Browse 98 family-friendly activities across Essex County's 7 towns
Specialized reading instruction using research-based Orton-Gillingham method. Expert tutors help struggling readers build phonemic awareness, phonics skills, and reading confidence through structured, multi-sensory techniques. One-on-one and small group sessions tailored to each child's needs. Proven results for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and reading challenges.
Forest school in South Mountain Reservation following the Cedarsong Way of nature immersion. Children learn through sustained time outdoors — exploring, hiking, and connecting with the natural world. Enrichment classes promote social, emotional development and foster independence. Summer camp ages 4–7.
Livingston location of the beloved SwimQuest swim school. Super clean facilities, welcoming staff, and systematic teaching approach. Instructors spend all time in the water with kids — parents don't need to get in. Excellent at pairing children with the right instructor.
Perfect 5.0 rating from 110 reviews! Gymnastics-based classes mixing structured guidance with open exploration. Progressive programs from babies learning movement through competitive gymnastics. Warm, kind coaches who make every child feel seen. Birthday parties with full staff teams.
Warm, inviting dance studio in the heart of Maplewood. Ms. Alexa is praised for being fantastic with children of all abilities, including those with special needs. Ballet, jazz, and more in a supportive, inclusive environment where every child is welcome.
Process art studio with fun, colorful, interactive classes for young kids. Laura, the owner, creates thoughtful age-appropriate activities with sensory elements. Birthday parties with creative themes. Known for warm-up group projects when kids arrive and take-home side projects.
Locally owned music school with perfect 5.0 rating. Piano, guitar, voice, drums, and music production. Instructors treat students as collaborators, customizing programs to each child's interests and talents. Recitals and performance opportunities.
Piano, violin, voice, and art instruction led by Nina, a beloved teacher whose students have performed at Carnegie Hall. Patient, encouraging approach that builds confidence. Students regularly win competitions and excel at recitals.
Perfect 5.0 rating for SAT/ACT prep and college counseling. Data-driven, personalized approach with students regularly achieving 200-400 point SAT increases. Full college admissions support from summer programs to essays to applications. Treated like family.
Perfect 5.0 rating tutoring service that carefully matches teachers to students. Multiple teacher options with various payment plans. Great reminder system for scheduling. Teachers are engaging, knowledgeable, and build confidence. In-person at their Livingston center.
Noncompetitive children's gym specializing in developmental movement classes. Gymboree-style classes for babies, tumbling for toddlers, and sports skills for older kids. Birthday parties feature gym time with obstacle courses, balance beams, tunnels, and age-appropriate equipment. Friendly coaches create a supportive environment where every child succeeds. Air-conditioned facility with clean, colorful equipment.
Premiere children's gym franchise offering developmental classes for all ages. Birthday parties include exclusive gym time with age-appropriate obstacle courses, games, parachute play, and a karate board-breaking finale. Enthusiastic instructors lead structured activities. Parents love the no-cleanup, all-inclusive packages. Gymnastics, sports, and dance classes also offered weekly.
Indoor play space perfect for toddlers and young children. Clean, spacious facility with age-appropriate play equipment, climbing structures, slides, and imaginative play areas. Open play sessions and birthday party packages available. Family-owned and operated with a focus on safe, engaging playtime for little ones.
Perfect 5-star rating! Kids gym specializing in movement classes for toddlers and young children. Obstacle courses, tumbling, balance activities, and creative movement in a fun, noncompetitive environment. Small class sizes with patient instructors. Birthday parties and open gym times available.
Professional art studio offering year-round classes in drawing, painting, digital art, manga, and sculpture. Second location joins successful Millburn studio. Expert instructors teach contemporary techniques in modern facilities. Summer camps, after-school programs, and portfolio prep for serious artists. All materials included.
Perfect 5-star rating from 135 reviews! Comprehensive tutoring in all subjects for elementary through high school. Expert tutors match to student's learning style and needs. SAT/ACT prep with score guarantees. Homework help and study skills coaching. Welcoming environment where students feel comfortable asking questions.
STEM-focused learning center offering hands-on science and math enrichment. Interactive experiments, problem-solving challenges, and project-based learning. Small group classes foster curiosity and critical thinking. Advanced programs for gifted students. Summer camps and after-school sessions.
