
New Jersey's guide to places and events for children,
teens and families
For even more info...pick up a copy of New Jersey's Kids Guide
FREE at libraries, stores, schools, real estate and professional
offices in northcentral New Jersey and at tourist info centers throughout
the state for a complete calendar and guide to children and family events,
programs and services!
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Museums | Trains, Planes, Autos & Ships | Planetariums
PLEASE NOTE:
Hours, prices, exhibit and event information are subject to change.
Please call ahead or use the convenient website links to get the latest
information prior to your visit.
Adventure Aquarium
1 Riverside Dr. (NJ Turnpike exit 4), Camden, NJ 08103, 866-451-AQUA. Daily
9:30-5. Adults $19.95, srs. & ages 2-12 $15.95, under 2 free. 4D Theater
$3 (riders must be at least 36" tall and at least 5 yrs. old). Advance
reservations available by phone. Aquarium exhibits include a West African
River experience with hippopotamuses, crocodiles, African porcupines and
fish inside a free-flight aviary; Amazon rainforest; Caribbean Currents;
shark exhibit with 40-foot
long walk-through tunnel; Jules Verne Gallery of deep sea exhibits; seal
pool; Inguza Island penguin habitat; 760,000-gallon Ocean Realm Exhibit;
and touch exhibits featuring jellyfish, lobsters, sharks, spider crabs,
stingrays and other sea creatures. Shows and feedings daily, live entertainment.
Ongoing
Aquarium Adventures, hands-on
aquarium experiences include swim with the sharks, train and feed seals,
scuba dive with fish, explore hippo habitat for ages 12 yrs. and older.
Call 800-616-JAWS for reservations and information.
Apr-Oct
Freedom Ferry links Philadelphia &
Camden waterfronts with hourly service daily. 215-925-LINK, www.riverlinkferry.org
Selected Special Events
Jul 25-Aug 2
Discovery Channel's Shark Week, 13
new shark species, celebrity shark experts, live shark shows, new touch
exhibit. Come with a shark fin on your head and get $2 off admission.
Oct 10
10! Day, $10 admission compliments
of NBC 10.
Oct 21-25
Annual Creep in the Deep.
Nov 1-31
Coat Drive, bring a new or gently
worn coat and receive $2 off ticket purchase.
Nov 26-Jan 3
Fishmas with Rudolph the Red-Nosed
Reindeer, photos, Polar Express in 4D Theater, holiday treats, Scuba
Santa.
Dec
Breakfast with Rudolph. Adults
$23, kids $21.
Dec 31
Deep Sea Splash New Year's Eve Party,
DJ, food, access to Aquarium, view annual fireworks over the Delaware
at midnight. Email eveningadventures@adventureaquarium.com.
Aljira
591 Broad St., Newark, 973-622-1600. Wed.-Fri. 12-6, Sat. 11-4. Contemporary
visual arts center promotes the work of emerging artists.
Atelier Gallery
14 Kings Rd., Madison, 973-377-3660. Mon.-Sat. 10-5 (July-Aug. Mon.-Fri.
10-2) and by appointment. Affiliated with Creative Hands Art Studio, the
gallery presents emerging and established artists as well as children's
art exhibits.
Children's Museum of Somerset
County
The PeopleCare Center Multipurpose Room, 120 Finderne Ave. (parking and
entrance in the rear), Bridgewater, 908-595-0001. Open for scheduled themed
programs designed for children ages 3-9. No charge for those in need, but
suggested donation of $3-$5 per child. Youth and youth organizations interested
in helping with programs to obtain service hours should contact Tom Davidson,
908-725-4677.
Ongoing
Youth & youth organization volunteers
needed to assist with children's programs.
Sept-Jun
Birthday Parties, four
themed programs include rainforest, dinosaurs, Native Americans and Sensational
Science for ages 3-9.
Aug 12-14
Prep Tent, activities and
exhibits will be at the Somerset County 4-H Fair, North Branch Park, Bridgewater.
10am-10pm. Free.
Sept 12
Rivers, Sea & Shore, traveling
exhibit. 10-3.
Oct 3
Down at the Farm, horse and harvest-themed
crafts at Norz Hill Farm, 116 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough. 10-5pm. No
charge for museum activities. Nov 7
Youth Harp Concert, introduces
children to the music of harps. 11-noon. $5.
Dec 5
Holidays Around the World, holiday
crafts from different cultures, youth performers. 12-4pm. $5.
Community Children's
Museum
77 E. Blackwell St., Dover, 973-366-9060. Thurs.-Sat. 10-5. Groups by appointment
any time. Ages 6 months & older $5, srs. $4. Hands-on museum for children
features a full size replica of van Gogh's bedroom painting, art studio,
electricity exhibit, John Glenn's space capsule and actor's theater. Children's
classes; birthday parties; field trips; scout programs; special pricing
for playgroups.
Jul 13
Fourth Annual Golf Outing.
Sept 13
Grandparents Day.
Sept 21
International Peace Day, Pinwheels
for Peace.
Nov 5-6
Teacher Convention Days, puppet
shows.
Nov 14
Cub Scout Belt Loop Bazaar.
Dec 5
Cub Scout Belt Loop Bazaar.
Dec 28-Jan 3
Vacation Week, open all
week.
Rockaway Mall Series
Health-related topics presented by St. Clare's Health System professionals
with children's activities presented by the Community Children's Museum
of Dover. 11am-noon the first Wed. of every month at the Kidgits Play Area,
Rockaway Townsquare Mall. For info, call 973-989-3230.
Sept 2
Storytime. Craft: decorate a storytelling
theater.
Oct 7
Scrubby Bear Germ Program. Craft:
sculpt a germ monster.
Nov 4
No presentation. Craft:
stuff a cornucopia.
Franklin Mineral Museum
Evans St., Franklin, Sussex County (off Rt. 23), 973-827-3481. Open daily
April thru 1st week of Dec. Open March by appointment. Admission charged.
Separate admission to the Buckwheat Dump for hands-on collecting. Combination
ticket and group rates available. Guided tours. Located in the fluorescent
mineral capital of the world, see artifacts, tour a mine replica and collect
your own mineral specimens. Picnic area. Meeting room. Showcase exhibits.
