41 Best Things To Do in New Jersey for Teens

Careen down the supercharged white water raft ride, Colorado River, at Mountain Creek. Photo courtesy of Mountain Creek

Your teen may be too big for bouncy houses and tea parties, but they still love family fun—even if they won't always admit it. When a trip to your local playground is met with eye-rolling instead of cheering, it's time to check out these amazing things to do in New Jersey with teens and tweens.

The good news? You may genuinely enjoy competing with your teen in bowling or tackling the fast slides at a water park.

Read on for 41 ideas that are cool enough for big kids and find more fun things to do with teens in New Jersey in our Tweens and Teens Guide to NJ, which includes our rundown on birthday party ideas for teens in New Jersey

Go Inside Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort for Woodsy Wonder

The cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness are cozy, spacious, and sleep up to six guests.

Discover a different kind of Disney magic filled with golf cart rides, campfires, and simple moments in nature that just feel special. Thanks to Disney Vacation Club, my family of five spent a few nights at the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, and it was everything we didn’t know we needed! From modern comfort to rustic charm and many on-site activities, Fort Wilderness provided simple moments that still carried that classic Disney feeling. Go inside the Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort now!

Farms with Animals and Petting Zoos near Philadelphia that are Perfect for Preschoolers

Pony rides always bring out smiles at Linvilla Orchards. Photo courtesy of the orchard

Getting face to face, or rather touch to touch, with baby animals is among the top childhood experiences for young kids. There’s something special about being up and close and personal at a petting zoo with the creatures that they see in books and movies. Thankfully, the Philadelphia area is home to so many exciting tactile experiences for families. From farm animals to insects—preschoolers, toddlers, and school-age kids are sure to enjoy these animal farms and petting zoos near Philly.  

For more great ideas, don't miss our Guide to Philly Zoos and Farms.

Don’t Go to Disneyland Without Reading This First: Parent Tips That Actually Work

Spend the day with Mickey and Minnie. Photo courtesy of the Disneyland Resort

Disneyland is the Happiest Place on Earth, but it can also be one of the most crowded, most confusing, and most chaotic. As a self-proclaimed "Disney kid" I've been to the Mouse House more times than I can count. I've gone in giant groups, with only one other person, with my troupe of four kiddos, with teenagers, with strollers, with Lightning Lane passes, with no plan, with a very detailed plan, you name it, I've done it. Which is why I'm thrilled to share some of my favorite Disneyland hacks with you.

Whether you are a new parent taking your baby for the first time, a Disney adult eager to share the magic with your kiddos, or a first time visitor (don't forget to grab a pin!), this article will sprinkle your next Disneyland day with an extra-dose of pixie dust. 

While most of these tips are for Disneyland, you can also see Disney California Adventure like local with these tips. You can also check out these tips for bringing a baby to Disneyland. Plus, discover other fun things to do in Anaheim with kids, and browse our Southern California Theme and Water Park Guide

Historic Hudson Valley Mansions Where Families Can Step Back in Time

Every October, Washington Irving’s Sunnyside Manor hosts the haunted attraction Irving''s Legend. Photo by Tom Nycz for Historic Hudson Valley

Westchester County and the Hudson Valley are home to several historic homes that offer visitors more than just a glimpse into the past. Many have dedicated kids' programming, annual and seasonal events, fairs and festivals, stunning displays, and exhibitions.

These architecturally stunning homes have been restored or maintained throughout the years (and in some cases, centuries) and offer a peek into prominent, wealthy family life, as well as interactive programming that brings history to life in fun, educational, and unforgettable ways.

Find our story on visiting Storm King Art Center in the Hudson Valley with kids and more ideas for cultural enrichment in our Museum Guide for Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids.

Best Swim Gear For Babies to Keep them Safe

Keep little swimmers safe and happy with our favorite baby swim gear.

Ready for some splishy-splashy fun in the sun? Whether it’s baby’s first beach day or a family dip in the pool, water fun starts with the right baby swim gear. Choosing safe swim gear for babies isn’t just about cute designs—it’s about protecting your little one while they explore and enjoy the water.

We’ve searched high and low to find the best must-haves for baby water safety and fun, including great swim diapers, baby sunscreen, baby bathing suits, and safe water toys to ensure both safety and smiles for infant swimming and toddler swimming.

Check out our Baby and Maternity Guide for more of the best gear and advice for raising baby, including more great water toys in our list of the best toddler and baby bath toys.

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