughout the park. We spent at least three hours enjoying the park, with our favorite being the hot tub. Having never been to a ski

resort it was a new experience for me and the kids

a glass wall is the most relaxing space at Greek

to be outside in the snow - and in the hot tub! The

Peak. This full service spa can style you from

full list of what Cascades offers:

top to bottom, or rejuvenate you with a facial, massage or sauna treatment. I arrived early and

•

Wave Pool with two types of waves

was led to the relaxation room - something I

•

Body Slides

certainly don't have in my home! - and sipped

•

Activity Tower w/ a 500 gallon deluge bucket

•

3 Story Tube Slides

tea and read a book until my appointment time.

•

Toddler Activity Pool

•

Indoor/Outdoor Hot Tub

•

Indoor/Outdoor Heated Pool (year round)

•

Locker Rooms

•

Edgewater Cafe providing snacks and

any tight spots, and as peaceful music played I

refreshments.

might have fallen asleep from the utter calm I felt.

I was already so relaxed that by the end of my 20 minute sauna and 50 minute massage, I could barely move. My massage was perfect! The masseuse took time to ask if I had any issues, or

And how many moms can say that's something Our pass was for only one day, but as hotel guests

they've felt lately? Can't spare the time away from

we could use the Cascaes pool/hot tub during our

your family? Waterfalls offers a "Little Princess"

stay. We were lucky that a leaving guest passed

package with services for mom and daughter.

on some unused passes so if you're hanging

The spa was busy, so make an appointment soon

around the lobby, make friends!

after booking your stay. You will not regret it and of course, you deserve it!!

Tube, Swing and Zip at the Adventure Center For anyone 42" or more, grab a tube and slide down one of 15 lanes at the Adventure Center's snow tubing park! We headed there on Friday night and it was open late for us to enjoy. Tubes are available at the hill, one person per tube and one tube per lane. Ride the lift to the top and hold onto your hat (one of ours flew off!) as you quickly slide down in your lane. I was too nervous to try it but my children both loved it! They didn't mind being alone in the tube and went down again and again.

The Adventure Center is open year round, and when the snow melts you can experience downhill biking, dual zip lines and a Eurobungy!

Don't count out Greek Peak Mountain Resort for the warm weather months - it's a great all season option for a getaway.

Find Serenity at Waterfalls Spa What mom doesn't want some quiet time and some pampering? The staff at Hope Lake Lodge's Waterfalls Spa and Salon knows this, and I was treated to a sauna/massage that I will remember whenever life gets crazy! Just off the lobby behind

Keeping Little Ones Busy I was so impressed to see the list of activities provided by Hope Lake Lodge in their Barefoot Den Activities Center! We were first introduced to them while we waited to check in on Friday; there were two women doing face painting for the waiting children. I then saw the list shown above of the activities and wow! We ended up having no time to participate and my children were upset that they couldn't make a souvenir.

There is Friday and Saturday babysitting offered as well, so if you want some adult night skiing, or a dinner date, Hope Lake Lodge has your solution! There are other activities in the lobby like live music and when we returned from skiing Saturday there was an animal presentation in the lobby. Every chair was taken!

Hope Lake Lodge is a true resort in that you can always find something to do and the staff to help you do it. Don't hesitate to book your travel there, whether you ski or not!

For more photos of activities at Hope Lake Lodge/Greek Peak Mountain Resort, see our Facebook Album.

Dining at Greek Peak Mountain Resort If you haven't read the previous pages, my family and I had a great time during our stay at Greek Peak Mountain Resort.

We made the most of the skiing and activities, and even visited Downtown Cortland. But one thing we left with was FULL STOMACHS. We were never far from food! From buffets to Starbucks, eat in your skis or your swimsuit, we never went hungry.

Hope Lake Lodge Dining Options •

Acorn Grill

•

Edgewater Cafe

•

Starbucks

•

Room service

Greek Peak Mountain Dining Options •

Trax

•

Taverna

•

Track Shack

Immediately upon our arrival we decided to visit the Cascades Indoor Waterpark and get some lunch at the Edgewater Cafe. We had our choice of the standard food choices; burgers, pizza, hot pretzels.

There were also healthy options with hummus or veggie crudite or yogurt. No need to dry off if you're hungry or thirsty, as the Cafe is open as long as the waterpark is open. Outside food is prohibited at Cascades.

While we waited for our room to be ready, Starbucks in the lobby at the Hope Lake Lodge was the perfect treat! The hot chocolate kept the kids occupied and we adults had our usual. Starbucks was one of our favorite things about Hope Lake Lodge! We visited often, despite the coffeemakers in our room! Starbucks offers pastries as well.

Our first night we took the shuttle to the mountain to dine at the recently remodeled Trax restaurant.

What a huge space! It makes it easy for skiers to take an "apres ski" and enjoy a delicious full service meal. We were pleased to be led right to a seat, where we could watch the night skiers come down the trails. There's also a new large deck with a fire table outside the restaurant (service only inside though). On the opposite side we watched pizza making and there are plenty of televisions throughout. Our service was quick and a rock duo was setting up for an evening performance. Trax offers a large variety of pizzas, sandwiches and burgers and salads. We enjoyed our sandwiches, and the kids were happy with the familiar kids meals. Trax serves lunch and dinner during the ski season.

Our kids are always fans of a buffet - and honestly so are the adults! Acorn Grill in the lobby of Hope Lake Lodge offers a breakfast buffet and we took advantage of it both days. For just $5.95/child $11.95/adult you can have your fill of eggs, waffles, cereal, bacon, sausage, pastries and more! Buffets

are a great way for your kids to try those foods you haven't given them yet as well as filling up for the busy day ahead! I didn't order the buffet the first morning, and the meal I ordered was almost spilling off the plate; there was so much food! Acorn Grill is open daily, for each meal. The dinner menu is impressive! There's duck, and impressive array of salads and seafood but no worries, there's still a kids menu.