Excellent for all ages. Groups accommodated.
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Rd. (Exit 4 NJ Turnpike), Cherry Hill, 856-424-1233. Tues.-Sun.
9:30-5:30, extended hours Sat. Open Mon. summer & holidays. Admission
$9.95, srs. $8.95, under 12 months free. Hands-on museum for infants to
10 yr. olds offers 15 larger-than-life interactive exhibit areas. Classes;
workshops; performances; parties.
Grounds for Sculpture
18 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, 609-586-0616. Tues.-Sun. 10-6. Adults $10,
students $8, ages 6-12 $6, 5 & under free. A 35-acre sculpture park
and museum on the site of the former New Jersey State Fairgrounds exhibits
the works of emerging and well-known artists. Over 240 contemporary sculptures
can be found throughout the landscaped grounds and gardens. Gallery talks,
poetry readings, concerts, adult and children's art workshops and special
events are scheduled throughout the year. Gazebo Cafe (open seasonally),
Chez Alice cafe and Rats, a full-service gourmet restaurant, are on-site
for dining. Outside food is not permitted. Children must be accompanied
by an adult and within reach at all times.
Sat
Tots on Tour, storytelling and
art for ages 3-5 with adult 11 & 1pm 3rd Sat. of every month rain or
shine. No reservations, first come-first served. Free with park admission.
Jul 18, Aug 15, Sept 19, Oct 17
Selected Special Events
Space is limited for gallery talks. Call to reserve space.
Jul 18
Young Artist Workshops, for ages
6-14. 11-12:15 and 1-2:15pm. Non-members $15, members $12 per session, per
child.
Aug 9
Music & Motion, dance production
performs the 9 muses. 1-4pm. Raindate Aug. 16.
Aug 15
Gallery Talk: Jes´us Moroles,
granite sculpture. 2pm.
Aug 23
Poet's Invitational, 2pm.
Sept 12
Reinvent Yourself! Family Workshop,
mixed media collage for ages 10 & up. 11am. $5. Space is limited,
first-serve basis.
Sept 28
New Jersey Storytelling Festival, 40
tellers throughout the day. 12-6pm.
Oct 4
The Outlet Dance Project, choreographed
dances incorporates sculptural elements in the park. 2pm.
Oct 11
Gallery Talk: Albert Paley. 2pm.
Free. Book signing and reception following. Non-members $12, members $10,
space is limited.
Oct 17
Oktoberfest, 12-5pm. Raindate Oct.
24.
Oct 25
Guild for Early Music, regional
ensembles perform
early music, park tours. 12-5pm.
Nov 7
Artists' Spotlight, Dana
Stewart, fanciful beast sculptures. 11-4. Related Young Artist Workshops
for ages 6-12, gallery talk at 2pm.
Nov 14
Gingerbread House Demonstration, Rat's
Restaurant pastry chef. 5th Annual Gingerbread House Workshop, recommended
for ages 10 and up. 1:30pm. Non-members $25, members $20, call to register.
Nov 22
Young Artist Workshop: Holiday Style,
three drop-in holiday workshops for ages 6-12. 1-2:30pm. Non-members
$12, members $10, limited space, first-serve basis.
Nov 28
Lights On! Decorate cookies 1-4pm,
$5. Holiday songs 3-5pm. Prizes for annual Gingerbread House Contest awarded
at 4pm. Official lighting of holiday lights at 5pm.
Courtyard Concert Series
Concerts at 7:30pm rain or shine. Non-members $12, members $10. Day of concert,
all tickets $12. 609-586-0616.
Jul 10
Chris Barron, of Spin Doctors.
$15.
Jul 24
The Alice Project, classic
female singer-songwriter.
Aug 7
The VooDUDES, New Orleans
funk.
Aug 21
The Alfred James Band, melodic
cello with upbeat and slightly new age tunes.
Sept 18
Jonathan Edwards Trio, 8pm.
Non-members $27, members $22, day of concert $27.
Nov 6
Beatlemania Now presents "Please,
Please Me." 8pm. Non-members $27, members $22, date of concert
$27.
Adult Events
Jul 24
Clam Bake at Rat's Restaurant, 5pm.
For information and pricing, 609-584-7800.
Aug 14
Latin Night at Rat's Restaurant, pig
roast and mojitos. 5pm.
Hunterdon Museum of Art
7 Lower Center St., Clinton, 908-735-8415. Tues.-Sun. 11-5. Suggested admission
$5. Gallery and exhibitions of contemporary art in a 19th century gristmill
on the Raritan River. Exhibition-inspired workshops, events and studio classes
are offered for adults and children seasonally; summer art camp; birthday
parties; docent-led tours; scout programs.
Open
Artzone, child-friendly
space on third floor open for hands-on art projects, free.
Jun 22-Aug 21
Follow Your Art Summer Camp.
Imagine That!!! Discovery
Museum for Children
4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, 973-966-8000; Monmouth County, 732-706-9000.
Daily 10-5:30. Adult $7.95, child $9.95. Under one year no charge. A hands-on
discovery museum for children ages toddler through 10. Over 50 activities,
including an authentic plane and fire truck. Shadow play, indoor sandcastle,
arts and crafts, dance studio, music room, science room, computers, multi-cultural
area, pirate ship and space shuttle. Theme birthday parties and field trips
available year round. See discount coupon on page 115 of the print version
of the Kids' Guide.
Craft Calendar
Jul 4-5
Patriotic Pinwheels!
Jul 11-12
Rainbow Fish.
Jul 18-19
Sail Away!
Jul 25-26
I See Seashells.
Aug 1-2
Summer Tattoos.
Aug 8-9
Wish You Were Here, postcards.
Aug 15-16
Paint A Ladybug.
Aug 22-23
Treasure Maps.
Aug 29-30
Summer Collage.
Sep 5-6
Back To School Bookmarks.
Sep12-13
Paint An Apple.
Sep19-20
ABC Collage.
Sep 26-27
Foam Art.
Oct 3-4
Pumpkin Time!
Oct 10-11
Columbus Day Craft.
Oct 17-18
Ghostly Door Hangers.
Oct 24-25
Scaredy Cats.
Oct 31-
Nov 1
Autumn Wreaths.
Nov 7-8
Tom-Toms.
