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Easy and Fun Things To Do With Your Baby

1. Duke Farms – Hillsborough

With paved, flat paths and a nice bathroom at the Orientation Center for diaper changes before you hit the trails, this park is perfect for a relaxing stroller walk. 

2. Frelinghuysen Arboretum – Morris Township

Strap on your baby carrier and check out this beautiful arboretum. The park is easy to walk in and has a mix of gravel and paved paths.

3. Liberty State Park – Jersey City

On a clear day, this spot is unbeatable. Grab the stroller and hit Liberty Walk, a 2-mile path along the water. Soak up incredible views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline—a perfect backdrop for photos.

4. South Mountain Reservation – West Orange

When you need a smooth ride for the strollers, head for the 1.7-mile walking loop around the reservoir. It's scenic and lets you get some steps in while the baby gets some fresh air.

5. Story Time at a Local Library – Statewide

I lucked out because my grandma worked at our local library during my son's first year. We could knock two things off our to-do list – spending time with GG and reading – by visiting during her lunch break. Though most story times are aimed at children 2+, you can find classes for children under 1, such as Baby Bookworm Lapsit at Haddonfield Library.

Often, the class starts with some songs and finger play, interspersed with a few short books. These classes often end with some baby-free play that gives the parents a chance to chat. Your baby will be super excited to hear his or her favorite stories read aloud by someone who isn’t mommy or daddy (I’m pretty sure my son has been over my Pout-Pout Fish voice for months). You’ll love the change of scenery and maybe make a new friend.

6. Colonial Park – Somerset

A cherished memory for each of my babies has been their first time in a swing. Those baby smiles and giggles as I would gently push them are ingrained in my memory. It is easy to make lasting memories at Colonial Park, which has a fantastic playground with several bucket swings, toddler slides, and small crawling areas. The bathrooms are pretty close to the playground, too. For even more options, check out one of these toddler-friendly playgrounds. 

RELATED: Baby Swimming Lessons in New Jersey: 10 Top Picks for Babies and Toddlers

Any born-and-bred Jersey baby is going to have to learn the ways of heading down The Shore before too long. Photo by Lisa Warden

Outdoor Activities for Babies

7. Keansburg Beach

Babies love to feel the sand, so take them to a free beach for a short time when it's not too hot outside. Keansburg is a nice one to try. Under 6 months, sunscreen is not recommended, so be sure to bring a tent and keep your baby covered with clothes and a hat. If your baby is 6 months+, lotion up and hit the Shore. Just remember to keep your water babies well hydrated and in the shade for the majority of the day.

8. Van Saun Park – Paramus

This park is near and dear to the hearts of many NJ families because there's so much to do. For a small fee, you can also ride the mini train or take a carousel ride. There's also a great little zoo that's free, which is a great option in case you need to make a quick exit.

9. Turtleback Zoo – West Orange

For any parents who haven’t yet been to the Turtle Back Zoo, there are many opportunities for your babe to bond with animals from the sidelines: stroller-bound boos can still be entertained by all the wildlife around them, while more adventurous tykes can try out the touch tank or watch their older sibs feed giraffes and/or goats. 

10. Cohanzick Zoo – Bridgeton

Check out the FREE Cohanzick Zoo (my personal favorite for younger kids). There is a splash pad right next door if you want to knock two out in one day. 

11. Point Pleasant Beach 

Spend time walking a lively boardwalk like Point Pleasant Beach. Other good options are Ocean City, Asbury Park, or Wildwood. 

12. First Splish Splash at Dorbrook Recreation Area Spraypark – Colts Neck

The beach is great, but going down the Shore isn’t the only option in NJ. There are several independent spray parks in the state, and a sprinkling of others attached to larger local playgrounds—so babies have the option to play in and out of the water. Dorbrook has a variety of water features, from sprayers and sprinklers to water tables. There's a sand area, too. Reservations are required, but admission is FREE.

RELATED: Fun First Birthday Party Ideas for NJ Kids

The Garden State is full of petting zoos and other fun places to make furry friends. Photo by Lisa Warden

13. Brookhollow's Barnyard – Boonton

Good thing New Jersey has tons of petting zoos and farms to see "anima" (as my son called them). At Brookhollow’s Barnyard, guests will see animals up close in their enclosures and can even feed them with a shovel—so whether your little chickadee is a more independent waddler or still likes to be carried by mama or dada, it’s a super-safe and controlled way to see farm animals. 

RELATED: Best Pregnancy and Parenting Classes in New Jersey

Storybook Land is a perfect first amusement park for a baby and plenty of fun for big sibs. Photo by Lisa Warden

14. Storybook Land – Egg Harbor

We went to Storybook Land to celebrate our 4-year-old's birthday, and we were pleasantly surprised by how many of the rides our 8-month-old could enjoy with the family. She squealed going up on the Ferris wheel, was excited to ride on the train, and was delighted riding the carousel. Best of all, Storybook Land is free for kids under 2! If Storybook Land is too far a trip, check out these other preschool-aged theme parks for your baby's first trip to a theme park. And consider going to Storybook Land during the holiday season, since your baby will be sure to love the festive light display. 

Indoor Activities for Babies

Little ones love the light wall at Liberty Science Center. Photo by Michelle Vames

15. Liberty Science Center – Jersey City

This one makes the list because it's a perfect option for mixed-age groups that include babies. Pick an off-peak time to visit this amazing facility, and choose some activities your budding baby science may enjoy, like the life-sized Lite Bright, One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure in the planetarium, Wobbly World, or the Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood exhibit. Note that the elevators can get packed on busy days, so you may prefer to take the stairs with a baby carrier and backpack.