Don't feel like leaving your cozy room? Call up for room service!

While skiing on Saturday we discovered Taverna, the cafeteria on the first level of the ski lodge at Greek Peak.

It was an old school feeling with a grill, packaged salads, bottled drinks and a daily special (the burritos looked so yummy)! We were able to spend some time resting after a morning of skiing, and were thankful for its location close to the slopes. Also on the mountain was the Track Shack, a ski up snack stand that smelled delicious! They advertised waffles and if we hadn't had a full breakfast at the Acorn Grill we would have dug in. Seating for food purchased at the Track Shack is right at the deck next to the location.

You won't go hungry at Greek Peak Mountain Resort, but remember, if you're staying in a suite you do have a full kitchen! Some preplanning of bringing food that's easy to prepare can make for some memorable in room meals to get you out on the slopes faster.

Eat, Stay, and Play in Mt Washington Valley New Hampshire Our Family Travel to Mt Washington Valley Series was written by Jennifer Auer.

For as long as I can remember my husband has spoken fondly about skiing and how much he wanted to get back to those experiences he had making memories skiing and staying at a resort.

I never learned to ski as a child, but knowing my husband’s love for it, I was determined to have my kids learn to ski so we could have those family experiences together.

Now, at ages 7, 9, and 11 I felt my boys were ready to learn. They have the athleticism from sports and the maturity to pay attention to instructors and respect the equipment and trails. It was time for us to finally launch our Learn to Ski series. Melanie reported on her kids learning to ski in Cortland, New York and I am thrilled to be able to share our experiences not just vacationing but also learning to ski in Mt Washington Valley, New Hampshire.

Continued on Next Page

Enjoy great family friendly dining at these Mt Washington Valley restaurants Dining in Mt Washington Valley was a treat. We experienced everything from the friendly casual atmosphere at Traditions restaurant at Purity Spring Resort to fine dining at the Snowvillage Inn's Max's Restaurant. Then, somewhere along the way we discovered the highly recommended Muddy Moose restaurant with a very unique atmosphere and great food. You can read more about the Mt Washington Valley restaurant options in the upcoming pages..

Through our pictures, videos, and stories take a look at our family travel to Mt Washington Valley, New Hampshire. Even though our first family trip to New Hampshire was a winter adventure,

Have some family fun playing at these Mt Washington Valley family attractions

I hope you'll see Mt Washington Valley offers wonderful reasons to visit yearround.

In our 4 days in Mt Washington Valley, we packed as much fun as we could into every

Make Your Ski Trip to Mt Washington Valley, New Hampshire fabulous with a stay at one of these Mt Washington Valley

minute. We skiied, swam, snowtubed, did roller coaster rides, shopped, and more and yet we still didn't get to experience everything. Just take a look at what else Mt Washington Valley and its resorts offer not just in the winter but yearround.

resorts!

Activities at Purity Spring Resort We were so fortunate this trip to experience not

•

Ice Skating

one but two of Mt Washington Valley's resort.

•

Tubing

We began our visit with a 3 night stay at Purity

•

Trails for hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing

Spring Resort. Our two bedroom room in the Inn was just steps away from all the skiing action,

•

Swimming

making it super convenient to get up and go to

•

Canoeing, Kayaking, & Water Skiing in summer months

skiing or to do their other outdoor activities. Keep reading for more information about the Purity

•

Mountain biking

Spring Resort.

Activities at Nordic Village Resort Our final two days in Mt Washington Valley, were

•

Swimming in one of their 7 pools (Family and adult only pools)

spent at Nordic Village Inn. Not far from all the area has to offer it's its own beautiful oasis with

•

Fitness Center

breathtaking views, spacious condos, and onsite

•

Family Activities & Entertainment

family friendly amenities and activities. Take a

•

Nightly Bonfires

look at our visit to Nordic Village Resort on the

•

Game room with pool table, ping more,

next few pages.

bumper pool and more

Mt Washington Valley Family Attractions

We'll let you in on a secret. Many of the activities

•

Saco Valley Sports Center with bowling and

we loved at Cranmore Mountain also run in the

an arcade

warmer months.

•

MWV Children's Museum

•

Hartmann Model R.R. Ltd

Make a visit to Mt Washington

•

Mt. Washington Weather Discovery Center

•

Moose Tours (Seasonal)

Valley your family's next vacation.

•

Conway Scenic Railroad

•

Ham Arena for Ice Skating

•

Banana Village/Uberblast arcade with laser tag

•

Mt Washington Valley Theatre Company

•

Settlers' Green Outlet Village

You can also read about the adventures we did have in these articles.

•

For more photos from our visit to Mt Washington Valley, see our Facebook Albums.

•

Cranmore Mountain Adventure Park

•

Nordic Village Resort

•

Snowvillage Inn

•

Purity Spring Resort

•

Learning to Ski with King Pine Ski School

Learning to ski at King Pine Purity Spring Resort

•

5 Awesome Ways to Spend a Winter Day at Cranmore

Purity Spring Resort Mt Washington Valley Family Friendly Lodging Our first ski resort as a family, as we drove up to New Hampshire from New Jersey we were a mix of emotions; excitement, fear, nervousness, joy, hunger, and exhaustion.

When we arrived at the Purity Spring Resort that night and checked in with the front desk, most of those concerns drifted away like the falling snowflakes. Even at night we could tell the resort would have a lot to offer and the front desk receptionist greeted all of us so warmly, we knew we were in for a great time.

Any concerns my boys had about skiing were reduced with her assurance that King Pine was going to be a great school for them to learn skiing at.

Even though we stopped and ate along the way, we were all very hungry by the time we arrived.

Thankfully, Traditions Restaurant & Pub was open. We wasted no time checking into our room, making our room video, and then heading over for a late dinner.

