Small amusement parks are big on fun for families. They can have many advantages over the larger commercialized theme parks: being smaller, they are easier to navigate; they are often less expensive with lower admission fees and food prices; they are less crowded with shorter waits and lines; they are clean and very family-friendly (often gearing towards younger children, 12 and under), and more. Listed alphabetically, the following are among the best small amusement parks in the USA, and make wonderful outings for families.

Adventure City – Anaheim, California

Adventure City Drop Zone

A lovely little park for families with younger children, Adventure City in Anaheim, California is clean, very well designed, easy to maneuver with short lines, and has a friendly staff. All the rides and attractions are perfect for children, from the park’s centerpiece vintage carousel, many kiddie rides, two roller coasters, to the arcade, petting farm, and children’s theater. It offers free parking and $14.95 admission fee (as of 2011), with food and beverages that are reasonably priced. Be sure to try the mouth-watering pizza that is freshly made-to-order. You can also host parties in the park’s Party Station or Party Tree House which are big hits for birthdays. For more information visit http://www.adventurecity.com

Beech Bend Park – Bowling Green, Kentucky

Bench Bend Park - Wild Mouse Ride

Named the 5th Friendliest Park by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards, Beech Bend Park is affordable family fun with free parking, free soft drinks, and $29.99/$25.99 (adult/child under 54”) admission fees as of 2011 that include the Splash Lagoon Water Park (in season). It has dozens of rides and water slides, miniature golf, go-carts, games, a petting farm and live shows and entertainment to thrill the whole family. The park is clean, well maintained and easy to navigate with several restaurants and concession stands offering good food and treats. Birthday party packages are available for those who wish to host events here as well. This little park is a welcome treat the whole family will enjoy. For more information visit http://www.beechbend.com

Canobie Lake Park – Salem, New Hampshire

Canobie Lake Park - Xtreme Frisbee

A traditional family amusement park with history, Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire has been around for over 100 years. It features over 85 rides, games, live entertainment, and attractions with thrill rides, family rides, kids rides, and water rides that the whole family will relish. As of 2011, admission tickets are $32/$23 (adult/child under 48”), free for children ages 3 and under, and free parking. There are numerous gift shops, a variety of restaurants, and a staff that is friendly and helpful. The waits are short and there are plenty of shaded areas, which is very nice during the summer months. This park has a loyal following and has charmed both children and parents alike with its traditional appeal for decades. For more information visit http://www.canobie.com

DelGrosso’s Amusement Park – Tipton, Pennsylvania

Delgrosso's Amusement Park - Sea Dragon

With a nice variety of entertainment options in a clean, friendly environment, DelGrosso’s Amusement Park in Tipton, Pennsylvania is perfect for the entire family. It has over 30 rides that include an adjoining water park, speedway go-karts, miniature golf course and lots of family-friendly rides. The 1920s vintage carousel has a nostalgic charm with its 36 hand-carved horses. There is also an arcade, lots of games, clean restrooms, and a delicious assortment of freshly made food that is very reasonably priced. There is free parking and free admission (for those who prefer not to go on rides), and all day ride passes that can be purchased for $15.95 (as of 2011). Individual ride tickets can also be purchased. Free concerts during the summer are a delightful bonus. For more information visit http://www.delgrossos.com/dap.html

Dutch Wonderland Family Fun Park – Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Dutch Wonderland - Water Fun

Located in the timeless beauty of Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s Amish country, Dutch Wonderland Family Fun Park has been voted “One of the Top 5 Best Kids’ Parks in the World” by Amusement Today magazine many times with good reason. This kingdom for kids is a 48 acre playground with over 30 kid-friendly rides, including coasters, a water-play area, live entertainment with special shows and attractions, games, numerous eateries and food stands, and related properties including Old Mill Stream Campground, Wonderland Mini-Golf, and The Gift House at Kitchen Kettle Village. The park is home to Princess Brooke, Duke the Dragon and several Knights. As of 2011, it offers free parking and admission tickets for $33.99 that include unlimited rides, entertainment, and a round of mini-golf at Wonderland Mini-Golf. For more information visit http://www.dutchwonderland.com

Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Family Kingdom Amusement Park - Water Ride

The seaside allure of Family Kingdom Amusement Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a wonderful escape for families. This family owned park features more than 30 rides and attractions including a Ferris wheel which boasts stunning ocean and beach views, the renowned Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster, a log-flume ride, mini bumper cars, go karts and more. It also offers midway games, 6500 square feet of arcade games, live entertainment with magicians, jugglers, clowns, performing dogs, stilt walkers, face painters and balloon sculptors, and delicious park treats such as corndogs, burgers, cotton candy, funnel cakes and more. Family Kingdom Water Park is conveniently located across the street. As of 2011 admission is free. All day unlimited ride wristbands for adults and children can be purchased for $24.50 (plus tax). Individual ride tickets are also available. There is also best value amusement park and water park combo pass available for $35.00 (plus tax). For more information visit http://www.familykingdomfun.com