Professional art academy offering classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media for children through adults. Small class sizes with experienced art instructors. Portfolio development for advanced students. Summer art camps and after-school programs. Holiday workshops and special events. Nurturing environment that encourages creativity and technical skill development. Gallery showcases student work throughout the year.
Specialized math tutoring center focusing on building strong foundations and confidence in mathematics. Small group and one-on-one instruction for elementary through high school students. Test prep for SAT, ACT, and standardized testing. Homework help and enrichment programs. Experienced certified teachers. Customized learning plans based on individual needs. Creates positive learning environment where students actually enjoy math.
Top-rated swim school with warm pool, expert instructors, and flexible makeup policy. Kids go from nervous to swimming independently. Private and semi-private lessons from babies through advanced swimmers. Dedicated, caring instructors like Fas, Ashley, Tyrese and Shannen.
Perpetually warm pool, shiver-free swimming, and family-friendly changing areas. 500+ five-star reviews. Progressive learn-to-swim curriculum from infants through advanced swimmers. Friendly, patient instructors who transform nervous beginners into confident swimmers.
Structured children's fitness center with age-specific classes focused on motor skill development, confidence building, and active play. Birthday party packages include exclusive use of the gym, obstacle courses, parachute games, trampoline time, music, and a party coordinator. Parents rave about the engaging staff and cleanliness. Weekly classes available from babies through elementary age.
Highly rated children's gym with 293 five-star reviews. Gymnastics, karate, dance, and sports skills classes for all ages. Birthday parties include exclusive gym time, games, obstacle courses, and parachute play. Energetic instructors create supportive environment where every child succeeds. Progressive curriculum builds confidence and motor skills.
Performance-based music school where kids learn guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals while preparing for live shows. Kids play in bands from day one. Seasonal programs culminate in professional rock concerts. Summer camps, private lessons, and group rehearsals. Builds confidence and musicianship in a fun, supportive environment.
Dance studio offering ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip-hop, and musical theater. Welcoming environment for all skill levels from preschool through teens. Experienced instructors focus on technique and artistry. Annual recitals showcase student growth. Birthday party packages with dance games and activities.
Traditional taekwondo instruction emphasizing discipline, respect, and physical fitness. Classes for children, teens, and adults taught by experienced black belt instructors. Character development integrated into martial arts training. Birthday party packages with board breaking and martial arts games. Belt testing and tournaments available.
Math-only learning center using proven curriculum to build number sense and problem-solving skills. Custom learning plans based on assessment. Patient instructors make math make sense. Students typically see improved grades and confidence. Homework help, test prep, and enrichment for advanced students.
Highly rated artisan pizza spot with wood-fired oven. Creative flavor combinations using high-quality ingredients. Small, focused menu ensures consistency. Cozy atmosphere with counter seating. Perfect for quick family dinners. Takeout available. Often busy — arrive early or order ahead.
Renowned dance studio offering ballroom, Latin, and social dance classes for all ages. Kids' programs teach coordination, rhythm, and social skills through dance. Private lessons and group classes available. Professional instructors with decades of experience. Performance opportunities and showcases. Friendly, encouraging atmosphere. Perfect for children interested in competitive dance or just having fun learning new skills.
New Jersey's State Theater and Tony Award-winning regional theater seating 1,200. Broadway-quality musicals, children's programs, theater classes for kids, and the annual NJ Ballet Nutcracker. Fully accessible venue in the heart of downtown Millburn. Student and group discounts available.
Home to the world's largest collection of magnetic tiles — over 30,000! STEM-based activities including design challenges, Lego brick engineering, coding & robotics, competitions, team-based games, and creative free play. Drop-in 90-minute sessions, camps, memberships, and birthday parties available.
Award-winning art studio with walk-in DIY painting on canvas, ceramics, rock, wood and pottery. Kids & adult classes, themed birthday parties (paint, Lego, clay, slime), summer camps and holiday break programs for ages 5–12. Modern, fresh contemporary design focused on creating memorable art experiences.
Modern, beautifully designed playground at the South Mountain Recreation Complex. Climbing walls, swings, slides, unique rope features — great for toddlers through older kids. Soft safety surface, shaded benches, scenic walking paths nearby. Free parking. Adjacent to Turtle Back Zoo.