Continued on the Next Page

The following amenities are included with your lodging (unless otherwise noted).

YR - Year-round W - Winter season only S - Summer season only S, S, F - Spring, Summer and Fall • Indoor pool & fitness center YR • Hiking YR • Massage Therapy (Additional Fee) YR • Wildlife viewing YR • NH Audubon's Hoyt Wildlife Sanctuary YR • The Cellar Door - Lounge and recreation room YR • Boating: Canoes, rowboats and kayaks S,

We filled our bellies at dinner, learned about the resort, and excitedly talked about our upcoming days at Purity Spring Resort. What would we do?

How would skiing go? Would we tube? Would my boys snowshoe with me?

We spent our days learning to ski and we'll be telling you more about that. My boys loved it so much that is was hard to pull them away for any of Purity Spring Resort's other activities. We didn't get the chance to experience snowtubing or ice skating (perhaps great reasons to go back ;-) ).

I did however sneak away for some mommy time on the trails for snowshoeing. It was so peaceful.

Over the course of an hour or so I snowshoed over several trails and took in so much of the beauty of the property (see pictures here.) It was easy to see why families enjoy the resort not just in the winter, but also in the warmer months when the ponds defrost and swimming, canoeing, and kayaking are available. I could easily see coming back and enjoying a picnic along the trails or hanging out on the beach.

Take a look at what else the Purity Spring Resort has to offer.

On the Purity Spring Resort property: You can see pictures of the activities we enjoyed and the Purity Spring Resort property in our Facebook album of Purity Spring Resort photos.

S, F •

Fishing: Pickerel, bass and trout S, S, F

•

Sailing S, S, F

•

Four sandy beaches S, S, F

•

Four playgrounds: Millbrook, King Pine, Picnic Island and Sunset Beach S, S, F

•

Volleyball & Badminton S, S, F

•

Friday Evening Entertainment S

•

Basketball S, S, F

•

Croquet & Shuffleboard S, S, F

•

Ping pong, pool and video games YR

•

Horseshoes S, S, F

•

Mountain biking (rental fee) S, S, F

•

Tennis - Five outdoor courts, one lighted S, S, F

•

The Cellar Door - Lounge and recreation room YR

•

Water-skiing and kneeboarding S

you can consider.

• Eat in the Traditions Restaurant & Pub. Menu or buffet options are available. Your meals can be included as part of a meal plan.

• Visit MtWashingtonvalley.org for a list of restaurants within driving distance.

• Bring food with you and take advantage of the refrigerator and microwave and create your own meal. (A minifridge and microwave are available in some rooms. If this is important to you make sure you request that when you make your reservation.)

If you plan to swim at the pool.

My boys absolutely loved the bunk beds. Funny how the littlest guy went for the highest spot.

•

The pool is located with the fitness center in the Mill building. It is within walking

Take a look inside our room in the King Pine

distance of the main building and some other

building with this video.

buildings. Parking is available if driving from your building.

Our Purity Spring Resort King Pine

•

into it. It runs from 3 feet to 5 feet.

Luxury suite included: •

1 Queen bed in the main bedroom

•

A second bedroom with bunk beds and a twin bed. The top bunk has guard rails on both

• •

There are limited towels available at the pool.

Bring some beach towels from home.

TV with several family friendly channels in the

•

The pool is indoors.

main bedroom

•

There is a hot tub jacuzzi steps away from the

•

A closet in the second bedroom

•

Dressers in both bedroom

•

Desk in main bedroom

•

Telephone with nightstand

•

Luggage rack in both rooms

•

A dividing area between the two rooms with movable doors to divide the two rooms

•

There is no lifeguard on duty and children are not permitted to swim alone.

sides.

•

The regular pool is rectangular and has steps

pool.

•

visit it was open till 8-9 pm.

•

If you are traveling with babies or toddlers, please ask about cribs.

•

Purity Spring Resort has plenty of complimentary parking available.

A bathrooms with bath amenities and a standard size tub

It's open during daylight hours. During our

•

Wireless high-speed Internet access is available for at no additional fee.

•

Microwave

•

Sink

•

Coffee Maker

the Purity Spring Resort site for rates and

•

MiniFridge (Pick up some cereal, milk, and

availability.

•

Room Rates may vary so it's best to check

lunch items for your visit and you'll cut down on some of your meal expenses.)

To view more Purity Spring Resort & Inn photos

•

Shelving space for storing pantry items

visit our Facebook album.

•

Silverware, cups, and plates We hope you agree a stay at the Purity Spring

What you should know if you stay at the

Resort can be a great way to enjoy an outdoor

Purity Spring Resort

family vacation in the Mt Washington Valley area

•

The Purity Spring Resort is located at 1251

of New Hampshire. When you visit make sure

Eaton Road, Route 153 in Madison, NH.

you tell them Jersey Family Fun sent you.

Plan ahead for your meals. Here are some options

Nordic Village Resort - Mt Washington Valley Family Friendly Lodging Nordic Village Resort

The view...from the balcony then the view....from our living room.... It was so easy to fall in love with the Nordic Village Resort within moments of walking in the front door.

Every step further into this two bedroom townhouse had us loving it more and wishing we wouldn't have to leave. My kids squealed as they discovered a huge bedroom for them and their own bathroom. I was drawn through the spacious living room to the balcony to that incredible view. It may have been rainy and cloudy but I still found the view breathtaking. I kept returning to the balcony to take more and more pictures. You can see them on Facebook.

The wooden spiral staircase invited me upstairs to a gorgeous master bedroom.

Doors pull open to let in the sunlight from the skylights and to provide a view of the downstairs living room. A chair with ottoman provides a quiet space away from the kids for a cup of tea. Or find your relaxation in the 2 person jacuzzi behind a stained glass window in the master bath.