Funtown USA – Saco, Maine

Funtown USA - Galaxi Coaster

Funtown USA is the leader in Northern New England’s family amusement since 1967. Located in Saco, Maine, this family-owned and operated amusement park attracts families with its wonderful assortment of kiddie rides, thrill rides and family rides, classic midway games, state-of-the-art video arcades, gift shops, and variety of classic amusement park food including burgers, fries, pizza, cotton candy, fried dough, candied apples, ice cream and more. The Splashtown USA waterpark adjoins Funtown and offers more family fun. As of 2011, parking is free with Funtown USA passes available for $28/$20 (48” and taller/under 48”) which allow unlimited use of all rides and two rides on the Grand Prix Racers. Combination passes (rides and water park) are also available, and allow unlimited use of all rides, slides and pools, with two rides on the Grand Prix Racers fo$35/$26 (48” and taller/under 48”). This 82-acre park with its attractively manicured grounds provides something for everyone. For more information visit http://www.funtownusa.com/

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park – Gilroy, California

Gilroy Gardens - Gardens Railroad

With its amazing Circus Trees and majestic gardens, Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, California is a beautiful oasis for families to enjoy. This horticulturally based theme park’s main attractions are the Circus Trees – an unusual collection of spliced and grafted tree curiosities that are over 50 years old. The park features over forty family-friendly rides, attractions, water play areas, educational exhibits, live entertainment, theme gardens, food concessions, shops and more, and has a tranquility imbued by its lush landscaping. As of 2011, parking is $10 and front gate admission (for a Lotsa Card) is $44.99/$34.99 (adult/child 3-10 and senior 62+) which also qualifies as a season pass. Single day admission tickets can be purchased online for a special reduced rate (not available at front gate) through their website for $29.99 (all ages) and does not include the season (Lotsa Card) pass. For more information visit http://www.gilroygardens.org/

Holiday World – Santa Claus, Indiana

Holiday World - Hollow Swings

Adjoining Splashin’ Safari – one of the top water parks in America, Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana is a family owned and operated theme park that offers plenty of fun for the whole family. The attractions are themed to various holidays including Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. With over 30 family and kiddie rides, four roller coasters, live entertainment (including gospel and pop to country music and high-dive thrills, children’s shows and more), free unlimited soft drinks (carbonated beverages, pink lemonade, fruit punch, orange Gatorade, sweetened iced tea, coffee and ice water), plenty of good food and shops, this small amusement park is a big hit with its friendly staff, short waits, and cheerful atmosphere. As of 2011, there is free parking and admission tickets are available for $38.95/$30.95 (over and under 54″) which includes both parks (Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari) for one price. Lauded for its clean, affordable fun, this gem of a park is a long-time favorite of many. For more information visit http://www.holidayworld.com/

Kennywood Park – West Mifflin, Pennsylvania

Kennywood Park - Racer Roller Coaster

Voted by members of the National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) as one of the favorite traditional amusement parks, Kennywood in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania has a history and charm that has appealed to families since it first opened in 1898. This fabulous park has 32 rides including 6 coasters. Kiddieland has an additional 14 rides and games dedicated to families with young children, including one kiddie coaster, a merry-go-round, a kiddie ferris wheel and plenty more. The live entertainment includes fantastic shows by Cirque Rocks featuring acrobats performing thrilling acts. Admission tickets as of 2011 are $36.99/$23.99 (regular admission over/under 46”). There is plentiful parking and lots of great food, especially the Potato Patch fries. Families are welcome to bring picnic baskets with their own food if they prefer. For more information visit http://www.kennywood.com

Knoebels – Elysburg, Pennsylvania

Knoebels Park - Ferris Wheel

Knoebels in Elysburg, Pennsylvania is a charming park with a laid-back feel that has been entertaining families for 85 years. With its many thrill, kiddie and family rides, classic wooden rollercoasters, good food, short waits and more, this park has a well-deserved loyal following. It offers free parking, free admission, free entertainment, individual ride rates, as well as pay-one-price rates for those who wish to have unlimited passes for all the rides. The Haunted Mansion is reputed to be among the best anywhere, and the food has earned “Best Park Food” from Amusement Today magazine for 13 straight years (as of 2011). There is also a water park with fountains, slides, pool and more, all making for great affordable family fun. For more information visit http://www.knoebels.com

