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Newly Opened Destinations in NJ That Kids Are Loving

1. Edelman Fossil Park — Mantua

See life-sized dinosaur replicas at Rowan University's much-anticipated Edelman Fossil Park & Museum. From May through October, guests can even buy tickets to dig for fossils in the quarry. The museum is perfect for all ages.

2. Fun Box — Freehold, Cherry Hill

Fun Box is an enormous outdoor bounce house extravaganza that's only open during warm weather. This bouncy fun land just made its 2025 grand opening in the parking lots of Freehold Raceway Mall and Cherry Hill Mall. Book tickets in advance, since Fun Box can get crowded on some days.

3. Gatcha — Edison

Got a claw machine addict? Gatcha is a brand-new, Japanese-themed clawcade–New Jersey's first such biz. Expect play-til-you-win claw games, arcade games, and an amazing shopping and trade-in area with plushies, anime figures, tons of blind boxes, and more. You can trade in points and prizes to buy higher value items, too. Credits are a little pricey, but since the games are play til you win, you'll definitely walk away with a prize (making this arcade great for all ages, including little ones).

4. NJ Battle Zones — Wayne

Enter an epic Nerf blasters battle at the newly opened Wayne location of NJ Battle Zones. This spot has more than 10,000 square feet of space to accommodate walk-in customers. Check the website to see weekly specials and confirm walk-in hours.

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5. La Bella Cafe — Verona

Little princes and princesses will love this fairy tale cafe, which serves up fun sweets, themed drinks, and eats like rainbow grilled cheese. The cafe has some great ticketed events for kids, such as character story times, craft adventures, and high tea events. Make reservations in advance, since it's a hot spot for parties and showers.

6. Puffy Cotton Candy — Freehold

This viral cotton candy store makes huge puffs of delectable cotton candy in unique flavors and shapes like unicorns, pandas, puppies, and more. The best part is you get to watch the cotton candy artist spin your unique confection by hand. The lines can be long at this new trendy spot, so plan ahead or try to visit during off-hours. Check out coverage of our recent visit.

7. 2D Cafe Tornado — Montville

Step into a comic strip at 2D Cafe Tornado, NJ's first 2D restaurant. The cafe features whimsical black-and-white art and decor like a barn scene, a coffee stand, a shop, and trees. 

RELATED: Guide to Museums and Art for New Jersey Kids

From pretend play to toys and games, go on an imaginary journey at Adventure Nook. Photo courtesy of Adventure Nook

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8. Adventure Nook — Cape May Court House

This sweet play spot fosters imaginary play and exploration. Venture through the Adventure Market, Bella's Barnyard, Colbie's Cafe, Construction Junction, and everything in between. Little ones under 5 will have plenty to do and see at this brand-new spot, which is a perfect rainy day Jersey Shore activity. 

9. Kid Cove — Hasbrouck Heights

This is the newest indoor play spot in Hasbrouck Heights, and kids are just loving it. There's a huge ball pit with slides, fun places to climb and crawl, play houses, and soft play structures for toddlers.

10. Say Cheez LA — Jackson

This play spot from the West Coast has opened its first NJ location. Expect three-tier climbing and a soft play structure with slides and a ball pit. There's also a smaller ball pit for younger children and a toddler room with little climbers. When you need a break, there are a few arcade games to play. The place isn't huge, but it's perfect for families that prefer a smaller, less overwhelming indoor play spot.

RELATED: New Jersey Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide

Cherry Hill's indoor play venue Wild Child Play has attendance limits, so it never gets overly crowded. Photo by Lisa Warden

11. Wild Play Co. — Cherry Hill

This open, airy spot gives kids lots of ways to burn off their energy and engage in imaginative play. From building blocks to padded play areas, there's lots for little ones to keep busy.