Nov 14-15
Napkin Rings.
Nov 21-22
Hand Turkeys.
Nov 28-29
Wildlife Homes.
Dec 5-6
Holiday Candles.
Dec 12-13
Gingerbread Men.
Insectropolis
1761 Lakewood Rd. (Rt. 9), Toms River, 732-349-7090. Tues.-Sat. 10-3. Closed
Dec. 25-Jan. 1. Admission $7, ages 2 & under free. The Koerner family,
owners of Ozane Termite and Pest Control, have created a unique, interactive
bug museum housing thousands of pinned specimens from around the world and
hundreds of live specimens. Visitors can interact with touch-screen computer
games, handson exhibits and view exotic specimens in themed display areas.
Bug store; birthday parties; guided tours by appointment.
Jenkinson's Aquarium
Ocean Ave. & Parkway (exit 98GSP), Point Pleasant Beach, 732-899-1659.
Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-5. After mid-June: Daily 10-10. Adults
$10, children (3-12)/srs. $6, 2 & under free. Group rates. Small aquarium
on the boardwalk features tropical fish, alligators, penguins, seals, sharks,
rays and touch tank. Outreach programs; workshops; behind-the-scenes tours;
Junior Biologist program; birthday parties.
Jersey City Museum
350 Montgomery St., Jersey City, 201-413-0303. Wed.-Fri. 11-5, Thurs. 11-5,
Sat. 12-5. Adults $4, srs./students $2, under 12 and members free. Admission
waived Thurs. from 5-8pm. A museum of history and American visual art with
particular emphasis on the work of contemporary artists offers art talks,
performances, group programs, home school afternoons and Saturday children's
programs.
Sept-Jun
Victory
Arts Projects: Saturday Children's Programs, an opportunity
for students to visit museum galleries and make art projects. Register at
201-209-0510.
Nov-Jun
Homeschool Afternoons, monthly art
program for homeschool families in groups of 8 or more is held at 1pm on
selected Fridays. Reservations required, 201-413-0303 x116. Jun 12
Liberty Science Center
251 Phillip St. (Exit 14C or 14B NJ Turnpike), Liberty State Park, Jersey
City, 201-200-1000, 201-451-0006. Thru June 28: Mon.-Fri. 9-4; weekends
& holidays 9-5. June 29-Sept. 7: Mon.-Fri. 9-5; weekends 9-6. Exhibit
only admission: adults $15.75; juniors 2-12 & srs. $11.50; under 2 free.
Combination tickets available for exhibits, IMAX Dome and 3-D Theater. Teacher
and member discounts and community days available. Traveling science show
for schools; scout programs; birthday parties; overnight group camp-ins
(recommended for grades 1-8).
Interactive science and technology exhibitions include
Skyscraper! featuring artifacts from
the World Trade Center, a walk along an I-Beam two stories above the exhibition
floor and an earthquake shake table; Eat
& Be Eaten where live animals are used to explore how they catch
prey and avoid being caught;
Communication traces the growth of
the human exchange of ideas;
Infection Connection helps visitors
understand germs, viruses, parasites and other life forms;
Our Hudson Home explores the Hudson River;
Energy Quest takes visitors on a journey
through the major sources of earth's energy; and
I Explore is an age-restricted exploration
area for guests under 6 yrs. old and their caregivers.
Other interactive experiences include a rock climbing wall, digital darkroom
and outdoor climbing exhibit. Live science demonstrations are scheduled
daily with additional special events on weekends.
New
Pulseworks Motion Simulator, five-minute
experiences include diving with dolphins, spacewalk and others. $5 per person,
up to 8 people ride at once.
Give Me Liberty! Combo Pass. Visit
the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Liberty Science Center for $25 adults,
$15 children, good for seven days from date of purchase.
Thurs
Young Scientist Thursday Workshop,
monthly program for ages 3-5 with adult.
Traveling Exhibitions
Thru Aug 15
NASA: The Next 50 Years.
Thru Jan 10
Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural
Disasters allows visitors to get inside natural disasters and discover
how nature's forces shape our planet.
Open
Wild Ocean; The Alps; Forces of Nature,
IMAX Theater shows (not suitable for children under 6).
Bugs 3D! and Dinosaurs 3D: Giants
of Patagonia, 3D shows.
Monmouth Museum
On the Brookdale Community College Campus (GSP exit 109 to Newman Springs
Rd. to Parking Lot #1), Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, 732-747-2266. Tues.-Sat.
10-4:30; Sun. 1-5. Admission $7, under 2 free. The Becker Children's Wing
features changing exhibitions that offer interactive learning experiences
geared to elementary school age children. Fees and hours vary depending
on current exhibit. Call for hours for Wonder Wing, a creative play
environment with
an undersea theme for children 6 and under. Birthday party room.
Selected Exhibitions
Thru Jul 5
Cel-ebration! Animation Art Exhibition,
vintage and contemporary animation.
Sept 20-Oct 31
New Jersey Watercolor Society Juried
Exhibition.
Nov 22-Jan 3
Annual Holiday ExhibitionFestive
Feasts and Jan 3 Culinary Creations, decorated trees, model railroad
layout. Stories, activities and arts and crafts scheduled during the holidays.
Becker Children's Wing Exhibition
Designed for school-age children. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 2-4:30, Sat. 10-4:30,
Sun. 1-5. StarLab Shows: Tues.-Fri. 4; Sat. - Sun. 1:30 & 3. Admission
$7, $8 with StarLab show. Birthday parties; group sleepovers; group tours
available.
Thru Aug '10
Blast Off! A Space Journey, discover
the past, present and future of space exploration, explore our solar system
through interactive presentations, hands-on activities and a StarLab Planetarium
show. 100 space artifacts on display include toys, games, posters, books
and memorabilia from space missions.
Montclair Art Museum
3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair, 973-746-5555. Wed.- Sun. 12-5pm. Adults
$12, srs./students with ID $10, members & under 12 free. Admission is
free Fridays 11-1pm. Strollers permitted; changing table. Permanent collection
dedicated solely to American and Native American art encompasses painting,
works on paper, photography, and sculpture by American artists from the
18th-century to the present, as well as traditional and contemporary Native
American art. Studio art classes for adults & children (ext. 221/241),
teacher training workshops, gallery talks and tours, summer art camp, special
family events, birthday parties.
