Free Things To Do with NJ Kids Anytime During Summer 2018

Cool kids (and parents) love the boardwalk in Ocean City. Photo by Austin Kirk/CC BY 2.0
Cool kids (and parents) love the boardwalk in Ocean City. Photo by Austin Kirk/CC BY 2.0
6/1/18 - By Laurie Rein

Free Things To Do Anytime in Summer 2018

See July Events | See August Events

Many of the events we highlighted for July and August occur on multiple dates, but you can enjoy the activities below all summer (although not necessarily every single day).


Newport Green Park in Jersey City has a playground, splash pad, carousel, and even a beach. Photo courtesy of Newport Green

Playgrounds offer free adventures year-round. Discover a new one to make your family’s favorite this summer, and check out the newly renovated playgrounds at Verona Park and Grover Cleveland Park. 


Stroll the Seaside Heights boardwalk and soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of summer. Photo by Kevin Jarrett/CC BY 2.0

Take a stroll along one of the Jersey Shore's fabulous boardwalks

Get everyone up and out on a family bike ride along one of these NJ bike trails.

RELATED: Best Water Playgrounds and Splash Pads in New Jersey


The whimsical splash pad at Van Saun Park lets kids cool off after hitting the adjacent playgrounds, carousel, or zoo. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

Make a splash at one of NJ's many free water playgrounds or spraygrounds.

Fireworks aren't just for Independence Day; Point Pleasant and Wildwood host weekly displays.

Grab a blanket and your favorite goodies for scenic dining at one of these popular picnic spots.


Free bowling? Yes, please! Click the link below to find out where kids can play gratis. Photo courtesy of Colonial Bowling.

Kids bowl free at many participating bowling alleys across the state. 

Soak up the last summer rays on Labor Day Weekend at one of NJ's fantastic free beaches.

While shopping at an air-conditioned mall, check out The Disney Store for free activities, such as storytimes and giveaways; some stores have coloring sheets and movies on the big screen at all times. 

Libraries are a great source of freebies; stop by your local branch for summer reading clubs, storytimes, Bingo, LEGO clubs, Museum passes, and much more. 

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