Lake Compounce – Bristol, Connecticut

Lake Compounce - Boulder Dash

Set among the picturesque trees and waters of the lake, Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut is the oldest amusement park in the USA, dating back to 1846. This 427-acre family theme park includes a 20-acre lake and more than 50 rides and attractions. It is home to Boulder Dash – the world’s #1 wooden roller coaster; an antique 1911 carousel; the Giant Ferris Wheel; the popular Flying Scooters; Splash Harbor – the adjoining water park with water slides, tube rides, wave pool and lazy river; lots of classic rides, thrill rides and kiddie rides (Circus World Kiddieland enchants children), and more. This lovely park has beautiful, clean grounds, shows and live entertainment (Friday evening summer concerts by the lake gazebo are lots of fun), plenty of dining and snack areas, and offers unlimited free soda all day. As of 2011 there is paid parking, and regular admission is $35.99/$25.99 plus tax (52” and over/under 52”). Children age 3 and under are free. For more information visit http://www.lakecompounce.com

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park – Chattanooga, Tennessee

Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park - Roller Coaster

Infused with the charm of days gone by, Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park in Chattanooga, Tennessee is an exciting playground for the whole family. From its antique carousel with ornately hand-carved horses and chariots, to the Boat Chute log flume ride, Cannon Ball Roller Coaster, grand Wave Swinger, the Bumble Bees, Kiddie Boats and so much more, the wide variety of its many rides and attractions are sure to entertain family members of all ages. There is a 2,500 square foot gift shop with fun souvenir items, good food, live entertainment, midway and arcade games, an 18-hole mini-golf course set back in the shade of Lake Winnepesaukah’s trees, and the Stay & Play Hideaway – an interactive play area for guests of all ages that includes misters, water elements and more. This clean and affordably priced park features free parking (as of 2011) with a gate admission fee of $5.00. Unlimited ride passes are available for $21.00. For more information visit http://www.lakewinnie.com/

Legoland – Carlsbad, California

Legoland - Pirate Shores

Legoland in Carlsbad, California is a beautifully landscaped park that offers interactive attractions, family rides, shows, restaurants, shopping and features specifically geared for families with children ages 2 to 12. Although admission tickets are $69/59 (adult/child) as of 2011, the wonderful experience here is well worth the price. This park has an open relaxed feel that is enchanting for visitors. It is clean, colorful, has short lines/waits, is well-maintained and lots of fun. There is plenty of paid parking right by the entrance. The Miniland USA is an exclusive area in the heart of the park showcasing stunning reproductions of American landmarks built with remarkable detail from seven different geographical areas of the country. Children and parents alike will be enthralled with all the wonderful rides and attractions. Be sure to try the Granny’s Apple Fries which are a signature dessert item served with cinnamon, sugar and sweet vanilla cream sauce. For more information visit http://california.legoland.com

Little Amerricka Amusement Park – Marshall, Wisconsin

Little Amerricka Amusement Park - View from Monorail

Tucked away in Marshall, Wisconsin, Little Amerricka Amusement Park enchants families with its friendly service, affordability, good food, cleanliness, and overall charm. There are 26 rides and attractions including a two-mile long Whiskey River Railway that takes you through a countryside filled with crossing gates, tunnels, pine trees, and animals including llamas, donkeys and zebras. More features include an 18-Hole Miniature Golf course, Haunted House, Bumper Cars, a Monorail (with great views of the park), Go Karts, Parachute Tower, Little Dipper roller coaster, lots of classic kids’ rides and more. As of 2011, there is free parking, free admission, and unlimited ride wristbands that can be purchased according to the rider’s height, and range in price from $10.95 to $21.95. For more information visit http://www.littleamerricka.com/

Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park – Muskegon, Michigan

Michigan's Adventure Amusement Park - ThunderHawk

Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park in Muskegon, Michigan is a regular stomping ground for loyal visitors. With its short waits, very clean grounds and facilities, midway games and gift shops, this park is wonderful for families with children of all ages. As of 2011, it offers plenty of paid parking and a $26.00 admission fee that includes unlimited rides to both Michigan’s Adventure and the adjoining WildWater Adventure water park. Hungry thrill seekers can feast on the very affordable Backyard BBQ – an all you can eat picnic buffet – at a great price. There is also plenty of reasonably priced food, treats and beverages at restaurants and concession stands throughout the park. The park has a great balance between child/family rides and thrill rides, making it popular across a variety of age groups. It is well-run, easy to maneuver, and certain to make instant fans of first-time visitors. For more information visit http://www.miadventure.com/

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Sitting on the sandy shores of the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, California tempts families with its exciting attractions. This admission-free amusement park is a State Historic Landmark, and home to two National Historic Landmarks – the 1911 Looff Carousel and 1924 Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster. It features plenty of modern and classic rides for children of all ages, restaurants, gift shops, miniature golf, laser tag arena, video game arcades, family bowling, free live entertainment such as the Cirque Magnifique acrobats, free Friday night concerts on the Beach Bandstand during the summer months, and lots of beach to enjoy. There is a variety of delicious choices for indoor or outdoor dining with restaurants, concession stands and food carts to satisfy many cravings. As of 2011, parking is $12, and all-day unlimited rides wristbands are available for $29.95 plus tax. Tickets can also be purchased for use on individual rides. With its seamless blend of vintage and modern rides and attractions in a lively family atmosphere, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a cherished venue families will relish. For more information visit http://www.beachboardwalk.com/