Leading tutoring and test prep center. SAT, ACT, HSPT, COOP prep with personalized approach. Students regularly achieve significant score increases. Patient, helpful teachers. Also offers homework help and subject-specific tutoring for all grade levels.
Great brunch spot in Livingston with bright, fun, Instagram-worthy décor. La Colombe coffee, creative dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for brunch with friends while kids enjoy pancakes. BYOB friendly.
Unique Indian-inspired café in downtown Millburn using organic ingredients, no seed oils, and fresh preparation. Masala omelette, butter chicken, and the rose & pistachio cake are standouts. Amazing chai and turmeric lattes. Owner Ashima's dedication to quality shines through.
Pottery studio offering wheel throwing, hand-building, and ceramic painting classes. Birthday parties include guided clay projects that kids glaze and take home. Adult classes and open studio time also available. Friendly instructors make ceramics accessible for beginners. Kiln-fired pieces ready for pickup in one week.
Excellent public library with extensive children's programming. Storytimes for babies and toddlers, LEGO club, craft programs, homework help, and teen events. Modern facility with comfortable reading areas. Free WiFi and computers. Summer reading programs with prizes. Meeting rooms available for community use.
Beloved Southern comfort food restaurant with 2,700+ five-star reviews. Fried chicken, mac & cheese, cornbread, and BBQ favorites in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Kids menu available. Generous portions perfect for sharing. BYOB friendly. Weekend brunch is extremely popular — expect a wait but worth it!
Beloved independent bookstore featuring extensive children's section with knowledgeable staff recommendations. Separate Kids' Room next door offers storytimes, author visits, and book clubs. Cozy reading nooks and carefully curated selection. Community gathering place supporting local authors. Gift wrapping available.
XL Game Bus is West Orange's premier mobile video gaming experience, bringing the ultimate gaming party directly to your location. This fully-equipped, temperature-controlled mobile theater features 7 huge 4K HDTVs, a powerful Pioneer audio system, and limousine-style seating for maximum comfort. Kids can play the hottest multiplayer games including Fortnite and Call of Duty while parents relax knowing everything is taken care of. Perfect for birthday parties, school events, or any celebration - the bus travels up to 50 miles from Essex County. For extra-large parties, additional TVs can be set up outside. Bonus: the bus also offers karaoke for teens and adults! With a 4.8-star rating, XL Game Bus makes party planning stress-free and unforgettable.
Enchanting walking trail near downtown Millburn dotted with dozens of miniature fairy houses built along the woodland path. A magical, imagination-sparking experience beloved by local families. Easy walk from town center, free to visit anytime.
State-of-the-art gymnastics and ninja training facility. Trial classes available so kids can try before committing. Qualified coaches with patience for little ones. Inflatable castles for birthday parties. Glass viewing areas and on-screen monitors for parents.
Comprehensive tutoring, test prep, and college counseling. Pre-testing to identify gap areas, tailored group and individual sessions. SAT/ACT prep, subject tutoring, and full college admissions guidance. 5+ year track record serving Livingston families.
2,000-acre natural reserve with hiking trails for all levels, scenic overlooks, picnic areas, barbecue sites, and the Orange Reservoir with a 1.75-mile paved walking path and paddle boats. Gorgeous fall foliage, diverse wildlife, and the Regatta Children's Playground.
Excellent library with toddler storytimes, Legomania sessions, family movie nights, homework help, and science programs. Over 115,000 books and circulating materials. A welcoming community hub for families of all ages.
Beautiful 12-acre park with modern playground, basketball courts, baseball fields, walking paths, and picnic areas. The playground features age-separated play structures for toddlers and bigger kids. Scenic views, well-maintained facilities, and plenty of shade. Popular spot for birthday parties and community gatherings.
Upper Montclair park featuring playground, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and basketball courts. Covered pavilion for birthday parties. Beautiful mature trees provide shade. Well-maintained facilities popular with local sports leagues and families. Free parking available.
Liquid nitrogen ice cream shop creating ultra-smooth, made-to-order ice cream right before your eyes. Kids love watching the dramatic fog effect. Unique flavors and custom creations. Vegan and dairy-free options available. Instagram-worthy presentations. Open late on weekends.
