‘Tis the season for holiday cheer, glad tidings . . . and out-of-town guests. At some point, everyone will want to get out of the house for a bit. So here are itineraries for many of South Jersey’s most vibrant locales.
A Day in Collingswood
This Camden County town is known for its walkable downtown packed with arts, culture and close-knit community.
PLAY: Let the kids stretch their legs at Knight Park, a 70-acre space that boasts a walking and biking path, pond and playground.
SHOP: Haddon Avenue offers ample opportunities for a little retail therapy. Check out hundreds of toys, games and puzzles at ExtraordinaryED; make a masterpiece to remember the trip at DIY pottery studio All Fired Up!; and bargain hunt at Ellis Antiques and Frügal Thrift and Vintage. Pro tip: Next month, enjoy daily free parking on the avenue, plus extended store hours at select businesses Fridays and Saturdays.
DINE: No need to wander far; the town’s main drag also features kid-friendly eateries. Grab a bite at The Pop Shop, a modern twist on retro soda-fountain shops that serves up a quirky collection of comfort foods. Or opt for Osaka, a Japanese restaurant where the highlight, many families claim, is the entertaining hibachi experience.
A Day in Glassboro
Glassboro may be suburban, but the Gloucester County town boasts a number of parks, restaurants and coffee shops to keep residents and visitors busy.
DISCOVER: The town’s first syllable wasn’t chosen at random: The area’s glass industry is nationally recognized for its quality and variety. Explore its history during a visit to the free Glassboro Heritage Glass Museum, featuring engaging exhibits and intricate displays of historic bottles, jars and related items.
STARGAZE: Move from earthly wonders to spacey fun at Rowan University’s Edelman Planetarium, complete with immersive 360-degree views. On Saturdays through Nov. 23, families can opt for a laser light show, an “explosive” look at the universe or a deep dive into outer space. And, on Sundays through Nov. 24, catch a show geared toward families.
DINE: Find out why Jersey’s called the “diner capital of the world” at Angelo’s Glassboro Diner, cited as the county’s best by NJ.com. The spot basically appears the way it did when it opened in 1946, and it’s maintained that old-school-cool vibe since. But plan ahead: the restaurant is cash-only.
A Day in Mt. Laurel
With two state and interstate highways, the third-largest number of hotels in New Jersey and busy shopping centers, to say that a lot of people pass through this Burlington County hotspot is an understatement. Stay a while! There’s plenty to do here.
PLAY: Need to burn some energy? The Funplex is a great opportunity. Attractions at this indoor-outdoor amusement center include go-karts, bowling, bumper cars, laser tag, mini golf, rides and 100-plus arcade games. Grab a bite at the on-site café if the family-friendly competition works up your appetite.
SCULPT: You’ve flexed your muscles — now it’s time to exercise your creativity at the Ceramic Barn. The drop-in art studio offers a two-pronged paint-your-own pottery plan: Acrylic-brushed items (think mugs, room décor, figurines) go home that day; glazed pieces are fired in the kiln and need to be picked up a week later.
DINE: Make mealtime easier with restaurants that caters to little ones. B.Good appeals to the younger crowd with unique soda flavors and a display dedicated to local farms with fun facts and photos. At Miller’s Ale House, the kids’ menu includes kid-favorites like mac & cheese, burgers, chicken tenders and spaghetti & meatballs. Or pair dinner with views of the Rancocas Creek at Carlucci’s Waterfront restaurant.