Ongoing
Cell Phone Audio Tours.
Family Learning Lab, family activities
on the 3rd floor.
Home School Days, tour and studio art
project monthly, 12-2pm. $4 per child, adults free with museum admission.
Call 973-746-5555 ext. 257.
Jul 15: Watercolor Landscapes.
Sept 17: Printmaking.
Oct 21: Charcoal Drawing.
2nd Wed
4th Tues
MAM Park Bench, bring your stroller
inside for an informal education program for adults with young children.
Art projects for children, guided tours and storytelling. Wed. 9:30-11:30;
Tues. 1-3. Free with museum admission. Jul 8, Aug 12, Sept 9, Oct 14
1st Fri
Free First Fridays, free admission
11-1pm.
A Closer Look Tour at 1pm.
Oct 2: Still Life Paintings by Paul
Cezanne.
Sat
Gallery Tours, 45-min. docent-led
tours select Sat. of the month. 1pm. Free with admission.
Oct 3: Cezanne & American
Modernism.
Selected Exhibitions
Thru Jul 19
The Wyeths: Three Generations; Art
in Bloom.
Sept 13-Jan 3
Cezanne and American Modernism.
Morris Museum
6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown, 973-971-3700. Wed.- Sat. 11-5, Thurs.
11-8, Sun. 1-5. Adults $10, seniors/children $7, members & under 3 free.
Free admission Thurs. 5-8pm. Permanent exhibits include galleries devoted
to Native American history and crafts; antique dolls, toys and dollhouses;
natural science with mounted mammal specimens; rocks & minerals; dinosaurs
and fossils. Adult art workshops and speakers; scout & group programs;
summer art & science day camps; school outreach; portable planetarium;
school loan program. (See Theatre for performances at the Bickford
Theatre.)
Selected Exhibitions
Open
Musical Machines & Living Dolls:
The Murtogh D. Guinness Collection, permanent exhibition of over 150
mechanical musical instruments and automata in the museum's new 4,300 square
foot gallery features orientation theater and hands-on activities. Live
demonstrations Tues.-Sun. at 2pm.
Jun 9-Nov 22
Invitations to a Wedding: Bridal Gowns
from 1825-present.
Jun 16-Aug 11
Linedrives & Lipstick.
Summer Open Art Workshops
Drop in Wednesdays and Fridays between 2 and 4pm. All ages welcome. $5 per
child plus museum admission.
Jul 8, 10
Wedding Dolls, create paper
dolls.
Jul 15, 17
Beach Collage, using seashells
and sand.
Jul 22,24
Let's Go Fly A Kite, create a kite.
Jul 29,31
Rainbow Fish, with metallic
& colored papers.
Aug 5, 7
All-Star Mobile, baseball-themed
mobile.
Aug 12, 14
Clay with Me!, create a
sea creature with clay.
Special Family Events
Jul 23
Fossil Hunt!, ages 5 &
up. 3pm.
Oct 24
Fall Family Festival, 11am-4pm.
Nov 28-29
Rock & Mineral Weekend, 10am-5pm.
School Year Programs
Adults must accompany children, registration not required for the activities
listed below.
Thurs
Open Art Workshops, drop-in
craft with Morristown High School Art Honor Society students. All ages.
4-7.
Sat
Family Workshops, gallery
exploration and related craft for ages 4 & up. 12-2pm. Members free,
non-members $3/child plus admission.
Museum of Early Trades & Crafts
Main St. at Green Village Rd., Madison, 973-377-2982. Tues.-Sat. 10-4, Sun.
12-5, closed major holidays. Closed Sun. and Mon. during July & Aug.
Free admission Thurs. 1-4. Adults $5; ages 6-17 & srs. $3; members and
under 6, free; family maximum $13.
Drawing on its collection of over 8,000 hand tools and their products, the
museum, listed on the National Register of Historic places, interprets what
life was like for a 19th century farm family and craftspeople who lived
and worked in Madison before the rise of large-scale industrialization.
Changing exhibits; family workshops; gallery talks; drop-in activities;
children's discovery space. On-site and outreach youth group programs; preschool
and young children's group programs; scout badges; school programs pre-K
to grade 8; summer history camp.
Special Exhibitions
Thru Dec
Food for Thought, learn about
food and cooking during Colonial America.
Family Fun Days
Drop in between 1-3pm one Sat. per month. Museum admission plus material
fee for some crafts, advance registration recommended.
Jul 11
Ice Cream Social, Family Fun Day.
Special Events
Jul 7, 15, 23, 28, Aug 5, 13, 18, 26
Summer Camp for a Day, hands-on
craft projects and activities for ages 4-12 based upon the Museum's exhibits.
Ages 4-6 require an adult present. Non-members: $30 for 1 session, $80 for
any 3, advance registration required.
Sept 17, 24
Spinning Workshop, two-day, hands-on
workshop in the art of spinning wool into yarn. 6-8pm. $30/$25, pre-register
by Sept. 10.
Oct 3
Bottle Hill Day, annual
town festival. 11-4. Free admission.
Oct 16
Chocolate, with chocolate
expert Gene Bohensky and Rose City Chocolatier. 7pm Non-members $10, members
$8, pre-registration recommended.
Dec 6
Jewelry Making Workshop for Children,
ages 9-12. 2pm. Pre-registration by Nov. 29.
Dec 13
Jewelry Making Workshop for Adults,
2pm. Pre-registration required by Dec. 6.
Newark Museum
49 Washington St. (24/78 to Newark exit for Rt. 21N, left on Raymond Blvd.,
right on Washington St.), Newark, 973-596-6550. Jr. Museum: 973-596-6616.
24-hr sky report & program info: 973-596-6529. Wed.-Fri. noon to 5.
Oct. 1-June 30: Sat. & Sun. 10-5; July 1-Sept. 30: Sat. & Sun. 12-5.
Suggested admission: Adults $10, children, srs. students with valid ID $6,
members free.