Beautiful formal rose garden within Brookdale Park featuring hundreds of rose bushes in bloom throughout the growing season. Peak bloom in June and September. Wide pathways perfect for strollers. Adjacent playgrounds and open fields for picnicking and play. Free admission. Popular spot for family photos and nature walks. Part of Essex County park system.
New Jersey's #1 ranked zoo with over 1,400 animals on 20 acres in South Mountain Reservation. Features train rides, carousel, prehistoric playground, pony rides, giraffe feeding, butterfly tent, and a touch tank with stingrays. Offers homeschool programs, early childhood classes, behind-the-scenes tours, Family Nature Club, and summer camps for all ages.
Heart of Millburn's outdoor family life. Tree-lined paths, fenced playground, basketball and tennis courts, pond, and picnic areas. During Winter Walk (November–January), trees sparkle with twinkling lights and snowflakes. Walking distance from downtown shops and restaurants.
Beautiful historic park with walking paths along the Hilton Branch stream, charming bridges, turtle pond, playground, basketball and tennis courts. Adjacent to the Maplewood Community Center with indoor activities. Walkable to downtown Maplewood.
Popular Millburn restaurant with excellent American fare. Kids menu with creamy mac & cheese, plus adult favorites like the Wagyu burger, chicken, and truffle fries. Beautiful interior, great service. Open late. Perfect for post-activity family meals.
Free weekly storytimes at Barnes & Noble in Livingston Mall. A wonderful low-key outing for toddlers and young kids. Browse the children's section afterward and pick up a new book. No registration needed.
Multi-purpose center offering classes, open play, and birthday parties for babies through kindergarten. Music classes, art, movement, and themed playrooms. Clean facility with age-appropriate toys and equipment. Popular for birthday celebrations with party packages and dedicated hosts.
Spacious neighborhood park with playground, open fields, tennis courts, and walking paths. Great for letting kids run and play. Clean bathrooms and ample parking. Walking distance to downtown Montclair shops and restaurants. Community events held throughout the year.
Paint and sip studio offering step-by-step painting classes for all skill levels. Kids' sessions (no alcohol) create age-appropriate art projects. Birthday parties include guided painting with all supplies provided. Family paint nights bring everyone together. No experience necessary — instructors make it easy and fun.
Historic 11-acre garden estate featuring formal Mediterranean-style gardens, naturalistic landscapes, rhododendron collection, and scenic ponds. One of 16 gardens endorsed by the Garden Conservancy as exceptional in the US. Family programs, guided tours, and seasonal events throughout the year. Educational workshops on horticulture and nature. Peaceful oasis in the heart of Montclair perfect for walks and picnics.
Natural woodland park featuring walking trails along Yantacaw Brook, wildlife observation areas, and native plant habitats. Educational signage about local ecology and wildlife. Popular with families for nature walks and birdwatching. Connects to larger trail network in Upper Montclair. Quiet retreat from urban areas. Great for teaching kids about nature and conservation.
Travel-themed indoor play space founded by a speech therapist and occupational therapist. Three wooden play areas with slides, tunnels, monkey bars — toddler zone separated from bigger kids. Enrichment classes, music with live musicians, and birthday party packages. Known for exceptional cleanliness and intimate setting limited to small groups.
Community hub for Maplewood & South Orange families. Youth basketball, gymnastics, performing arts (ballet, jazz, theater), swim lessons, enrichment classes (Little Chefs, Silly Science, Tiny Tumblers), afterschool care, summer camps Pre-K through 9th grade, babysitting certification, and Kids Night Out events.
28-acre formal Italianate garden with naturalistic landscapes, majestic trees, wildflower meadows, ponds, and cultivated woodlands. Endorsed by the Garden Conservancy as one of 16 exceptional gardens in the US. Family programs and seasonal events throughout the year.
Popular South Orange park with playground, walking path, and open green spaces. About 10 laps around the perimeter equals 10K steps. Close to Seton Hall campus and local restaurants. Friendly neighborhood atmosphere.
Twin-rink ice arena in the South Mountain Recreation Complex. Public skating sessions, group lessons, learn-to-skate programs, hockey clinics and camps, private parties. Open year-round. Formerly the practice home of the NJ Devils.
