North Wildwood hosts a fun-filled St. Patrick's Day parade overflowing with Irish pride. Photo courtesy of Wildwoods

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The Rainforest Cafe has two family-friendly restaurants in New Jersey. Photo courtesy of Rainforest Cafe

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The Battkeship New Jersey is an amazing hands on experience for families. Photo by Lisa Warden

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March brings the seasonal opening of Diggerland, where kids can get hands-on with real construction equipment. Photo courtesy of the park

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Romp with the triceratops and other dinos at Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia. Photo by Janet Bloom

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Cruise in the Playmobil Fire Truck during your trip to Toys

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Get drawn into the art at the Morris Museum next time you're looking for indoor activities for kids in New Jersey. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

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Attractions at Morganville's Play Big Zone include arcades games and a 2,000-square-foot obstacle course.

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Admission to the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton is completely free. Photo by Lisa Warden

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At Genius Gems in Millburn, kids under 2 get in free with an older sibling.

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Hang out with the giant hippos at Camden's Adventure Aquarium. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

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The Funplex has two New Jersey locations for families to explore and enjoy.

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New Jersey kids can find free fun climbing the pirate ship at the free Garden State Plaza Westfield mall. Photo by Mommy Poppins

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The accessible playground at Watsessing Park works for children of all abilities. Photo by Margaret Hargrove

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Pet baby goats on a visit to Brookhollow's Barnyard in Boonton. Photo by Kaylynn Ebner

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Beyond the casinos, Atlantic City is an all-ages playground, with Island Waterpark, boardwalk amusements, beach access, and more fun.

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Palmer Square is a great place to relax in the heart of Princeton. Photo courtesy of Palmer Square

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At a Bach to Rock birthday party, kids can sing karaoke or record their own CD.

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Help your kids develop their creative side with art classes

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Nickelodeon Universe is one of the can't-miss destinations at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the venue

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Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.

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Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and much more. Photo by Ali Chandra

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The Camden Children's Garden offers free admission for children under 2.

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Hop aboard a stagecoach for a ride back in time at Wild West City, one of New Jersey's top attractions.

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Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

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Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains in New Jersey

Join a magical trip on the Polar Express powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Photo courtesy of the railway

10/25/24 - By Laurie Rein

Every year Polar Express train rides come to New Jersey, with the Garden State's railroads decked out in their holiday best. We know it's a bit early to start hauling out the holly, but these Polar Express trains and Christmas trains are a popular holiday tradition, and they sell out fast!

Though these Christmas trains don't go all the way to the North Pole, most include a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with treats, caroling, movies, and stories. We've even included a trolley ride hosted by Mrs. Claus herself. Read on to find out where to take a Christmas train ride near New Jersey with Santa, and book your tickets as soon as possible.

If you're already thinking about other must-do activities this holiday season, be sure to check out our rundown of the most spectacular holiday light displays in New Jersey and other tips in our Guide to Christmas and Holiday Events in NJ for Families.

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