Donations to Fanwood's Famous Christmas House support charity. Photo courtesy of the family

Best Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays and Holiday Lights in New Jersey

Check out more than 50 illuminated winter scenes and animal characters at Turtle Back Zoo's holiday lights display. Photo courtesy of the zoo

17 Best Things To Do in New Jersey December 2023 with Kids

The spectacular Winter WonderLights drive-thru boasts more than 1.5 million lights animated to favorite holiday tunes,

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Six Flags Holiday in the Park returns for a 2023 run, promising thrilling holiday cheer. Photo courtesy of Six Flags

25 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in New Jersey for Kids

Find the perfect tree at Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm in Manalapan. Photo courtesy of the farm

Christmas Tree Farms in New Jersey

Bring your camera for a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Abma's Farm. Photo courtesy of the farm

Where To Take Pictures with Santa in New Jersey

A visit to downtown Summit puts visitors in the holiday spirit with its shops, restaurants, and hidden elves!

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Allow yourself to get drawn into the mesmerizing art at the Morris Museum next time you're looking for indoor activities for kids in New Jersey. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

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Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.

40 Indoor Play Spaces in Northern New Jersey for Kids

Big-name Broadway shows like &Juliet come at a premium prices, but there are ways to save on Broadway tickets. Photo by Aka NYC.

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Help your kids develop their creative side with art classes

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Hike the Appalachian Trail—72 miles are n New Jersey! Photo courtesy of Visit NJ

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Task-tackling service Taskrabbit is able to take on tons of back-to-school projects you may not have even considered outsourcing.

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Easy Waterfall Hikes in Northern New Jersey for Kids

The Funplex's rides will please little thrill-seekers.

The Funplex Amusement Park and Water Park Guide: Family Fun in East Hanover and Mt. Laurel

Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and much more. Photo by Ali Chandra

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The accessible playground at Watsessing Park is a dream come true for children of all abilities. Photo by Margaret Hargrove

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Cruise in the Playmobil Fire Truck during your trip to Toys

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Nickelodeon Universe is one of the can't-miss destinations at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the venue

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New Jersey kids can find free fun climbing the pirate ship at the free Garden State Plaza Westfield mall. Photo by Mommy Poppins

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The Rainforest Cafe has two family-friendly restaurants in New Jersey. A meal out here is part adventure, part restaurant.

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The Camden Children's Garden offers free admission for children under 2.

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Guests experience the safari at Six Flags Great Adventure from the privacy and safety of their own vehicles. Photo courtesy of Six Flags

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Hop aboard a stagecoach for a ride back in time at Wild West City, one of New Jersey's top attractions.

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Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

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These boredom-busting activities turn a stuck-at-home day into a lasting memory.

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The Dickens Village returns to Maplewood for the holiday season this weekend. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

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Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains in New Jersey

Join a magical trip on the Polar Express powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Photo courtesy of the railway

10/20/23 - By Laurie Rein

Every year Polar Express train rides come to New Jersey, with the Garden State's railroads decked out in their holiday best. We know it's a bit early to start hauling out the holly, but these Polar Express trains and Christmas trains are a popular holiday tradition, and they sell out fast!

Though these Christmas trains don't go all the way to the North Pole, most include a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with treats, caroling, movies, and stories. We've even included a trolley ride hosted by Mrs. Claus herself. Read on to find out where to take a Christmas train ride near New Jersey with Santa, and book your tickets as soon as possible.

If you're already thinking about other must-do activities this holiday season, be sure to check out our rundown of the most spectacular holiday light displays in New Jersey and other tips in our Guide to Christmas and Holiday Events in NJ for Families.

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