7 Must-Try Family Activities In Jersey City
The summer is approaching its end, and you are looking for ways to enjoy and have fun with your family. We get you. You might crave routine and daily schedules, which back-to-school days offer. But then again, you want to soak in all the moments you get together as a family. So you might as well make those summer moments fun and unforgettable. Get your kids involved, let them have a say in some of the things you want to do, and ensure everyone’s happiness. We’ve put together a list of family activities in Jersey City to help you out!
7 must-try family activities in Jersey City
Whether playing board games at home or going on a family road trip, activities you do as a family are great for bonding time. First, make a list of fun things to do and share it with your kids. Then, include them and make them choose some of the most appealing ones.
They might choose a weekend getaway and a change of scenery, which is a pleasant experience for everyone. So, if your family picks the option of visiting famous sites and exploring museums, check out nearby cities. New Jersey is a popular tourist destination with many wonderful places to visit.
If, on the other hand, you choose to stay in JC and explore the activities it has to offer, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a list of family activities in Jersey City, some famous ones and others less known:
- Liberty Science Center
- The Gravity Vault
- Newport’s Green Playground
- Jersey Jungle
- NY Waterway Ferries
- Jersey City Farmers’ Market
- Jersey City Libraries
Liberty Science Center
Liberty Science Center is the number one stop to cheer up and do something fun on rainy days. It is filled with literally more activities than you can do in the course of a day.
The Planetarium here is the biggest one in the Western Hemisphere. They also show films and shows for all ages. Explore astronomy and space science in the immersive environment of our 89-foot dome or on your own screen. View stunning astronomical objects and celestial phenomena from Earth’s surface and then travel into space to explore them close up. You would have to buy a separate ticket for this. They also have membership options.
And, the Planetarium is just a part of this enormous center. Little ones also love a mini aquarium and zoo with mole rats, lizards, and tamarinds. Furthermore, everyone is welcome to play with blocks of all shapes and sizes and dig for Dinos outside.
The Gravity Vault
Go rock climbing at the Gravity Vault Indoor Climbing Gym. Their mission is to make everyone’s rock climbing experience exciting and memorable, perfect for a family activity. So you can enjoy learning and training together!
Newport Green Park Playground
This playground is filled with family-friendly amenities. It is colorful and inviting, with a soft-grounded play area and unique structures for kids of all ages. There are swings, climbing constructions, and arch climbers for the younger crowd. Adults can enjoy and challenge themselves with intricate rope climbers, rock walls, and steep slides. Also, there are umbrella-covered rest areas for everyone to take a break and grab a bite.
Jersey Jungle
How about a wild jungle fun right here in the city? Jersey Jungle provides just that – and more! Here, kids can climb, slide, and explore in a safe, jungle-themed environment. This indoor playground features A Thrilling Maze/Labyrinth To Explore, An Interactive Ball Wall For Non-Stop Fun, A Creative Lego Section For Building And Imagination, A Dedicated Toddler Zone For Our Youngest Adventurers, and An Art & Crafts Section Where Creativity Knows No Bounds!
NY Waterway Ferries
What is summer without some ferry fun? A ferry ride from Manhattan is a great family experience. The best part is that kids ride free! The ferry ride affords some of the best panoramic city views from the top decks of the ferries. You get to cruise to Manhattan with the NY Waterway Ferry. It is all made easier with their free Manhattan Shuttle and real-time bus locator.
Jersey City Farmers’ Market
Apart from the quintessential charm of the Farmers’ Market, there are various positive aspects, including its economic benefits, environmental friendliness, and healthier options. The best part is that it is perfect for the whole family to explore all the items and samples at the farmers’ market. Some of them even have activities for kids, keeping them engaged. It is a great way to spend a sunny day outdoors without having to go far from the city and sticking to your neighborhood. Luckily, Jersey City provides many options when it comes to Farmers’ Markets.
Jersey City Libraries
Jersey City has a number of public library branches serving various neighborhoods. Apart from access to books, audiobooks, music, internet access, and more, these libraries also conduct classes and programs for children, teens, and adults. They have events like Fun Fridays for Pre-readers, Youth Open Studio: Art + Writing, Fun Fridays for teens, etc.
In case you cannot go to the library, it comes to you – the Bookmobile is a facility many families love.
The libraries are a great way for the family to spend some time exploring new books and activities.
The takeaway from family activities in Jersey City
Lots of young families are moving to Jersey City, and it’s no wonder! They are confident they chose a family-friendly, walkable and affordable city all at once. So, whether you and your family are looking to move here or want to spend a lovely day in JC, be sure that there are many activities you can do. Some of the best family activities in Jersey City include visiting amusement parks, visiting museums, and taking up useful, fun, and engaging classes.
Author Bio:
Angie Sims used to work in the travel industry for 6 years, and now she works in the relocation industry. For the last 3 years, she has been specializing in helping people with their domestic and international relocation. She is also a full-time mom and a part-time blog writer. From her own experiences, she writes about traveling and moving with children on her blog.
Updated July 25, 2025