After a day full of fabulous Mt Washington Valley adventures, Nordic Village Resort is one place you will find relaxation.

Now let's say you want adventures within walking distance of your Mt Washington Valley lodging, the Nordic Village Resort has that. The resort offers you privacy and seclusion at your lodging while also having several options for family fun just steps away. Walk or take a bike ride on one of the trails to any of the below activities.

During the winter months don some snowshoes to find a favorite spot in the Nordic Village.

On the Nordic Village Resort property:

and s'mores kits are available for purchase.

It's one activity I regret we didn't do.

You can see pictures of all of this in our Facebook album of Nordic Village Resort photos.

View our video tour of our Nordic Village Resort 2 Bedroom Townhouse

•

A combination of 7 pools: indoor and outdoor heated pools, adult only and family pools

Our Nordic Village Resort 2 Bedroom

•

1 playground

Townhouse included:

•

Gameroom with pool, ping pong, bumper pool

•

Foyer with Hall Closet

•

1 large pond for ice skating in winter

•

Second Hall closet at the top of stairs

•

Lending library of books and games in the

•

Stackable Washer & Dryer

gameroom

•

Full Bathroom with standard tub on main

•

Croquet

•

Bocce

•

Horseshoe pits

•

Tennis & Basketball Courts

•

Family entertainment with Bobo T. Clown,

floor •

Full kitchen Cabinets are stocked with silverware, pots, pans, plates, etc.

Dishwasher soap is provided for washing dishes between meals

Cinderella & Friends, Wildlife Encounters, Movie Nights and Simplicity the Clown

Kitchen counter with 2 barstools

•

Open spaces with grills & picnic tables

Dining room table with seating for 4

•

Ice Skating (bring your own skates)

•

Cross Country skiing (bring your own skis)

Sleeper Sofa that opens to full size bed

•

Fitness Center

Couch

•

Hiking Trails

Coffee table & side table

•

Bonfires ~ Bonfires happen regularly on

Television with dvd player

weekends. Midday bonfires can be requested

Gas fireplace

•

Living Room

Balcony that overlooks the mountains providing that great view Spiral Staircase to second floor master bedroom Master Bedroom King size bed Spacious walk in closet Luxurious bathroom with 2 person jacuzzi and stand up shower Nightstands TV Chair with ottoman Dresser Accordion doors that open up to the space below Second Bedroom main floor Two full beds Wall length closet TV Dresser space Nightstand Continued on the Next Page

What you should know if you stay at the

•

Room Rates may vary so it's best to check

Nordic Village Resort

the Nordic Village Resort site for rates and

•

availability.

The Nordic Village Resort is located at Route 16 in Jackson, New Hampshire.

•

A variety of lodging accommodations are

To view more Nordic Village Resort & Inn photos

available for couples, families, and large

visit our Facebook Gallery.

groups •

Plan ahead for your meals. Here are some

A stay at the Nordic Village Resort offers you a

options you can consider.

wonderful way to have a family vacation in the

•

Bring food with you and take advantage of

Mt Washington Valley area of New Hampshire

the townhouse kitchen to create your own

with convenient access to the area's best family

meal.

attractions as well as having so much on the

•

Grill outdoors in the warmer months.

property to enjoy. When you visit make sure you

•

Keep reading to learn more about eating at

tell them Jersey Family Fun sent you.

Mt Washington Valley restaurants.

•

Visit MtWashingtonvalley.org for a list of restaurants within driving distance.

•

If you plan to swim at one of the pools.

•

The pools are located throughout the property. Check the property map or with the front desk to get the locations and hours. Parking is available if driving from your building.

•

Pools run at a variety of depths 3 feet or more.

•

There is an attendant available but no lifeguard on duty and children are not permitted to swim alone.

•

Towels are available at the pool.

•

Indoors and outdoor pools and hot tubs are available.

•

During our visit the pools were open till 10 pm, which I always love. It's great to end a busy day with a swim.

•

The main Mountain Club building has •

Steam room

•

Sauna

•

Blue Lagoon and the Oasis outdoor heated swimming pools

• •

Atrium Indoor heated swimming pool.

Two 8-person therapy spas, one indoor and one outdoors.

•

If you are traveling with babies or toddlers, please ask about cribs.

•

Nordic Village Resort has plenty of complimentary parking available.

•

Wireless high-speed Internet access is available for at no additional fee. Each townhome has their own wi-fi access assigned to them.

enjoy your meal while looking over the slopes. The ticket area also has seating and tables for eating there. You can see pictures of the available options in our Purity Spring Resort Facebook photo album.

Tradtitions Restaurant & Pub Traditions Restaurant is the onsite restaurant for Purity Spring Resort.

They are open for resort guests daily and to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays. Some King Pine Ski lodging packages include a meal plan where guests eat at Traditions restaurant.

We enjoyed most of our meals here.

During our breakfasts and dinners, buffets with plenty of options were available. A dry erase board lists the entree options. You can see some pictures of that below as well as in our Purity Spring Resort Facebook photo album. We found the dining

Mt Washington Valley

rooms to be open and spacious, which was great

Restaurants & Dining

buffet at each meal and did so with no spills.

Options Eating out with your family in Mt Washington Valley isn't hard to do. You can easily cook up a meal in the kitchen of your Nordic Village Resort condo, have a sandwich on the go in the Pine Cone Cafe, or sit down for a casual meal at Traditions or the Muddy Moose. Fine dining is also possible with many Mt Washington Valley restaurants such as Max's Village at the Snowvillage Inn. Take a look below to read more about our dining in Mt Washington Valley, New Hampshire.

Purity Spring Resort Dining Options Pine Cone Cafe The Pine Cone Cafe is situated between the King Pine ski ticket area and the ski equipment rental everywhere. You can purchase on the go options of cold and hot food. My boys had pizza one day and hot dogs the next. There is a large dining room available to guests where you can

considering my boys made multiple trips to the

What impressed me most about Traditions Restaurant was the customer service. Most of the time our server was Diana. She was pleasant, always asking how we were doing, did we need anything, how were the boys enjoying skiing.