Seabreeze Amusement Park – Rochester, New York

Seabreeze Amusement Park - Revolution Ride

Seabreeze in Rochester, New York is the fourth oldest amusement park in the country, having opened in 1879. This wonderful park is clean, safe and manageable for the whole family. Admission fees as of 2011 are $22.99/19.99 (over/under 48”) with free parking. There is a great assortment of family and kiddie rides, including the carousel with its hand carved, beautifully painted horses, train, crazy cups, flying scooters, jets, boats, kiddie swings, and lots more. Other attractions include live entertainment shows, games at the Midway of Fun, souvenir shops, plenty of food (the sugar waffles are a sweet treat), the carousel museum, and an arcade. The adjoining Raging Rivers Waterpark offers more fun and is conveniently next door. For more information visit http://www.seabreeze.com

Storybook Land – Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey

Storybook Amusement Park - Christmas Time

Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey has been capturing children’s imaginations with the timeless classics of favorite stories and nursery rhymes for over 50 years. This family owned and operated park offers a positive experience for families with younger children in a clean, idyllic and picturesque setting. There is free parking and a $21.95 admission fee (as of 2011) that includes all storybook attractions and unlimited rides. From Bubbles the Coaster, the Rockin’ Tug, the Carousel, the Balloons, Rock Spin Roll, to the Happy Dragon and more, children will be enchanted. There is also a nice gift shop, plenty of miniature themed displays for children to explore, lots of shade, a water play area – Storybook Seaport – open in the summer, and good food. Outside food and beverages are permitted as well (no alcohol or grills). For more information visit https://storybookland.com

Valleyfair Amusement Park – Shakopee, Minnesota

Valleyfair Amusement Park - Rip Tide Ride

Located in Shakopee, Minnesota, Valleyfair Amusement Park boasts over 75 thrilling rides and attractions, midway games, live entertainment, Imax movie theater, gift shops, and wide selection of food throughout the park. Children will be delighted with Planet Snoopy which features over 20 rides and attractions, including Snoopy’s Rocket Express, Cosmic Coaster and the Linus Launcher. There are many traditional family rides throughout the park as well, including the Carousel, Ferris Wheel and much more. The adjoining Soak City Waterpark is included in the admission price and offers 7 acres of refreshing water fun for all ages with slides, tube rides, rapids, wave pool, and the Splash Station and Giggle Run which is designed for children with its interactive water elements. Single day admission rates as of 2011 are $41.99/$9.00 (ages 3-61 and over 48”/under 48” or over 61 years). For more information visit http://www.valleyfair.com/

Related Articles:

Top 10 Best Water Parks in the United States

The Starlux Motel exemplifies Wildwood DooWop architecture

“Headin’ down the shore… to have a ball once more… Oh, those Wildwood days… wild, wild, Wildwood days… oh baby, every day’s a holiday, and every night is a Saturday night…” Those of you readers not from the East coast may not be familiar with the classic 1963 Bobby Rydell song that put the town of Wildwood, NJ on the map. Allow me to introduce you to this summer haven for family fun! 

In the Stern family, it just isn’t summer without our annual two-hour-long pilgrimage to Wildwood (or North Wildwood, or Wildwood Crest), New Jersey, to spend a week “down the shore.” (As Bobby Rydell knew, New Jerseyans don’t go “to the beach,” they go “down the shore,”–something you may already know if you’ve watched a certain ridiculously popular MTV show.) 

The Wildwoods are centrally located between Atlantic City (the “Las Vegas of the East coast”, 50-minute drive) and Historic Cape May (10-minute drive). They are incredibly popular with people from NJ, Philadelphia and the surrounding area; and for some inexplicable reason, French Canadians have been flocking here for generations. Now THAT’S a long drive–you know there must be something special about this place! 

Safe and beautiful Wildwood beaches–perfect for kids!

The Wildwood tradition begun with my grandparents, who brought my mother and father to vacation here as children, before they knew each other. When they were teenagers, my parents met on the beach in Wildwood. After marrying and having kids, Mom and Dad would bring my brother and I here every summer until we were well into our teens. 

The tradition continued with my own kids. Though we’ve usually vacationed in Cape May (just south of the Wildwoods), we’ve always made it a point to drive over the bridge into Wildwood at least a couple of days–for their beautiful clean beaches and the world-famous Boardwalk. 