Elevated brunch spot with divine lemon ricotta pancakes, excellent omelettes, and beautiful décor. A neighborhood favorite — expect a 30-45 minute wait on weekends but they'll text when your table is ready so you can stroll downtown Millburn.
Beloved Italian trattoria with delicious pizza, generous pasta portions, and excellent value. Casual enough for kids, quality enough for a proper dinner. BYOB. Great chicken and specialty pizza slices. Open for lunch and dinner.
Large community park with playground, walking/jogging path, skatepark, and open grass fields for soccer and games. A neighborhood favorite for active families. Bike-friendly paths and plenty of space for kids to run.
Family-owned Italian restaurant serving authentic, home-style food with warmth and care. Fresh bread from the oven, excellent appetizers, hearty mains. Accommodates dietary restrictions including gluten-free. Feels like dining in an Italian home. Popular for celebrations.
Structured art school offering year-round classes including drawing, painting, manga, digital art, and more for kids through adults. Summer art camps with week-long focused projects. Teachers encourage experimentation and creative development.
Paint-your-own pottery studio where kids choose from hundreds of ceramic pieces (mugs, plates, figurines, piggy banks) and paint them with studio-provided supplies. Pieces are glazed and kiln-fired, ready for pickup in one week. Birthday party packages include reserved tables, all supplies, and a party assistant. Walk-ins welcome for freestyle painting.
Multi-sport facility offering soccer, basketball, baseball, lacrosse, and more. State-of-the-art indoor turf fields and courts. Birthday party packages include private field/court time, sports activities led by coaches, and party room. Programs for all skill levels from toddlers to adults. Summer camps, clinics, leagues, and private training available.
Community center offering swimming lessons, youth sports, gymnastics, summer camps, and family programs. Indoor pool, gymnasium, fitness center, and multipurpose rooms. Afterschool care and childcare available. Financial assistance offered. Two locations serve Montclair families with comprehensive youth development programs.
Indoor sports facility offering soccer, basketball, volleyball, and multi-sport programs for kids. Climate-controlled turf fields and courts. Birthday party packages with private court time and sports activities. Leagues, clinics, and camps for all skill levels. Professional coaching staff.
Montclair institution serving homemade ice cream since 1848. Huge variety of creative flavors made on-site. Generous portions at reasonable prices. Outdoor seating perfect for summer nights. Long lines on weekends but move quickly. Cash only. A must-visit for families and ice cream lovers.
Charming breakfast and brunch spot in Upper Montclair. Pancakes, French toast, omelets, and creative breakfast dishes. Warm atmosphere with friendly service. Popular with families on weekend mornings. Coffee bar with specialty drinks. Limited seating — expect a wait on weekends but worth it.
Popular neighborhood park with playground equipment for multiple age groups, open fields for sports and play, basketball courts, and picnic areas. Summer pool for residents. Shaded areas with mature trees. Active Montclair Recreation programs run here including summer camps and sports leagues. Dog-friendly. Well-maintained and family-oriented atmosphere.
Protected wetland and woodland preserve featuring boardwalk trails through diverse habitats. Wildlife viewing opportunities include birds, turtles, and aquatic life. Educational programs about wetland ecology. Maintained by Montclair Audubon Society. Accessible trails suitable for families with young children. Beautiful natural setting perfect for introducing kids to environmental conservation and wildlife.
Second Montclair YMCA location offering aquatics programs, youth sports, fitness classes, and childcare. Indoor pool with swim lessons for all ages. Gymnastics, basketball, and enrichment programs. After-school care and summer camps. Family memberships available. Smaller, more intimate setting than main branch. Strong community atmosphere with programs designed for families.
Community outdoor pool open during summer months. Lap swimming, recreational swim, and kiddie pool area. Swim lessons and water safety programs available. Locker rooms and snack bar. Lifeguards on duty. Resident membership required. Popular gathering spot for Montclair families during hot summer days. Great place for kids to cool off and make friends.
16-acre nature sanctuary with woodland trails, a three-story Tree House with bird's-eye forest views, butterfly garden, and sensory garden. After-school nature education classes, summer camps, and seasonal family events focused on environmental stewardship. Founded 1923.