In fact, it was at breakfast (after my first skiing lesson) that she explained why I might be having trouble skiing and she offered a solution. Her solution was perfect and encouraged me to give skiing another try.

At another meal, when my youngest, was a bit overtired from a day of skiing, and not sure what he wanted to eat, the wait staff offered us a kids' menu so that he could order something other than the buffet options. He felt much better with a bowl full of pasta.

Breakfast Buffet Options Hot chocolate with whip cream seems to be a breakfast tradition at Traditions. But no worries parents the servers always asked us first for

permission before offering it to our boys, a little

are loved by their local community. Not only do

thing that I greatly appreciated.

they stock their regular's favorites at the bars, but the artwork displayed throughout the restaurant

•

Pancakes

is created by local artists. You can actually

•

Bacon

purchase artwork with your meal.

•

Homefries

•

Scrambled eggs

We were hosted on Local's Night at the

•

Croissant sandwiches

Snowvillage Inn which meant we had our choice

•

Waffles

of ordering from the night's specials or the

•

Corned beef hash

regular menu.

•

Sausage

•

Cold cereals

While there was a not a kids' menu, one of my

•

Cream of Wheat

sons was able to order a regular plate of pasta

•

Breads & muffins

which he enjoyed.

•

Fresh fruit

I appreciated the

•

Yogurt

gluten-free entree and dessert options. We

Dinner Buffet Options

started our meal with

•

Salad Bar

salads and an Artisan

•

Soup

Cheese & Charcuterie

•

2 Beef choices most nights

Board. It was a little

•

Fish entree

fancy for my boys'

•

Pasta entree

taste but I did find

•

Rice

it tasty. Between the

•

Potatoes

salad and entree we

•

2 choices of green vegetables

were offered a Passion Fruit Sorbet to help

Traditions Restaurant Dessert

us transition to our

barDessert Buffet Options

entrees. My youngest enjoyed it so much, he

•

Cherry gelatin

later ordered another

•

Cannollis

for dessert.

•

Cheesecake

•

Apple Crumb

For dinner, my

•

Banana Bread Pudding

husband and two sons

•

La Betes Noire ~ Flourless Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake (super yummy)

had the chicken and rice dish. My 10 year old had the pasta dish and I dined on Haddock and Lobster, a gluten-free

Snowvillage Inn

dinner option at the Snowvillage Inn.

We enjoyed a fine dining meal at Max's

Of course, you know we love dessert. With

Restaurant. Max's is a beautiful restaurant set

tempting dessert choices like flourless gluten-free

in the Snowvillage Inn. Dinner begins nightly

chocolate cake and Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

at 5:30 pm Tuesdays - Saturdays. Although

a la mode, we just couldn't resist. Yes, they were

we did arrive early, the boys and my husband

as delicious as they looked.

entertained ourselves in the Inn's open area with books and games while I enjoyed the warm fire.

Click over to see more of pictures from Snowvillage Inn's Max's Restaurant or visit their

As my boys played, I spoke with owner, Jenn I

website for more information. Snowvillage Inn is

learned about the history of the Inn and how they

located in Conway, New Hampshire.

sounded inviting and mouthwatering. The coloring pages for the kids had so many details it kept my boys coloring while waiting (which wasn't very long at all.)

We all enjoyed that first lunch so much that we went back again. Yes, we could have cooked in our Nordic Village Resort kitchen, but we had a special birthday to celebrate and the Muddy Moose seemed like the perfect place to celebrate.

Click over to see more of pictures from the Muddy Moose restaurant or visit their website for more information. The Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub is located in Conway, New Hampshire.

Vacationing with a family is always fun, but sometimes the eating out part can be stressful and challenging. With these above Mt

Muddy Moose During our trip, after we checked out of Purity Spring Resort and prepared to head to Nordic Village Resort the weather did not cooperate too much. We did some outlet shopping, discovered a great chocolate store, and then went on a mission to find lunch. The Muddy Moose is a restaurant that several locals recommended and apparently wasn't hard to find at all. It's located on a main strip among all of Mt Washington's Valley's best attractions. Hungry, and intrigued by the name we pulled in curious to see what the Muddy Moose had to offer families.

Once in we enjoyed this casual, unique atmosphere. It was like stepping inside an outdoors men's log cabin. The fire was warm and inviting. The decor and animals provided something fun to look at at every angle. The menu options

Washington Valley restaurants you can enjoy a great meal and keep the family travel fun continuing.

More ideas for family travel experiences.

Click any image to be taken to our features on these favorite family destinations.

Traveling Outside New Jersey?

Get to Know these Great Sites ALABAMA

Northern Alabama – Rocket City Mom ARIZONA

Yuma – Yuma Mom ARKANSAS

Northwest Arkansas – nwaMotherlode CALIFORNIA

Bay Area – 510 Families

Los Angeles – Mommy Poppins

La Jolla – La Jolla Mom

Sacramento – Sacramento Kids COLORADO

Denver Metro – Colorado Moms DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA/WASHINGTON, DC/MARYLAND

DC Metro & Maryland/Virginia suburbs – A Parent

in Silver Spring & Our Kids

DC Metro – DC Cool Kids, Kid Friendly DC, & DC

Thrifty Mom FLORIDA

Flagler County – Flagler County Family Fun

Orlando – Orlando Kids’ Directory

Pensacola – Pensacola with Kids!