The state's largest museum features 80 galleries exhibiting American art;
decorative arts and the magnificent 1885 Ballantine House, a restored National
Historic Landmark; arts of Africa, the Americas and the Pacific; classical
art; the arts of Asia; numismatics; and natural science collection. Grounds
contain 1794 schoolhouse and Newark Fire Museum. Junior Gallery, mini-zoo,
family theater and planetarium. Attended parking in adjacent lot at corner
of University & Central Aves. Year-round fine arts and crafts workshops
for adults and children, summer Camp Junior Museum for ages 3-14 (973-596-6616).
Adult gallery tours daily, reserved group gallery/planetarium and outreach
programs; scout programs. See listing under Planetariums for more
information.
New
Fire Escapes: Danger & Survival,
interactive exhibit at the newly refurbished Newark Fire Museum
includes exhibits, films and displays in a replica burned-out house to reinforce
safety education for children and their families. 1784 One-Room Schoolhouse,
has been fully restored and rededicated at the Museum.
Selected Exhibitions
Ongoing
Dynamic Earth: Revealing Nature's Secrets,
natural science galleries. Five areas of focus include
Forces of Change, where visitors can
see the forces of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and formation of continents
and oceans;
Life Adapts to Change, an African savannah
and Arctic tundra environment;
Diversity in your Backyard: New Jersey
Highlands, containing a full-size bat cave, living bee colony, and pre-historic
mastodon; and
Discovery Field Station, where visitors
select experiments designed for hands-on learning.
Tibet Information Zone, interactive
Tibetan art gallery provides hands-on learning experiences about Tibetan
culture.
Once Upon a Dime: The World of Money.
Thru Aug 16
Unbounded: New Art for a New Century,
contemporary artworks that focus on the African, American, Asian &
Decorative Arts collections.
To 2010
100 Amazing Objects, a special
Centennial project, offers three specialized tours of 100 masterworks from
the Museum's collection.
Special Events
Jul 1
Newark Black Film Festival Youth Cinema,
ages 4-12. 1pm. Additional showing at 10:30am on June 29 at The Newark
Public Library.
Nov 1
Latino Heritage Family Festival,
Latin music, dance and performances, activities and tours. 12-5pm.
Nov 27
Thanksgiving Family Festival, special
performances, workshops and activities. 12-5pm.
Weekly Summer Events
Wed-Fri
Tiny & Tremendous Treasures at the
Newark Museum, gallery tours and art project to take home with
a different theme each week. 1:30-4:30pm July -Aug. 14.
Thurs
Jazz in the Garden, jazz
concerts 12:15-1:45pm June 25-July 30. Adults $3, srs., child, members free.
Fri
Performances for Kids, 1pm Billy
Johnson Auditorium. Limited seating, first-come basis.
Jul 10
Hiawatha, The Catskill Puppet Theatre.
Jul 17
Ssuuna: Ed Ne Kakati (From the Past to
the Present), Uganda dance & music.
Jul 24
Theatresports: Improv Your Mind, Freestyle
Repertory Theatre.
Jul 31
Beyond the Beat, Exit 9, percussion
ensemble.
Sat-Sun
Drop-In Art Activities, 1-4pm.
2nd Sat
Storytime in the Galleries, 12-1pm.
School Year Programs Sept.June
Sat & Sun
Interactive Gallery Activities, 11-4pm.
Art and Science Activities, 1-4pm.
Animal Explorations, meet live animals
from the Mini Zoo, 1-4pm.
Planetarium Shows: Children's show,
1 & 3pm. Family feature (ages 10 & up), 2 & 4pm.
Wed-Sun
Drop-In Gallery Tours. Reserved
tours for groups of 10 or more can be arranged for a fee, 973-596-6613.
New Jersey Children's Museum
599 Valley Health Plaza (Exit 165 GSP), Paramus, 201-262-5151. Daily 10-6.
May 1-Sept. 30: Daily 10-5. Children and adults $10, under 1 free. Play
and learning center for preschoolers and toddlers features a real fire engine,
helicopter and backhoe; dress-up ballet studio; castle and hospital; toddler
grocery & pizzeria; science exhibits; and sand and water play. No strollers
or food allowed; snuglis are usually available. Museum may be very busy
until 12:30pm as groups visit in the morning.
Daily
Special Events include crafts,
stories and skits.
New Jersey Historical Society
Essex Club, 52 Park Place, Newark, 973-596-8500. Tues.- Sat. 10-5. Library
open Tues.-Sat. 12-5. Free admission. Families can explore New Jersey's
history through interactive exhibitions and research local history and family
geneology through the society's extensive archives, library and useful website.
Sat. family programs, adult workshops and lectures, education programs offered
for schools & groups.
Sat
Family Programs. Drop-in
activities for children 5 & up accompanied by adult.
New Jersey Museum of Agriculture
College Farm Rd. off Rt. 1S, Cook College Campus, Rutgers University, New
Brunswick, 732-249-2077. Tues.-Sat. 10-3, open Sun. for special events,
closed major holidays. Adults $4, seniors/students $3, 4-12 $2, under 4
& members free. Collection of agricultural artifacts and photographs
from the origins of the industry responsible for New Jersey's reputation
as "The Garden State." Birthday parties; group programs and tours;
summer & winter vacation camps.
Special Events
Ongoing activities and kids craft 12-3pm.
Jul 19
National Ice Cream Day, 12-3pm.
Aug 8
Peter Rabbit Garden, 12-3pm.
Sept 19
Catch the Buzz: Bees & Honey,
12-3pm.
Oct 17
Barnyard Buddies, 12-3pm.
Nov 14
On the Lenape Trail, 12-3pm.
Dec 5
Winter Celebration, 12-3pm.
New Jersey State Museum
205 West State St., Trenton, 609-292-6464 (recorded information), 609-292-6308
(weekdays only). Tues.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 12-5. Closed Sundays and state holidays.
Free, donations accepted. A four-in-one museum offers distinct sections
devoted to New Jersey's archaeology/ethnology, cultural history, fine art,
and natural history in a modern main building overlooking the Delaware River.
Entertaining and educational programs are offered in an adjoining 150-seat
planetarium and adjacent 400-seat auditorium. The planetarium is undergoing
renovation and is scheduled to reopen in August. For a schedule of student
programs, teacher workshops and information about Kaleidoscope Kids Summer
Academy, call 609-292-6347.
