Bloom, Explore, Discover: The Best Family-Friendly Day Trips in New Jersey This Spring

As winter fades and spring awakens with bursts of color and fresh air, families across New Jersey are eager to get outside, reconnect, and create new memories! Fortunately, the Garden State offers a vibrant mix of enriching, family-friendly day trips that celebrate nature, art, wildlife, and wonder—all within a short drive! Whether you're looking to picnic beneath a canopy of blossoms, wander through sculpture gardens, or say hello to a giraffe, New Jersey delivers.

Here are our top picks for unforgettable spring day trips in 2025:

Branch Brook Park Cherry Blossom Festival — Newark, NJ (April 5–13, 2025)

Every spring, Newark's Branch Brook Park transforms into a magical sea of pink and white as over 5,000 cherry blossom trees burst into bloom—the largest collection in the United States. The Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this natural wonder with family-friendly events including a Family Day, a 10K run, cultural demonstrations, and more. Pack a picnic blanket, bring your camera, and let your children marvel at nature’s grandeur.

Pro Tip: Visit during midweek for smaller crowds and peaceful strolls under the blossoms.

Grounds For Sculpture — Hamilton, NJ (Open Year-Round, Ideal in Spring)

Art meets nature at this stunning 42-acre park where imaginative sculptures emerge from landscaped gardens, wooded paths, and reflective water features. Grounds For Sculpture offers a hands-on experience that invites children to wander, wonder, and interact with creativity at every turn. Spring is the perfect season to explore the blooming gardens and attend one of the park’s family art workshops or outdoor performances.

Make It Special: Reserve a table at the park’s award-winning restaurant, Ratatouille, for a memorable meal surrounded by sculpture and spring scenery.

Cape May County Park & Zoo — Cape May Court House, NJ (Free Admission, Open Daily)

A perennial favorite for families, the Cape May Zoo offers an engaging and affordable way to spend a spring day. Home to over 550 animals representing more than 250 species, the zoo also includes shaded walking trails, a large playground, and picnic areas. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. Spring is an ideal time to visit, with mild temperatures and active animals enjoying the fresh air.

Insider Tip: Pair your zoo visit with a quick drive to Cape May’s beaches or lighthouse for an extra touch of coastal adventure.

Liberty Science Center — Jersey City, NJ

This dynamic destination blends indoor excitement with outdoor learning. The Liberty Science Center is a favorite for curious minds of all ages, featuring hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Spring often brings special exhibits and STEM-focused programming perfect for young scientists in the making.

Don't Miss: The outdoor Wild About Animals exhibit and skyline views of Manhattan from nearby Liberty State Park.

Reeves-Reed Arboretum — Summit, NJ

For families seeking a quiet retreat into nature, Reeves-Reed Arboretum offers a peaceful setting to explore the season’s awakening. Wander child-friendly trails through blooming gardens, join in weekend family programs, or enjoy one of their spring-themed storytimes under the trees.

Educational Angle: Spring workshops often include pollinator education, seed planting, and nature journaling.

Historic Smithville — Galloway, NJ

Step back in time with a day trip to Historic Smithville, a charming village filled with boutique shops, old-fashioned fun, and spring festivals. Ride the vintage carousel, explore paddle boats on the lake, and enjoy live music and seasonal treats in a quaint, family-oriented setting.

Family Favorite: Look for the annual May Day festival or the Spring Fling celebration for extra entertainment.

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These destinations offer more than just entertainment—they provide opportunities to learn, bond, and marvel at the beauty of the world around us. As nature renews itself, spring invites families to do the same. So pack a lunch, grab the sunscreen, and set out to make memories that will bloom long after the season has passed.

Here’s to joyful adventures and meaningful moments—all right here in New Jersey.