When winter blankets New Jersey with sparkling snow and crisp air, it’s the perfect excuse to swap busy schedules for simple joys. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or cozy indoor escapes, the Garden State offers countless ways to make lasting memories with family and friends at these winter wonders in New Jersey. Picture snowy hikes, ice skating on sparkling rinks, and afternoons spent savoring sweet treats by a roaring fire. If you’re ready for some wholesome winter fun, here are a few beloved places and activities that transform the cold season into a time of warmth and togetherness.
High Point Cross Country Ski Center – High Point State Park, Sussex, NJ
This stunning park is home to New Jersey’s highest peak and offers over 10 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing paths, and snowy hikes through forests and lakes. A comfy lodge with a giant stone fireplace serves up hot soup and chili, the perfect way to warm up after snowy adventures. Cick Here to Visit
Liberty Science Center – Jersey City, NJ
For frosty days when outdoor plans melt away, head to the Liberty Science Center. Interactive exhibits, fascinating wildlife, and a planetarium keep kids and adults curious and entertained all day. There are always new seasonal features and daily shows that encourage hands-on learning. Click Here to Visit
Ice Skating Rinks – Various Locations
From outdoor lakes to NHL-sized arenas, you’ll find plenty of places to glide on the ice this season. Try the skating rink at Ice House in Hackensack or visit one of the many pop-up outdoor rinks across the state for a family-friendly spin on a classic winter tradition.
Maple Sugaring Tours – Tenafly Nature Center, Bergen County, NJ
Get a taste of winter’s sweetest event by joining a maple sugaring tour. Kids learn how to tap trees for sap, watch syrup boil down, and then taste the delicious result. Guided nature walks reveal winter wildlife and snow-covered scenery, making this a special seasonal outing. Click Here to Visit
Adventure Aquarium – Camden, NJ
Escape the chill and dive into the wonders of the sea at Adventure Aquarium. With hundreds of aquatic creatures, live encounters, and interactive exhibits, it’s the perfect way to spark young imaginations while staying toasty indoors. Click Here to Visit
Mountain Creek Resort – Vernon, NJ
Mountain Creek is New Jersey’s go-to spot for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Whether you’re flying down a slope or cozying up to a fireside après-ski, the resort ensures there’s something for every age and skill level. Click Here to Visit
Sledding And Snow Tubing Hills – Various Locations
Grab your sled or try the thrill of snow tubing at spots like Big Snow at American Dream, a climate-controlled indoor venue, or traditional outdoor hills dotted throughout the state. Local guides list the top hills for fast runs and fun jumps.
Sahara Sam’s Oasis – West Berlin, NJ
Trade snow boots for swimsuits at Sahara Sam’s indoor water park, where high-speed slides and tropical vibes keep kids (and their grown-ups) smiling all day. It’s a great pick for a weekend escape from the cold. Click Here to Visit
The Polar Bear Plunge – Jersey Shore
Looking for something truly unforgettable? Join the thousands of brave souls who take a dip in the Atlantic during the annual Polar Bear Plunge, cheering for charity, bundled in scarves and hats, and celebrating winter with adrenaline and plenty of laughter.
Enjoying Winter Together
There’s something magical about spending a winter day exploring New Jersey with your favorite people. Whether you’re crunching across a frosty trail, savoring hot cocoa at a local rink, or giggling through a snow tubing run, every outing is an invitation to press pause and enjoy what matters most. Cozy up, gather your family, and let New Jersey’s winter wonders fill your season with laughter, warmth, and stories you’ll remember until the snow melts away.