Selected Exhibitions
Thru Jan 24
Rising Tide: Global Warming & Sea Level
Change in New Jersey.
Ongoing
Fossil Mysteries: Investigating the Prehistoric,
presents paleontological research as a form of mystery investigation.
Aug 7
Food for Thought: First Friday Lunchtime
Lecture, join a museum paleontologist on a tour and talk.
12pm.
School Year Programs
2nd Saturday
Second Saturday Performances. Theater,
music, dance and science performances for families the second Sat. of the
month. 1pm. Free.
Sun
Sunday Science Lecture Series, world-famous
researchers present scholarly, yet familyfriendly lectures. 4pm. Free.
Pierro Gallery of South Orange
The Baird, 5 Mead St., South Orange, 973-378-7754. Fri.-Sun. 1-4 or by appointment.
Free. Contemporary art gallery exhibits regional, national and international
artists with special interest in supporting emerging artists. Exhibitions
change approx. every six weeks. Group tours and scout programs, 973-762-3120.
Princeton University
Art Museum
McCormick Hall, center of campus, Princeton, 609-258-3788. Tues.-Sat. 10-5,
Sun. 1-5. Closed Mon. & major holidays. No charge. Permanent collections
range from ancient to contemporary art. Docent tours Sat. & Sun. at
2pm. Group tours for preschool-high school students can be arranged.
Sat
Art for Families, drop-in
program 10-12pm on select Saturdays during school year for handson art projects.
Free.
Rutgers University
Geology Museum
Geology Hall, Old Queens Section, College Ave. Campus, New Brunswick, 732-932-7243.
Mon. 1-4, Tues.-Fri. 9-12, call for weekend hours. Free. Exhibits on geology
and anthropology, with an emphasis on the natural history of New Jersey,
include a dinosaur trackway from Towaco; a mastodon from Salem County; mineral
exhibits featuring the zeolite minerals of Paterson; and the zinc minerals
of Franklin. Groups tours; small rock shop.
Vietnam Era Educational Center
Garden State Parkway, Exit 116, Homdel, 800-648-VETS, 732-335-0033. Tues.-Sat.
10am-4pm. Adults $4, srs./students $2, veterans and under 10 free. The story
of the Vietnam era is told through photographs, timelines, films, interactive
displays, personal letters and artifacts. The New Jersey Vietnam Veteran's
Memorial is nearby featuring a circular black wall engraved with the names
of more than 1,000 New Jersey soldiers who lost their lives in the war.
Guided tours available for groups of 10 or more.
Visual Arts Center of New Jersey
68 Elm St., Summit, 908-273-9121. Mon.-Thurs. 9:30-8, Fri. 9:30-4:30, Sat.
& Sun. 10-4. Suggested donation: Adults $5, children/srs. $3. Docent
tours available for school, family and community groups. Contemporary art
exhibitions change every four to six weeks. Outdoor sculpture park; adult
lecture series; classes for all ages and abilities; birthday parties; kids'
& teens' art camp.
Yogi Berra Museum &
Learning Center
Montclair State University, 8 Quarry Rd., Little Falls, 973-655-2377.Wed.-Sun.
12-5pm, open 'til 7 during NJ Jackals home games. Closed major holidays.
Adults $6, students/children $4, under 5 free. Artifacts from the life of
the legendary catcher, exhibits on the history of the Yankees, Yankee Stadium,
baseball in New Jersey, baseball equipment and baseball during World War
II. Guest speakers; book signings; group and school tours; on- and off-site
sportsbased educational programs; sports broadcasting camp and baseball/softball
camp.
Jul 27-31
Bruce Beck & Ian Eagle Sports Broadcasting
Camp for boys and girls ages 13 & up. www.sportsbroadcastingcamp.com
The Jane Voorhees
Zimmerli Art Museum
Rutgers University (Tnpk. exit 9 to Rt. 18N), George and Hamilton Sts.,
New Brunswick, 732-932-7237. Tues.-Fri. 10-4:30pm. Weekends noon-5pm. Closed
Mon.; Mon. & Tues. in July. Closed Aug. and major holidays. Adults $3,
under 18 free. Free admission 1st Sun. of month.
One of the largest university art museums in the country features
strong collections of Russian art, French, Belgian and American graphic
arts and Japonisme (Western art influenced by Japan). Of particular interest
to families and children is the Rutgers Collection of Original Illustrations
for Children's Literature which documents the process of creating a book
for children. Storytelling; lectures; group tours; outreach program to local
schools; after-school drawing club; workshops for teachers; adult and children's
education; summer art camp for ages 6-60; birthday parties. Z Cafe.
Sun
Spotlight Tours, 45-min. informal
gallery tours by volunteer docents at 2pm while Rutgers is in session. Free.
Open
Studio Z: The Adi Blum Learning Center,
selfguided activities for the whole family during regular museum
hours.
Jun 29-Jul 31
Summer Art Camp.
Selected Exhibitions
Ongoing
The Dodge Collection of Nonconformist Art
from the Soviet Union, 1956-1986, the world's largest collection of
its kind.
Thru Jul 5
Inspired by Literature: Art & Fine
Books.
Thru Jul 6
Into the Garden: Painted Paper Construction
by Takayo Nodo.
County College of Morris
Planetarium
Cohen Hall, B building, 214 Center Grove Rd., Randolph, 973-328-5076. Planetarium
programs are usually presented on the 2nd weekend of each month with special
holiday programs; school programs. Call for upcoming programs.
Dreyfuss Planetarium
Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., Newark, 973-596-6529 for schedules. Press
2 for weekly update on the night sky, sunrise, sunset and moon phase information.
24-hr. Sky Report: 973-596-6611. For the latest dates to see the space station
and other satellites, visit www.heavens-above.com
or link to it from www.newarkmuseum.org.
Wed.-Fri. shows at 2pm, Sat. & Sun. shows on the hour from 1-4pm. Adults
$3, children under 12/srs./students $2, not recommended for children under
4. Tickets available at the Information Desk when the museum opens on a
first come, first served basis. Strollers are not permitted and all children
must be accompanied by an adult. Planetarium shows are followed by a tour
of the constellations and information on how to view
the planets. Sphæra portable planetarium outreach program, 973-596-6690.
