Freezing weather can lead to stir-crazy kids (and parents), so we've pulled together this list of great winter day trips from New Jersey for families. Bundle up for a day of snow tubing or watch the wolves wrestle in their snowy habitat at the Lakota Wolf Preserve. If you're dreaming of summer days, check out an indoor water park, where kids can splash the day away, or visit the Adventure Aquarium to see penguins, sharks, and stingrays in action. Whether your crew loves outdoor adventures, or prefers indoor pursuits, read on to find the perfect winter activity for you from this list of 25 winter day trips from New Jersey for families.

Find all our picks for seasonal fun in our Winter Fun Guide and bookmark our Day Trips Guide for all-seasons destinations.

Cold weather and the ongoing pandemic have created the perfect storm for parents and caregivers who wish kids had more opportunities to burn off some energy and hang out with their pals. Even if you've put together your own quaran-team—a small group or homeschool pod who agree to only socialize with each other to minimize the risk of exposure—you may be looking for new places to chill. Fortunately, play spaces throughout New Jersey cater to pods and offer reservations for private play in safe and sanitized environments.

If you're hoping to host a play date outside your home, the following play spaces are ready to accommodate your pod. Many facilities require that you sign waivers in advance, so visit the website and complete the forms before arrival.

Find more fun places to play in our Guide to Indoor Play Spaces.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Raleigh, North Carolina, with kids whether you're looking for a fun Southern city to explore with younger kids or beginning the college search with teens. 

Known as the "City of Oaks," thanks to its mighty trees, the North Carolina state capital is the second-largest city in the state, right behind Charlotte. It's home to 12 colleges and universities, so it's no surprise that you'll find plenty of educational venues here, including museums and science centers. If you're also in the market for an action-packed good time, check out the go-karts and obstacle courses to arcades, escape rooms, and trampoline parks around Raleigh. We've also included our favorite free things to do in Raleigh for kids and noted at what ages free admission applies to some of the city's top attractions.

Here are 24 things to do in Raleigh for families, many of which are FREE.