10 Day Trips for NJ Families: Winter Edition

Winter can get tough sometimes for those of us on on the east coast, but it can be still be a great time of exploring indoor adventures in the local area. When we were in CT, I really enjoyed discovering a new town or activity on our weekends. We’ve moved back to NJ recently and although its harder to find time for just us four, I want to always make it a priority to have “Family Day”. We’re still still exploring NJ and the surrounding areas but here are some trips we’ve done and that are on my list in the next few weeks.

1. Downtown Princeton: If I could, I would go to Princeton every weekend. There is so much to do! Its a quaint town and really family friendly. We usually start our day with brunch. Some places I’ve been are PJ’s Pancake House and Agricola Eatery. We also love to eat at Efes and Jammin Crepes. For the kids check out Cotsen Childrens Library. Safa loved it last time and we definitely can’t wait to visit again. Just near downtown if your little one needs some wiggles out check out Princeton Playspace. We’ve been there many times and its a lot of fun. The Princeton campus is just beautiful to stroll around no matter what season you go. They have some awesome coffee shops, bookstores stationary stores (Paper Source) and so on. Like I said you can come again and again. Since we live pretty close and want to go out for a few hours, Princeton is our go to.

2. Liberty Science Center: This is the most obvious. We went here last year. Safa was a little young so we only enjoyed a few exhibits but its definitely perfect for 5 and up. Since it is a little pricey, I would make a day of it and really enjoy it. They always have different exhibits so definitely check it out.

3. Jenkinsons Aquarium: We have not gone yet but are planning on it next month. I’ve heard great things. It is a perfect trip any time of the year! Its actually on the beach during the summer so this can be a part of a little weekend getaway.

4. Garden State Discovery Museum: I personally haven’t been but Safa went for a school trip and had a blast. They have tons of events always going on during the winter time.

5. Winter Sport: As the kids get older, I want to expose them to all types of sports. I wasn’t allowed to do much out of the fear of getting hurt but I want it a little different for mine. We plan on taking her for skiing lessons this season as well.

6. Imagine That! Museum: The perfect place on a snowy day. They have lots of exhibits and enough to do for the kids to get all their energy out.

7. Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park: I love carnivals and festivals and this is the perfect winter carnival. Ice skating, hot chocolate and a carousel! What more can you ask for?

8. Crayola Experience Factory: We just went to this last weekend and it was so much fun! If you’re child is into arts and crafts, then this is a great place. It is in a small cute town with whimsical coffee shops and brunch spots nearby. Totally recommend this for the Winter or even a really hot day. This and next two are technically in PA but a short drive away.

9. Please Touch Museum: Probably one of my favorite museums in he area. It is huge with tons of exhibits and a carousel. We went during the summer when there was a Islamic history exhibit called America to Zanzibar. That was definitely amazing to see. Even without it, the museum had a lot to offer. Afterwards we got dinner at the famous Saads.

10. Downtown Philadelphia: We checked out an exhibit called CandyTopia that is actually still going on until February 17th, 2020. It was a little pricey but it was for Safa’s birthday. She had a blast! Who doesn’t want candy at every corner? Afterwards we walked to the Reading Terminal Market where there are lots of treats.