Jul-Aug
The Amazing Telescope: Two Pieces of
Glass, ages 10 & up. Wed.-Sun. 1:30pm.
Sky Tellers, ages 5-9. Wed.-Sun. 2:30pm.
Lunar Odyssey, ages 6 & up. Wed.-Sun.
3:30pm.
Aug 22-Sept 11
Closed for maintenance.
Sept 12-Oct 4
The Amazing Telescope, ages 10 & up.
Wed.- Sun. 2pm.
Lunar Odyssey, Sat. & Sun. 1 &
3pm.
New Jersey Skies, Sat. & Sun. 4pm.
Summer Events
Thurs
Project Sunscope, tours of the sun
12-1:30pm July 2-Aug. 20, weather permitting. Free.
Fri
Far Out Fridays, astronomy
activity under the tent in Science Gallery, 1-4 July 10-Aug. 21.
Jul 24
Summer Stargazing, see Saturn,
the moon and more. Telescopes will be set up at Riker Hill Park, 276 Beaufort
Ave., Livingston. 9pm-12.
William D. McDowell Observatory
Meadowlands Environmental Center, Two Dekorte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst, 201-460-8300.
Open telescope viewing nights and astronomy workshops held throughout the
year.
Mon & Wed
Public Viewing Nights, for all
ages at 9pm, weather permitting. Free, limited space.
Morris Museum Astronomical
Society
973-971-3700, Meets at the Morris Museum on the second Thursday of every
month at 8pm. Membership is open to ages 14 and older.
New Jersey State Museum
Planetarium
205 West State St., Trenton, 609-292-6303. 150-seat planetarium and astronomy
gallery open for public programs, school programs and annual Scouting Astronomy
program offered in spring.
Open Aug
Grand Opening of planetarium with
new high definition and full dome video. Check website for date.
North Jersey Astronomical Group
Free telescope nights Thurs. 8-9pm in front of Richardson Hall at Montclair
State University, Montclair during the school year and skywatches for special
events, weather permitting. Monthly kids' telescope nights begin at 7:30pm.
Robert J. Novins Planetarium
Ocean County College, College Dr. (parking lot 2), Toms River, 732-255-0343.
Recorded show information: 732-255-0342. Original sky shows, observing sessions,
school programs and workshops offered for both adults, educators and children.
Closed
Planetarium closed for renovations.
Check website link at kidsguide.com for reopening.
Raritan Valley Community
College Planetarium
Rt. 28 & Lamington Rd. (Rt. 78 exit 26 or Rt, 22W), North Branch, 908-231-8805.
Park in lot #1, 6 or 7. Admission $6 two shows on the same day $10, not
recommended for children under 5. Reservations recommended. Group rates;
school group shows; Starlab portable planetarium for rent to educators who
have attended summer workshop. Also offers Project ASTRO, a program that
matches teachers in grades 2-9 with a volunteer astronomer; Family ASTRO,
a one-day training program open to anyone with an interest in astronomy;
and astronomy workshops for teachers of grades 2-12.
Summer Shows
July 7-Aug 25
Tues
Tycho to the Moon, ages
6-10. 2pm.
Laser Kids, ages 6-12. 3pm.
Two Small Pieces of Glass, ages 8-adult.
7:30pm.
Laser Concert, artists vary by week,
8:30pm.
Wed
Rockin'Rocket Ride, ages
3-8. 2pm.
Sky Lights, laser & video concert
for ages 3-8. 3pm.
Thurs
Secret of the Cardboard Rocket, ages
6-10. 2pm.
Laser Kids, ages 6-12. 3pm.
Summer Skies, 7:30pm.
Laser Concert, artists vary by week,
8:30pm.
Jul 29, Aug 5
The Skies Over Hogwarts, for
Harry Potter fans ages 8 to adult. 7:30 & 8:30pm. Reservations recommended.
Paul H. Robinson Observatory
Voorhees State Park, 251 County Rd. Route 513 (rt. 78 to Rt. 31N), Glen
Gardner, 908-638-8500. Memorial Day-Oct. 31: Sat. 8:30-10:30 & Sun.
2-5. Nov. 1-Memorial Day: 4th Sat 8:30-10:30 weather permitting (except
Dec.). Sponsored by the New Jersey Astronomical Association, lectures begin
at 8:30pm rain or shine followed by viewing until 10:30, weather permitting.
Youth class offered by appointment for groups of five or more.
Robert
A. Schommer Observatory
On the roof of the Serin Physics Laboratories, Frelinghuysen & Allison
Rds. (park in lot 53 or 53A), Busch Campus of Rutgers, Piscataway, 732-445-2531,
732-445-2503. Open to the public on the second and fourth Thurs., weather
permitting, starting at 8pm (Oct.-March) and one hour after sunset (April-Sept.).
John W. H. Simpson Observatory
Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville, 609-737-2575. The Amateur Astronomers
Association of Princeton opens its observatory to the public every Friday
April-Oct. from twilight to 11:30pm, if weather is clear.
Sperry Observatory
Union County College, 1033 Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-276-STAR. Monthly
meetings of Amateur Astronomers, Inc. are held on third Fri. of the month
from Sept.-May. Informal meetings are held on the remaining Fri. with a
program for younger audiences at 7:30pm. All are open to the public. Celestial
viewing takes place throughout the evening, weather permitting.
Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum
of New Jersey
Teterboro Airport (off Rt. 46 on Fred Wehran Dr.), Teterboro, 201-288-6344.
Tues.-Sun. 10-4. Closed Mon. Adults $7, children 2 & older/srs. $5,
group rate discount. Aeronautical Education Center (on east side of airport)
features historical exhibits, hands-on aircraft engines & equipment,
a Martin-202 airliner, M.A.S.H. unit and 60-seat theater with film tracing
the history of aviation in New Jersey. Picnic area. Birthday parties for
ages 5 & up.
New
Convair 880 Jetliner Cockpit, Grumman
OV-1A Mohawk, restored M.A.S.H. Tent.
Battleship New Jersey
Camden Waterfront (Tpk. exit 4), 866-877-6262. Open for guided tours Jan.-Feb.
Fri.-Mon. 9:30-3; Mar.-Apr. Daily 9:30-3; May-Sept. Daily 9:30-5; Sept.-Dec.