Wildwood is famous for what has come to be known as “Doo-Wop” architecture–the 50′s and ’60′s theme of angular architecture, neon lighting and “Happy Days” bright colors. Some of the motels are in fact the genuine article, having been in existence for 50 years or more; other, newer buildings have just been built to look “retro.” You can choose to stay in one of these vintage motels, with kitschy names like the Singapore, the Waikiki, or the Jolly Roger;  in a condo, house, or a luxury beachfront hotel. There is truly something for every budget and taste. 

"Watch the Tram Car Please!"

Wildwood beaches are famous for a couple of reasons, the first being that they are FREE. That’s right–no annoying beach tags necessary like so many other beaches in NJ (Personally, I think ALL beaches should be free, but that’s another story). The second reason is that they are HUGE… so wide, in fact, that it is often a mile walk or more from the Boardwalk to the water’s edge. (If, at this point, you’re saying to yourself, “that doesn’t sound like much fun with kids, plus all of our beach paraphernalia,”–no, it doesn’t. THAT’s why Wildwood has thoughtfully provided you with beach trams, which travel regularly from the street to the shoreline! It’s a really nice convenience, especially when traveling with people with little legs. Oh, and by the way, Wildwoods’ beaches were voted among America’s 10 Best Beaches by the Travel Channel! Not too shabby! 

Another positive aspect of Wildwood’s beaches are their relative safety. The shoreline slopes very gently into the ocean, and because there aren’t any sharp drop-offs, you can wade out quite far into the water and remain safe. It’s reassuring to nervous parents like me that the kids can jump the waves and boogie-board without having to worry about dangerous depths and undertow. It also helps that the lifeguards are vigilant, and clearly visible. 

Once you and the family have had your fill of sun and sand, I suggest you repair back to your hotel or motel room, or your rental house, clean up and head out for an early dinner. Note the word EARLY. I hate to force you to go out to dinner at 4:30 p.m. like a senior citizen on the lookout for an early-bird special, but believe me when I say that in many places, you’ll spend a long time waiting even if you’re there at 5 o’clock. And who wants to deal with that when you’ve got a bunch of hungry, cranky youngsters in tow? So get there EARLY, and grab a snack on the boardwalk later. With all the goodies available, you won’t be able to help yourself. 

Great restaurant choices for families include Two Mile Landing, Uries’ Waterfront Restaurant, and Uncle Bill’s Pancake House. Our family’s tradition always includes lunch at the Uncle Bill’s Pancake House, located right on the boardwalk. It’s air-conditioned, the menu is absolutely huge, reasonably priced, and very family-friendly. You can order anything from a burger and fries, to a salad, to shrimp Parmesan. The wait staff is friendly and fast–and we all know time is of the essence when dealing with hungry youngsters! 

Waterpark fun at Ocean Oasis!!!

Day or night, there’s always something fun to do at the Boardwalk–2.5 miles of rides, games, and may I say, the world’s best pizza, sausage sandwiches, curly fries and ice cream stretching from North Wildwood to Wildwood Crest. There are three piers branching off from the main boardwalk, where all the rides are located. Whether you have babies, teens or ‘tweens, there’s something to appeal to everyone, from very gentle kiddie rides to high-thrill rollercoasters like my son Ben’s favorite, the Great Nor’Easter. If you can, I highly recommend getting the ride wristbands for the kids since they’re a better deal than the ticket books–you’ll run through those in no time flat. 

Don’t miss Mack’s and Sam’s for pizza, Snow White’s for sausage sandwiches, and Kohr Bros. for soft-serve custard (my favorite is the creamsicle… orange and vanilla). If your kids are like mine and get unbelivable enjoyment out of dropping large amounts of money to win silly stuffed animals or other prizes on games of chance, you’ll want to budget some extra money for that–most games run about $2 a try. Oh, and “watch the tram car, please!”–you’ll quickly become familiar with that phrase as you dodge the periodic boardwalk trams, which transport the leg-weary up and down the boards (in fact, I’m pretty sure you’ll find yourself and family hitching a ride before the day is out!). 

Flying high on the sky ship at the Wildwood Boardwalk

Two waterparks on the pier–Morey’s Raging Waters and Morey’s Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club, are an excellent choice for really hot days. Ocean Oasis, even offers massages, beach cabanas, and a swim-up bar… for grown-ups only, please! There are also baby and toddler waterplay areas at each waterpark… older kids may enjoy waterslides which range from tame to terrifying! Free soda and sunblock are available at each park also–a nice little bonus. 

Other opportunities for recreation abound in the Wildwoods. Bike and surrey rentals, miniature golf, fishing, crabbing, dolphin-and-whale-watching boat trips, and craft shows can be found all over town.  There’s also live music at the Wildwood Convention Center and the Wildwood Bandshell. 

General tourist information can be obtained by calling 1-800-WW-BY-SEA, or by going online at www.wildwoodsnj.com. Start your own family tradition and check out the Wildwoods–take it from one who knows. It’s the REAL “Jersey Shore.”

