Dore Duhaime

Latest posts by Dore Duhaime

A Dozen Easy Hiking Trails in NJ for Families to Tackle This Fall

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Mon, 09/20/2021 - 4:15pm

Most trails at Hacklebarney State Park follow along the river.

The fall season is the perfect time to get the family outdoors for a nature walk or an easy hike when trees are ablaze with fall colors and temperatures are just right. These easy hiking trails in New Jersey are perfect for families with young kids. Pick the right trail, pack enough snacks, and pad your expected hike time by an extra hour to allow break time for little legs, and you'll have a great day soaking up the fall scenery around Jersey's many forests and state parks. If we get a late heatwave, consider visiting one of these hiking trails near swimming holes, streams, and more wet places to play.

Best River Tubing and Rafting for New Jersey Families

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Tue, 07/20/2021 - 3:58pm

Lakeview Marina offers motorboat-towed tubing adventures on Lake Hopatcong.

New Jersey offers several scenic spots where you can enjoy river tubing and rafting. Whether you opt to head west to go tubing on the Delaware River or hitch a ride around one of New Jersey's swimming lakes, there are plenty of options, including gentle tubing and paddling adventures suitable for children age 4+, so the whole family can enjoy this classic summer thrill.

Find more wet-and-wild fun at these local inflatable water parks and in our Summer Fun Guide.

Historic Villages in NJ That Are Fun for Kids and Families

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Tue, 05/18/2021 - 6:31pm

Historic Cold Spring Village hosts family-friendly events throughout the year, including the Seafarers Weekend in August. Photo courtesy of the village

Unplug and step back in time at one of New Jersey's historic villages, which offer families a taste of what life was like in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Located throughout the state, these historic villages feature blacksmith shops, working farms, gristmills, historic houses, general stores, and more, and many host family-friendly events throughout the year. Whether you're looking for an authentic historical outing or an afternoon of quaint shopping, these 10 spots make for a great family day trip.

For more historical day trip inspiration, check out our list of Revolutionary War sites to visit with kids.

10 Great Picnic Spots for Families in Northern New Jersey

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Tue, 04/20/2021 - 4:15pm

In addition to picnicking, Liberty State Park boasts a playground, riverfront paths, and stunning views of NYC. Photo by Ken Lund via Flickr

Picnics are simple pleasures kids of all ages can enjoy, so grab a blanket and your favorite goodies and head out to one of North Jersey's best spots for family gatherings. From majestic views and wooded trails to tranquil lakes and shaded playgrounds, these parkland treasures are worth a visit. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, planning a family reunion, or just heading out for an afternoon of fun, New Jersey's parks will not disappoint.

For even more warm-weather activities, check out our Spring Fun Guide, featuring our top picks for family campgrounds and more.

Easy Spring Break Getaways for New Jersey Families

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Tue, 03/30/2021 - 3:06pm

It's always a tropical getaway at Sahara Sam's.

Spring break means sunshine and outdoor fun, but it's likely a trip to a far-flung resort is on hold for now. We've found some spring break staycation destinations close to home for a low-key vacation that's an ideal way to welcome warmer weather.

Most New Jersey schools are on spring break in late-March/early-April, when weather in the Northeast can be unpredictable: too chilly for outdoor swimming, yet too warm to stay cooped up inside all week. So dress everyone in layers and plan a mix of indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family. We've rounded up the best options for fun family destinations in and around the Garden State, from New Jersey beach towns and indoor water parks to Pocono resorts and Hudson Valley getaways.

If you're looking for a shorter jaunt minus the overnight stay, check out our guide to New Jersey family day trips.

New Jersey's Liberty State Park: A Perfect Family Day Trip

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Tue, 02/23/2021 - 2:16pm

Enjoy the beauty and views at Liberty State Park, which offers a lovely destination in all seasons. Photo courtesy of the Park

With majestic views of the Hudson River, Statue of Liberty, and Lower Manhattan, plus acres of sprawling green lawns, a riverfront walkway, nature trail, picnic areas, playgrounds, and one of our favorite kid-friendly museums, Jersey City's Liberty State Park is ideal for a memorable family day trip.

Whether you spend a day exploring the park, or use it as a jumping-off point for more adventures, this green space on the banks of the Hudson is worth a visit. You can also head indoors for an afternoon at the Liberty Science Center, followed by a bite at one of our favorite family-friendly restaurants in Downtown Jersey City.

Read on for our favorite things to do during a visit to Liberty State Park, and find more outdoor family adventures in our Guide to Local Parks and Playgrounds.

10 Favorite NJ Parks and Reservations with Fun for Kids

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Sun, 09/13/2020 - 1:00pm

Explore the easy trails at Eagle Rock Reservation and you might just find something new. Photo by Judith San Pedro Belmonte

Looking for fresh air and family adventure? Head out to explore one of New Jersey's "reservations" — forested nature preserves that are like mini state parks. Hidden along river banks and tucked into woodlands, these New Jersey parks are ideal for family hikes, picnics, and biking. You can bring binoculars to spy on colorful birds or wear boots to let the kids muck around with turtles and frogs.

Most reservations have marked trails, education and nature centers, playgrounds, and restroom facilities, while others are a bit more rugged, with "carry in/carry out" policies—meaning not even trash cans are provided.

We've rounded up 10 New Jersey reservations with a variety of offerings. Read on to find the best spot for your next outdoor adventure!

40+ Birthday Freebies: Free Meals and Special Deals for NJ Birthday Kids

Submitted by Dore Duhaime on Wed, 02/26/2020 - 12:35pm

Birthday kids get a free cookie at Great American Cookie. Photo courtesy of the company

We've all been caught up in birthday party hoopla, whether baking cakes and making party-themed treats or spending big bucks to rent a party place. But for those years when a low-key celebration is in order, birthday freebies are a great perk. From BOGO ice cream and pancakes to free bowling and arcade game tokens, coupons and discounts are yours for the taking when you register for kids' clubs or customer loyalty programs at New Jersey restaurants and stores.

Read on for our A-to-Z list of birthday discounts, treats, and deals. If you're planning a party, don't miss our NJ Kids' Birthday Party Guide for ideas on party spots, specialty cakes, and at-home party fun. And don't forget that many New Jersey restaurants offer free kids' meals on weekdays, birthday or not!