Community pool for Maplewood residents. Refreshing and clean with attentive lifeguards. Swim lessons, family swim time, and the beloved end-of-summer 'Dog Days' event. A summer staple for local families.
Historic independent movie theater showing art films, documentaries, classics, and family-friendly features. Comfortable seating and excellent sound. Special kids' matinee screenings on weekends. Concession stand with traditional movie snacks. Community gathering space supporting independent cinema. Affordable ticket prices.
Aerial adventure course at South Mountain Recreation Complex. Zip through treetops on suspended bridges, zip lines, and climbing elements. Multiple difficulty levels from beginner through advanced. Great for school-age kids and teens.
Classic New Jersey diner serving breakfast all day, burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food. Huge menu with something for everyone. Kid-friendly with crayons and coloring sheets. Friendly service and generous portions. Late-night hours perfect for post-event meals. Affordable prices.
Popular pizzeria serving Neapolitan-style pizza with fresh ingredients and creative toppings. Casual atmosphere perfect for families. Indoor and outdoor seating. Kids' menu and salads available. Takeout and delivery offered. Weekend nights get busy — call ahead or expect a wait.
Upscale casual restaurant with excellent brunch and dinner. Avocado toast, burgers, entree salads, and seasonal specials. Kids menu available. Modern atmosphere with attentive service. Outdoor patio seating. Weekend brunch is very popular — reservations recommended. BYOB friendly.
Indoor play space in the heart of South Orange Village with toddler parkour setup, ball pit, slides, and creative play stations. Conveniently located in the center of town. Birthday party packages available. A neighborhood staple for young families.
Creative art studio offering classes during school holidays and breaks. Kids love the projects — creative, calm atmosphere with kind instructors. Paint & sip events for adults too. Popular for school-day-off programming.
Paint and sip studio offering guided painting classes where everyone creates the same featured painting step-by-step. Kids' birthday parties feature age-appropriate paintings and fun music. All supplies included — canvas, paints, brushes, aprons. Kids take home their finished masterpiece. Also hosts family paint nights and adult BYOB sessions. No experience necessary.
Coding school offering personalized instruction in Python, JavaScript, web development, game design, and app creation. Small group and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Kids learn at their own pace with expert Code Coaches. Summer camps and after-school programs. Projects tailored to each student's interests and goals.
Classic NJ diner with huge menu, reasonable prices, and genuine local character. Great burgers, Greek specialties, breakfast all day, and delicious cheesecake. A multi-generational family gathering spot — many locals have been coming for decades.
Hands-on cooking school for kids where children learn real culinary skills in a professional teaching kitchen. Birthday party packages let kids cook their own party food — pizza parties, cupcake decorating, pasta-making, and more. Professional chef instructors guide each step. Kids eat what they make and take home chef hats and recipes. After-school classes and camps also available.
New play café combining indoor play space with coffee bar for parents. Toddler play equipment, reading nooks, and comfortable seating for grown-ups. Snacks and beverages available. Drop-in play sessions welcome. Birthday party packages offered.
Ice rink offering public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, hockey programs, and birthday parties. Year-round indoor skating. Learn-to-skate classes for all ages. Skate rentals available. Popular venue for school trips and youth hockey leagues. Snack bar on site.
Movie theater with full dine-in service and reclining seats. Birthday party packages include reserved seating, movie tickets, popcorn and drinks, and optional arcade time. Party host greets guests and coordinates everything. Choose from current releases or special birthday screenings. Comfortable luxury recliners. Full menu of burgers, pizza, chicken tenders, and desserts delivered to seats.
Private inflatable party arena with giant bounce houses, obstacle courses, and slides. Every party is completely private — you get the entire facility to yourself for 90 minutes of jump time plus 30 minutes in a dedicated party room. Staff handles setup, cleanup, and supervision. Perfect for high-energy kids who love to jump. Open jump sessions available on select days.
Family martial arts studio offering karate, kickboxing, and self-defense classes. Birthday party packages include a martial arts lesson led by black belt instructors, board-breaking demonstration, games, and use of the party room. Kids love the ninja warrior obstacle course and foam weapon battles. Character-building curriculum focuses on respect, discipline, and confidence.