Cape May Sunset New Jersey

I may be a California girl now, but my heart will always belong to the Jersey shore.     

From the time my eldest son Tristan was a baby, traveling to the southernmost tip of New Jersey for our annual family beach vacation has been a tradition that we never missed–until this summer, since we moved across the country to “beautiful downtown Burbank,” as Johnny Carson used to describe it.      

Cape May, for those not in the know, is America’s oldest seaside resort town. It is a picturesque city from another time, chock-full of gorgeous Victorian architecture, hotels and houses (many private residences; many converted to bed-and-breakfasts). In fact, the entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places. In the 1960′s and ’70, not too many people cared about the notion of historic preservation, and many of the beautiful turn-of-the-century homes and hotels, built by Philadelphia’s wealthy, were being torn down to make room for modern motels. Thankfully, much of the original charm has been preserved and renovated, and Cape May now bustles with tourists in the summer.      

Cape May Colors in New Jersey

On our first trip we unfortunately chose to stay at an inexpensive motel called the Driftwood, which, with its painted cement-block walls, had all the charm of a jail cell. Not to mention our room was on the third floor, there were no elevators, and I was 8 months pregnant with our second son, Ben. Ugh.      

After our Driftwood experience, we opted to rent houses–and we never looked back. Should you decide to do so, your options will be many, according to what you’d like to spend. There are campgrounds, bed-and-breakfast inns (extremely popular but perhaps not recommended for those with very small children), hotels and motels, and houses. For me, hands down, a house rental is best for families. Many houses will come equipped with cribs and linens; if not, they can be rented. We’ve stayed in everything from a tiny one-bedroom my husband dubbed “the bomb shelter,” to a large three-bedroom traditional with a huge front porch. For the last several years, we rented a not-too-fancy but very comfortable (and reasonably priced) ranch-style house with a small deck, barbeque grill and fenced-in yard on Sixth St. in West Cape May. We rented there every summer from the time our youngest, Will, was three months old until he was six–so it truly did feel like our home away from home. In fact, we were hard-pressed to explain to the children that we did not, in fact, actually own the place!      

Hunting sea shells on the jetty

Locals know the beaches by such names as the Cove, Sunset Beach, the Point (where the Cape May Point State Park and Lighthouse are located) and Poverty Beach. You will need beach tags (seasonal tags cost $25; weekly, $15; and daily, $5) and they will need to be prominently displayed. Those beach-tag folks (you’ll encounter them entering the beaches, sitting under their red umbrellas) seem to take their job pretty seriously!        

It’s advisable that you get to the beach by 10 a.m. if you have to drive to it; parking (most of which is metered) will be in short supply thereafter. We tended to like the Cove beach the best, since it was close enough to whichever rental we were staying at that we could take the boys home for a nap in the afternoon. (What do you mean, sleep on the beach? My kids NEVER slept on the beach. If yours do, more power to you. That means you don’t have to leave and fight for parking again later!) Also, there tend to be tide pools on the beach at low tide, which are wonderful for babies and toddlers to splash around in. Set your beach chairs up right next to them and you can actually relax for a while and not have to worry about anyone drowning. Also, there’s a casual restaurant (also called The Cove–what else??) right there, beachfront, which you can walk into in your bare feet.        

A word of advice if you’ve packed your lunch–I wouldn’t let your kids feed the seagulls. Not only will you get dirty looks from your neighbor on the next beach blanket over, but the gulls will dive down like a B-52 and pluck your sandwich or ice-cream cone right out of your hand. I highly recommend eating under your beach umbrella, or at least holding your food close to your chest in squirrel-like fashion!        

Cape May Lighthouse

We always make time for a trip to our dearly loved lighthouse, located in Cape May Point State Park. Built in 1859,Cape May Light is 157 ft. 6 inches tall, 199 steps from top to bottom. My son Ben, who has been obsessed with lighthouses ever since, first climbed it as a 2-year-old, refusing to hold anyone’s hand. The kid wasn’t even potty-trained yet, but he made it to the top on his own. Go figure.   

Once you make it to the top, you will oooh and aaaah at some spectacular 360-degree views; once you make it back down to the bottom, be sure to check out the gift shop. An array of lighthouse-themed tchotchkes from Christmas ornaments to playing cards is available. We had to buy the shirts that read “I CLIMBED THE LIGHTHOUSE” for each of the kids.        

The Cape May Zoo (707 N. Rte. 9, Cape May Court House; (609) 465-5271) is a great choice for one of those overcast, oh-no-we-hope-it-won’t rain days when you don’t want to chance going to the beach, but still need something to do with the kids lest you go stir-crazy in your motel room. The park is clean, spacious, filled with beautiful flora and fauna, and entrance is FREE (though they do accept donations). It’s not too big, so it’s completely doable in an afternoon. Exciting new additions, born at the zoo this spring, are two very rare snow leopard cubs, Sabu and Kaba. They will kill you–with cuteness.        