Tampa Bay – What’s Doing Tampa Bay GEORGIA

Atlanta – Atlanta With Kid

Forsyth County – Cumming Local ILLINOIS

Champaign-Urbana – Chambanamoms.com

Chicago– Toddling Around Chicago & Chicago Kids

Far western suburbs of Chicago – Go West Young Mom

Lake County (North Suburbs of Chicago) – Little

Lake County

Near west suburbs of Chicago – {kidlist} activities

for little kids INDIANA

Indianapolis – Indy with Kids

Terre Haute – Haute Happenings KENTUCKY

Hardin County – Elizabethtown Family

Louisville – Louisville Family Fun LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge – Baton Rouge Moms

City of New Orleans & Jefferson Parish – Jefferson

Parish Parent

Gulf Coast – MS Gulf Coast Parent

North Shore New Orleans – North Shore Parent MASSACHUSETTS

Boston – Boston Mamas MICHIGAN

Ann Arbor – Ann Arbor with Kids

Ann Arbor/Detroit – Kids Out and About Ann

Arbor and Detroit

Bay, Midland, and Saginaw Counties – Great Lakes

Bay Moms

Grand Rapids – Grand Rapids Kids (grkids.com)

Kalamazoo – Kalamazoo Kids MISSOURI

St. Louis – stlparent.com & St. Louis Sprout & About NEBRASKA

Omaha – Family Fun in Omaha NEVADA

Las Vegas – Las Vegas Kids NEW HAMPSHIRE

Portsmouth – Find and Go Seek NEW YORK

Albanay – Albany Kid

Saratoga County – Saratoga Mama

Rockland – Rockland NY Mom (just outside NYC) OHIO

Cincinnati – Family Friendly Cincinnati

Columbus – cBus Mom

Northeast Ohio – Northeast Ohio Family Fun PENNSYLVANIA

Chester County – Chester County Moms

Delaware County – DelcoPaMoms & Delaware

County Moms

Lehigh Valley – Lehigh Valley Family Fun &

Find and Go Seek

Montgomery County – Montgomery County Moms

Philadelphia – Local Fun for Kids &

Philly Fun 4 Kids SOUTH CAROLINA

Greenville – Kidding Around Greenville TENNESSEE

Nashville – Nashville Fun For Familes TEXAS

Austin – Free Fun In Austin

Houston – Big Kids Small City

San Antonio – San Antonio Moms Blog VERMONT

Vermont – Find and Go Seek VIRGINIA

Dulles/Fairfax County/Loudoun County – Dulles

Moms

Fairfax County and Northern Virginia – Fairfax

Family Fun

Hampton Roads – My Active Child WASHINGTON

Seattle – Seattle’s Child

South Puget Sound Area – Sounds Fun Mom WISCONSIN

Appleton (and surrounding communities) – Go

Valley Kids

Madison – Madison with Kids & Madison Mammas

Milwaukee – Miltown Moms

Waukesha County/Metro Milwaukee – Lake

Country Family Fun

Road Trip Must Haves Terrific Travel Gear for Families Road Trip! Three day weekend.....road trip... Off for a school vacation...road trip....a day of playing hookey... road trip. We love traveling with our kids. We love blogging about travel. So we spend A LOT of time traveling in our car. Whether it's an hour to a local zoo, going into New York City for a show, or Philadelphia for a museum, we spend a lot of time in our car and a lot of time packing and unpacking and figuring out the best way to carry around the stuff we need. It's through those experiences that we've come to learn what kinds of products can make our lives easier when taking road trips and family vacations. Take a look at what we've tested and are recommending. We hope you'll find them to be as valuable as we have in making family travel easier and more pleasurable.

If you represent a brand with a product that would like to be included on this list for future guides, please contact Jennifer, Jersey Family Fun publisher.

Car Organizers for Families BubbleBum Junkie Backseat Car Organizer Retail Price: $39.99 Available for sale on BubbleBum About the BubbleBum Junkie Backseat Car Organizer The perfect way to keep all entertainment and snacks organized during road trips! No more hearing "Are we there yet?!" every 10 minutes! This BubbleBum Junkie Backseat Car Organizer was perfect for keeping two of my boys separated on our recent road trip to New Hampshire. Everyone had a spot for their drinks and some of the activities they brought on the trip.

The Junkie transforms your backseat, organize your junk and keeps your kids entertained. With a “tech mount� for kids to share one device, both kids can access, interact and view together. Two compact, retractable activity trays for snacking and play. Junkie also features two convenient cup holders. Expanding compartment fits the removable, reusable, refillable totebag with insulated pocket, to transport all your junk from home to car. It is a must-have for all of your family road trips and fly-ins with car rentals! Learn more about the BubbleBum Junkie Backseat Car Organizer in this video we created.

For Keeping Kids Happy in the Car Sneck Pillow System Retail Price: $14.99 Available for sale on BubbleBum. About the Sneck Pillow System The Sneck pillow system is a travel pillow that converts into multiple uses. This innovative design makes napping in the car more comfortable than possible in the past. It definitely helped my son avoid that neck strain and pain he normally gets when he falls asleep in the car. He used it in a vertical position stretching

across his body.

The travel pillow’s micro-bead pods and cozy material allow kids to nap without getting a kinky neck. It is perfect to take along on car rides, plane trips, or journey by bus. The Sneck easily attaches to the headrest with a Velcro strap so it stays in place allowing kids to rest without having to reposition the pillow. The stash pocket allows kids to store MP3 players or small toys. The three way design allows kids to manipulate the position for optimal comfort.

Snapware Retail Price: $24.99 Available for sale on Snapware.com About Snapware Recently Jersey Family Fun was invited to learn more about Snapware.

Snapware is perfect for road trips because it offers leak proof, air tight food storage! No funny smells coming from the back seat, or leaky containers of fruit. Kids need snacks, and road trips especially call for some yummy treats.

Snapware is available in glass or plastic, in a variety of sizes and shapes. Plan ahead and pack your favorite healthy snacks to make the ride smoother - and tastier!

We think children's music and children's books can be a great way to keep kids entertained in the car as well. See our next few pages for our suggestions for children's music and this link for children's books.

