New Jersey is teeming with amazing outdoor places to take active kids—everything from nature centers to Jersey Shore lighthouses offer a multitude of fun events for little ones. But our beautiful state arboretums and gardens are often overlooked. These fabulous green spaces offer a great opportunity for children to see nature up close. Many locations also host educational and engaging programs, featuring activities such as gardening, hiking, and scavenger hunts.

As spring shifts into high gear, gather the kids and head to these beautiful local gardens. We're not known as the Garden State for nothing!

Who says you need to get on a plane for spring break? Skip the long airport security lines (or road trip meltdowns) and enjoy a spring break staycation right here in your home state.

Different school districts are closed during different dates, but you can expect roughly 10 days of uninterrupted playtime anywhere between April 13–28. 

Luckily, you don’t have to go far to make the most of your time off. New Jersey is home to museums, playgrounds, zoos, and other fun zones that are just a short drive away. There are also many special events and activities taking place on specific dates within this timeframe to give you and your kids something to look forward to. 

Read on for 45 fun things to do with kids right here on your home turf—no plane ticket required. You can also find great nearby getaways in our Day Trips Guide, and for far-flung destinations, check out our Family Travel Guide. 

Taking littles to the theater opens up opportunities for exposure to the arts, building social skills, and learning about appropriate audience behavior. For children with autism, developmental disabilities, or sensory sensitivities (such as difficulties with bright lights, loud noises and sudden, surprising bursts of volume or activity), the theater can be an intimidating place.

Luckily, NJ is home to several performing arts spaces that offer exclusive performances for kids with special needs, so the entire family can experience the arts together. These sensory-friendly performances often include accommodations such as lowered volume and raised lighting, the ability to move about the theater freely, dedicated quiet areas, and trained staff to lend a helping hand should the need arise.

Read on for a list of theaters and upcoming performances where you can know that your child will feel welcomed and loved, just as they are. We hope you enjoy the show!