The Washington Street Mall is another option for a day when you’d like to do something besides go to the beach. It’s three blocks of restaurants and retail shops ranging from chic little boutiques to (you guessed it) toy stores to souvenier shops peddling “I Love Cape May” T-shirts and painted shell figurines with googly-eyes. Since it’s outdoors, It’s can be hot and humid during the day in summer, but evenings will become extremely crowded, so it’s a toss-up. My favorite store there has to be the Whale’s Tale (312 Washington St.), which carries all manner of things from toys to stationery to jewelry. The Ugly Mug (426 Washington St.) has been there forever and is a great choice for a quick and casual family lunch outdoors (plus is a great chance to people-watch). And don’t miss Laura’s, famous for its fudge, saltwater taffy and especially the chocolate-dipped strawberries–I’d fight a crowd for those anyday!!        

You can take a ride on a bicycle built for two–or four, or six, for that matter. Local bike rental places offer covered red-and-white canopied surreys that can be pedaled by adults while kids can sit in the front basket and enjoy the ride. My husband and I did this when our two oldest boys were toddlers and I honestly have to say–it wasn’t as relaxing an experience as it looks!! We worked HARD! So, if that’s not your bag (you ARE on vacation, after all), you might want to opt for one of the horse-drawn hansom cab rides, where for about $25 you and the fam can sit back and tour Victorian Cape May while your driver regales you with tales of the town’s history and architecture. The kids will also enjoy petting the horse. Much more relaxing than the bike, in my opinion.        

The Black Duck - Yum!

Where to go for dinner? It’s the most difficult decision I like to have to make while on vacay. Top-notch dining abounds in Cape May–restaurants including the Peter Shields Inn, Union Park, 410 Bank Street, and La Verandah all offer an elegant, upscale dining experience and suberb chefs. My hands-down favorite, however, has got to be the Black Duck on Sunset (corner of Sunset and Broadway, West Cape May). You may want to leave the kids at home and save this place for a date night if you are so lucky (if you’ve brought a grandparent or babysitter with you). The Black Duck, heavy on Asian fusion dishes, is truly special and never disappoints. It’s cool, casual, yet sophisticated. I love the minimalist decor (everything is white and clean and has a breezy feel inside), and the snug rooms inside a beachy-gray, traditional clapboard house with a charming flower-covered front porch.        

If you’re going for something a bit more casual and family-oriented (and of course you are or you wouldn’t be reading this), consider Lucky Bones (1200 Rte. 109 South, Cape May–standard American fare), Godmother’s (Broadway and Perry, West Cape May–Italian), or one of our time-honored favorites, the Lobster House (Fisherman’s Wharf, Rte. 109–super-fresh seafood, natch!).        

Boogie boarding in Cape May

For after-dinner entertainment with tykes, there’s miniature golf, movies, and the Cape May Promenade. Like a small boardwalk, this strip of elevated asphalt runs along Beach Drive, and comprises retail shops, more restaurants and AN ARCADE, where we always drop a chunk of change! An absolute must-do every year for us is a stop at Morrow’s Nut House (722 Beach Drive), where we load up on fudge, nuts and various candies by the pound to nosh on all week. Kids’ favorites include gummy sharks, Lego candy bricks and chocolate-covered pretzels–the possibilities are practically endless.     

I must admit it was a rather strange summer this year, not driving “down the shore.” We did miss the time-honored traditions I’ve described. But we’ve had a chance to explore some of Southern California’s world-famous beaches, including Venice, Redondo Beach, and Point Dume. You know, I think maybe it’s time to start a new tradition!

My husband shoveling over snow in one of the worst New Jersey snow storms in recent history

My husband and I live in Sunny Redondo Beach California just a couple of blocks from the Pier.  Even in January we can expect mother nature to bless us with beautiful sunny days.  Our idea of cold weather on a typical January afternoon is low to mid sixties, so when we decided to visit my Dad on the East Coast in the dead of winter we had to brace ourselves for a healthy dose of “stop your wining”!

My Dad had been bugging me to make a trip back to visit him and the rest of his family ever since my son Christian was born.  I’d been living in California for about 10 years and in all that time my Dad had not been able to come and visit, so after Christian was born I thought he would finally make it out here!  Unfortunately my grandmother wasn’t feeling well enough to travel and she really wanted to see the baby.   So, we chose to make our first trip on an airline with Christian who at the time was 3 1/2 months old. 

