Top Ten Weird and Whimsical Attractions for Kids in New Jersey

At the Sterling Hill Mining Museum, kids can embark on an unforgettable underground adventure through a real zinc mine, complete with glowing rocks in the famous Rainbow Tunnel. This hands-on experience blends science and excitement as children explore geology at the Rock Discovery Center, collect their own minerals, and learn how miners worked centuries ago. With interactive exhibits, fluorescent mineral displays, and engaging guides, it’s one of New Jersey’s top family-friendly attractions for curious young explorers. Learn More

Discover a world of creepy-crawly excitement at Insectropolis, the Bugseum of New Jersey! This hands-on insect museum invites kids to crawl through mud tubes like termites, play bug-themed games on touch-screen computers, and safely observe live bees and ants in action. With thousands of exotic insects on display and daily touch presentations featuring tarantulas, scorpions, and more, Insectropolis offers an unforgettable educational adventure for curious young minds. Perfect for family day trips, birthday parties, and school outings, it’s a top-rated kids attraction in Toms River that blends science, fun, and imagination. Learn More

Step into a prehistoric adventure at Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia, NJ, where kids can roam among over 30 life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs nestled in scenic Overpeck Park. This thrilling outdoor experience blends hands-on science with imagination, offering fossil digs, live shows, and interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and laughter. Perfect for families, this dino-packed destination is a top-rated New Jersey attraction for educational fun and unforgettable roars. Whether you're planning a weekend outing or a birthday bash, Field Station: Dinosaurs delivers Jurassic-sized excitement for young explorers. Learn More

Nestled in Millburn’s South Mountain Reservation, the Fairy Trail offers a whimsical outdoor adventure perfect for kids and families. This easy, one-mile loop enchants young explorers with over 80 handcrafted fairy houses made from natural materials like moss, acorns, and twigs. Children delight in spotting these tiny dwellings tucked along the path, sparking imagination and a love for nature. Ideal for a weekend outing, the trail combines gentle hiking with magical storytelling, making it one of New Jersey’s most charming family-friendly attractions. Learn More

At Grounds for Sculpture, kids can unleash their creativity and curiosity across 42 acres of vibrant art and nature. This family-friendly destination offers hands-on workshops, storytelling sessions, and interactive sculpture hunts designed to spark imagination in children of all ages. From guided garden explorations to drop-in artmaking at Family Open Studios, every visit blends play with artistic discovery—making it a top New Jersey attraction for kids and caregivers seeking fun, education, and inspiration. Learn more

Dig into prehistoric fun at Colts Neck! Kids can unleash their inner paleontologist with hands-on fossil hunting adventures in this family-friendly New Jersey gem. From discovering ancient shark teeth to uncovering real marine fossils, the experience sparks curiosity and outdoor excitement. Perfect for weekend outings, Colts Neck fossil sites offer educational thrills and unforgettable memories—ideal for children’s birthday parties, school trips, or spontaneous nature escapes. Explore one of NJ’s best-kept secrets for kid-friendly fun and learning! Learn more

Looking for a spine-tingling adventure that’s kid-friendly and unforgettable? The Paranormal Museum in Asbury Park offers curious young minds a thrilling peek into haunted history, mysterious artifacts, and interactive ghost lore. With rotating exhibits like vintage Ouija boards and spooky dolls, plus engaging storytelling from expert guides, it’s a safe and fascinating way for kids to explore the supernatural. Perfect for family outings and weekend fun, this quirky destination blends education with eerie excitement—making it one of New Jersey’s most unique attractions for brave little explorers. Learn More

Step into a world of timeless fun at Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park, where kids can unleash their inner pinball wizard! With hundreds of classic arcade games, from vintage pinball machines to retro video favorites, this boardwalk gem offers unlimited play with no coins needed. Perfect for birthday parties or rainy-day adventures, Silverball delivers family-friendly entertainment that sparks nostalgia and nonstop smiles. Located right on the Jersey Shore, it’s a must-visit destination for kid-approved fun in Asbury Park. Learn More

Looking for unforgettable family fun in Margate City? Kids will love exploring Lucy the Elephant, a six-story seaside landmark that blends history with whimsy. From climbing inside the giant pachyderm to enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Lucy offers hands-on adventure and storytelling magic. With guided tours, quirky photo ops, and nearby beach play, it’s a must-visit for families seeking unique attractions near Atlantic City. Discover why Lucy the Elephant is one of New Jersey’s top kid-friendly destinations! Learn More

Step into a storybook adventure at Fairy Tale Forest in Oak Ridge, NJ, where kids can explore whimsical cottages, meet beloved fairy tale characters, and let their imaginations run wild. From interactive story scenes like Hansel and Gretel to the magical Three Wishes Well and seasonal events like costume parades, this charming park blends nostalgia with hands-on fun. Perfect for family outings, Fairy Tale Forest offers a one-of-a-kind experience that sparks creativity and brings classic tales to life. Ideal for New Jersey families seeking enchanting, kid-friendly attractions. Learn More