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5 Places To Daytrip From Our North Jersey Youth That Still Exist!

By Terrie Carr
Terrie Carr with a baby groundhog from Space Farms at an event. TC Loves her animals and interacting with them!

Terrie Carr here and as much as I hate to say it- Summer in New Jersey is winding down. BOO! Summer in New Jersey rules-  With so much to do in the state.

Beaches, Lakes, Mountains, Parks and of course the “DAYTRIP”. I remember day tripping as a kid with my family and it’s so crazy how some of the places are long gone….(Action Park, Bowcraft, Gingerbread Castle…..Ahhhh the memories).

There are however many places that you may remember and not even know that they are still in existence, welcoming visitors, and new generations and making lasting memories for families.

I decided to write this story because as we all race through summers and life and scroll through our phones a thousand times a day, let’s not forget how much fun we had jumping in the car, packing a snack, and heading to some whacky, fun, novelty theme parks right in our own backyard. We actually went on a “TRIP FOR A DAY”! How wild is that?

My list below consists of some legendary places that are still going strong after 60 years and some that are “younger” that have been welcoming families for 25 years.

Either way, before the summer breeze of 2023 gives way to New Jersey Nor’easters, let’s remind ourselves that we are never too busy to take a day, to play and take a “trip”…… (you can click on the red link in each story below the video for the link to each attraction and info!)

  • Space Farms Zoo & Museum

    Located in Wantage NJ, Space Farms covers over 100 acres and has Lions, Tigers, Bears, Snakes, and more as part of their Zoo and a Museum Complex with ninE buildings, a wildlife animal park, and more…I remember the Space Farms Bear Goliath when I was a little girl. He lived there into the early 1990’s.
    They are open for business from April through November. Check out their website for info!

    Space Farms

  • The Land Of Make Believe

    Located in Hope New Jersey, Land Of Make Believe is an amusement and water park and is still so much fun even 60-plus years since it opened. Economical, and just a clear shot up route 80 there is still time to enjoy this “Tons Of Fun” Park!

    Land Of Make Believe

  • Wild West City

    Sussex County’s Cowboy Adventure Haven, Wild West City has been bringing visitors back in time since 1956.

    Wild West City

  • Mountain Creek

    Skiing, Water Park, Bike Park (Matt Murray’s favorite place, he would give in if he could!) Vernon NJ’s Mountain Creek is the adventure capitol of the state.

    While it may not be quite as old as our previous picks, Mountain Creek opened it’s doors (or it’s Mountain) in 1998 and has been one of the state’s most popular attraction visits for 25 years. And of course, is open year-round so it’s not just a summer adventure.

    And OMG it’s my voice on the commercial voiceover! Lol

    Mountain Creek

     

  • The Funplex

    The Funplex on rt. 10 in East Hanover NJ opened in 1997, and has indoor and outdoor fun including the Splashplex Water Park and is a great place for Birthday parties and younger kids right on Route 10!

    The Funplex

Thanks for checking out my list! If you have a place that you loved heading to for a day, let me know.
Hit me up at [email protected]! Enjoy the end of summer and remember we have until September 22nd!
TC

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