We thought that taking a red-eye flight would be the best idea for our son as he would sleep the entire way.  Little did we know that he would be the only one getting sleep that night!  I thought that if I kept him in his Ergo carrier he would fall asleep and I could be hands free during the flight, but it was clear he didn’t want to be in there for very long. I ended up holding him in my arms most of the 5 hour flight. The entire time I was fearful that if I fell asleep I might crush his little body or possibly drop him in the aisle, so I didn’t sleep a wink. My husband tried to sleep, but he didn’t have much luck either. Usually he sits in the aisle seat and I’m always the one crammed in the middle.  He likes the aisle seat so that he can get up whenever he needs to without inconveniencing anyone, but for this trip he wanted me to hold Christian the entire time so that we would not disturb the passenger next to us. It was hard for him to get comfortable in the middle seat because of his broad shoulders and he was very happy to exit the plane when we finally arrived.

My Dad picked us up from the airport and we both looked and felt like zombies!  Afterward, I was thinking about how our decision to book a red-eye flight was not the best we ever had.  The only bummer was that the next day I slept for a good portion of the day to try to catch up and be somewhat social for my dad.

The four days we spent in South New Jersey visiting my family were very special and memorable.  First, it was over my dad’s birthday, so he was so excited about his “gift”.  Also, it was projected to be the biggest blizzard in the South New Jersey area in decades.  We were a little bit nervous, but we made the best of it. 

I grew up in South Jersey, so there were many people I wanted to see and places I wanted to visit in the short time I was there.  Unfortunately things didn’t go exactly as planned.  One thing I really regret is that I didn’t get to see my grandfather on my mom’s side.  I was also hoping to visit with one of my best friends growing up but that didn’t happen either.  And of course, eating at Lamberti’s, one of my favorite Italian restaurants, is usually mandatory but again the blizzard conditions made it impossible.

We arrived at my Dad’s townhouse, where we stayed for the 4 days we were there.  He had a separate room which opened up into a bathroom ready for us with all of the baby conveniences we could have asked for including Pampers diapers, a borrowed bouncer, a Boppy pillow, bassinet and playpen!  When we got there, he also showered us with some sweet gifts for Christian.  

We arrived on a Thursday, and after sleeping most of the day, we decided to take a short trip to Borders for some book shopping and a quick coffee break.  I told him I was craving an authentic cheese steak, so we planned on that for dinner.  The following day, the news was wall-to-wall coverage of the incoming storm, which was already sending some light snow.  They were basically telling everyone to plan on not  leaving the house Saturday.  Incidentally, this is the day that my entire Italian family had planned to throw a party in our honor at my grandmother’s house to celebrate Christian.  They had already ordered tons of food and planned their day around this party for everyone.  So when everyone was told that they were not going to be able to drive anywhere, the whole family was in a panic.   

My dad, his girlfriend and grandmother decided to have an impromptu gathering at her house that day (Friday) instead so at least we’d get to see her.  This idea spread like wildfire throughout my family and the spontaneous decision became reality! Not all of the food was prepared, and not everyone was able to make it because of work and school schedules, but most of them made it and were able to see Christian!  

Despite the last minute change of plans, we still had our aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins and the rest of our roughly 20 person party show up.  Everyone showed up bearing gifts for Christian and we felt so blessed!  The kid gained 10 lbs of clothes!  Trying to fit all of that in our already heavy bags when we were leaving was not fun, but we managed.  The party was a great success.  There were 2 gourmet cakes and we even had homemade lasagna (which I had been craving).  

It was so great to see everyone and I’m thankful that we were still able to get together despite the weather.  It was a good thing we moved the party back one day because on Saturday, the storm hit us with a vengeance.  My dad and husband had to go outside and shovel the car out twice!  There was at least 2 feet of snow dumped on us overnight!  We spent the entire day indoors hanging out and watching movies.  The news reporters were actually telling people that if they were caught driving, they would be stopped, ticketed and towed!  We ate a ton of leftovers all day and watched my Dad’s bootleg copy of Avatar and Michael Jackson’s “This is it” movie.  Later that evening I also got to show off my Scattergories skills!

By the grace of God, after delays and canceled flights all over the place, we were able to not only make our flight out on Sunday, but it wasn’t even delayed!

On the flight back, Christian was a little bit squirmy and fussy, but it really was not as bad as we expected.  I made sure to pump plenty of breast milk into several bottles prior to the trip.  We also brought the Colic Ease and had at least 3 pacifiers handy for the flight.  My husband had to change all of his diapers because I was too afraid of trying to hold him and change him in the bathroom during the sometimes turbulent flight.  It was a real challenge for him especially one time where Christian really “loaded” up his diaper to the point where it was overflowing!  I was very thankful that my husband held him for a majority of the flight back as my breasts were engorged after the long day of traveling.  Christian was at a point where he did not take the breast directly and would only drink from the bottle.  It could become very painful without having access to my breast pump for long periods of time!

We really had a great time overall.  I’m always happy to see my family under any circumstances and can’t wait to make the insane trip again!