Daily 9:30-3. Adults $18.50, srs./veterans $14, ages 6-11 $14, under 6,
active military and BB62 Vets free. Floating museum and veteran's memorial
showcases the most decorated ship in history. Group tours; team-building
programs; overnight encampments.
Black River & Western Railroad
12 Stangl Rd., Flemington; John Ringo Rd., Ringoes, 908-782-6622. Antique
passenger coaches depart Flemington and Ringoes weekends May-Dec. for a
scenic ride through rural Hunterdon County. Adults $14, children 3-12 $7,
under 3 free. First come, first served, no advance tickets sold except for
North Pole Express. Special events include the Easter Bunny Express, Great
Train Robbery, Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch Train, North Pole Express and
Santa Express.
Special Events
Jul 11, 18, Aug 8, 15
The Saturday Night Special, board
a late afternoon train from Ringoes to Flemington. Shop, dine, return on
evening train.
Sept 19-20
The Great Train Robbery, the
dreaded "Covered Bridge Gang" boards the train.
Sept 26-27, Oct 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25, Nov 1
The Crazy Train Maze at Pumpkin Junction,
ride to the corn maze and pumpkin patch.
Nov 27-29, Dec 5-6
The Santa Express, Santa and
his elves ride the train to Ringoes.
Nov 27-28, Dec 5, 11-12
The North Pole Express, journey
to the North Pole to see Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Model Railroad Club, Inc.
P.O. Box 1146, End of Jefferson Ave., off Rt. 22 East, Union, NJ 07083,
908-964-9724; 964-8808 recorded message. Open to the public Sat. 1-4pm.
Adults $5, srs. $4, ages 2-15 $3.
Nov 27-
Dec 13
Annual Light & Sound Show. Adults
$7, srs. $6, ages 2-15 $5. Advance discount tickets available online.
New Jersey Naval Museum
Court & River St., Hackensack, 201-342-3268. Sat.-Sun. 10-4pm, last
tour at 3:15. Call ahead to confirm hours. Adults $8, under 12 $3, group
rates. Guided tour of the USS Ling, a WWII submarine. Birthday parties;
overnights.
New Jersey Transit Train
and Bus
Information: 800-626-RIDE. Weekend and Holiday Family Supersaver Fare:
Two children (11 and under) ride free when accompanied by a full fare-paying
parent or guardian on weekends, beginning 7pm Friday (or the eve of a holiday)
until 6am Mon. or the day after a holiday. At all times, children 4 &
under travel free when accompanied by a full fare paying parent or guardian,
children aged 5-11 pay children's fare (half fare or less).
Summer
Visit website
for package prices to Six Flags Great Adventure, Monmouth Park Racetrack,
the Shore and Atlantic City, and discount offers available with a valid
light rail, rail or bus ticket.
New York Susquehanna & Western
100 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg, 908-454-4433 (weekends 10-4). Steam train
runs weekends May-Oct. Diesel locomotive runs Nov.-May. Adults $14, children
$7, tickets available online. The only steam locomotive operating in New
Jersey offers scenic one-hour trips along the Delaware River weekends May-Oct.
or themed excursions throughout the year including Santa Claus, Polar Express,
Easter Bunny,
Special Events
May- Nov 1
Mine Train, ride to Susquehanna
Mining Co. for gemstone panning.
Warren County Wine Train, scenic ride
along the Delaware to two New Jersey wineries.
Jul 3-5, Jul 10-12
Day Out with Thomas, 25-min.
ride with full-size Thomas the Tank engine.
Aug 29-Nov 1
Corn Maze Train, bring a
picnic and spend the day, weekends.
Oct 3-18
Great Pumpkin Train, ride to the
pumpkin patch, weekends.
Nov 28-Dec 20
The Polar Express, visit
with Santa, weekends.
New York Waterway
800-53-FERRY. A quick, convenient and scenic route to midtown and downtown
Manhattan via ferry service from Hoboken, Jersey City or Weehawken. Free
shuttle to Times Square area.
Pine Creek Railroad
In Allaire State Park, Rt. 524 (exit 98 GSP), Allaire (Wall), 732-938-5524.
April-Dec.: 12-4:30 weekends & special events. June 30-Labor Day weekend:
Daily 12-4:30. Tickets $4. Parking fee Memorial Day-Labor Day. Narrow gauge
rail line operates vintage diesel locomotives every half hour on a 1.5 mile
loop in Allaire State Park. School groups; birthday parties.
Sept
Haunted Nights Express tickets
on sale, $7.50.
Sept 12-13
Railroader's Weekend Celebration,
everything that runs, does. Train fare $5 per person.
Oct
Fall Foliage, every half
hour 12-4pm. $7.50.
Oct 16
Christmas Express tickets on sale,
$5.
Oct 17-18, 24-25, 31
Haunted Express Nighttime Rides, through
the haunted woods of Allaire State Park. 7:30-9:30pm. $7.50, advance tickets
recommended.
Nov 27-29
Christmas Express tickets on
sale. $5.
Dec 5-6, 12-13, 19-20
The Christmas Express, train
ride with Santa departs every half hour 11-4. $5.
Dec 12, 19
Christmas Express Nights, new
nighttime train.
Whippany Railway Museum
1 Railroad Plaza, Rt. 10W & Whippany Rd., Whippany, 973-887-8177. Open
for special events. Suggested donation: Adults $1, children $.50. Railroad
memorabilia, exhibits, large operating Lionel train layout, gift shop, picnic
grounds.
45-min. rides with Santa or the Easter Bunny depart 1, 2, 3, &
4pm seasonally. Reservations are strongly recommended. Order online with
credit card or send ticket order with check or money order and self-addressed,
stamped #10 envelope to: PO Box 16, Whippany, 07981-0016. Tickets go on
sale at museum on day of trip for remaining seats. Adults $12, under 12
$8, babes-in-arms free.
Jul 12, 19, Sept 13, 20
Caboose Train Rides, 45-min.
round trip ride aboard antique restored cabooses.
Oct 4
Pumpkin Festival 2009, 12-5:30
rain or shine.
Dec 5, 12, 13, 19, 20
Santa Claus Special, see listing
for details.
Apr
Easter Bunny Express, see listing
for details.

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