Embrace the Winter Wonderland: 12 Must-Try Winter Activities In New Jersey
New Jersey is preparing for its first significant snowfall in two years this weekend, which means it's the perfect time to enjoy all that the winter season has to offer. Although the cold weather may keep some people indoors, there are numerous exciting indoor and outdoor activities to explore this January, whether you're a skiing enthusiast, a fan of ice sports, or simply searching for fun family activities. To make things easier for you, we've compiled a list of our top 9 recommendations for exciting winter activities in the area.
1. Mountain Creek Ski Weekend
Known for providing the best nearby ski experience for New Jersey families, Mountain Creek in Vernon offers 46 runs, snow tubing, and a vertical drop of 1,000 feet. For frequent visitors, consider purchasing a season pass or ticket package. It's the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
2. Tube & Ski at Campgaw Mountain
Ideal for beginners and young skiers, Campgaw Mountain in Mahwah offers group and private lessons for ages 6 and under, along with a dedicated beginner hill featuring magic carpets for easy access. Additionally, the mountain offers snow tubing, and advance tickets are recommended. Season passes are currently available.
3. Glide At Secaucus Ice Skating Rink
Tucked away in Buchmuller Park, the Secaucus Ice Skating Rink offers public skate sessions on select days. Check the schedule for available hours from October to March. Enjoy a delightful ice skating experience in the Meadowlands.
4. Embrace the Thrill Of Ice Bumper Cars
Experience the thrill of bumping into others on the ice at Van Saun County Park in Paramus with Bergen County Winter Wonderland Ice Bumper Cars. Each 45-minute session includes two 8-minute sessions of bumper car fun on the ice. Tickets start at $20, and the calendar provides the full schedule.
5. Bowl and Play at Humdingers
For a blend of excitement and relaxation, visit Humdingers. Featuring 12 boutique bowling lanes, automated batting cages, a laser maze, and an arcade with prizes, Humdingers offers a variety of unique activities suitable for both parents and kids.
6. Try Out Ice Hockey for Free
On Saturday, February 24, 2024, participate in Try Ice Hockey for Free Day at local participating rinks. USA Hockey and over 500 local programs across the country encourage kids aged 4 to 9 to experience ice hockey as part of Hockey Week Across America.
7. Sled Down NJ's Best Hills
Keep your fingers crossed for a snowstorm and head to one of NJMOM's 50 favorite sledding hills for a day of fun, active, and free sledding with the family.
8. Take An NYC Day Trip To Bryant Park
Venture to the heart of Manhattan and explore the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. Open from mid-November to late February, it offers a range of activities, including ice skating, bumper cars on ice, curling, ice dance performances, and cozy igloos for relaxation.
9. Ski Inside at Big Snow American Dream
Reopened in early 2022, Big Snow American Dream in East Rutherford is North America's first and only indoor, year-round ski and snowboard resort. With a steady 28-degree temperature, it provides a unique indoor snow experience. The facility offers indoor ski lifts, sno-go bike rentals, and various lesson programs for visitors of all skill levels.
10. Dine At New Jersey's Coziest Restaurants
In the cold months of winter, getting out of the house for a nice, mellow, and memorable meal can be a game changer! Some of our favorites are The Barn in Wyckoff, Carpe Diem in Hoboken, The Barrow House in Clifton, Saddle River Inn in Saddle River, Ho-Ho-Kus Inn, and the Iron Horse in Westwood. See 32 additional cozy options throughout all of N.J.
11. Have An "Ultra-Luxe" Move-Night
The AMC Dine-In Shops at Riverside 9 in Hackensack exudes an upscale ambiance, featuring signature recliners, a MacGuffins bar with food delivered directly to your seat, a bar offering alcoholic beverages, and all the traditional elements you would expect in a regular theater.
12. See What's "Brewing" In Asbury Park
For a relaxed evening any time, visit Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten, where you can enjoy delicious wursts, schnitzel, and over 100 different types of beer while sitting at communal tables. For daytime fun, go retro at the Silverball Museum Arcade, which features all of the pinball and arcade games from your youth.