


Pinelands Adventures offers an authentic farm experience just outside Atlantic City where kids can pick their own fresh produce, meet friendly farm animals in the petting zoo, and enjoy classic hayrides through the scenic New Jersey Pinelands. With highly-rated nature programs and hands-on agricultural activities, it's the perfect escape for families wanting to teach children where their food comes from while enjoying quality outdoor time together.
Visit on weekday mornings (Monday, Wednesday-Friday) for a quieter experience with more personal attention during nature programs. Fall (September-October) offers the most variety with apple picking, pumpkin patches, and perfect weather for hayrides.
Admission and activity fees vary by season and what's available for picking. The farm is closed Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Parking is free on-site, and while there's no full restaurant, seasonal snacks and drinks are typically available at the farm stand.
This is a seasonal farm with peak operations spring through fall. Spring offers strawberry picking, summer brings blueberries and vegetables, while fall features apple picking and pumpkin patches. Winter operations are limited or closed. Call ahead or check their website for current picking schedules as they depend on weather and crop availability.
Head to the nearby town of Hammonton (about 15 minutes away) for family-friendly dining options like La Esperanza for Italian food or grab pizza at Angelo's Fairmount Tavern, both welcoming to families with kids.
Brigantine Beach offers a refreshing alternative to the bustling Atlantic City boardwalk, with calm, kid-friendly waters and significantly fewer crowds. The pristine sandy shores are perfect for building sandcastles, while dedicated lifeguards and nearby playground facilities make this an ideal spot for families with younger children who need safe, supervised beach time.
Atlantic City's iconic Boardwalk stretches three miles along the Atlantic Ocean, delivering the quintessential seaside experience families have loved for generations. From classic amusement rides and arcade games to saltwater taffy shops and wide sandy beaches, it's a nostalgic playground where kids can experience the magic of old-school boardwalk fun while parents soak in ocean views and create lasting memories.
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offers families an unforgettable introduction to coastal ecosystems with its easy eight-mile Wildlife Drive where even young children can spot herons, egrets, ospreys, and possibly bald eagles from the comfort of your car. The refuge features kid-friendly walking trails and observation platforms that make wildlife viewing accessible for all ages, turning a nature drive into an exciting animal scavenger hunt that keeps children engaged throughout the visit.
Historic Smithville offers families a charming step back in time with its beautifully preserved 18th-century village atmosphere. Kids can explore authentic colonial buildings, watch craftspeople at work, feed ducks by the scenic lake, and browse unique specialty shops while parents enjoy the peaceful, walkable setting and diverse dining options.