Kids Summer Activities in Jersey City
Summertime is a magical time for kids. The warm weather allows for new and different activities, time to meet new friends and bond with family. With a little planning, you and the possibilities seem endless around Jersey City. Whether it’s cooling off at the beach or learning new things at a museum, there’s something for everyone in and around Jersey City. With a little planning and curiosity, you’ll never hear those dreaded words: “I’m bored” this summer!
Kids Summer Activities that Make a Splash
Playing in water is a must for every kid in Jersey City. Luckily, there are many options when it comes to beating the heat this summer. For a short drive, you can make it a beach day or decide to sit by a refreshing pool. Put these destinations on your cool-off list today!
Pershing Field Pool – This is a great place for swim lessons, family swim, and all around fun. Kids especially love the water sprinkler and on-site playground.
Newport Green Park – Jersey City’s “urban beach” is a favorite this time of year. Young kids love the climbing contraptions, the splash pad and the carousel. Take a stroll down the walkway and enjoy some snacks or some bubble tea, too.
Lafayette Aquatic Center – Conveniently located near downtown and Liberty State Park, this pool is great for kids of all ages. The kiddie pool offers water features and a slide. The larger pool is beautiful and everyone loves a great snack stand.
British Swim School Hudson Waterfront – This survival-first approach to swimming works with babies of 3 months up to adults in their 70s. For peace of mind with kids around water, lessons from experts are a must.
Firefighter’s Memorial Park Pool – Pop over to Union City for a dip in this Olympic-sized pool with beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline.
Sprinklers and Splash Pads
These are less of a time commitment but still a refreshing option for a hot and muggy day. Kids squeal with happiness at the simplicity of these summer activities.
Hamilton Park – Sprinklers are on daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The splash area is fenced in for safety and kids can enjoy water from buckets overhead and sprinklers below.
Van Vorst Playground – This is the heart of Jersey City and features a sprinkler area for kids during the summer months. It’s long-since been known as one of the most formal of Jersey City parks, and your kids will love it.
Enos Jones Park – Little ones love the cute sprinkler area at this small park. There’s a dolphin, whale and a seal that squirt water while kids run through. The gated area also contains a playground next to a beautiful community garden.
Riverview Fisk Park – Located at the edge of the Heights, this park has beautiful views and a lovely playground. The splash pad is a Jersey City kid favorite!
Rainy Summer Day Activities for Kids
Then there are the days when your pool plans get cancelled. Or your kids are just too beached-out. Keep the TV off and head out for one of these engaging activities instead.
Liberty Science Center – Spend the day at Jersey City’s best location for learning fun for kids. This summer you can check out a Hot Wheels race, learn about wild animals or settle in for a fantastic planetarium experience.
Jersey City Public Library – So many resources await kids and parents alike at the library. Everything from storytime events (in Spanish too!) and STEAM activities to music making and comedy. Plus, the librarians have the best access to information and ideas to keep kids learning all year long.
Ice Cream – Need we say more? It’s not just a treat, it’s an event in Jersey City. Use a trip to the creamery for an afternoon event, a reward for good behavior or because you simply don’t know what else to do. Can’t go wrong!
Cooking Classes – At Bambino Chef, kids can take virtual or in-person cooking classes. Summer camp classes are open now and you might be impressed with what your little ones learn. Bambino Chef also books groups and parties for summer fun.
Timeless Backyard Fun
When you think about your summers growing up, what stands out? Whether you have a backyard or a patio, here are some great ideas for summer fun. Run these by your kids or just surprise them with an activity to shake things up!
In the spirit of all that comes to mind with summer, remember not to over-schedule. Sometimes it’s just better to be. As our resources seem to be endless, sometimes it’s hard to believe that kids actually do benefit from being bored occasionally. But it’s true. Having time to think, for the mind to wander and ponder, all that leads to creativity.
