By Madison Russ
Keeping kids busy over holiday breaks can quickly feel like a full-time job, especially if you decide to forgo a vacation.
When you’re traveling, it somehow seems easier to fill the days with activities, exploring new places, trying new things and making lasting family memories. But recreating that kind of vacation magic at home can be challenging.
Fortunately, there’s plenty to do in our area — even in the offseason — that’s fun, enriching and educational.
Unleash their wild side
For animal lovers and budding marine biologists, a day with furry, feathered or finned friends is always a win. Visit the Cape May County Zoo for giraffes, lions, snow leopards, primates, an ever-adorable red panda and more. Or head to the newly reopened Atlantic City Aquarium to see a Loggerhead sea turtle and colorful fish up close. Kids can also meet friendly farm animals on Sundays and Tuesdays at Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary in Mays Landing.
Who it’s good for: All ages.
Cost: Budget-friendly. The zoo and Funny Farm are free (donations are encouraged); the aquarium is $6 for adults, $4 for kids ages 3-12 and free for kids 2 and younger. These spots are open year-round — just be sure to check operating hours before you go.
Enjoy the great outdoors
One of the best parts of living in this area is there’s no shortage of trails and parks to explore. Chances are there’s a hidden gem in your backyard. Whether looping around Birch Grove Park, exploring the trails at Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve or heading into Belleplain or Wharton State Forest, getting outside is a great way for the whole family to unplug and get some fresh air.
Who it’s good for: All ages, but it’s worth looking up stroller-friendly trails for the tiniest adventurers.
Cost: Usually free; some state parks may have a small fee.
Get your game on
Prying young gamers away from their screens isn’t easy, but a trip to the arcade offers something for everyone in the family. Check out year-round spots like Jilly’s Arcade on the Ocean City boardwalk, with a great mix of retro and modern games, or Lucky Snake Arcade inside the Showboat Resort in Atlantic City. Lucky Snake has hundreds of games, miniature golf, go-karts, roller-skating, virtual reality games and more. It’s the perfect chance to show your kids that while you may be clueless when it comes to Fortnite, you can still school them in an old-fashioned game of Skee-Ball.
Who it’s good for: All ages — even grown-ups will have fun.
Cost: Both use rechargeable game cards. Jilly’s lets you load any amount onto a Fun Card; Lucky Snake offers weekly specials, but prices vary for some activities (like go-karting).
Inspire their creative side
Young artists will love spots like Paint Happy in Linwood, which offers creative classes ranging from art to baking and slime. Or paint your own pottery at Glazed Over Studio in Ocean City. Paint-covered kids are usually happy kids.
Who it’s good for: Classes are typically geared toward school-age kids and preteens. Pottery painting can be fun for all ages.
Cost: Varies by class. At Glazed Over, pricing depends on the piece you pick to paint.
Catch a flick
Elevate family movie night with a trip to one of our local theaters. Town Square Entertainment has locations in Rio Grande, Stone Harbor, Ocean City, Northfield and Ventnor — so why not catch “A Minecraft Movie” or “Snow White” on the big screen (with a big bag of buttery popcorn) before it hits streaming?
Who it’s good for: All ages, though toddlers may struggle with longer runtimes.
Cost: Expect to pay around $14 for adults and $11 for kids, plus snacks.
Jump into play
Keeping little movers busy (and bruise-free) isn’t easy. Bright Stars Academy in Egg Harbor Township offers drop-in open gym sessions for preschoolers and younger — a safe space to run, climb and burn off energy. The Kindly Co. in Linwood offers a different kind of hands-on fun with Montessori-friendly playgroups and classes that are perfect for curious little minds and hands.
Who it’s good for: Preschool-aged kids and younger.
Cost: Preregistration is required for both (and spots can fill up fast). Bright Stars open gym is $10 for kids 3 and younger (Little Sprouts) and $12 for kids 5 and younger. Caregivers are free. Prices at The Kindly Co. vary by class.
Visit a historical site
Our area is full of rich history waiting to be explored. Climb to the top of the Cape May or Absecon Lighthouse, stroll through Historic Cold Spring Village or visit iconic landmarks like Lucy the Elephant. The Harriet Tubman Museum offers a powerful history lesson, while the Ocean City Historical Museum features fascinating artifacts from the Sindia shipwreck and more. It’s screen-free fun that sneaks in a little learning and helps kids appreciate where they’re from.
Who it’s good for: Some sites may be best for school-age kids and teens, though younger ones may enjoy some landmarks.
Cost: Varies by location, but most are wallet-friendly. It’s best to check websites for current hours and pricing.
Make a splash
If you’re still longing for that tropical escape, Island Waterpark at the Showboat Resort in Atlantic City brings the vacation vibes all year long at an always-balmy 80 degrees. With twisting waterslides, a kid’s cove and an adventure pool, it’s a great way to wear both big and little kids out.
Who it’s good for: All ages.
Cost: General admission starts at $49, while twilight admission (after 4 p.m.) starts at $29. Kids 3 and younger are free. Check park hours and height requirements before heading out.
Madison Russ is an award-winning journalist, copy editor and adjunct professor of communication based in Atlantic County. An Ocean City native, Madison is passionate about telling stories that matter to locals, often spotlighting nonprofits and exploring the area’s vibrant arts scene.
