7 NJ Playgrounds Worth Traveling To
Bored with your local swingset? Here are a few amazing New Jersey playgrounds worth driving to.
BY VICKY VALET
Published: 2014.08.03 05:00 AM
If you’ve been to your neighborhood playground so many times that the monkey bars have lost their thrill, it’s time for a change. Next time your kids are in the mood for some swinging and sliding, pile everyone in the car and head to one of these amazing playgrounds—they’re worth the trip!
Esposito Park
Near 659 Madison Hill Rd., Clark
This fenced-in playground has a spongy, less-likely-your-kid-will-get-hurt ground, and is also right next to tennis courts, a huge rock climbing wall and (don’t forget the helmets) a great skating area with lots of ramps. If skating isn’t for your family, take a stroll on the half-mile walking path around the freshwater wetland.
Roxbury Imagination Station
78 Eyland Ave., Succasunna
This spot’s rocketship and sea vessel will definitely be a hit with your astronaut-in-training or pirate-to-be, but it’s the beautiful murals and painted peekholes that really set this fenced-in playground apart from the rest!
Kidstreet
Claude Dr. near Municipal Complex, Bridgewater
Kids of all ages will have a blast climbing play equipment, digging in sandboxes and dangling from rope swings and zip lines at this one-of-a-kind playground. Watch from the picnic tables as they play “King of the Jungle” on the swings or sail the seven seas on the big wooden ship.
Ross Dock at Fort Lee
Henry Hudson Dr., Palisades Interstate Park System
While your kids are busy climbing tall towers and scooting down slides, you’ll be amazed by the incredible view! This Palisades Interstate Park playground sits right next to the Hudson River, just a short ride from the George Washington Bridge. (Travel tip: There’s a super scenic spot filled with urban art right under the bridge, so if you drive through on your way to the park, don’t forget the camera!)
Community Playground of Montville
127 Changebridge Rd.,Montville
As if the six football/soccer fields, baseball field, basketball court, picnic areas, amphitheater for concerts and movies, field house for parties and community garden plots weren’t enough, this spot’s also home to a giant, farm-themed playground where your kids can play “farmer” all day long.
Thompson Park
Perrineville Rd., Jamesburg
Thompson park has all the playground staples, but it’s also home to a mini zoo! Stop by the fenced-in wildlife area to visit the deer and feed the ducks. (Note: NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife strongly discourages feeding wild deer.)
Regatta Playground
Cherry Ln., West Orange
Not only is this playground totally new, but it’s got a completely adorable nautical theme, too! Located adjacent to the paddle boat and picnic areas of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, this spot has 24 pieces of play equipment—including a ship mast your little sailors can climb—plus a rubberized safety surface.
Which playgrounds do you love? Let us know of any great ones we might have missed!
[via njfamily.com]