Backpacks for Family Adventures LoDo Large Backpark by Case Logic Retail Price: $99.99 Available for sale on Case Logic.

About the Case Logic LoDo Large Backpack This backpack has become my (Jenn's) go to back pack. The design and functionality of it combine to deliver a stylish laptop backpack perfect for work, school or travel. The thickly padded laptop compartment was developed to protect laptops with up to a 15.6 inch display, but my laptop is 17 inches and it slid in snugly, making it great for me. Having to not pack my laptop in a suitcase keeps it convenient and handy for me.

The inside and outside storage pockets provide ample space for flash drives, charging cords, books, snacks.... anything I can think of needing while on a road trip with the kids or a business conference on my own.

Additional Case Logic LoDo Large Backpack product details Protective iPad® or 10.1” tablet storage High quality cotton canvas exterior Genuine leather touch points Discrete zippered phone pocket Easy-access external accessory pockets with magnetic snap-closure Internal zippered pocket for extra secure storage Padded back panel and shoulder straps ensure a comfortable carry

LoDo 14" Laptop Attache by Case Logic Retail Price: $69.99 Available for sale on Case Logic.

About the LoDo 14" Laptop Attache Similar to above with functionality and style but in a different design. While spacious enough for a Kindle, tablet, or smaller laptop, I wouldn't push the size restriction. While the above case could adjust to a larger display, this Attache case can't. I love this as an option for those trips when the laptop will be staying home and I might be taking a number of the kids' electronics instead.

The width and depth of the bag, will allow for carrying multiple books or items.

Again, the other pockets are great for storage of those items you are going to want to get to quickly and not have to forage for.

Rego Gear Metro Sling Plus 550 Retail Price: $80.00 Available for sale on Rego Gear.

About the Rego Gear Metro Sling Plus 550 Front Pocket Metro Sling Plus 550™ is an ultra-light and comfortable biking, hiking, and travel sling with more storage capacity that can accommodate large phones like the iPhone 6 Plus and Galaxy S5. Perfect for hiking outdoors with kids, moving quickly through airports, or keeping your valuables safe while on roller coasters.

It is a revolutionary, outdoor sling for travel and active lifestyles, designed for immediate access to your phone, or other essentials while on the go. The Grip&Fit™ ergonomic design, combined with an adjustable strap and R G-Anchor™ provide supreme resistance to bouncing and drooping during rigorous activities while delivering maximum comfort.

Rego Gear Metro Sling Plus 550™ - holds, protects, and provides easy

and

immediate access to your essentials while traveling, hiking or biking. You'll

never

have to `stop and squat' to dig out your iPhone, passport, keys, energy

bars or

water-bottle from a cumbersome backpack. Great against pickpockets!

Stays in

place even when you're upside down! I only wish I would have had this last

October

when I spent so much time in airports. It would have made it much easier going security. I would have just laid this out on the belt with my valuables inside instead of

through unpacking all

my pockets. I'm looking forward to using this on my next plane ride and on some roller coasters I expect to be riding on when I visit Nickelodeon Universe this May.

Luggage for Families TravelWise Packing Cube System Retail Price: $19.95 (3 Piece set) | $29.95 (5 Piece Set) Available for sale on Amazon.com.

About the TravelWise Packing Cube System Packing Cubes make it so much easier to get organized and pack for a trip. They allow clothes to stay folded and neatly packed in their own "small drawers". The cubes are fantastic for staying organized on short travels and long travels alike and help you avoid over packing.

We love them for the organization and convenience. Kids can be

assigned a packing cube for their own clothing allowing parents to easily identify whose clothing is who. Or parents can pack and sort by item. Use one cube for the bathing suits. Use another for the pajamas. Rather than sorting through your entire suitcase for these items, just find the right cube. Each cube also has a strap, making it easy for kids to carry or for parents moving the cubes from one room to another when you are unpacking and repacking for your trip.

Constructed of lightweight, durable nylon, these multi-sized cubes also have an open mesh top making searching for misplaced items a thing of the past and five color choices allows each traveler to have their own individual set. If 3 cubes aren’t enough, they also offer a 5 Piece Weekender Plus Set. Each set contains cubes of the same color.

Keeping your family's electronics and smart devices safe while traveling Urban Armor Gear Trooper Case Retail Price: iPhone 6/6s MSRP: $39.95, iPhone 6/6s Plus MSRP: $44.95 About the Urban Armor Gear Trooper Case More than just a case, Trooper has been created to be the ultimate dual utility tool, combining a rugged case and wallet into one. Holding up to 4 cards, the versatile Trooper series case provides drop-tested protection and a hidden compartment that opens like a door to keep your cards secure during your adventures. Blogger going to a conference? Store your business cards inside. Mom or dad taking the kids on a trip, keep your bank cards inside. No fumbling through a wallet or purse to find those items quickly. The door locks securely in place. The case provides great protection to my iphone from bumps and falls without making my phone burdensome or bulky. I can still access all the ports, and I actually find the over sized tactile buttons incredibly helpful for when I need to use those buttons.

AquaVault Outdoor Travel Safe Retail Price: $49.95 Available for sale on AquaVault.

About the AquaVault Outdoor Travel Safe We all want to relax while traveling or while visiting one of or local waterparks but the worry about protecting our stuff means either mom or dad are left poolside on a bench or you're spending upwards of $20 for a locker rental.

Unfortunately, thieves prowl the pool-decks, waterparks, and beaches around the world waiting for us to go for a swim so they can swoop in and grab our money, watches, sunglasses, and smartphones. It doesn't have to be that way.

The AquaVault provides a place to stick our valuables so we can take a worry free swim or ride down that waterslide with our kids. Plus, with its handy purse strap the AquaVault doubles as your stylish beach purse.