16. Imagine That!!! – Florham Park

One of my favorite places to visit as a Jersey kid was Imagine That!!! From the music room to the play food, to the fire truck, it's bound to be a hit with the littlest explorers. But there are tons of baby-friendly children’s indoor playgrounds in Northern NJ to check out. From interactive exhibits to soft, padded tot spots where soon-to-be toddlers and crawlers can come to play, the sensory stimulants are in no short supply. 

17. Jungle Jim and Jane – Atlantic Highlands

Make a reservation for 90 minutes of open play at Jungle Jim and Jane, which features lots of gentle soft play structures in the toddler area. For other options, check out our guides to Central New Jersey and South Jersey indoor play spots.

18. Grownup and Me Swim Classes – Statewide

If you do have a little guppy who is eager to try out his/her fins, there are plenty of baby swim classes in NJ. They’re all grown-up-and-me format, too, so baby never has to feel like a fish out of water. 

19. Do Art Together at Play Day Hoboken 

Make art studios offer drop-in classes, and some are perfect for little ones. If your child is approaching 1, get a reservation for Gum Art & Sensory at Play Day to hear a story, do finger painting together, and mold with play-dough. You'll treasure the memories and the art you make together. 

20. Take a Music Class with Kids' MusicRound – Statewide

Baby music classes may be one of the few classes that babies can sort of participate in as they move a shaker, get bounced to the music, or try to clap their hands. Kids' MusicRound has classes all around the state and offers a nice mix of musical play activities.

Must-Do Baby Experiences in New Jersey

No matter the season, there are fun holiday moments to capture on camera! Photo by Lisa Warden

21. First Halloween at Norz Hill Farm – Hillsborough

Cider donuts and apple cider are certainly the way to start any pumpkin patch outing, followed by pumpkin carving and playing with the slimy pumpkin guts. Norz Hill Farm is nice because it's not too overwhelming. You can get a hay ride to see the farm animals before heading to the pumpkin patch.

22. Apple Picking at Donaldson Farms – Hackettstown

If you'd like to go apple picking in Northern NJ, Donaldson Farms is a great pick. There are some adorable setups for photo ops and a few lawn games, making for a laid-back vibe. There is no admission fee to get to the orchards; just pay for what you pick. The farm also has hay rides and a corn maze for an extra fee.

23. Hoboken Ragamuffin Parade

Once their first Halloween comes around, pick out your favorite costume and celebrate Halloween at the annual Hoboken Ragamuffin Parade. Enjoy live bands, festive floats, and a spectacular costume showcase. 

24. Santa Train Ride at Black River & Western Railroad North Pole Express – Flemington

Looking for a memorable first Christmas pic? Book a ride on a Santa train like Black River & Western Railroad North Pole Express. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, have cookies and hot cocoa, ring sleigh bells, and make precious memories.

25. See the Easter Bunny at Easter EggstravagaganZoo at Cape May Zoo

Springtime fun includes visits with the Easter Bunny (including train rides). One low-stress way to get a picture with the Easter Bunny and not have to worry about a chaotic egg hunt is the FREE Cape May Zoo, which lets visitors snap pics with this popular rabbit.

26. First Haircut at Cookie Cutters – Livingston, North Plainfield, Freehold, Edgewater, Mahwah

What I love about kid-friendly haircut places like Cookie Cutters is all the sweet vehicles that your child can sit in while they get a cut. They'll also provide a movie to keep baby entertained, and there are special packages available to celebrate the very first haircut appointment.

27. First Birthday Party

Never thought you’d make it here, right?! Well, congratulations!! Your first year as parents is done, and your tiny human is now 1! Whether you want to throw a small party at home or go all-out with a fete your friends and fam will never forget, you’ll make an unforgettable first impression either way! We’ve rounded up a great group of first birthday spots, so start imagining that first birthday photo shoot right now!

28. Baby's First Photo Shoot

You've seen the newborn photos where the baby is so pliable and sleeping with adorable props? Photos like these are priceless. Still, baby photo shoots can be stressful, especially if you have other kids that you are bringing along who want in on the photos. Try to make it less stressful by timing it right after a nap and a feeding so the baby is happy, and bring extra clothes in case of a spit-up or diaper blowout.

Be prepared, sometimes your baby just isn't feeling it. It can feel like a bummer to put all that effort and money into the photo shoot when your infant isn't cooperating, but we have always gotten at least one photo from every shoot that was worth framing. One of my favorite photos of all time is of my 2-year-old son holding my newborn daughter during a photo shoot while both are crying. I feel like it summed up those first early months with two young children when everyone was adjusting. 

29. Sesame Place – Langhorne, PA

If your baby knows Elmo and Zoe, then you'll definitely want to take a trip to nearby Bucks County to see all their favorite friends from Sesame Place.

Baby Activities in New Jersey FAQ

Q: What are the best things to do with a baby in New Jersey?
A: Find activities that are engaging for both of you, aren't overly crowded, and have somewhere you can escape to feedings or diaper changes. Bonus if it's not too expensive, so you won't feel bad if you need to make a quick getaway. Look for baby-friendly indoor and outdoor classes, parks, splash pads, storytimes, baby gyms, and curated seasonal activities.

Q: Where can I find free baby-friendly activities in New Jersey?
A: Libraries can be a fantastic place to find baby storytimes and classes. Also check community centers and local parks, which often host free baby storytimes, music classes, and seasonal events.

Q: What indoor activities are good for babies in New Jersey?
A: Baby gyms, music classes, museums with toddler-friendly exhibits, and sensory play workshops are perfect for rainy or cold days.

Q: What outdoor activities are best for babies in New Jersey?
A: Try stroller walks, splash pads, arboretums, and petting farms, which offer fresh air and gentle stimulation.

Originally published in 2018. Lisa Warden contributed additional reporting.