The AquaVault® outdoor travel safe (MSRP $49.95) is made of durable high impact ABS thermoplastic to withstand aggressive attempts on your valuables. The 120-square-inch cargo hull is roomy enough for wallets, watches, mobile phones, jewelry, keys and other valuables. The AquaVault® lock box is designed to fit over 95% of existing beach furniture (and plenty of other things too!). Once your valuables are secure, you can start enjoying yourself without worry!

What is one item you MUST HAVE on your family road trip?

Music for the Road Our Favorite Children’s Albums Laurie Berkner's Favorite Classic Kids' Songs

-- from The Brady Bunch and The Beatles to Led Zeppelin and the Grateful Dead -- and also displays

Laurie grew up in New Jersey. Kids' music icon Laurie

Miss Nina's love for dance and early '80s hip hop and

Berkner — crowned "the queen of children's music"

rap.

by People Magazine — offers families a change of pace with her tenth album, Laurie Berkner's Favorite Classic Kids' Songs. This two-disc set includes 51 well loved, traditional children's songs plus six "bonus" tracks of favorite Laurie Berkner originals. Laurie Berkner's Favorite Classic Kids' Songs is the only album Laurie has ever released that is comprised almost exclusively of traditional songs, including a rollicking "When The Saints Go Marching In," a funky, hip-hop take on "This Old Man," a duet performance of "There's a Hole in the Bucket" with Laurie Berkner and Brady Rymer that's filled with spontaneous hijinks, a "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" that hits a home run in the third inning with its swinging jazz style, and a rendition of "Old King Cole"

The Singing Lizard (Liz DeRoche), Club

featuring the fantastic fiddle of Kenny Kosek and jazz

Called Awesome

trumpet stylings from the renowned Warren Vaché.

One of the first artists to combine original and traditional children's music with electronic, pop, and dance genres, Liz DeRoche (a.k.a. The Singing Lizard) moves listeners to the beat of an entirely new style she calls "Electro-Kindie." Inspired by Radiohead, Daft Punk, and Bjork, Liz DeRoche wrote, recorded, mixed, and performed all the vocals and every instrument on her third album for families, Club Called Awesome.

The thirteen original songs on the album are replete with highly imaginative, plot-driven lyrics, tight electronic elements, and anthemic choruses that touch on themes ranging from starting a club where everyone's invited to being yourself and trying new things. Don't miss the colorfully illustrated comic book that comes packaged with this CD!

Miss Nina & The Jumping Jacks Miss Nina is a New Jersey resident whose real name is Nina Stone. Sporting two Parents Choice® Awards in her hip pocket, New Jersey-based children's musician and YouTube favorite Nina Stone (a.k.a. Miss Nina) is joined by her band, The Jumping Jacks, on her third album, Every Day's Your Birthday. Based on the concept that no matter what life brings, within us all is the power to change our attitude and make every day a great day, Every Day's Your Birthday traces its musical roots to '60s and '70s pop and rock music

Diana Panton, I Believe in Little Things

Sugar Free Allstars

As winner of the 2015 JUNO Award for Best Vocal

If you like "Uptown Funk," you and your family will

Jazz Recording for her album, RED, along with

love these groovy new retro songs from a family funk

a multitude of other accolades, Diana Panton is

band, acclaimed by SiriusXM Kids Place Live as "Sly

accustomed to the praise that comes with being

and the Family Stone for kids."

recognized as one of North America's leading jazz vocalists. With her first album for children and families, I Believe in Little Things, Diana Panton brings her special brand of sweet and sincere swinging elegance straight to the hearts of young and old alike.

I Believe in Little Things is at once a carefully curated anthology of under-appreciated gems and a collection of classic children's masterpieces from Disney, The Muppets, Sesame Street, Willy Wonka, and more.

The Pop Ups Great Pretenders Club The two-time GRAMMY Award nominees for Best Children’s Album present new electro-pop tunes, and offer music videos featuring puppetry, animation and creative ideas for fun. Catch their shows at NYC's City Winery on April 17th and May 22nd.

Frances England - Explorer of the World Unplug, look around and explore the world with your kids. Frances England's sweet original songs (and an upcoming activity book) takes listeners on a shimmering sonic journey and makes a bold new case for the value of paying attention to the undiscovered treasures we pass every day.

Bubble Wrap Bubble Wrap is a hard poppin’ new family music album by Eric Herman and the Thunder Puppies.

Known best for his music videos (over 50 million views on YouTube), Herman’s debut album with his full band is at once memorable, meaningful and masterful. Bubble Wrap’s hook-filled songs hit on a variety of issues and experiences its kid protagonist faces - obsessions with bubble wrap and cell phones, celebration of food, a comically extended avoidance

of a bath, sharing sunflower seeds with a little

acclaim, having picked up fifteen national awards

brother, the blues of a Monday morning at school, an

along the way, the beloved “free-range, organic” duo

exhilarating trip to a theme park; and more weighty

Hullabaloo brings a fresh, spontaneous approach

matters like stage fright, a best friend moving away,

to their 12th album for kids and families, I Chew.

and even the death of a parent. Musically vibrant and

The result of a challenge to themselves to write and

diverse, with a voice and style unique in the kids’/

record a song a day for 21 days, I Chew features the

family genre, and including notable guest spots by

best tunes harvested from that 21-day period, plus a

Keith and Ezra of Trout Fishing in America, Mister G,

few more stellar Hullabaloo originals. This collection

Kenn Nesbitt, Roger Day, and more, Bubble Wrap will

of “pocket songs” has a solid country feel, with each

inspire repeated popping much like its namesake.

track based on one succinct idea and overflowing with sidesplitting humor and underlying messages about

Hullabaloo – I Chew

love, life, and community. With the rapidity of a grand fireworks finale, I Chew brings a surprise around

With a twelve-year track record of glowing critical

every corner.

Follow us to more family fun!

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